A new ISA committee, SP104, plans to accelerate implementation and uses of fieldbus devices throughout industry with a standard that adopts the generic language specified by IEC 61804 to describe the properties of automation system components. The language, Electronic Device Description Language (EDDL), is capable of describing device parameters and their dependencies, device functions, graphical representations, and interactions with control devices.
EDDL is used to create an Electronic Device Description (EDD) file. These files can be used with appropriate tools to support parameter handling, operation, and monitoring of automation system components. The applications of EDDL might include devices such as generic digital and analog input/output modules, motion controllers, human machine interfaces, transmitters, on-off and regulating valves, closed-loop controllers, encoders, hydraulic valves, and programmable controllers.
"EDDL further standardizes the user interface for managing intelligent devices and eliminates the need for supplemental files for asset management applications," says Terry Blevins, the ISA committee chair, who proposed the work.
EDDL is a result of cooperation by the Fieldbus Foundation, HART Communication Foundation, Profibus Nutzerorganisation e.V., and the OPC Foundation.
Enhancements recently added and officially approved as part of the IEC 61804 maintenance cycle extend the capabilities of EDDL to provide an industry-standard solution for advanced visualization of intelligent device information. Through this cooperative effort, the proven integrity of existing EDD technology is maintained across all three communication technologies (Profibus, Foundation feldbus, and HART).
EDDL enhancements include an improved user interface with support for menus, windows, tabs and groups, as well as added graphic support for graphs, trends, charts and dial indicators.
