NESTLE in Switzerland is preparing the pilot implementation of an automated packaging line to develop manufacturer-independent for integrating different control systems.

Many companies use a variety of different machines from various manufacturers, and this can pose problems in integrating different control systems and bus systems into one automation platform.

Automation suppliers to Nestle include Siemens, Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric and B&R. The controllers use PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, SERCOS III and POWERLINK.

The pilot project being undertaken in Switzerland aims to create a specification for packaging machines with the PackML language. Standard libraries will be developed for each control system, and the machine builders will get access to these.

Nestle is also aiming to introduce an openSAFETY-based safety standard which is independent of the controller and bus system, so machines and control systems from various manufacturers can exchange safety-related information.