MQTT based monitoring and control system for remote stations in automotive industry

Abstract

In this paper is presented implementation of a lightweight supervisory control and data acquisition system for remote test stations as a part of a larger test house in the automotive industry. It is necessary to allow remote set up and monitoring of the test stations, which means defining the structure of a system with numerous test stations as endpoints. The test stations are meant to be virtual machines but can be both virtual and physical machines. A communication protocol must be used that enables this within the organization’s network, regardless of actual distance and location. The parameters of the test stations to be monitored can be defined according to the needs and purpose. Even when creating your own tool, this function is not unique, i.e. on one test station parameters of operating system resources such as memory usage can be monitored, while on another test station logged-in users or running programs, reported system errors and others must be monitored. Data storage is one of the mandatory functions of this system. This process allows viewing data throughout history and more detailed analysis of events. There are numerous benefits that can be drawn and used from the data stored in the database. It is necessary to pay attention to the data stored as well as the scope and retention throughout history. The correct and secure setup of a database is one of the prerequisites for any serious system that processes data. Appropriate views should be created for users involved in the data monitoring process using all the elements mentioned so far. Creating a visually acceptable and easy-to-use interface that serves the main purpose is the final presentation of the entire system to users. A complete system leads to higher productivity, profitability and better organization of the company. It also allows project managers to better plan the use and occupancy of test stations. At any time, they have insight into the status of individual test stations, their activities and the processes taking place. The system must be designed to be easily expandable and flexible, depending on the number of test cells that need to be changed. Adding new test stations to the network and the communication channel should be quick and easy.