A generic dependability layer for building automation networks

Abstract

This paper introduces a concept for bringing dependability into the area of building automation. The proposed approach is able to extend existing building automation networks with dependability features. For this purpose, the communication stack of a particular system is extended by adding an intermediate layer. This so-called dependability layer is transparent to allow seamless integration. Thereby, reliability is addressed in terms of fault tolerance by offering redundant network topologies. A heartbeat mechanism and an acknowledgment procedure as well as a specific message format satisfy the safety requirements. Moreover, the dependability layer offers security mechanisms that establish a secured channel among communicating nodes.