A Java kernel for embedded systems in distributed process control

Controller development using data-flow models can be both complex and time-consuming. Object-oriented technology, however, can help simplify the development, maintenance and reuse of applications for manufacturing and process control, just as it has helped simplify the development, maintenance and reuse of other applications. The Java Devices for Process Control (JDPC) Project, which operates at the University of Catania, is developing a field device, called the Java Microcontrolled Device (JMD), that is capable of running process control applications written in Java. The JMD runs a Java-based kernel that provides Java applications with a set of primitives which are suitable for implementing control algorithms. This article describes the JMD's architecture and functionality. Implementing the JMD represents one of the first steps toward fully incorporating Java into process control and manufacturing environments.