Framework for energy efficiency optimization of industrial systems based on the Control Layer Model

In the context of sustainable manufacturing, the energy efficient operation of industrial systems is of major interest. This paper presents a modular framework for practical research about energy efficiency optimization of complex technical systems. Whereas many approaches focus on stand-alone machines or processes, this approach is concerned with energy-related coupling of several entities. Using a method for energy-related key performance indicators, the overall efficiency is deduced from all subsystems. A given topology is modeled in an XML-based format, inspired by AutomationML. The framework gives the opportunity to analyze and compare optimization algorithms. First experiments with two optimization algorithms were applied to a simulated cooling system.