Hybrid wired/wireless PROFIBUS networks supported by bridges/routers

Fieldbus networks are becoming increasingly popular in industrial computer-controlled systems. More recently, there is the eagerness for extending the capabilities of fieldbuses to cover functionalities not previously considered in such type of networks, with particular emphasis to industrial wireless communications. Thinking about wireless means considering hybrid wired/wireless solutions able to interoperate with legacy (wired) systems. One possible solution is to use intermediate systems (IS) acting as repeaters to interconnect the wired and wireless parts. Contrarily, in this paper, we analyze a solution where intermediate systems are implemented as bridges/routers. We detail the main advantages in terms of dependability and timeliness, and propose mechanisms to manage message transactions and intercell mobility.