Towards an Asset Administration Shell scenario: a use case for interoperability and standardization in Industry 4.0

The new paradigm of the Industry 4.0 centers on the digitalization of assets to realize a new industrial revolution. Standardization and interoperability are key for the successful implementation of this digitalization strategy. Among the different standardization and interoperability initiatives, Asset Administration Shell (AAS) proposes a standardized electronic representation of industrial assets enabling Digital Twins and interoperability between automated industrial systems and Cyber Physical System (CPS). In this context, Mondragon Corporation has launched several initiatives to boost the digitalization of its industries. Although implementation of the AAS in real industrial scenarios is not widespread, Mondragon Corporation has identified this initiative as a key enabler for manufacturing companies within its group. This paper presents a case study on the application of the AAS in an industrial context. The AAS initiative is implemented through integrating a Machine Tooling ecosystem with a robotic arm. This implementation facilitates the discovery and integration of grinding machines with other components or machines in a production plant, validating the AAS in a manufacturing scenario.