The openSYDE software platform introduced in 2017 by system provider STW has also excited Graf-Syteco, as a manufacturer of operating and control devices for mobile machinery. The system brings together electronic components from different manufacturers into a coherent eco-system. As a long-standing partner of STW, we were convinced by the concept of controlling machines and vehicles in a uniform way. The idea of bringing a protocol to the market with which the user can control machines more easily, quickly and efficiently has proven itself. With this modular system, the developers at STW have succeeded in creating a unique IT landscape that makes it much easier to use throughout the entire product life cycle. Various electronic components interact with each other via a common bus system, such as CAN bus or Ethernet, and can be operated via an intuitive tool on the PC.

One system for all
OpenSYDE is flexible and opens up many possibilities. For example, the system allows all functions of a mobile working machine, such as excavators, tractors or construction machines, to be configured and controlled on the PC and, in addition, all data to be read out and analyzed. Operating devices, keyboards, controls, joysticks, hydraulics, sensors, motors or encoders - all these electronic components are linked together under one roof. What is needed is a connection to a bus system and an adapter or even a communication module that creates the interface to the PC and thus to the software. Information and commands are exchanged directly and without detours between the connected components. This eliminates the need for time-consuming and cumbersome setup and maintenance of individual devices and reduces the effort required many times over. If a communication module is integrated into the system, the connection to the Internet is established and the user can even access the system worldwide at any time, regardless of location. While the machine operator is shown data relevant to the operation of the machine via the HMI, the maintenance team can access a wide range of background data on the machine and obtain information on its availability.  Predictive maintenance Damage or wear is thus prevented.

Open communication between GSe-Visu and OpenSyde
The operating and control devices from Graf-Syteco fit seamlessly into the OpenSYDE infrastructure. From the MCQ series to the current GSt-A series, the operating and control devices support the protocol. At the same time, Graf-Syteco's in-house software GSe-Visu has been adapted and can easily communicate with openSYDE. The user has the advantage of accessing the machine with minimal effort. Via a clear control panel of the GSe-Visu software, process parameters can be conveniently defined on the PC and transferred to the openSyde system.

System Definition and System Commissioning
The structure of the software is divided into two areas. First, the network topology and device properties are defined via the System Definition menu. The machine setter finds all defined devices, which are connected and linked to the CAN bus or Ethernet bus system, in his toolbox. The desired components can be configured with just a few clicks. An interface description is also required to link the various components. The user is free to design his own system architecture. Using a graphical display on the screen, the entire system can be clearly displayed and easily created or edited. Once the network topology structure is complete, the selected components can now be configured and the machine commissioned via the System Commissioning menu item. The machine setter will find all previously configured devices that are connected and linked to the CAN bus or Ethernet bus system. With just a few clicks, the desired components can be selected and worked with without any problems. The system allows to set up single data blocks for single devices or variable data pools for multiple components. Dashboards can be used to visualize process variables directly at the machine or remotely via remote maintenance or the cloud.

OpenSYDE has future
From its inception to its launch, the goal was conscientiously pursued to create an open, expandable, and future-oriented eco-system. The system has the potential for more. With openSYDE, manufacturers can profit from the industry and grow technologically. Looking into the future, openSYDE will sustainably improve the interaction between man and machine and make it more efficient.