The Modbus Definition Language Specification: A First Step Towards Device Interoperability
Jibonananda Sanyal, Joshua New, James J. Nutaro, David L. Fugate, Teja P. Kuruganti · Building Simulation Conference proceedings · 2015
This paper describes the eXtensible Markup Language (XML) Schema Definition (XSD) for interoperability of Modbus devices. This system uses a common set of XML elements to describe Modbus input and output functions. The goal of the developed technology is to facilitate the rapid, cost-effective retrofit integration of building automation systems by exposing the functions of sensors, actuators, and other data sources through a uniform software interface. Such interoperability facilitates close monitoring of building performance and software-inthe-loop simulation of building energy consumption. The XML Schema is discussed in detail. In addition, two key software utilities, a comma-separated value (CSV) file parser and a device driver generator, are discussed. These helper utilities significantly reduce the barrier to commercial deployment of interoperable Modbus devices.