Profiles
Profiles are pre-defined configurations of the functions and features available from PROFINET for use in specific devices or applications. They are specified by PI working groups and published by PI. Profiles are important for openness, interoperability and interchangeability, so that the end user can be sure that similar equipments from different vendors perform in a standardised way. User choice encourages competition that drives vendors towards enhanced performance and lower costs.
There are PROFINET profiles for Encoders, for example. Other profiles have been specified for Motion Control (PROFIdrive) and Functional Safety (PROFIsafe). A special profile for Trains also exists.
An important profile is PROFIenergy. This was requested in 2009 by the AIDA group of German automotive Manufacturers (Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Porsche and VW) who wished to have a standardised way of actively managing energy usage in their plants. High energy devices and sub-systems such as robots, lasers and even paint lines are the target for this profile, which will help reduce a plant's energy costs by intelligently switching the devices into 'sleep' modes to take account of production breaks, both foreseen (e.g. weekends and shut-downs) and unforeseen (e.g. breakdowns).
PROFIenergy is applicable across industry and includes monitoring services that can lead to the real time management of energy demand
Read more about this topic: PROFINET