Unified Namespace (UNS)

In this article

» What is a Unified Namespace?
» Why is a UNS important?
» How does a UNS work?
» What are the benefits of a Unified Namespace?
» How to implement a UNS?
» What makes a UNS different from other data systems?
» Applications of a UNS?
» UNS and Ignition
» Discover Ignition

What is a Unified Namespace?

The Unified Namespace (UNS) is a central data framework that serves as the “single source of truth” in an industrial environment. It collects, organizes, and distributes real-time data from machines, systems, sensors, and applications. This enables data to be presented in an organized hierarchical structure, accessible to all systems and users within an organization.

By using a UNS, complex, one-to-one communication between systems is replaced by a standardized approach where systems publish data and subscribe to relevant data streams.

Why is a UNS important?

A UNS solves the problem of data silos and ensures that all connected systems have access to the same, up-to-date information. This is critical for companies aiming for digital transformation and Industry 4.0. It eliminates inefficiencies, enhances process flexibility, and accelerates decision-making.

With a UNS, organizations can decouple systems, allowing applications such as MES, ERP or SCADA to operate independently without direct dependencies on underlying machines or databases. This makes it easier to integrate new technologies and optimize existing processes.

How does a Unified Namespace work?

The UNS uses a publish/subscribe model, often leveraging protocols like MQTT. Machines, sensors, and other devices publish their data to a central broker, which makes this data available to other systems. This enables real-time data sharing without direct system-to-system connections.

The data is organized into a hierarchical structure, for example:

• Plant Level: General production data and KPIs.
  
• Line Level: Specific data about a production line.
  
• Machine Level: Detailed sensor data and machine performance metrics.

What are the benefits of a UNS?

• Real-time insights: All data is instantly available, critical for monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing processes.
  
• System decoupling: Each system can function independently, allowing updates or changes without disruptions.
  
• Scalability: The UNS grows with the organization and can easily integrate new devices or systems.
  
• Cost savings: Reduced complexity in system integrations lowers maintenance and IT costs.
  
• Consistency: All systems use the same data, ensuring uniform and reliable reporting. 

How to implement a Unified Namespace?

Setting up a UNS begins with defining a hierarchical structure that aligns with the factory’s operations. Next, an MQTT broker such as Mosquitto, HiveMQ, or Chariot is installed to manage data. Devices, machines, and systems are configured to publish data, and the UNS is connected to applications such as SCADA, MES, and ERP.

A well-designed UNS integrates with existing protocols like OPC UA and supports future expansions. Ensuring clear data context is essential so that everyone in the organization can understand and utilize the information effectively.

What makes a UNS different from other data systems?

Unlike traditional data warehouses, which store historical data, a UNS focuses on real-time data. Additionally, a UNS eliminates the need for complex interfaces between systems because all data is distributed through a single central broker. This makes it ideal for dynamic, fast-changing production environments.

Applications of a Unified Namespace

A Unified Namespace is widely used in industrial environments, including:

• SCADA systems: Real-time monitoring of production processes.
  
• MES and ERP: Instant access to current data for planning and reporting.
  
• Predictive Maintenance: Analyzing data to predict maintenance needs.
  
• Energy Management: Optimizing energy consumption in the factory.
  
• IoT Integration: Seamless connection of smart devices and machines.

UNS and Ignition

Ignition, a leading platform for industrial automation, provides excellent support for implementing a Unified Namespace. With built-in MQTT integration and a powerful Designer tool, Ignition enables organizations to easily publish and visualize data within a UNS architecture.

Thanks to Ignition’s flexibility, companies can quickly prototype, build dashboards, and optimize processes while benefiting from a standardized data layer. Combining UNS with Ignition lays the foundation for a more efficient, connected, and future-proof factory.