APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPEN NETWORK-BASED DATA ACQUISITION USING XML

摘要

A system and method of collecting one of process control data and asset data from a plurality of data sources communicatively coupled to an open network stores location information associated with the plurality of data sources and periodically sends requests for process control information to each of the plurality of data sources by using the location information to communicate with each of the plurality of data sources via the open network. In addition, the system and method collects the process control data from messages received in response to the requests for process control information, aggregates the process control data to form aggregated process control data, and stores the aggregated process control data within a database. Additionally, the aggregated data is used in making decisions with regards to operation and maintenance of a process control system or a plant.