## 4 Problem characterization and Abstraction
### Challenges in Data Acquisition
#### 4.1.2 Selection of Strategic Technology Partners for Modular Architecture Development  
Following the identification of the general challenges in data acquisition and system integration, it was necessary to evaluate and select suitable technology partners to support the modular design of the system architecture. This selection was based on technical expertise in data acquisition, storage, and processing, as well as access to specialized tools and software solutions.  
Several industrial solution providers, including General Electric, Rockwell Automation, and Bosch, offer relevant products and solutions for system integration. However, Siemens AG and iba AG were chosen as the primary technology partners for the KAVA system due to their strong process connectivity, interoperability, and adaptability. Their technologies are widely used and well-established in the research environment, making them ideal candidates for closer evaluation.  
Siemens AG was selected for its exceptional interoperability and adherence to the OPC UA standard, which ensures seamless communication across industrial systems. The Siemens Industrial Edge platform further enhances IT-OT (Information Technology--Operational Technology) integration, facilitating efficient process coordination.  
Similarly, iba AG was chosen for its high level of flexibility and connectivity, particularly with various automation systems. The ibaPDA system, in particular, offers advanced data integration capabilities, allowing direct access to internal control and regulation system values. This makes it particularly well-suited for use within the KAVA system.  
The ibaPDA system was ultimately selected for experimental validation due to its high connectivity, robust data acquisition capabilities, and adaptability to different automation environments. It supports a wide range of data sources, including analog and digital I/O signals, fieldbus and drive bus signals, and control system data. Additionally, the system employs a client-server architecture, where the ibaPDA server functions as a central processing unit that manages data and output interfaces.  
One of the key advantages of the ibaPDA system is its flexibility in data transmission, allowing seamless integration with databases and cloud services. It can function as an OPC UA server, capturing signals via an OPC UA client interface. Moreover, its adjustable data acquisition timeframes enable users to fine-tune sampling rates, optimizing data processing efficiency. Auto-detection features further simplify system configuration by automatically recognizing signal names and minimizing configuration errors.  
The software also includes integrated online diagnostic tools, enabling the real-time monitoring of data source status and values, ensuring system functionality verification. Furthermore, ibaPDA provides multiple recording options and a highly customizable user interface, allowing operators to adapt the system to specific industrial requirements.  
Another notable feature is the integration of the ibaPDA system into a broader network management structure, following the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). Additionally, multiple ibaPDA systems can be synchronized via fiber-optic connections, enhancing data consistency and system coordination across multiple production environments.