Abstract
Abstract: In this paper we present the Java Fieldbus Control Framework (JFCF) which provides an object oriented programming framework for the rapid creation of concurrent control tasks for fieldbus-based automation systems. Our framework is implemented in Java which is going to become more popular in the field of industrial control, due to the advent of dedicated Java real-time systems and the Real-Time Specification for Java (RTSJ). We further describe an example application built within our framework consisting of an open Java control for a CANopen automation system featuring a SCARA robot arm, a transfer system and further peripheral fieldbus devices. Four independent tasks run concurrently to establish the overall automation process. In order to meet real-time requirements, the framework will be extended to comply to the RTSJ in the future. The reusability of object oriented software and the portability of Java code results in a reduction of costs for software creation and maintenance.