Boosting Manufacturing Agility by Leveraging the Synergy of AutomationML and OPC UA

Consistent data integration along the life cycle of production systems remains a challenge due to multiple information modelling standards. AutomationML (AML) and OPC UA provide comprehensive frameworks for interoperability through mapping rules, configuration data integration, and industrial applications. An ongoing open-source development effort, hosted on GitHub (Automation ML e.V., 2024), aims to implement these mappings as XSLT transformations. This paper explores the practical application of reusing information and data models through AML–OPC UA mappings and evaluates three integration strategies: (1) transforming AML models into OPC UA information models, (2) embedding OPC UA server configurations within AML, and (3) integrating OPC UA information models into AML. A lab-scale proof of concept is conducted to validate these strategies, demonstrating their applicability and benefits. The results highlight how this integration can improve system flexibility, reduce engineering effort, and enhance data consistency across different life cycle phases.