Asset Administration Shell - added value along the entire value chain
The Asset Administration Shell (AAS for short) links the store floor and office floor and is a central building block for Industry 4.0. As a standardized digital twin, the AAS enables improved transparency and efficiency across the entire product life cycle, as well as seamless integration and communication between different systems. Based on this technology, companies can not only optimize their processes, but also develop innovative business models.
The backbone
of Industry 4.0
The Asset Administration Shell is more than just a technology - it is a key driver of digitalization in Industry 4.0. The AAS is the digital representation of a physical or virtual asset. It acts as a "digital identity card" and enables integration into Industry 4.0 ecosystems. With its ability to connect the physical and digital worlds, the AAS plays a central role in overcoming the challenges associated with the increasing automation and networking of industrial plants. As the only globally standardized digital twin, it creates a uniform and secure communication platform for all systems involved, enabling a more efficient and transparent production environment.
The revolution of the
digital twin
The Asset Administration Shell technology is a central component of Industry 4.0. It arose from the need to clearly identify, describe and link physical and digital assets in networked production environments.
Originally conceived as a "digital identity card" for industrial objects, the AAS now enables consistent standardization of the digital twin. By using internationally recognized standards such as ECLASS and submodel templates, the digital twin is not just a static image, but a dynamic, interoperable system that can be used seamlessly across company and industry boundaries.
This standardization is the key to global interoperability:
It ensures that information and data about assets are described uniformly and precisely, regardless of their origin or the system used. This enables the cross-company exchange of data, which is essential for future networking and automation in production. The most important standards and data models are as follows:
The role of the Industrial Digital Twin Association
The IDTA plays a central role in the development and standardization of the Asset Administration Shell. It acts as a consortium that brings together companies from various industries to establish the digital twin as an open standard worldwide.
The IDTA is responsible for the specification and further development of the Asset Administration Shell. The AAS consists of various sub-models that represent specific aspects of an asset. Each submodel describes certain properties, states or capabilities of the asset. These submodels are defined and standardized by the IDTA to ensure a uniform language for all assets.
This enables seamless integration and communication between different systems, which in turn increases efficiency and reduces costs throughout the value chain. Companies can also use these models to optimize their production processes and digitally map the entire life cycle of a product.
The most important submodels
The "Digital Nameplate" submodel is the digital equivalent of a product's physical nameplate. It contains basic information to identify an asset, similar to a conventional nameplate on a machine or device. Typical data contained in this model includes:
- Serial numbers
- Model or type designations
- Manufacturer information
- Production date
The added value of this model lies in the digital provision and accessibility of this information, which enables rapid identification and management of the asset in digital processes.
The "Handover Documentation" submodel contains all documentation that must be handed over when a product or machine is transferred from a manufacturer or supplier to the customer. This can include
- Operating instructions
- Maintenance instructions
- Safety data sheets
- Certificates and test certificates
The added value of this model lies in the structured and digital provision of all relevant documents, which simplifies the handover processes and supports compliance requirements.
The "Product Carbon Footprint" sub-model provides a detailed representation of the carbon footprint of a product over its entire life cycle. It documents emissions generated during the manufacture, use and disposal of the product. Typically, this model includes
- CO2 emissions from production (including energy consumption and use of raw materials)
- emissions during the use phase
- emissions from disposal and recycling
This model is particularly important for assessing environmental impact and helps companies to develop more sustainable products and ensure compliance with environmental standards.
How does
work in practice?
The Asset Administration Shell promotes the exchange and consolidation of data via a common, digitally accessible platform. This is crucial as it enables collaboration between a large number of players such as producers, wholesalers and end customers.
You can make the AAS accessible in various ways, e.g. via QR codes attached to the devices. A simple scan of this QR code leads directly to the corresponding administration shell in the web browser. This allows users to quickly and easily access relevant information, operating instructions and much more. In corporate environments, the AAS can be integrated via systems such as SAP, creating a direct link between the machine's operating data and corporate applications. The operating data can be obtained directly from the process via sensors and actuators. Data is recorded and processed in real time, enabling immediate analysis and reaction to status data .
Depending on the functional scope of the AAS, there are different methods for exchanging this information between the AAS and the connected systems. These methods range from simple file transfers to complex, autonomous interactions. The following overview shows the three types of AAS, each of which offers different approaches for exchanging information:
These AAS provide basic information that is usually static, such as identification data and technical documentation. Information is exchanged via simple file transfers.
Example: A pressure sensor in a pneumatic system has a Type 1 AAS that contains the basic technical specifications of the sensor, such as operating pressure, temperature range and material properties.
Type 2 AAS offers extended functionalities through dynamic data exchange via APIs. This AAS makes it possible to retrieve and react to real-time information such as operating statuses and diagnostic data.
Example: An intelligent control device in an industrial energy distribution system has a type 2 AAS that makes it possible to retrieve real-time data on power consumption and grid stability via an API and use this data to optimize energy consumption.
The most advanced AAS offer interactive functions, such as control and monitoring options that enable direct interaction with the asset. These types communicate without human intervention via an Industry 4.0 language and can make decisions independently and perform actions based on the data collected.
Example: An autonomous robot arm in a production line could have a Type 3 AAS that enables the robot to plan and perform maintenance tasks autonomously by monitoring its own operating data and communicating with other machines in the network.
Added value over the entire product life cycle
The Asset Administration Shell plays a central role in the digital transformation of the industry by enabling continuous and seamless value creation across the entire product life cycle. The standardized digital representation of a physical asset provides information and data on a product continuously and efficiently from production to the end customer.
A key aspect of this continuous value creation is the distinction between type and instance AAS, which represent different levels of abstraction and differ in the phase before and after the sale of an asset.
The relationship between type and instance AAS should be continuously maintained. It is crucial for scalability and consistency in production. The type AAS is used in the pre-sale phase, i.e. before the asset is sold. It enables companies to efficiently manage and reproduce standardized information for assets of the same type. After the sale, in the post-sale phase, the respective instance AAS for the sold and specific asset is created from the type AAS. This ensures that each individual asset is optimally monitored and maintained throughout its life cycle.
Companies benefit from this structure through improved efficiency, as they can react quickly to changes and save costs in the process. In addition, this connection enables optimal asset lifecycle management, which increases competitiveness in the long term.
A type AAS defines the general structure and standardized properties of an asset type. It acts as a template that defines which data and functions are available for all instances of a particular type. This AAS is usually created during product development and contains basic information that is the same for all units of this type.
Example: A manufacturer of electrical switchgear creates a type AAS for its low-voltage switchgear. This type AAS contains information such as the general technical specifications, standardized installation instructions and safety guidelines. Every switchgear of this type that is produced is based on this type AAS.
An instance AAS is a concrete manifestation of the type AAS and relates to a specific, individual asset. It is created after the sale in the post-sale phase and contains individual data that is collected throughout the life of the asset, such as serial number, specific configurations, maintenance histories and real-time data.
Example: A specific low-voltage switchgear installed in a production line is given an instance AAS. This instance AAS documents the serial number, the exact installation location, specific configurations and operating data such as the current performance parameters and maintenance histories.
This end-to-end use of data not only leads to greater efficiency and accuracy in the value chain, but also enables new business models to be developed and customer service to be improved. The following scenario illustrates examples of how AAS is used in different phases of the product life cycle and the specific benefits it brings for the respective stakeholders.
Application scenario:
The AAS in use
01 Manufacturer | Automatech GmbH
Automatech GmbH is a leading manufacturer of industrial control modules. To ensure the quality and reliability of its pneumatic control modules, Automatech implements a type AAS for each of these modules. This type AAS defines the general structure and standardized characteristics of the module, such as technical specifications and operating instructions, which are the same for all modules of this type.
Added value:
02 Wholesaler | TechDistributor AG
TechDistributor AG, a wholesaler of industrial components, takes over Automatech GmbH's products and adds logistical data such as stock levels, order status and shipping information to the AAS. Each instance of AAS ensures that this specific information can be managed and tracked individually for each module, enabling precise and efficient logistics.
Added value:
03 System integrator | ProSys Integrations GmbH
ProSys Integrations GmbH, a specialized system integrator, acquires the modules from TechDistributor AG and integrates them into an advanced manufacturing system at the automotive manufacturer AutoAssembly GmbH. ProSys extends the existing instance AAS of the modules with specific configuration data and adds additional use cases.
Added value:
04 End customer | AutoAssembly GmbH
The end customer AutoAssembly GmbH receives the fully integrated and individualized system from ProSys Integratiocns GmbH. The final instance AAS is used to integrate specific monitoring and maintenance data tailored to the requirements of AutoAssembly GmbH.
Added value:
Application scenarios for the Asset Administration Shell
Materialmaster
AAS enable the automatic updating of material master data, which reduces sources of error and improves data quality. Seamless data exchange between ERP systems and other sources increases efficiency by avoiding media disruptions and improves documentation processes.
Digital product passport
AAS prepare companies for the introduction of the digital product passport, which will be mandatory in the EU from 2027. They support sustainability goals by providing information on maintenance and repair, among other things, which extends the service life of products and reduces waste. The digital product passport makes this data accessible to customers and promotes the circular economy through increased transparency.
Documentation
Asset administration shells enable the efficient management of large amounts of data by collecting and distributing information centrally. They document materials and processes seamlessly, which contributes to quality assurance, traceability and compliance with legal requirements. Digital administration replaces paper documentation, increases transparency and reduces the workload.
Ecological footprint
AAS enable precise measurement of the ecological footprint of products by using real-time data from production. This increases transparency along the supply chain and supports sustainability through standardized assessments in accordance with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol.
Onboarding and management of machines
The implementation of AAS simplifies the onboarding and management of machines by providing comprehensive data on installed parts and supplier information. This improves quality assurance and enables more efficient tracking and management of processes.
Transparency & resilience in the logistics chain
AAS enable precise location tracking and prediction of arrival times through the integration of tracking standards such as Omlox. They improve the transparency of the entire logistics chain and support the optimization of logistics processes. With the help of artificial intelligence, companies can identify bottlenecks and delays at an early stage and strengthen their resilience to unforeseen events, resulting in a more efficient supply chain.
Being a pioneer with future technology
In the digital transformation, the digital twin is a key to increasing efficiency and innovation. With BaSyx Enterprise, you can rely on the leading platform for implementing the Asset Administration Shell (AAS) - the globally standardized approach for digital twins. Our solution offers you the flexibility and scalability to integrate complex systems and future-proof your processes.
Asset Administration Shells
with BaSyx Enterprise
The implementation of asset administration shells opens up new horizons for companies that want to set the pace in Industry 4.0. With BaSyx Enterprise, you have the opportunity to seamlessly integrate AAS and take your digital ecosystem to a new level.
BaSyx Enterprise - Asset Administration Shell Management
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Webinars & recordings
Stay up to date and deepen your knowledge of the digital transformation of the industry! In our webinars, experts from objective partner shed light on exciting topics relating to the Asset Administration Shell. All our webinars are also available as recordings. Use these valuable resources to expand your expertise and gain a decisive competitive advantage.
FAQ Asset Administration Shell
The Asset Administration Shell (AAS) is a digital identity card for an asset, be it a machine, a product or software. It enables these assets to be integrated into Industry 4.0 communication networks and provides standardized interfaces that allow access to all relevant information about an asset throughout its entire life cycle.
- Digital representation
The asset administration shell provides a structured, digital description of an asset that contains all relevant information and data. This includes technical specifications, operating data, maintenance information and more. - Interoperability
Thanks to standardized interfaces and protocols, the asset administration shell enables interoperability between different systems and components, regardless of manufacturer or technology. - Life cycle management
The asset administration shell supports the management of the entire life cycle of an asset, from planning and production to operation and disposal. All life cycle data can be recorded and managed centrally. - Data access and exchange
It enables secure and controlled access to the asset's data and the exchange of this data with other administration shells or systems, e.g. to optimize production processes. - Integration in IoT and Industry 4.0
The asset administration shell is a core component for IoT and Industry 4.0 applications. It enables connection to digital platforms, cloud services and other smart technologies. - Functional expandability
The asset administration shell can be flexibly expanded using submodels. These submodels can cover specific aspects of an asset, such as energy consumption, production capacity or safety requirements. - Condition monitoring and diagnostics
The asset administration shell supports continuous monitoring of the condition of an asset and can provide diagnostic data to enable an early response to maintenance requirements or faults. - Standardization and compliance
It ensures compliance with industry standards and norms, which facilitates integration into existing systems and supports collaboration between different partners and systems. - Connecting the physical and digital worlds
The asset administration shell creates a bridge between the physical and digital worlds by enabling digital twins and linking physical reality with digital models.
AAS technology is groundbreaking because it is the only standardized digital twin that enables cross-industry and cross-supply chain interoperability. This ensures uniform interpretation and processing of data and promotes efficient and secure communication between different systems and companies.
- Integration and management: The AAS offers seamless integration and management of product information
- Efficiency: Clear data structures and consistent data storage enable more efficient use and management of resources.
- Standardization: Enables the use of international standards (e.g. IDTA, ECLASS), ensuring interoperability and data security.
- Flexibility: Supports dynamic adjustments in production and the cost-efficient manufacture of individualized products (batch size 1).
- Transparency: Provides a high level of transparency through real-time data and traceability over the entire life cycle of a product.
- Sustainability: Supporting the circular economy through comprehensive traceability of product information and life cycle assessments.
The AAS enables efficient management and use of resources by providing standardized interfaces for accessing all relevant information about an asset throughout its entire life cycle. This leads to a clear data structure and consistent data management. With the AAS, companies can:
- Optimize production processes: Real-time data enables continuous monitoring and adjustment of production processes to identify and eliminate bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
- Reduce errors and downtime: Through preventive maintenance and early fault detection based on the data collected, companies can minimize downtime and extend the life of their assets.
- Ensure data consistency: A uniform and standardized data structure reduces errors caused by manual data entry and facilitates integration into existing systems.
Administration shells can be used in various scenarios, including
- Digital product passport: Provision of all relevant information over the entire life cycle of a product.
- Ecological footprint: Measurement and reduction of a product's CO2 emissions.
- Condition monitoring: Continuous condition monitoring of machines and systems.
- Documentation and quality assurance: Management and tracking of production information and processes.
The AAS supports the circular economy by ensuring comprehensive traceability of product information and life cycle assessments. This makes a decisive contribution to achieving sustainability goals by enabling companies to:
- Conserve resources: Thanks to the detailed documentation and traceability of the materials and components used, companies can optimize the use of resources and reduce material consumption.
- Promote recycling: The AAS provides complete transparency about a product's materials and components, making it easier to recycle and reuse materials.
- Supporting sustainable production: Companies can better understand the environmental impact of their products and take action to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Meet regulatory requirements: The AAS facilitates compliance with legal requirements such as the Digital Product Passport, which will be mandatory in the EU from 2027, by making all relevant information available digitally.
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