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Sigmacs Engineering
RU

Stage 2

Developing the specification and system architecture

The specification is the official document that records all system requirements and becomes the basis for design, equipment supply and acceptance. We develop it in close cooperation with the client so that it reflects business needs as well as technical ones.

This is where the "skeleton" of the future system is formed: its structure, components, operating logic and interaction with external systems. The reliability, scalability and usability of the whole automated system depend directly on the quality of this stage.

An engineer agrees the system requirements

What the specification includes

Automation goals and objectives

Clearly stated expectations. For example: "automate the start of the pumping station when the tank level falls below 1.5 m".

Description of the process

A diagram showing all stages, parameters and control points.

Functional requirements

  • Which processes are automated
  • Which operating modes are provided: manual, automatic, emergency
  • Interlock and protection logic
  • Alarm and notification requirements

Equipment requirements

  • Types and specifications of PLCs, sensors and frequency converters
  • Preferred manufacturers: Russian or foreign
  • Installation and operating conditions: IP rating, climatic design and more

Software requirements

  • The type of SCADA/HMI system, including our own RusVisualisation or MasterSCADA 4D
  • The need for remote access, 1C integration and report export
  • User access levels

Implementation stages and acceptance criteria

A clear work plan and indicators the client can use to confirm that the system works correctly.

The specification is agreed with the client and approved by both parties. This rules out misunderstandings later on and serves as the legal basis for warranty obligations.

Process control system architecture design

The architecture is the technical "map" of the system that defines how all its components will interact. We design it for reliability, scalability and future upgrades.

Control hierarchy

Following the ISA-95 model or one adapted to your facility:

  • Level 0: sensors and actuators — pumps, valves, motors
  • Level 1: controllers (PLCs) — the "brain" of local automation
  • Level 2: SCADA/HMI — visualisation and operational control
  • Level 3 (optional): integration with MES/ERP, e.g. 1C

Network topology and data exchange protocols

  • Choice of industrial protocols: Modbus RTU/TCP, OPC UA, Profibus and others
  • Local network layout: twisted pair, fibre optics, radio link
  • Communication channel redundancy where needed

Control cabinet structure

  • Distribution of functions between cabinets: pump control, dispatching and distribution cabinets
  • Power supply and protection diagrams
  • Connection points for external systems

Visualisation architecture

  • Number and type of operator workstations: fixed, mobile, web access
  • Structure of mimic diagrams and navigation
  • Data archiving and reporting mechanisms

Cybersecurity and protection measures

  • Separation of process and office networks
  • Access rights configuration
  • Configuration backups

Why this stage should be left to professionals

  • We avoid "technical debt"

    A well-designed architecture makes it easy to add new lines or equipment in the future.

  • We reduce the risk of failures

    Clear logic and redundancy of critical units improve fault tolerance.

  • We make operation simpler

    An intuitive structure and documentation save staff time.

  • We ensure compliance with standards

    We take into account GOST, the Electrical Installation Code (PUE), Rostekhnadzor requirements and industry regulations.

What you get

  • An approved specification

    A legally binding document for implementing the project.

  • An architecture diagram of the process control system

    A visual and technical description of the system structure.

  • A preliminary cost estimate and work schedule

    Based on the approved concept.

These documents become the basis for all subsequent stages: design, cabinet manufacturing, programming, installation and commissioning.

Other stages

  1. 01 Pre-design survey
  2. 03 Electrical and functional diagrams
  3. 04 SCADA/HMI systems
  4. 05 Commissioning

Consultation

Get a free consultation

We will call you back shortly and help with project calculation, cost estimate and equipment selection.

Email for requests
info@sigmacs.pro
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