Advanced SCADA & Network Infrastructure for the University of Nottingham’s Omnifactory©
Fairfield Control Systems was initially commissioned to implement an IoT data collection system using Siemens WinCC Unified SCADA software at The University of Nottingham’s Omnifactory© research facility. Following the success of this first phase, the project was expanded to include a full-scale server and network infrastructure supporting multiple digital engineering platforms.
Challenge
The expanded scope required:
- Integration of various third-party digital engineering tools.
- A secure and scalable server cluster.
- A robust network architecture that allowed faculty-wide access to production data while protecting critical control systems.
Our Solution
Our Industrial ICT Team delivered a comprehensive end-to-end solution encompassing the design, procurement, configuration, testing, and installation of an advanced server and network cluster. The network was structured in a three-layer architecture to ensure security, performance, and scalability.
The DMZ (Demilitarised Zone) hosted virtualised services such as the Domain Controller, Remote Access Server, Proxy Server for SCADA clients, and update servers for Windows and antivirus patching.
The Core Network included virtualised servers supporting SCADA, Historian, Communications Gateway, digital engineering tools, and engineering administration.
Finally, the Cell Floor Network connected directly to end devices with controlled access via firewall routers, providing secure configuration management and seamless integration across all layers.
Security & Compliance
As a research facility, the network was designed to meet industry best practices. Our IEC 62443 Cyber Security Experts conducted a Cyber Security Risk Assessment to align with the compliance requirements of the university’s research partners. This assessment was used to guide any additional security measures necessary to ensure full regulatory compliance.
Impact
This infrastructure enables secure, scalable, and collaborative research and development within the Omnifactory©, supporting innovation while maintaining robust cybersecurity standards.