Evolution of Graph Models in Industrial Control Systems from Functional Block Diagrams to Modular Data Processing Systems Based on Directed Acyclic Graphs
Abstract
Evolution of Graph Models in Industrial Control Systems from Functional Block Diagrams to Modular Data Processing Systems Based on Directed Acyclic Graphs
Incoming article date: 02.12.2025The article examines the evolution of graph-based methods for describing technological data processing in industrial control systems (ICS) and substantiates the feasibility of transitioning from the traditional paradigm of functional block diagrams to architectures based on directed acyclic graphs (DAGs). It is shown that the use of the DAG model provides enhanced capabilities for formalization, dynamic configuration, and distributed execution of computational processes, thereby overcoming the limitations inherent in classical programming tools for programmable logic controllers. The applicability of modular DAG-oriented systems in industrial environments is analyzed using the Tessera-DFE architecture as an example, which implements graph loading, module integration, event-driven execution, and independent processing contexts. It is noted that such solutions contribute to increased reliability, scalability, and adaptability of ICS software in the context of growing data volumes, increasing processing complexity, and the need for integration with external services.
Keywords: industrial Control Systems, technological data, directed acyclic graph, functional block diagrams, IEC 61131-3, modular architecture, dynamic configuration, distributed execution, plugin modules, event processing, scalability, reliability, Tessera-DFE