Asset administration shell

An asset administration shell is a virtual digital and active representation of an I4.0 component in the I4.0 system.

^{Source: Fraunhofer IOSB} 

The administration shell is the implementation of the digital twin for Industry 4.0. The administration shell

• integrates the asset into the Industrie 4.0 communication.
• Is addressable in the network and uniquely identifies the asset.
• allows controllable access to all information of the object.
• has a standardized and secure communication interface.
• can integrate intelligent and non-intelligent ("passive") assets (without communication interface), e.g. via bar or QR codes.
• maps the entire life cycle of products, devices, machines and plants.

^{Source: Plattform Industrie 4.0, Die Verwaltungsschale im im Detail}