A powerful, flexible infrastructure is required to universally combine manufacturer-independent production modules with a minimum of configuration effort. Such an infrastructure can assume all major supply and management functions. These functions include the energy supply, data routing, and comprehensive safety controls. The infrastructure is the connecting lifeline between the production modules, which are otherwise fully autonomous. It is also modular in design and enables the connection of manufacturer-independent production modules. Standard plug connectors link manufacturer-specific infrastructure boxes that are designed as separate boxes, each with two module supply interfaces.HARTING, Phoenix Contact, Belden/Hirschmann and Weidmüller supply the infrastructure boxes as independent, yet compatible proprietary developments that supply the system.