Understand representation of assets in PI Asset Framework

Each physical object that you include in your model is represented by a PI Asset Framework (PI AF) element. Physical objects are typically pieces of equipment, such as pumps or tanks. To associate data with an element, you create attributes on the element. Attributes can hold simple values representing fixed information, such as the diameter of a tank. An attribute can alternatively reference a PI point, a formula, a value from an external relational database, and more.

Templates

You can create each element individually, but it is recommended to base individual elements on an asset template that represents the type of equipment. Element templates enable you to:

• Configure the template once; no need to individually configure each element based on the template.

• Update element structure across all elements belonging to the template.

• Maintain consistency in the asset model.

• Enable powerful features in PI AF client applications.