Glossary Updates12 new terms added to the glossaries · October 2, 2026, 22:44 CEST
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Reference Architecture Model Industrie 4.0 (RAMI 4.0)

Also known as: RAMI 4.0, Reference Architecture Model Industry 4.0

German: Referenzarchitekturmodell Industrie 4.0 (RAMI 4.0)

The Reference Architecture Model Industrie 4.0 (RAMI 4.0) is a three-dimensional model that structures Industrie 4.0 concepts along three axes: architecture layers (from asset to business), lifecycle and value stream (type and instance), and hierarchy levels (from product and field device to connected world). It was published as DIN SPEC 91345 and IEC PAS 63088.

  • IIoT
  • Standards

In one sentence

RAMI 4.0 is a three-dimensional reference model that structures Industrie 4.0 by layers, lifecycle and hierarchy levels.

Example

An architecture document uses RAMI 4.0 to show that a drive's AAS covers the information layer of an instance in the operation phase at field device level.

How it applies

  • Engineering: RAMI 4.0 gives a common frame of reference for discussing where a function, standard or piece of information belongs. It is a model for orientation, not a technical specification.
  • Integration: Its hierarchy axis builds on the levels of IEC 62264 (ISA-95) and IEC 61512 (ISA-88), extended by product and connected world. The Asset Administration Shell (AAS) was developed as the implementation of the Industrie 4.0 component described in this context.
  • Documentation: In white papers and architecture descriptions, RAMI 4.0 diagrams help readers place a solution. Explain which axis and layer is meant rather than showing the cube as decoration.

RAMI 4.0 vs. ISA-95

ISA-95 defines functional levels and models for enterprise-control integration. RAMI 4.0 is broader and adds the lifecycle axis and the architecture layers. Following RAMI 4.0 does not mean a product meets any particular standard.

By knowledge.aitechdoc.world · Published September 26, 2026 · Last reviewed

Source: DIN SPEC 91345:2016, Reference Architecture Model Industrie 4.0 (RAMI4.0)

Definitions follow the cited standards and specifications. Where a source is a copyrighted publication, such as an ISO, IEC or EN standard, the definition is a close paraphrase, not a verbatim quotation, so as not to infringe copyright. We recommend reading the original publication. The sections “How it applies” are editorial commentary by AI TechDoc Blog and are not part of any standard.

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