Action Machinery While much literature discusses the application of the Internet of Things in consumer technology, there is less discussion on the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). However, the Industrial Internet of Things has benefits in several industrial applications, including metal fabrication, machine shops and milling machines, as well as the oil and gas industries.
What is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to internet connectivity among ordinary devices, which allow them to communicate wirelessly with a network. For example, a smart TV can connect to the internet for streaming video or watching live television.
You’ve probably heard the term “smart home.” A smart home is a house with several IoT devices and systems connected to the internet or a network. For example, a smart home might include things like a smart refrigerator, a Nest or Ecobee thermostat and outlets or light switches connected to a wireless network. You control the IoT devices through the use of cloud computing and apps on your smartphone or tablet.
What Is the Difference between the IoT and the IIoT?
There are significant differences between the IoT and the Industrial IoT. The primary difference between the two is in the intended applications. The IoT is used for consumer devices.
The Industrial IoT uses the same concept as the Internet of Things, but instead of consumer devices in the home, it’s used in things like machining equipment and metal fabrication equipment.
The IIoT not only connects devices wirelessly to a network but allows for the synchronization of the devices on the network so they can work together. It also sues cloud computing and apps which can be controlled via a computer or mobile devices.
For example, devices connected to the IIoT coordinate machines so that products can be manufactured and distributed to warehouses, stores, or consumers. The IIoT also helps improve supply chain efficiency and aids in the performance of predictive maintenance.
How Does the Industrial IoT Work?
The Industrial IoT works through sensors and actuators that are added to machines. Its function is to ensure that the processes used in industries are more effective and efficient.
The goal of the Industrial IoT is to gather and analyze data that can then be used for the organizations to accomplish its manufacturing or industrial goals more effectively.
The sensors selected are based on the metrics the organization wants to track. The connectivity of the machines also helps ensure that the overall process is coordinated for success.
The Benefits of the Industrial IoT
There are many benefits to the implementation of the Industrial IoT. These benefits include:
- Increased efficiency
- Increased effectiveness
- Reduced Expenses
- Reduction of errors and manual labor
The Industrial IoT uses sensors to track machines in industrial and manufacturing industries, which can track speed, quality and several other factors. This tracking helps reduce errors and increase efficiency across the supply chain.
However, the Industrial IoT can also be used to coordinate multiple machines working together in a manufacturing or industrial process. Doing this also increases efficiency and allows individual staff to ensure that the process is working efficiently by allowing the machines to communicate effectively through their network connection.
Applications of the Industrial IoT
The IIoT has several applications across multiple industries, but its benefits are in manufacturing operations. Because the IIoT connects machines, tools and sensors on factory and shop floors, it ensures managers and engineers can monitor all aspects of the production process.
For example, a supervisor in a facility can monitor the productivity of workers using tools connected to the IIoT. As a result, they receive alerts or discover errors and bottlenecks sooner and can implement solutions to increase efficiency and save on costs.
Final Thoughts
As society continues to advance in its use of technology and the Internet of Things, industry and manufacturing continue to see new and useful applications. Understanding the Industrial IoT and how it applies to industrial operations can help prepare organizations for the future of this promising technological application.