If you’re interested in technology, then you must be aware of the Internet of Things (IoT). The concept of IoT has become quite popular in the last few decades. Now, the attention is being shifted to another concept closely linked to IoT- Industrial IoT (Industrial Internet of Things or IIoT). In simple words, IIoT is the use of Internet of Things technologies in industries. Now, you may think it is a simple concept but there are several misconceptions about it. So, let’s find out in detail what IIoT means and how it is revolutionizing industries.
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) refers to the billions of industrial devices that have sensors and are connected to wireless networks to collect and share data. These devices can be anything- airplane engines, vehicles, or manufacturing machines in a factory. Also known as the Industrial Internet, IIoT brings physical devices together via the internet of computing devices. To collect, exchange, monitor, and analyze data, several industrial devices are connected using communications technologies. The gathered data provides valuable new insights that help in making faster business decisions. The plethora of connected industrial machines incorporated with sensors help in optimizing control, gaining operational visibility, and allows timely management decision. The IIoT applications are widely used in several industries such as:
- Manufacturing
- Retail
- Healthcare
- Logistics
- Energy and utilities
- Oil and gas
- Transportation
- Mining
- Aviation and more
How IIoT Works?
IIoT is a branch of IoT that refers to a network of connected machines, computers, and devices. The basic purpose of creating a network of industrial devices is- data collection, data transmission, and data analytics, and data integration. The process starts by connecting devices to gather and transmit data at various stages of manufacturing and supply chain. With the help of software, the collected data is transferred to the cloud for analytics. The best IIoT platform comes with features of data analytics, integration, and management. The platform should have actionable dashboards, advanced messaging capabilities, and industry-specific features.
Benefits of Industrial IoT
IIoT is transforming industries by streamlining critical day-to-day operations. From providing data to discover additional plant capacity to identifying corrosion inside machinery, IIoT provides useful insights to boost production and drive powerful business outcomes. The primary goal of several IIoT applications is to achieve higher levels of efficiency, productivity, and performance. The most common benefits of IIoT applications for industries are as follows:
- Higher Productivity
One of the biggest benefits of using IIoT solutions in manufacturing industries is improved productivity level. IoT sensors collect data that provides real-time information about the performance of machines and workers. Business managers can keep a track of the production process and take decisions to streamline production workflows and processes. Moreover, predictive maintenance helps in avoiding unexpected downtime that could otherwise reduce production.
- Safety and Security
IIoT allows monitoring the process that helps in avoiding accidents. Tracking the working condition of machines and even using wearables to check employee’s health is useful for preventing serious injuries or illness. Effective monitoring helps in maintaining a safe and healthy work environment and reduces the risk of injuries and accidents that could hurt employees and cause downtime.
- Better Operational Efficiency to Minimize Cost
Industrial IoT creates a connected work environment that provides operational efficiency. With a connected system, it becomes easier to monitor the performance of an asset and workers to proactively take action. Data can be collected from manufacturing plants, vehicles, warehouses, assembly lines, and other assets to identify potential problems. Taking timely decisions is a big factor in avoiding unnecessary costs.
