The practice of using electronic sensors in manufacturing goes back to the 1960s. However, the advent of the Internet and the greater connectivity that it brings has also brought a revolution to the industrial sector known as the Internet of Things.
Now, factory machinery, assembly lines, and computers can seamlessly communicate with one another, sharing information as they work. Embracing the Internet of Things in manufacturing can bring enormous benefits to a company.
What is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the global network of devices connected via the Internet. This doesn't just include computers and smartphones but everything from farming equipment to traffic signals to medical devices. By connecting devices and sharing data, businesses can enjoy greater efficiency and insight into their operations.
For industry specifically, IoT is part of what's been called "Industry 4.0," which is the trend of integrating smart and mobile technologies into industrial roles. This trend also includes deep data analysis, machine learning, cloud computing, and digital twins.
Components of Internet of Things in Manufacturing
An industrial IoT system consists of several parts:
- Machinery: Obviously, there needs to be machines to monitor, control, and analyze via IoT. This could include everything ranging from CNC machinery to conveyor belts to warehouse forklifts.
- Sensors: A critical part of IoT is the sensors that gather and report data. The type of sensors used will depend on the information the owner wants to collect. For example, temperature and pressure sensors are often used to monitor machinery performance and alert users if a mechanical breakdown occurs. Proximity and infrared sensors are typically used to track packages, letting owners know precisely how long it takes for something to get from A to B.
- Computers: Once sensors gather data, it is transmitted to industrial-grade PCs for workers to review and monitor. This includes both industrial panel PCs that workers interact with and smaller rugged mini PCs that process sensor data without employee input.
- Artificial Intelligence: Generative AI is a natural fit for IoT in manufacturing, as it can seamlessly integrate with data collection and analysis. AI's ability to process massive amounts of data lets it produce insights or develop predictive models for the future.
Benefits of IoT in Manufacturing
Properly implemented, IoT can bring numerous benefits to manufacturing businesses, including:
- Increased Efficiency: Implementing IoT solutions lets manufacturers automate more of their processes, leading to greater efficiency throughout. After all, machines don't get tired, sick, or distracted, making them far less likely to make a mistake. Additionally, letting machines communicate with each other via shared software lets them bypass manual inputs from humans, further accelerating your workflow.
- Predictive Maintenance: Unexpected downtime due to mechanical failure is one of the biggest and most expensive time-wasters for manufacturing businesses. IoT offers a solution by closely monitoring a machine's performance and developing a baseline. Whenever the IoT sensors detect a deviation from that baseline, they can alert workers that there may be an issue, allowing maintenance to be scheduled before a major failure occurs.
- Improved Safety: Besides monitoring machinery with IoT sensors, these same technologies can protect workers. For example, employees with wearable sensors attached to their uniforms or equipment can be tracked throughout a facility, making monitoring their location and finding them during an emergency easier. This tech can also alert workers when they wander into an area they aren't supposed to be in.
- Automatic Data Collection: In the past, employees have had to manually collect data, such as counting the number of products manufactured, the span of time between mechanical breakdowns, etc. However, this introduces the possibility of human error. IoT sensors can automatically collect this data, creating accurate records that lead to better-informed decisions.
Embrace IoT With Cybernet Computers
Success in manufacturing has always depended on embracing new technologies as they become available. Integrating IoT solutions into your workflow and supporting them with the right computers allows your business to enjoy more efficient operations, a safer workspace, and better recordkeeping.
If you're looking for industrial-grade tablets and PCs that can support IoT processes, contact the team at Cybernet Manufacturing. Our range of industrial panel PCs and box PCs are fully compatible with a wide range of IoT sensors and components and feature multiple I/O ports and Wi-Fi connectivity to bring Industry 4.0 to your business.
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