A Complete Guide for Businesses to Understand IIoT and its Use Cases

  • 5 min read
Industrial IoT (IIoT)

Did you know that, according to Microsoft’s IoT Signals research, 56 per cent of firms utilise IIoT (industrial internet of things) services for processes optimisation, 47 per cent for worker efficiency, and 44 per cent for safety and security?

In fact, according to a Dell survey, 49 per cent of manufacturers have improved their process capability, while 33 per cent have improved their asset usage. Today, businesses are already reaping the benefits of IIoT.

What is the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)?

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is a concept that defines how a variety of industrial machinery and devices are linked with data gathering, wireless network connections, and sensors to maximise control, operational visibility, and management decisions.

Machines can speak with one another due to Industrial IoT, allowing businesses to discover problems in their manufacturing line quickly.

Like the Internet of Things, the Industrial IoT has a variety of applications, sectors, and use instances. Initially focusing on enhancing operations and maintenance, the Industrial Internet of Things opens up countless opportunities in automated processes, asset management, control systems, on-demand subscription model, and new revenue streams.

Although, most Industrial IoT (also known as IIoT) initiatives initially focus on automation, optimisation, and tactical or strategic goals, its benefit is not limited to these goals only. From operational efficiency to creativity, the Industrial Internet of Things is evolving. Most IIoT practices and many enterprises still focus on operational efficiency and cost reduction. However, a more comprehensive strategy with additional income and innovation objectives is required. For instance, in the larger industrial setting, where customers want speed and enhanced procedures and efficiency, robotics has become a new component of IIoT initiatives.

Components of IIoT

The IIoT goes beyond the IoT’s conventional interconnectedness of physical objects and consumer electronics. The combination of Information Technology [IT] and Operation Technology [OT] distinguishes the Industrial Internet of Things. Critical components for establishing IIoT in companies include:

  • High-end devices (like sensors) that must support internet connectivity and cloud connectivity.
  • Proper internet connectivity.
  • Intercommunication between all the devices installed at the company.
  • Data storage and data analytics.

Advantages of the Industrial Internet of Things

  • Enhancement of operational effectiveness

With Industrial IoT, you may create an environment of connected equipment with a wide range of operational efficiency benefits.

  • Productivity gains

Manufacturers can now obtain real-time feedback on the effectiveness of personnel and goods, thanks to IIoT solutions. It aids in the streamlining and improvement of corporate processes.

  • Cost-effectiveness

Introducing Industrial IoT has a significant cost-cutting benefit for organisations. For instance, with IIoT, the need for physical infrastructure to supervise industrial processes has become secondary, saving a lot of money.

  • Improved customer service

By embedding Industrial IoT sensors in products, manufacturers can collect and analyse data on how customers are constantly using their products.

What are the Challenges of IIoT?

  • There are several types of IIoT devices: Receivers, beacons, tags, actuators, and sensors are only some types of industrial IoT devices. Businesses need to select to most appropriate system for proper and fruitful functioning.
  • Data administration: Managing the massive volume of data created by industrial IoT is challenging for any firm.
  • Industrial IoT Standards: The adoption and development of industrial IoT are based on standards. The presence of several IIoT standards poses a challenge for businesses.

Use Cases of IIoT

  1. Embedded sensors

When Airbus announced its “Factory of the Future” digital manufacturing effort, no one anticipated that it would become a fantastic way of simplifying operations and increasing manufacturing capability cost-effectively. For Airbus, only wearables increased productivity by 500 per cent in one procedure, namely cabin-seat labelling.

It’s easier to eliminate errors and maintain workplace safety with integrated sensors in machines and tools, and wearables (smart glasses).

  1. Automated warehouses

Consider having robots in large warehouses that find product shelves and deliver them to workers instead of the workers travelling to the frames themselves. That is because IIoT app development is here, and it’s happening in Amazon’s warehouses! Because of these smart robots, the online retail behemoth could slash its operating costs by 20%.

  1. Augmented reality apps

Imagine an app that could provide machine operators with a bird’s-eye view of everything, from fuel loads to when air purifiers need replacement. Thanks to the convergence of IoT and AR, these beneficial services are now possible.

IIoT Platforms you should know about:

  • IBM Watson IoT by IBM
  • Braincube
  • Murano IoT Platform by Exosite
  • Azure IoT by Microsoft
  • Litmus Edge
  • AWS IoT by Amazon Web Services
  • Oracle IoT Cloud by Oracle

IIoT vs IoT

Focus Area IoT IIoT
Degree of Application Sensitive Sensors & advanced controls Simple application with low-risk impact
Maintenance Can happen whenever Scheduled & organized
Life Cycle Short Long
Programmability Easy off-site programming Remote/local on-site programming
Interoperability Funtionally Independent Intgrates with co-existing legacy operating systems
Focus Device Smart devices Sophisticated machines
Accuracy and Precision Critically monitored as it deals with commericial apps Synchronized to milliseconds due to its involvement in high-stake sectors
Data Management Handles a high-volume of data Handles a moderate amount of data
Area of Focus Consumer or commercial convenience Operating efficiency in high-stak industries
Security Measures Utility Focused Dynamic & robust
Network Connectivity Small Scale Large Scale

Source: intuz.com

Preparing for Industry 4.0

We are in a time of massive digital change. Several business activities are shifting towards flexible production systems and industrial automation. Secured wireless connectivity improves factory automation by allowing smart machines to receive more data; hence, increasing efficiency and quality. “Industry 4.0” is the name given to this transformation. Therefore, many companies have already automated their overall operations.

To reap the benefits of IIoT, explore more about our product Airtel IoT.