Current business environment is developing and changing quite dynamically. One of the key factors to achieve success is making the right decisions. The management transformation goes along with technological progress, as we accentuate the data gathering and analysis instead of empirical, even impulsive decision making.
Every relevant information about effectiveness of production processes, lowering maintenance costs possibility or whether is possible to reduce unplanned shutdowns to almost zero is therefore very useful.
But how can we acquire these data? Instead of time consuming, monotonous measurements and writing the data down manually, an effective, fast and fully automated method exists – utilizing IoT devices.
What exactly does IoT mean?
IoT is an abbreviation of „Internet of Things.
It is a comprehensive ecosystem of devices, sensors, communication network and software, which main functionalities are:
- condition assessment and measurement of physical objects, virtual systems and environment ,
- communication with data storage and software platform,
- ability to control machines, devices and systems according to acquired data.
The main goal of IoT usage is not only making daily tasks more comfortable, but also providing enough data for effective decision making.
IoT has become a part of everyday life during recent years. There are many examples, such as various „smart“ devices (e.g. watches, phones, vacuum cleaners, smart home systems etc.). All of these work on the same principle – collecting data, analyzing them and reacting, which is either displaying results to user or performing desired activity.
For example, if we work out and at the same we measure our training using smart watches, we are able to precisely analyze our performance, calories burned or our body reaction to increased load. These information helps us to work out more effectively, achieve better results etc.
IIoT – industrial IoT
IIoT consists of IoT sensors and device used in industrial environment.
The main purposes of IIoT systems are to:
- measure – existing measurements automation as well as measuring new values within environment, machinery and infrastructure,
- communicate – data storage and device control utilizing existing or newly built infrastructure,
- signalize – automated alerts whether critical values are achieved,
- protect – monitoring physical parameters and chemicals‘ concentration within working environment and consequent triggering emergency measures if there are any risks of injury or devices‘ damage,
- help decision makers – relevant information for making the right strategic and operational decisions,
- reduce costs – production processes and energy usage optimization, maintenance notification or impeding fault alert in advance.
In short, the goal of IIoT systems application is to provide valuable information in user friendly way. These data are the foundation for making the right decisions, increasing quality and productivity, lowering costs and achieving the modern management of production processes.
