lloT or the Industrial Internet of Things: the key points to retain

The Internet of Things or Connected Objects is at the heart of the evolution of almost all sectors. In the industrial field, theIIoT has found its place for a few years now. Thanks to the use of connected sensors and the exploitation of data, the IIoT is even presented as a pillar of Industry 5.0. What exactly is the Industrial Internet of Things? What are its advantages and challenges?

The Industrial Internet of Things or IIoT: definition and operation

Definition of IIoT

IIoT with two i's, is an adaptation of IoT or Internet of Things, in the field of industry. As a key element of Industry 5.0, it encompasses many technologies used for industrial activities such as Big Data, machine learning, M2M or even augmented intelligence.

In concrete terms, IIoT operates the power of intelligent machines, grouped together with analysis systems. It facilitates the communication of various connected objects, between them and within the industrial chain. The IIoT allows to reinforce the automation and the self-monitoring of industrial machines, and thus to improve their efficiency.

How IIoT works

IIoT is based on the complete digitization of the production line and harnessing the power of smart machines. In fact, unlike humans, smart machines have the ability to capture and analyze data in real time.

There are four key elements to how IIoT works :

• Smart equipment - used to collect, measure, store and communicate information;
• Internet networks - public or private, they guarantee the transmission of data;
• Analytical applications - they transform the raw data collected into usable information to optimize the process;
• Decision support tools.

The main uses of IIoT

IIoT is used in various industry sectors such as logistics, transportation, mining,aeronautics, or energy. It aims to optimize operations and better manage the process and maintenance. The applications of IIoT are therefore highly varied.

Machine performance analysis

By monitoring the status and condition of individual machines, manufacturers can identify those that are operating below capacity. Performance management applications alert them to non-optimal machine operation.

IIoT enables real-time optimization of industrial activity. By analyzing the data collected by the sensors, it is easy to study how changing a setting can influence performance. It is thus possible to run various scenarios before finding the best one.

An IIoT solution also allows for better supply and inventory management, and thus production adjustment.

Anticipation of malfunctions and improvement of equipment life

The sensors used in the IIoT allow regular measurements to be taken at the level of the production device, and therefore to have a precise knowledge of it. This data is added to a history that allows the analysis of the various parameters concerned. An alert is then issued when a deviation from the standard is detected. The IIoT is thus used to anticipate failures and malfunctions.

The application of IIoT is therefore not limited to production optimization. It also enables predictive maintenance. It contributes to reducing the number of incidents, and therefore to extending the life of equipment . By extension, manufacturers can benefit from improved return on investment.

Energy management

An IIoT system is also highly effective in tracking and managing energy consumption within a plant. It helps to identify peaks and troughs in energy consumption, to know where energy can be saved, to better understand the contribution of each production unit to the overall energy consumption and to reduce theenvironmental impact.

Benefits and promises of IIoT

The smart transformation of industry via IIoT promises to optimize the operational efficiency of production units. In other words, connected factories increase productivity by improving the supply chain. TheIndustrial Internet of Things is a real asset in product traceability and cost reduction.

The main challenges of the Industrial Internet of Things

However, despite the significant benefits brought by IIoT, several challenges remain.

• Equipment adaptation - at the logistical level, equipment must be adapted to IIoT. It is, for example, necessary to find adequate sensors and to be fully equipped to make communication between connected objects possible. A significant investment is therefore necessary.
• Training of people - teams must be qualified and able to oversee the entire system, while being able to make optimal decisions.
• IT security - IIoT implies that the entire process is computerized. The protection of collected data is therefore a crucial issue. Indeed, the more connected an environment is, the greater the risks of insecurity. This concerns all data related to the product, the network and the production. The implementation of efficient tools to reinforce the cybersecurity of the whole system is essential.

Even with these challenges, IIoT appears to be a compelling path to the industry of the future. In the face of globalization and the evolution of new technologies, no company can restrict itself to 

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