What do you do if your manufacturing operations need to integrate IoT devices?

Ask do we really need IoT as being presented now, or do we already have it? PLC controlled machinery can collect data and send it to databases on the business side of the control system. This data can then be mined for the nuggets of insight or to power dashboards. Seriously consider if a "new" technology will help you with the following: On time deliveries to customers; Reduction in costs and waste; Streamlining the production process. Where you might need it is for stand alone machines not connected to the control LAN. Once connected any data they collect can go to the business network.

IoT integration is an increasingly growing area in Manufacturing and Supply chain. For a successful IoT integration consider the following: 1. Key elements of monitoring real time metrics that are meaningful as opposed to doing everything. This might be parameter monitoring, status tracking etc. 2. Setup a solid framework to access device information from PLC into a understandable measure 3. Mapping of device attributes to Manufacturing system parameters such as production data, equipment data etc. 4. Design flows using APIs to seamlessly bring in IoT metrics into production flows such as execution, quality control etc.

Define your goals: what problems can IoT solve (think equipment monitoring)? Choose wisely: research compatible devices that fit your budget and infrastructure. Security first: prioritize robust cybersecurity to protect your network. Train your team: empower them to use and interpret the data. Start small, scale smart: pilot the solution before full integration. Unleash the power of IoT in your manufacturing!

First, comprehend the problems you aim to solve or the processes you wish to enhance with IoT. Then, select the appropriate IoT devices that align with your requirements. Confirm that these devices can integrate and interact with your current systems. Strategize the management of the data produced by the IoT devices. Establish security protocols to safeguard your IoT devices and their data. Lastly, determine the method for analyzing the IoT data and utilizing this insight to advance your manufacturing processes.

Before diving into the world of IoT, it's essential to understand what it means. Terms such as "Industry 4.0" or the "new industrial revolution" are flooding the production environment. It's ok as far as are applicable. Sometimes I wonder how Ford was able to achieve high productivity rates into 20's, last century. Same as Taiichi Ohno. Without computers. Now there are new tools to process data but the principles are the same. Seek for the "real" problem and use the "virtual" to solve it. I think ??

Try to do the Iot things inhouse, if not try to configure using local supplier also keep the investment optimum unless iot is part of customer specific requirements

The implementation of new technology is also connected to uncertainty of the value it creates. So it's easier to commit to a smaller scale given the risk. As value is slowly proven it's time to plan for the full lifecycle. - How are they monitored? - How do they scale? - How do they combine with existing infrastructure? Given the fast development in the area, it's good to reevaluate specific choices as more mature option might have become available. This also opens up doing early trials with options that don't yet have all the answers to your needs.

Plan first: What do you want to achieve (monitoring, optimization, real-time tracking)? Assess your infrastructure: Where can IoT add the most value (power, connectivity, security)? Pick compatible devices with functionalities you need. Don't forget secure data management! Develop a plan for collection, storage, and robust cybersecurity. Finally, ensure smooth integration with existing software and choose a scalable solution to grow with you. Strategic planning, smart choices, and data security are the keys to unlocking a new era of manufacturing efficiency with IoT!