IOT and Industry 4.0

IOT & Industry 4.0

Introduction:

A new stage of the Industrial Revolution known as "Industry 4.0" places a strong emphasis on connection, automation, machine learning, and real-time data. For businesses that concentrate on manufacturing and supply chain management, Industry 4.0, which includes IIoT and smart manufacturing, combines physical production and operations with intelligent digital technology, machine learning, and big data to create a more comprehensive and better connected ecosystem. The requirement for connectivity and access to real-time information across processes, partners, products, and people is a challenge that today's businesses and organizations must all overcome, despite the fact that each one is unique.

Two of the most revolutionary technological advancements of our day are Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT). From manufacturing to logistics, they are changing the industrial environment and opening up fresh possibilities for innovation and development. IoT is essentially a network of interconnected equipment, sensors, and gadgets that can exchange data and communicate with one another. This covers everything, from industrial machinery to smart home appliances.

IoT is essential to Industry 4.0 because it provides real-time data on a variety of topics, including machine performance and supply chain logistics. Afterwards, with the help of this data, production procedures are optimized in order to boost productivity and cut expenses.

The capability of IoT to allow predictive maintenance is one of the major advantages of Industry 4.0. Manufacturers can anticipate problems and take preemptive steps to avoid downtime by gathering data from sensors on machines and equipment. Sensors can be used, for instance, to track equipment vibration and temperature. The system can notify maintenance staff to investigate the problem and take action if these levels go above a predetermined threshold .Additionally, manufacturers are able to improve the flexibility and agility of their manufacturing processes thanks to IoT. Manufacturers are able to modify their operations to satisfy shifting demand and market conditions with the help of real-time data on inventory levels and production line performance.

IIoT ( Industrial Internet of Things ) :

Industrial Internet of Things is known as IIoT. It describes how IoT technologies are used in commercial contexts like manufacturing, electricity, and transportation. IIoT involves integrating sensors, machines, and devices to gather and share data that is then used to streamline operations, cut costs, and boost productivity. Industrial businesses can improve their operations' adaptability, agility, and responsiveness while lowering downtime and raising product quality by utilizing IIoT technologies.

Concepts in IIoT :

• ERP : Business process management tools that can be used to manage information across a company include enterprise resource planning (ERP). A software system known as enterprise resource planning (ERP) unifies all of an organization's business operations and functions into a singular, cohesive system. This covers every aspect, from finance and bookkeeping to inventory control, supply chain management, and human resources. An ERP system's primary goal is to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of an organization's operations by giving real-time access to important business procedures and data. This makes it possible for decision-makers to make wise choices based on current and correct information.

                                     

• Digitization: Digitization refers to the process of collecting and converting different types of information into a digital format. The process of transforming analogue data or tangible items into digital data that can be readily accessed, stored, and transmitted using digital technologies is referred to as digitization. To improve efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness in the business world, digitization entails using digital technologies to change established business procedures and methods. Numerous advantages to digitization exist. For instance, organizations can decrease the amount of physical storage room needed, improve information access, and lower the risk of loss or damage by converting tangible records into digital formats. Similar to this, organizations can boost productivity, lower the chance of mistakes, and free up staff members to work on duties with higher added value by automating manual processes.

• IoT: IoT stands for Internet of Things, a concept that refers to connections between physical objects like sensors or machines and the Internet. IoT has the potential to transform many sectors of the Indian economy, including agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation. In agriculture, for example, IoT can be used to monitor soil moisture levels, track weather patterns, and optimize irrigation, leading to higher crop yields and increased efficiency.

• Big Data : Big data is the term used to describe vast quantities of structured or unstructured data that can be collected, saved, arranged, and analyzed to identify trends, associations, patterns, and possibilities. Big data is the term used to describe the enormous, intricate, and quickly expanding datasets produced by companies, governments, and other organizations. In order to extract insights and meaning from these datasets, which are frequently too big and complex to be processed using conventional data processing techniques, specialized tools and technologies are needed.

• Artificial intelligence (AI): Artificial intelligence is a concept that refers to a computer’s ability to perform tasks and make decisions that would historically require some level of human intelligence. AI is transforming the industrial landscape by enabling manufacturers to optimize their production processes, reduce costs, and improve quality. It can be used for predictive maintenance, quality control, and supply chain management. However, it also presents challenges in terms of data management, algorithm development, and workforce skills. To fully realize the benefits of AI in industry, manufacturers must invest in the necessary infrastructure and talent, and develop a culture of innovation and experimentation.

• Machine learning: Machine learning refers to the ability that computers have to learn and improve on their own through artificial intelligence without being explicitly told or programmed to do so. Machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence that enables computers to learn from data without being explicitly programmed. There are several types of machine learning, such as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. It has numerous applications in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing, and is used to analyze medical images, detect diseases, and predict patient outcomes. Data scientists use programming languages, libraries, and frameworks to develop machine learning models. It has the potential to revolutionize many industries, but requires significant expertise and investment to be effective.

• M2M: This stands for machine-to-machine, and refers to the communication that happens between two separate machines through wireless or wired networks. M2M communication is a type of technology that enables machines and devices to communicate with each other without human intervention. It has numerous applications in healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing, and can enable real-time decision-making and response. It is enabled by wireless technologies, such as cellular networks, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, and can be integrated with other systems and platforms to enable automated decision-making.

• Smart factory: A smart factory is one that invests in and leverages Industry 4.0 technology, solutions, and approaches. A smart factory is a highly automated manufacturing facility that leverages advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and robotics to improve efficiency, productivity, and safety. The key features of a smart factory are the use of sensors and other connected devices to gather data in real-time, and the ability to customize production on a large scale. This can result in increased productivity, reduced costs, improved product quality, and enhanced safety for workers. As technology continues to evolve, more and more manufacturers will embrace the benefits of smart factories to stay competitive in the global market. 

Difference between IoT and IIoT :

Acceptance of IoT in Industries :

IoT has become increasingly popular in industries due to its potential to improve efficiency, productivity, and safety. One industry that has embraced IoT is manufacturing, where sensors and devices can be used to monitor equipment performance, track inventory, and improve supply chain management. The transportation and logistics industry has also seen an increase in the adoption of IoT, with sensors and tracking devices used to monitor the location, temperature, and other metrics of goods in transit. IoT can also be used to optimize routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve efficiency.

The Internet of Things, or IoT, is a network of real-world items that are connected to other systems and devices via the internet by means of sensors, software, and other technologies. These gadgets include both commonplace items and professional instruments. 

IoT is presumably something you are familiar with if you use voice assistants like Alexa or Siri or wear fitness trackers like the FitBit. Over 75 billion devices are expected to be linked via the Internet of Things by 2025. 

Applications of IOT in some developed industries:

(1)  Tata Motors  :

A leading provider of design and technology services, Tata Elxsi collaborated with Tata Motors to create the uniform connected vehicle platform that drives the Nexon EV lineup of electric vehicles.

To support the full range of electric, commercial, and passenger vehicles, Tata Motors and Tata Elxsi jointly created a cloud-based IoT Platform. This platform gives Tata Motors access to a common standard technology stack with the scalability and high performance needed.

The connected vehicle function will soon be available on the majority of Tata Motors' BS6 range of passenger and commercial vehicles. The very first application-enabled car with a variety of connected vehicle features is the Nexon EV, also known as "India's own Electric SUV."

 Tata Elxsi brings strong automotive electronics experience, coupled with an excellent understanding of cloud-based applications, data governance and world class user experience capabilities.

            

        IoT end-to-end services are provided by Tata Elxsi for Smart Sensors, Connectivity, Mobility, Cloud, and Analytics. These technologies' convergence signifies a paradigm shift in the way goods and services are created and provided to a worldwide customer base.

                    

                By bringing in a special engineering, design, and technology combination, Tata Elxsi assists in creating new products of the next age. We are the preferred partner in IoT thanks to this special combination and our extensive subject knowledge in the communication, medical, automotive, semiconductor, and broadcast sectors. Companies can also make use of our current cloud infrastructure to speed up time to market, cut down on operating expenses, and produce quantifiable business results.

(2) Bajaj Electronics :

Bajaj Electricals is a well-known electrical company in India. The business was established before independence, and most of us have probably used a Bajaj device at some time in our lives. Aside from working on public infrastructure projects like solar energy and lighting, the business has developed everything from lightbulbs to washing machines for clients. In an age when cellphones and other gadgets get most of the focus, Bajaj is attempting to reinvent itself and has put a big bet on IoT.

Project Evolve, which was recently revealed by the company, is a strategy to fully modernise its goods for the Internet era, with IoT solutions for both consumers and businesses. 

We considered the most proficient industries India using IOT based technology in their workspace for increasing efficiency and profit at considerable rate.

Limitations :

IoT (Internet of Things) applications have a number of constraints, including the following:

1. Security : Security is one of the primary worries when implementing IoT in industries. IoT devices are susceptible to cyber-attacks and hacking, and if not properly secured, they can be used as entry points for cyber criminals to gain access to confidential industrial data and systems.
2. Interoparability : Another issue is the absence of standardisation and interoperability among IoT devices. Different devices may use different communication protocols, making integration into a unified system challenging.
3. Complexity: Implementing IoT in industries involves a complex network of devices and systems. This complexity can make it difficult to maintain and troubleshoot the system, especially when there are issues with connectivity or device compatibility.
4. Cost : IoT implementation in sectors can be costly, particularly for small and medium-sized companies. The cost of buying and maintaining IoT devices and systems can be substantial, and may be prohibitively expensive for some companies.
5. Reliability : In industries, the dependability of IoT devices and systems is critical, as any delay or malfunction can have serious repercussions. IoT gadget efficiency and reliability may differ based on variables such as location, network connectivity, and power source.
6. Privacy : Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets gather and send data, which can raise privacy issues. It is critical to have appropriate privacy policies in place to ensure that the data gathered is used properly and that no personal information laws or rules are violated.

Conclusion :

From the following blog we commenced our views on Industry 4.0 and implentation of IOT in it .

We mentioned some of the concepts of the Industrial IOT in our blog.

We have included the real life application of IOT in workspace of two renounced industries viz. Bajaj and Tata. By analyzing the data we found out that 75% of commercial companies have invested in IOT .

As we all know, everything has benefits and drawbacks. So we also included some of the major drawbacks in our blog .