The IoT refers to the global connectivity of smart devices and systems to leverage data collected through sensors and actuators embedded in these devices. It revolves around increased machine-to-machine communication and is built on cloud computing and networks of data-gathering sensors. It is mobile, virtual and an instantaneous connection to everything ‘smart’.
With the ability to capture real-time information and provide remote control, embedded mobile connectivity can make a wide range of devices, machines and vehicles more efficient and effective, dramatically reducing waste and improving time productivity. For users, the IoT has the potential to improve energy efficiency, security, health, education and many other aspects of daily life.
Improved productivity and decision making
For enterprises, the IoT can enable solutions to improve productivity and decision-making in manufacturing, retail and agriculture. Network control and management of manufacturing equipment, assets and manufacturing process control bring the IoT within the realm of industrial applications and smart manufacturing.
The IoT intelligent systems enable rapid manufacturing of new products, dynamic response to product demand and real-time optimisation of manufacturing production and supply chain networks, by connecting machinery, sensors and control systems together.
The term IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) is used in the manufacturing industry and refers to the industrial subset of the IoT.
While connectivity and data acquisition are imperative for the IIoT, they merely form a foundation for bigger projects. When applied to energy management, the IIoT is especially relevant to the Smart Grid since it provides systems to gather and act on energy and power-related information in an automated fashion with the goal to improve the efficiency, reliability, economics and sustainability of the production and distribution of electricity.
When applied to manufacturing, the IIoT is relevant for digital control systems to automate process controls, operator tools and service information systems to optimise plant safety and security. It also extends to management via predictive maintenance, statistical evaluation and measurements to maximise reliability.
Yokogawa is focused on the potential project, operations and maintenance benefits that IIoT can deliver across a broad cross section of industries and offers client-focused solutions in security solutions, safety operations, inventory and asset management, analyser systems, production management, quality management and VigilantPlant for operations management.
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