The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is a versatile technology, readily adapting to the unique needs of different industries and applications. As G. Brooks-Zak from Outlier Automation notes, in the food and beverage sector, IIoT facilitates continuous batch processes, while in packaging, it finds its niche in discrete applications.
At its core, IIoT connects production equipment, enabling seamless data delivery to IT layers for analysis. This convergence of IT (Information Technology) and OT (Operational Technology) is crucial for unlocking the full potential of IIoT. It necessitates controls engineers to expand their skillset to incorporate IT expertise, guaranteeing both cybersecurity and operational safety. Effective IIoT implementation bridges the gap between these two domains, facilitating seamless integration and communication.
A real-world example of IIoT in action is Outlier's project within a battery production research facility. The challenge lay in integrating equipment from diverse suppliers, each equipped with different PLCs and lacking network connectivity.
The solution involved installing Ethernet communication gateways and leveraging Inductive Automation's Ignition SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) software to bridge the connectivity gap. Outlier connected these devices using standard industrial protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and OPC UA. This integration allowed for standardized data storage and analysis, enabling more informed decision-making.
The implementation of IIoT solutions, like Moxa's Ethernet gateway, proved instrumental in converting legacy system data. This demonstration highlights how IIoT can streamline operations and enhance data accessibility in both new and existing facilities.
By connecting disparate pieces of equipment and enabling data sharing, IIoT empowers businesses to optimize their production processes, gain valuable insights, and ultimately achieve significant improvements in efficiency and productivity. The convergence of IT and OT, facilitated by IIoT, is paving the way for a future of intelligent, interconnected manufacturing, unlocking new possibilities for innovation and growth.