The industrial world does not stand still. Every day there are new breakthroughs, inventions and realizations. Once upon a time, IIoT was one of those. Then a noble unknown, today loved by many.
What is IIoT?
IIoT, or in full Industrial Internet of Things, refers to the connection between different sensors and devices. Together, they form one big network.
The principle is very popular in the automotive industry, where perhaps its main function is to predict possible problems, allowing one to anticipate them in time. This allows one to avoid shutting down an entire production line because a problem occurs.
We are also seeing more and more applications within agriculture. Sensors collect data on soil quality, including soil nutrients and soil moisture levels.
The emergence of IIoT
IIoT did not happen overnight. The very first push in this direction was at the emergence of the programmable logic controller (PLC). It was first introduced in 1968 by Richard Morley for the automotive industry.
In 1980, Ethernet entered the next phase. Smart devices were increasingly accepted as an important part of the future. Later, in 1999, RFID technology was introduced by Briton, Kevin Ashton. We all know it in the form of chips like the one in our electronic identity card.
Since 2002, Internet of Things and Industrial Internet of Things have also been on the rise. Both in daily life and in industry, these are gaining ground.
The benefits of IIoT
Skeptics are still doubtful about IIoT, but those who want to innovate know that the benefits cannot be denied. We list the 6 most important benefits for you:
- Predictability
- Better service
- Product improvements
- Tracking of goods
- Increased efficiency
- Improved security
Time to take a closer look at these benefits.
1. Predictability
The integration of IIoT allows us to better anticipate certain situations. As a result, we are able to identify possible issues before they occur. By preventing problems, we prevent a production line from having to be partially or even completely shut down. Thus, IIoT saves money and time for a company.
2. Better service
Likewise, if you offer a particular service to your customers, IIoT can be a great asset in your sales pitch. Provided you have the right integrations and connections, you can optimize your customer service and respond to needs that your customer himself does not yet realize he has. Your proactivity increases significantly and that will undoubtedly be appreciated by your customers.
3. Product improvements
In some cases, IIoT can also help improve your products. Through a clever application, you can gain insight into the usage behavior of those who use your products on a daily basis. All this data provides you with a wealth of information, allowing you to further optimize your products. You show that you understand your customer and that you listen to them.
4. Succession of goods
Industrial Internet of Things has also become indispensable in the supply chain. Or at least if you want to have a good overview of your goods in the flow of goods. Where you used to have to rely on a GPS, we can provide much more interesting and accurate applications via IIoT.
5. Increased efficiency
IIoT allows us to optimize our systems in such a way that our production process becomes increasingly efficient. Just think about robotizing certain operations, deploying drones or automatic forklifts. A Finnish company did it and was able to reduce damage costs by 90%. Think of damage to the floor, the forklift itself or the goods being transported. Efficiency can extend to both money and time.
6. Improved security
IIoT and security is still a combination that some doubt. Especially in the area of cybersecurity. Yet IIoT also brings with it security. Just think of chemical processes where automation and the integration of smart sensors can increase safety for workers. IIoT allows us to contain the margin for error. Because we all know, “Making mistakes is human.”
IIoT in the future
As a progressive company, it is important to look to the future. What in 5 years? What in 10 years? And how do we address it in 20, 30 to 50 years? Agreed, it is impossible to anticipate everything. The world is evolving and we as companies need to keep up. IIoT is one of the trends that is setting the tone for the future of our businesses. IIoT will determine in the future, more than ever, who can keep up with the competition and who will be left behind alone. We are already seeing big differences between the companies that see the value of IIoT and those that are still in denial.
Wondering how IIoT can boost your business?
Have you been looking for ways to optimize your production process for some time? Do you want to make your machinery more efficient and avoid the risk of errors? Then IIoT can provide the solution. Get advice tailored to your business! Request a no-obligation audit. Our experts will take the time to take a thorough look at your production process.