The Growing Popularity of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
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The Growing Popularity of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)

Network Infrastructure Magazine | Monday, January 30, 2023

Business communities are abuzz with the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), but only some are fully aware.

FREMONT, CA: The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is becoming a prevalent issue in corporate circles, although only some individuals are entirely informed. As Industry 4.0 proliferates and technological advances multiply, industrial journalists increasingly need help. Add a persistent epidemic, a global chip scarcity, and the Ukraine conflict, and the situation becomes much murkier.

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This article will define essential vocabulary and identify the top stories in IIoT in 2023 to help readers understand the industry's current state.

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to all the technologies (sensors, computers, machines, wearable gear, software, and others) that exchange and process data via the internet and other communication networks. This might include iPads, boilers, phones, security systems, lighting, and other internet-connected gadgets within a residence. Or it may relate to relationships in an office, factory, or even across enormous urban landscapes (e.g., smart traffic systems, street lighting, surveillance systems, and power grids).

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) uses internet- or network-connected devices and machinery to improve manufacturing and industrial operations. Typically, this will involve sensors and actuators, allowing for enhanced monitoring, automation, and analytics.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST INDUSTRIAL IOT STORIES IN 2023?

CONCERNS WITH SCALING: In the past year, a significant discussion has surrounded the transition of IoT solutions from factory/plant/warehouse operations to enterprise-wide operations. This "scaling" of IIoT is frequently hampered by the fact that the companies supplying the solutions are often young and lack experience scaling up their solutions.

Eighty percent of IIoT solution buyers scale down to a pilot level less than sixty percent of their projects due to the complexity of integrations and inadequate life cycle support. This will change as firms get more proficient at resolving scaling challenges. Still, for the time being, all manufacturers should inquire about the length of time their solution providers have been in business and the magnitude of projects they have completed.

IIOT SECURITY IS A LESSER CONCERN: Increasing the number of devices and sensors connected to a network will undoubtedly increase network vulnerabilities. While this may not be a serious issue in a residential context, security breaches in an industrial setting can result in production loss, equipment damage, revenue loss, and significant data theft. For this reason, all reputable IIoT providers treat data security seriously, and it appears they are winning the war against would-be fraudsters.

Numerous IIoT systems initially conceived as independent, isolated networks are already being integrated into expanding, web-connected networks. This creates opportunities for cyberattacks, but most IIoT service providers are aware of the risks and can now mitigate the possible dangers. Utilizing Existing Cybersecurity Frameworks, Prioritizing LAN Security, and Securing Endpoints are a few of the best practices used by industrial system administrators to maintain adequate system security (strong password policies, firewalls, anti-virus software, etc.). As these methods have become more advanced, the initial security burden put on IIoT systems has diminished, lowering a fundamental barrier to widespread adoption.

STATE OF WIRELESS SENSOR TECHNOLOGY: As the demand for real-time asset tracking rises, the importance of wireless sensors in IIoT systems grows. Those unfamiliar with the nuances of wireless data transfer may, however, find the world of wireless sensors to be baffling.

There are numerous types of wireless data transmission and reception technologies, and they are applicable in various industrial settings. Due to the complexity of industrial environments, the number of obstructive materials, the size of indoor and outdoor spaces, and several other considerations, specific radio signals may be better suited to particular environments or specific data requirements within those environments. Some examples are:

BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) can be incredibly valuable for various industrial applications, and it's currently widely utilized in mobile phone technology. It can readily be used for tracking people and assets and requires less power than other methods, but it is susceptible to signal distortion and inaccuracy.

UWB (Ultrawideband) offers a significantly larger bandwidth than BLE, facilitating the transport of massive datasets. Because its signals are less susceptible to interference, it can produce much more precise data readings.

Due to its reliance on satellites, GPS is typically less helpful in interior contexts for asset location. RTK-GPS is becoming more prevalent for precise outdoor tracking thanks to base units that help to purify satellite data.

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