When you think about automation, what comes to mind? A robot or machine sensor might. But that’s only part of the picture. Automation involves much more than an individual machine or component: successful automation strategies string across entire operations, tying technologies together. In a nutshell, that’s the purpose of an umbrella IIoT network. And it’s critical to cover its bases to move toward, and set out, an operable 4.0 strategy.
Gaps in IIoT Practice
Many plants and producers follow an indirect route to IIoT, adopting automation machinery and technologies piecemeal, rather than wholesale. This can be chalked up to a few factors, including a rather key one: cost. But this approach doesn’t always lend itself to full operation optimization. Some suggest that expanding automation’s breadth and depth in a factory or plant requires IIoT, which serves as a key link in the chain.
For enthusiasts, IIoT not only loops together machinery—it also tracks and tallies critical machine performance data. Equipped with this on-demand data, servicing can be expedited, handled off-site, and done without significant dips in production. That equates to less operation downtime overall. Having said all of this, many producers haven’t hit the benchmarks necessary for IIoT to be in full effect across their machine network.
The Trajectory of IIoT
Though individual automation integration helped nudge plants and producers along at the time of their adoption, many point to IIoT as a broad future player in automated processes. And there’s a reason. From consumer packaged goods providers to manufacturers, lackluster lines and machinery—limited by their lack of IIoT capacity—have amassed blind spots in data collection, bottlenecked reporting, and pooled clots in production.
With its slew of benefits in tow, IIoT is poised to carve its mark even further into industries. Some sectors will see a noticeable rise in its presence, with current estimates seeing a marked increase in IIoT-enabled machinery in the next five years. But some gaps persist in select industries, resulting in a mishmash of legacy and IIoT-compatible equipment.
Plug Into Automation
As producers trade in legacy equipment for IIoT-ready machinery, things like data collection, reporting, and servicing can see improved coverage and implementation. If you’re looking to plug your plant or business more fully into automation, Revere Control Systems can prove key to this process. We’ll work with you, zeroing in on the best solution for you and your business. Link up with us for a reliable partner in your next project, browse our success stories, and search out more automation answers on our blog.