What is it?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical devices that can transfer data to one another without human intervention. IoT devices are not limited to computers or machinery and can include anything with a sensor, such as a machine tool or flow system.
Why would we need it?
Connected devices allow you to access real-time data from different parts of your production line and send immediate instructions for other parts of the production line to execute based on this information.
What are the expected benefits and potential challenges?
Because IoT technology enables the various computers, tools and sensors within your factory to communicate with one another directly, a network of connected devices can constantly tweak its processes for maximum efficiency.
Those tweaks can only be as effective as the instructions you give them, however. Any automated system has to be carefully thought through so that it can interpret the data it’s receiving and act effectively on it. Talk to us about designing your system to deliver the results you want.
How do we get started?
Some IoT devices, such as smart meters and RFID tags, are available at relatively low cost off-the-shelf, whilst other more niche products may need to be sourced from specialists. We work with our clients to understand how smart sensors fit into their plans to automate, and which of our trusted suppliers can offer the right product at the right price.
Get in touch if you’d like to understand more about where IoT devices might fit into your plans.
