The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) have become pervasive topics of discussion, and their significance cannot be overstated. As businesses navigate the post-pandemic world, harnessing the power of IIoT and MOM together becomes crucial in propelling their operations to new heights.

Manufacturing leaders face the constant challenge of extracting optimal performance from their overall operations year after year. External factors such as supply chain disruptions and the recovery from the global pandemic have played a pivotal role in the performance of manufacturers worldwide. To mitigate these challenges effectively, it is imperative to maximize the potential of connected applications and IIoT.

Merely collecting and visualizing data is insufficient. The true value lies in contextualizing the gathered information and transforming it into actionable insights. MOM solutions, such as the 3DEXPERIENCE from DELMIA, excel in communication and seamlessly integrate a wide range of devices and communication protocols. Moreover, they possess the logic to trigger specific actions based on predefined scenarios. This capability empowers business owners with actionable advice that can be implemented to improve overall operational efficiency.

Consider, for example, the application of Statistical Process Control (SPC). One of the rules of SPC dictates that if a certain measure trends consistently in the same direction for four consecutive data points, it indicates an impending problem. Even if the measure remains within acceptable limits, the consistent trend signals an issue that needs attention. Monitoring SPC information and promptly alerting the team to potential problems allows for necessary adjustments to be made. Whether it is monitoring the temperature of a furnace or tracking the number of cycles on a machine, IIoT not only helps identify issues but also enables automated solutions wherever possible. Minimizing the need for human intervention speeds up the automation process, ensuring leaner and more efficient operations.

IIoT and connected technology are not limited to the manufacturing industry alone. They have wide-ranging applications across various industries that extensively utilize machinery. Even industries with varying levels of automation can derive value from connecting the right technology to their operations, which enhances informed decision-making and drives future business growth.

Return on investment (ROI) is a primary concern for business owners when considering any investment, including IIoT and connected technology in MOM. Previously, predictive maintenance was a prominent use case for IIoT, leveraging data to anticipate equipment failures and prevent costly downtime. However, the potential of IIoT extends far beyond that. By leveraging IIoT devices for automated measurements, coupled with effective evaluation and reaction mechanisms, businesses can significantly improve quality statistics and reduce production downtime. The cost-saving implications of enhancing quality measures such as “Right First Time” can be substantial, depending on the specific application.

One key advantage of IIoT is the ability to process data at the device or near the device. While cloud applications like MOM and MES have their benefits, latency can be a limiting factor due to the inherent delays introduced by internet connectivity. The concept of a “fog layer” has emerged as a solution, providing intelligence and architecture within the plant itself. The fog layer eliminates latency issues between IIoT devices and cloud applications, enabling quick response calculations and execution. Pertinent data can then be passed to the cloud for further processing or to a data lake for advanced analytics. This architecture allows businesses to fully leverage IIoT, fog computing, and the cloud.

By fully understanding the potential of IIoT and harnessing the capabilities of MOM, businesses can overcome challenges, optimize operations, and achieve a higher ROI. Embracing connected technology opens up a world of opportunities for improved decision-making, increased efficiency, and enhanced overall performance. As the landscape continues to evolve, businesses that effectively utilize IIoT and connected technology will gain a competitive edge and thrive in the digital era.

Content: Anissh