Outlook on Big Data and Industrial Internet of Things Technology Trends in 2016

The Motion Control and Motor Association outlined several technology trends for 2016, including the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), big data and predictive maintenance.

Today’s technology trends are all about connectivity and access to information in an increasingly connected world. It’s important to stay ahead of technology trends. Technologies that manufacturers should keep an eye on in 2016 include big data, predictive maintenance, the Industrial Internet of Things, and smart energy monitoring for transparent factory operations.

Safety-supported production capabilities

Safety-supported productivity is one of the trends where manufacturers are looking for broader protection capabilities beyond operator and equipment protection. Some companies are using safe speed to make various operations more productive and achieve operational continuity by reducing frequent delays.

Sensors and predictive maintenance

Many smart components today use sensors for comprehensive condition monitoring. Sensors include proximity sensors, position or speed sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, accelerometers, and current sensors. The condition information transmitted by these sensors can be used for predictive and preventive maintenance. The comprehensive sensor data collected by the enterprise helps the system monitor when equipment begins to wear or break down. When used in conjunction with interface devices that extract and send data for maintenance analysis, sensors can significantly save costs.

Big data and its role in factories

Big data technology helps companies filter through data streams, find useful information and help companies produce beneficial results. Companies that develop plans, clearly define the problems they want to solve, determine the data they need and use the information effectively will gain a competitive advantage. Big data also requires rigorous computing resources and information technology personnel who are aware of the latest developments and trends.

Industrial Internet of Things

All this discussion leads us to the Industrial Internet of Things and the reported $280 billion connected device market. The Industrial Internet of Things does not include sensors, smart moving parts, communication nodes, environmental controls and other devices. The Industrial Internet of Things aims to cut downtime, lead times, reduce inventory levels, simplify customization and increase efficiency.

Smart Factory

The connectivity of sensors, IoT, and the functionality of big data will continue to enable companies to mine data for actionable insights. This level of operational transparency will help the entire company, from equipment operators to management, make decisions that improve performance and increase profitability.

Depending on the implementation, information can be obtained in minutes or even in real time. Management can view information such as operating equipment efficiency, production volume and changeover time. Maintenance and system integrators can obtain parameters such as current consumption and load profiles via mobile phones.