The Internet of Things technology (IIoT) changes the processes of various industries, including manufacturing. This technology improves the way devices connect and work together. We can already experience the transformative innovations brought by IoT.
For example, in manufacturing, IoT leads to ‘smart factories’ where machines can improve and optimize tasks. It’s possible to control the product-making process automatically. If there is a delay in getting all the necessary materials, the work plan adjusts on its own.
In terms of the industrial information that is sent via the Internet and therefore highly available, it’s called the Industrial Internet of Things. IIoT actively works on factory operations improvements using the collected information. For example, IIoT in manufacturing can pair data with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and provide automatic suggestions on process improvements.
So, the question arises — How to benefit from IIoT in manufacturing?
First of all, it’s necessary to ensure that this technology aligns with your business needs and requirements. You need to choose only solutions that help you stay competitive in the market.
In this guide, you can find the upcoming IIoT manufacturing trends for the end of 2023 and the beginning of 2024. However, before integrating them into your business processes, it’s better to carefully analyze how your business can benefit from each of them.
IIoT in Manufacturing Trends to Consider in 2024
Let’s move on with the IIoT trends that are expected to transform the manufacturing industry in the near future.
Trend #1. Greater adoption of IIoT technologies
The cost of devices for industrial IoT manufacturing, or IIoT, has dropped, making it easier for small manufacturers to afford them. As a result, a lot of companies decided to integrate IIoT technologies like sensors, devices, and more into their routine.
Manufacturers have started using the cloud as it finally offers more benefits, e.g. integrating innovations like remote monitoring and predicting maintenance needs. So, companies can experience the growing benefits of using real-time information to make data-driven decisions and improve time-consuming processes.
Considering the real-time monitoring, it’s necessary to mention MQTT, a lightweight messaging protocol.
The MQTT system offers a lot of benefits, including:
- Low bandwidth, making MQTT suitable for situations with restricted network conditions;
- Multiple Quality of Service (QoS) levels, determining how the message is delivered;
- Last Will and Testament, specifying the last message that would be sent in the case of lost connection.
Of course, MQTT systems can be used in industrial setups for production line monitoring.
How does it work?
Sensors and actuators on the production line send information about machine performance and product quality through MQTT. This data is transferred to an IoT platform for analysis. The MQTT server gives real-time feedback on the production, for example, identifying bottlenecks.
Trend #2. 5G Optimization
5G technology is now more affordable than ever since it represents the new era and new opportunities of cellular technologies, providing high speeds and minimal latency.
5G ensures instant data sharing between Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) manufacturing devices. As a result, employees at the factory experience better connectivity. This technology allows improving business processes, such as predictive maintenance and advanced remote monitoring.
This technology allows for transferring a lot of information from IIoT devices to core systems. So, manufacturers can make data-driven decisions based on real-time insights. In addition, 5G’s near-zero lag changes the remote monitoring processes and machinery control. Manufacturers can watch operations from a distance and act fast if something goes wrong.
With 5G technology, IIoT in manufacturing has a lot of potential to transfer routine processes and streamline business operations.
Trend #3. Increased Flexibility
It’s possible to see a significant transformation in the manufacturing sector due to the IIoT technology that establishes greater flexibility and efficiency in production.
For instance, there are power tools like cloud-based Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) that help enhance production processes, considering marketing demands.
Cloud-Based MES
Cloud-based Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) allow manufacturers to quickly adjust their production to follow changing market demand and trends.
How does it work?
Let’s keep it simple. The systems offer a main platform to predict different aspects of the production. This platform collects real-time information from connected devices and sensors, allowing managers to understand the equipment conditions, how the resources are used, and other factors that affect productivity.
MES gives an opportunity to increase flexibility. Manufacturers can easily modify production setups, adjust schedules, and make informed decisions on the go.
Empowering Agile Responses through Real-time Data
The integration of industrial IoT in manufacturing with cloud-based MES increases the importance of real-time data to unparalleled heights. It’s possible to monitor the complete production cycle, anticipate and mitigate risks, distribute resources efficiently, and make instant decisions based on precise data.
Simply saying, in case any demand changes, IIoT systems allow for fast adjustments, making sure production matches current market needs.
Unleashing Customization and Scalability
The demand for tailored products is growing every year. IIoT in manufacturing considers this request and ensures the provision of personalized solutions without disrupting smooth production.
IIoT technology allows for adjusting product specifications, fine-tuning assembly procedures, or even reconfiguring packaging. The production lines equipped with IIoT capabilities seamlessly accommodate these changes.
Trend #4. Combining AI and Digital Twins
These days, it’s possible to combine industrial IoT in manufacturing with the latest technologies and tools, for example, the blend of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Digital Twins.
What’s a Digital Twin?
Let’s start with the basics. Digital twin stands for a digital copy of an object or process from the real world.
This technology provides manufacturers with the opportunity to see how their production line would do in the real world.
Considering the combination of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Twins, manufacturing benefits from smart analysis. AI can process information from IIoT devices and provide a review. As a result, factories can predict what might happen next.
For example, AI and Digital Twin can predict when equipment might break down. So, instead of waiting for a machine to fail, manufacturers can fix it beforehand. This means less downtime and smoother operations.
Trend #5. Cybersecurity Advancements
In the growing world of the industrial Internet of Things in manufacturing, it’s essential to protect devices and networks from attacks and threats. Companies tend to spend more on top-notch cybersecurity to keep their systems safe.
- Changing threatscape. IIoT has made factories more connected than ever. This connection brings many benefits, but it also opens up chances for hackers. If not secured, these threats could disrupt production and risk data safety. As a result, manufacturers are making cybersecurity a top priority in their IIoT plans.
- Building strong securit Manufacturers are setting up detailed security steps, covering everything from device checks, data protection, who can access systems, and spotting any unauthorized activities. All these steps help protect against threats and keep valuable data safe.
- AI’s role in security. Artificial Intelligence is not just changing how things are made but also how security works. AI can spot possible security issues by checking lots of IIoT data and catching any strange activities early. This means manufacturers can stop problems before they become bigger.
- Blockchain’s role. Blockchain is being used in IIoT in manufacturing to make sure data is correct and safe. Its design makes it hard for anyone to change the data without permission, adding another layer of trust and safety.
- Collaboration and knowledge exchange. Manufacturers, tech experts, and security pros are all teaming up. They’re sharing knowledge and best practices to stay ahead of threats. By working together, they’re creating a strong defense against any dangers.
The Future of IIoT in Manufacturing
The next years bring a lot of changes to the manufacturing industry. Factories are connecting more devices and collecting information to improve their process and streamline production.
Of course, efficiency is the company’s top priority and IIoT technology provides a lot of opportunities to change the industry. Real-time data analysis allows for making intelligent decisions even remotely.
With 5G technology and Artificial Intelligence, companies can transform their processes and streamline operations, enabling faster decision-making, improved real-time data analysis, and enhanced customer experiences.
This represents the future of manufacturing.
Author’s bio
As an accomplished technology enthusiast, Laurenz Dallinger has a strong interest in digital transformation, with a particular focus on IoT. His commitment to advancing the field of device communication is evident in his work as a speaker and exhibitor at events like the Ars Electronica museum. As a valued member of the Cedalo team, the company behind the top MQTT broker, Laurenz is passionate about sharing his knowledge and ideas with developers seeking new and efficient ways of communicating with devices.
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