Many of us are already familiar with the Internet of Things (IOT), a network of physical objects such as your smartphone that are embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies for the purpose of connecting and exchanging data with other devices and systems over the internet.
However, have you heard of the IIOT? The Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT), has a broader application and is typically used in various industries, including consumer electronics, healthcare, transportation, agriculture, and more.
In contrast to IOT, IIOT is specifically used in industrial and manufacturing sectors, where it plays a crucial role in optimising operations, improving efficiency, and enhancing productivity.
Still a little confused? Not to worry, we’re here to clear things up. Today, we dive into everything you need to know about the Industrial Internet of Things and how it has the potential to impact our lives in various ways, ranging from improving efficiency and productivity in industries to enabling new services and enhancing our daily lives. Read on to find out more.
What Is The IIOT?
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) is built upon the foundation of the Internet of Things (IOT), which is the interconnected network of everyday devices such as smartphones, smart appliances, wearables, and much more.
However, IIOT focuses specifically on industrial applications, where devices are used to monitor, control, and optimise various processes and systems in various industries, including manufacturing, energy, transportation, and more.
Integrating billions of industrial devices, sensors, data analytics, and industrial automation parts into industrial processes and systems to enable more efficient, data-driven, and automated operations.
One perfect example of this is Rayven IO Solutions, a platform designed to enable organisations to effortlessly integrate all of their existing data sources and technologies to create a real-time single source of truth upon which they can create or adopt preconfigured, use case-specific real-time industrial applications and IOT solutions that add all-new capabilities.
Where Can We See The IIOT In Action?
Manufacturing
The IIOT enables smart manufacturing, where machines, equipment, and other devices are connected and communicate with each other, generating vast amounts of data. This enables manufacturers to create a connected ecosystem where data can be collected, analysed, and used to optimise operations, monitor performance, and make data-driven decisions.
Additionally, IIOT enables automation and robotics in manufacturing processes. Connected devices and machines can communicate and collaborate with each other, leading to greater automation of repetitive tasks, reduced manual labour, and improved accuracy and efficiency.
Agriculture
The agriculture industry is also leveraging the IIoT to optimise modern farming operations. Smart farming techniques such as precision agriculture are being adopted, where sensors collect data on soil moisture, crop health, and temperature, enabling farmers to make data-driven decisions on irrigation, fertilisation, and pest control.
Drones equipped with sensors are used for crop monitoring, livestock tracking, and spraying pesticides, improving farming practices and reducing costs.
Renewable Energy Harvesting
The IIOT plays a significant role in renewable energy harvesting by enabling enhanced monitoring, control, and optimisation of renewable energy sources. Real-time data from connected devices and sensors can provide insights into energy production, consumption, and demand patterns.
IIoT can also enable remote monitoring and management of environmental monitoring systems, making it easier to track and manage environmental sustainability initiatives.
Transportation
Transportation and logistics are also witnessing the impact of the IIOT. Fleet management solutions powered by the IIOT are improving the efficiency and safety of transportation operations. Sensors installed in vehicles collect data on fuel consumption, engine health, and driver behaviour, allowing fleet operators to optimise routes, reduce fuel costs, and improve vehicle maintenance.
Healthcare
In the healthcare sector, the IIOT is transforming patient care and medical operations. Wearable devices and sensors are used to monitor patient health, collect data on vital signs, and provide remote patient monitoring.
Connected medical devices and equipment enable real-time data sharing between healthcare providers, improving diagnostics, treatment, and patient outcomes. Smart hospitals are also being developed with connected devices and sensors to manage patient flow, optimise resource allocation, and enhance patient safety.
Read more about the role of IIOT in healthcare here.
How Does The IIOT Help To Boost Sustainability (ESG)?
The IIOT has emerged as a powerful tool that can significantly contribute to boosting sustainability and addressing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) concerns. In the energy sector, IIOT is being used to optimise the generation, distribution, and consumption of energy.
For instance, smart grids equipped with sensors and automation technologies can monitor energy production, consumption, and distribution in real-time, allowing for better load balancing, grid management, and energy efficiency. IIoT can also enable remote monitoring and predictive maintenance of energy assets such as wind turbines, solar panels, and oil refineries, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
Additionally, smart metres in homes and businesses provide consumers with real-time energy usage data, empowering them to make informed decisions about their energy consumption and reducing energy waste.
How Big Is The IIOT?
It is no secret that the IIoT is already big business: According to a report by Emergen Research, the global IIoT market was valued at USD 77.3 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 234.8 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 14.8% during the forecast period.
This indicates the significant size of the IIoT market and its potential for further growth. With a large market size, impactful implementations across industries, increasing adoption rates, and a global reach, the IIoT is poised to continue expanding and shaping the future of industries and economies worldwide.
What Is The Future Of IIOT?
The future of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is indeed promising, with continued advancements and widespread adoption expected across various industries. Some of the industries predicted to benefit from this in the future include cybersecurity, edge computing, human-machine collaboration, artificial intelligence, machine learning and much more.
Additionally, IIoT will continue to play a significant role in optimising industrial operations, enhancing sustainability, and addressing ESG concerns.
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And there you have it — everything you need to know about the IIOT — what it is, where we can see it in action, and where it stands to take us in the future. With the convergence of machines, data, and analytics, the IIoT is reshaping various industries, providing increased efficiency, productivity, and cost savings.
As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see further integration of the IIoT in various sectors, driving innovation and reshaping industries for a more connected and data-driven future.