Connected objects and their integration into Industry 4.0
Connected objects have appeared in our daily lives for several years now. Appliances, watches, scales, roller shutters and even pill dispensers and toothbrushes… this equipment has the ability to communicate with its users and with each other via an Internet connection. But did you know that many industries are now leveraging IoT (Internet of Things)? Let’s take a look.
A few words about Industry 4.0
Also known as the connected factory, Industry 4.0 is the result of the fourth industrial revolution. It is characterized by the integration of connected objects in order to dematerialize the management of the supply chain, from manufacturing to distribution. The goal is to improve services, products, productivity and safety of equipment and workers.
The benefits of integrating connected objects into Industry 4.0
The integration of connected objects into industry 4.0 has many advantages.
1 – Improving manufacturing quality
Industry 4.0 installs functional sensors, interconnected to each other and connected to other equipment, on machines to collect key data throughout the manufacturing chain. This information makes it possible to monitor production steps in real time. But above all, they are analyzed in order to find effective and practical solutions to improve the quality of production.
2 – Productivity optimization
It also uses multitasking and autonomous robots that are able to make decisions quickly thanks to the data collected and commands sent by the information system, while acting at high speed and with precision. This is how these connected objects contribute to the optimization of productivity within factories that are 4.0.
3 – Facilitating equipment maintenance
First, the integration of connected objects facilitates the predictive maintenance of equipment. Thanks to a lot of data, such as temperature or equipment operating time, collected by sensors that make it possible to anticipate possible failures and schedule maintenance before the deterioration of devices.
Secondly, the sensors installed on the machines, being connected to an information system, send signals to managers in the event that the parameters such as temperature, pressure or vibrations exceed the indicated reference values. Some are even able to shut down the equipment concerned autonomously,
i.e., without human intervention.
4 – Better monitoring within the plant
The cameras, connected to the monitors installed in the security room, make it possible to monitor in real time everything that happens within the factory, and it is even possible to record the images.
Thanks to these connected objects:
- This makes it easier to spot theft or breach attempts and find those responsible if this happens, for better security within the building. In the long run, this also reduces losses.
- It is also possible to monitor the progress of the entire production chain and identify any anomalies that need to be rectified to optimize productivity, whether in relation to equipment and its operation or in relation to personnel.
Conclusion
At Appwapp, we are able to help you design and realize your project to integrate connected objects to reach Industry 4.0’s standards. Operating in the digital sector for more than 10 years now, we provide you with competent, serious and attentive experts who will respond effectively to your needs. Do not hesitate to contact us for additional information about our services.