IIOT: Industrial Internet of Things applied to Manufacturing

Within the manufacturing industry one of the most important points of operations for the optimal functioning of the process chain is known as IIOT or Industrial Internet of Things, since millions of devices are operating connected to a network without human intervention.

The IIOT can be considered one of the building blocks of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and for manufacturing companies it is essential if they are to be able to compete in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

Likewise, business solutions that facilitate the implementation of this process is paramount, as is the case of London Consulting Group's Lean 4.0, which aims to achieve optimal efficiency to lead a business to success in a simple way. 

What is the Industrial Internet of Things?

The IIOT is the set of tools such as sensors, autonomous devices and sensors that are connected through the Internet to industrial applications, and the great advantage they have is that they allow data collection and production optimization in order to reduce the cost of a manufacturing or service process.

These types of applications make up a technology ecosystem designed to connect devices with people who are managing logistics processes, assembly or distribution lines, and are mainly found in manufacturing, transportation and energy companies.

The purpose of implementing this tool within a company is to increase safety and efficiency in production centers, as it can become a key piece to save money and increase productivity, always with the best product on the market. 

IIOT features

It is important to make some precisions with the systems that can be classified as IIOT, since not all of them fall into the category, and the general way is that they can generate data for analysis and produce specific actions, always oriented to the objectives of each company.

We can refer that the operation of Industrial Internet of Things systems has the following characteristics:

• Devices: this is the physical part of IIOT and can be sensors, GPS, machinery within the business, among others. 
• Network: another of its characteristics is the connectivity of the devices to the network through cloud computing servers or edge computing. 
• Services: these are all the applications or software that analyze the data generated to provide a specific service. 
• Content: finally we have the interface that is designed for interaction with people, such as through a computer, a tablet or even devices such as augmented or virtual reality glasses.

IIOT applications

Some of the applications that are related to the Industrial Internet of Things are more relevant than others, and for a manufacturing company it is essential to know some of these. 

Material transport

This is one of the components in a plant for efficient handling of warehouse products that can be done with autonomous vehicles capable of moving from one side to the other within a factory without having problems with obstacles thanks to sensing technology. 

Machine performance

Thanks to sensors and constant data analysis it is much easier to optimize the utilization time of machinery within companies, and to give it the necessary maintenance in case any variant is noticed. 

Reduction of human error

The IIOT allows autonomy but is not completely without some activities of collaborators, so the operators are still essential for many tasks; however, the purpose of this solution is to save time and reduce errors thanks to the connection they handle.

Accident reduction

Another of the applications that the IIOT has is that with the tools that are used at the same time as the machines it is possible to reduce the number of accidents, as data is collected from people to know the location or proximity to the machinery. 

Benefits of implementing the Industrial Internet of Things

The Industrial Internet of Things within manufacturing has many benefits, including:

• Efficiency and productivity will naturally increase.
• Increased business opportunities.
• Reduced lifecycle cost of assets.
• Increased safety for employees within the company.
• Drives product innovation.
• Working together with first level technology, such as Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Business Intelligence, Big Data, drones, among others.

Lean 4.0 to successfully implement the IIOT

Implementing IIOT is easily achievable with a solution like London Consulting Group's Lean 4.0, which is a methodology that seeks to innovate products or services to improve quality, save money and improve value for all customers.

Unlike a traditional control model, Lean 4.0 seeks that each business can adapt to a market that is constantly changing, always looking for improvement in efficiency and quality.

• It integrates technologies such as IoT, AI and Big Data into its processes.
• It is possible to customize products and services on a large scale.
• It helps to respond in an agile way to market changes.
• Promotes an adaptive leadership style.
• Aims to meet the highest standards in user experience.

How does Lean 4.0 help?

London Consulting Group's enterprise solution helps to integrate IIOT through some features that are considered key in this process and improve the operational efficiency of any company.

Digital transformation

Operational processes can be optimized by achieving 100% digitization of measurement, management and control tasks in production, as well as enabling data-driven learning. 

Data-driven decision making

Shifting from experience-based decision making to one based on quantifiable and fully analyzable data is a key point in operational efficiency. Lean 4.0 seeks to bring this approach to all companies. 

Monitoring through sensors

In the manufacturing industry, the use of sensors as part of digitization in order to monitor working conditions is essential, since from here alarms can be triggered in the event of dangerous situations, which is key in times of IIOT. 

Investment in state-of-the-art technology

Invest in state-of-the-art technologies such as automation, digitization, robotics and data analytics to ensure the supply of growth and market development to achieve efficiency.

Constant adaptation

Recognize that transformation, change and evolution are constant premises in the business environment and be prepared to adapt continuously. 

Knowledge of cutting-edge technologies

Be aware of and understand new cutting-edge technologies, such as automation, digitization, robotics and data analytics. These can improve manufacturing efficiency, reduce costs, improve product quality, optimize inventory management and increase overall efficiency. 

Achieve Operational Success with London Consulting Group

London Consulting Group aims to stay at the forefront with tools that facilitate the integration and care of IIOT, and Lean 4.0 is the solution to empower any type of business in the manufacturing industry.

Contact one of our specialists to learn more about what Lean 4.0 can bring to your company and experience first hand the business efficiency.