Development of Internet of Things Technologies on the Network Edge
The rapid development of the Internet of Things concept and new technologies, including accessible manufacturing and communications, opens new opportunities for intelligent modules operating on the network edge. These technologies improve the productivity and efficiency of processes, and this trend is expected to continue to grow in the future. Let's look at some specific examples of such edge devices.
ABB Motor Sensors
ABB has developed a compact sensor that wirelessly attaches to the housing of low-voltage asynchronous motors. Using built-in algorithms, the intelligent sensor transmits information about the motor's condition via smartphone or the Internet to a secure server, providing important data for manufacturing.
Emerson Rosemount Wireless Steam Traps
Emerson Rosemount's wireless steam traps are installed externally and are used to detect impulses of ultrasonic oscillations. They provide visual information about steam traps and safety valves, accurately transmitting data on level and temperature. The sensors also relay information about equipment status and signal detection of leaks via the WirelessHART® network.
Bosch XDK110
The Bosch XDK110 wireless sensor device is designed for rapid prototyping of products based on the use of sensors for the Internet of Things. The device measures 40 mm x 60 mm, is equipped with a 32-bit ARM Cortex M3 microcontroller, 1 MB of Flash memory, 128 KB of RAM, sensors, and connectivity options via Bluetooth 4.0 Low Energy, as well as IEEE 802.15.1 and IEEE 802.11b/g/n.
HARTING MICA
The HARTING MICA (Modular Industry Computing Architecture) is a modular computing device that serves as a platform for running applications at the edge. The device is housed in a compact case that protects against dust, oils, splashes, impacts, and vibrations. MICA is equipped with a 1 GHz ARM processor, 1 GB of RAM, and 4 GB of eMMC flash storage, further supporting 32 GB on a micro-SD card. Applications run on a Linux operating system, providing application virtualization.
Mazak Corporation SmartBox
Machine tool manufacturer Mazak recently launched its SmartBox on the market, developed using Cisco hardware and software. The SmartBox performs automated analytics, collects sensor data, synthesizes information in a local fog application, and conducts real-time analysis, allowing for process optimization and fault diagnosis. The sensors transmit data to other equipment and corporate systems, enabling enterprise-level analytics compliant with the MTConnect standard.