As the world continues to embrace the Internet of Things (IoT), the demand for efficient power management solutions for IoT devices is on the rise. 

What Are the Best Applications for IoT in the New World of IC Power Management?

Discover how Particle's M-Series transforms global asset tracking and fleet management for improved efficiency and security.

Steering IoT Innovation in Global Asset Expeditions and Fleet Journeys

For thousands of years, humans have been building houses, roads, bridges, and markets that allowed us to live safer and more productive lives. But the tools of the trade have lacked the capability to let us do so as effectively as possible. &nbsp;Now, belatedly but perhaps inevitably, smart connectivity is helping to lay the foundations for improved productivity and worker safety in the all-important architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. To that end, technology companies are introducing a wide range of innovative products to power connected construction. &nbsp;<h2>The&nbsp;critical role of the&nbsp;building&nbsp;sector&nbsp;</h2>From humble beginnings, construction has culminated in giant cities where 55 percent of the world’s population resides, a figure, according to the UN, that’s set to rise to 68 percent by 2050.&nbsp; Today, the AEC sector is the largest in the global economy, responsible for employing around seven percent of the world’s working population, and about 13 percent of world’s GDP ($10 trillion) according to analyst McKinsey. And because around 50 percent of a construction project’s total cost relates to labor, &nbsp;skilled workers are the key to a project’s success.&nbsp;<h2>Tech&nbsp;provides a&nbsp;solution&nbsp;to productivity challenges&nbsp;</h2>Yet despite its importance, the construction industry has earned a reputation for being slow to innovate. As a result, the sector has often suffered from severe productivity challenges.&nbsp;Technology offers a solution for raising the game. The signs are promising; digital adoption is accelerating on the back of strong demand for more infrastructure, a shortage of skilled labor, and increased expectations for data transparency and integration. An estimated $50 billion was invested in AEC tech between 2020 and 2022—85 percent higher than the previous three years—according to the latest McKinsey research.&nbsp;Growth is being driven by increased uptake of the IoT, big data analytics, and AI, as well as a greater emphasis on sustainability. That’s allowing companies to take advantage of real time field reporting by connecting and tracking materials, equipment, and workers at the construction site.&nbsp;<h2>Enhanced productivity&nbsp;boosts the bottom line&nbsp;</h2>A construction project manager can now access a management platform with real-time project data and task alerts. This information enables fast decisions and speeds up workflows from the back office to the field, and onwards to the extended project team. And it removes the project silos that limit collaboration. These practices will also lead to improved margins.&nbsp;&nbsp;Connected construction offers several other advantages over manual operations. For one, it can improve communication and transparency on the worksite; for example, consider a worker reporting back to a supervisor via a smart device, or sensors and tags embedded in equipment providing key updates such as the location and status of a concrete mixer. Or connected vehicles like dump trucks, backhoe loaders, excavators, and mobile cranes, could enable location detection and monitoring of usage via embedded cellular and GNSS technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Monitoring essential construction materials&nbsp;</h2>A critical requirement for the construction industry is monitoring essential construction materials like concrete for quality control. This requirement led German company ConcR to develop a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Nordic-news/2023/11/The-ConcR-Box-employs-Nordic-Semiconductors-nRF9160-SiP" target="_blank">material monitoring solution</a>&nbsp;that analyzes the characteristics of concrete as it cures, to check when it’s safe to proceed with the next stage of construction. The ConcR Sensors are attached to a rebar (a reinforcing steel bar used to strengthen concrete slabs) before the concrete is poured. The sensors provide key insights into the strength and durability of the cement or concrete by monitoring temperature, relative humidity, residual moisture, pH, and chloride levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Nordic&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/nRF9160" target="_blank">nRF9160 SiP</a>-powered&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Wireless/Low-power-cellular-IoT" target="_blank">cellular IoT</a>&nbsp;solution provides data across the lifecycle of concrete and screed—a levelled layer of material applied to a floor or other surface—starting from construction until 25 years in operation. With this information, planners, engineers, contractors, and owner-operators gain data-informed insights about the condition of construction materials throughout their life.&nbsp;<h2>Putting worker safety&nbsp;first and foremost&nbsp;</h2>Beyond productivity gains, technology is essential to the safety of skilled construction workers on hazardous worksites.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, by using sensors integrated into existing personal safety equipment such as hard hats, WakeCap Technologies’ solution connect workers across entire job sites.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Nordic-news/2021/01/Wirepas-Mesh-hard-hat-sensor-locates-wearer-across-large-sites-and-reports-activity-incidents" target="_blank">WakeCap</a>&nbsp;is a wearable product designed to overcome the challenge of “digitizing the construction sector’s field logistics and workforce”, according to the company. In operation, the hard hat-worn sensors track the wearer’s location and record knocks to the hard hat. In addition, WakeCap’s analytics compare the on-site work crew timing with staffing and project management plans, highlighting any unexpected problems early - helping avoid delays and extra costs.&nbsp;Thanks to wireless tech, construction equipment, vehicles, devices, personnel, and locations will communicate and work together using emerging connectivity platforms. Connected construction is here and the world is better for it.&nbsp;

Smart connectivity is helping to lay the foundations for improved productivity and worker safety in the all-important architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. To that end, technology companies are introducing a wide range of innovative products to power connected construction.  

Construction sector building on wireless tech foundation

For some IoT products, connectivity failure is a momentary inconvenience. For others, it’s a disaster.Imagine losing temperature data for a shipment of vaccines at a critical moment; there goes your cold chain compliance. Or think of a smart car’s accident detection and alert system. If the driver encounters a problem outside your cellular coverage area, disconnection can create life-threatening delays for responders.Looking forward, universal connectivity will be essential for self-driving vehicles—and a whole universe of yet-to-be-imagined technology. While cellular connectivity is already strong for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mobileconnectivityindex.com/index.html" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer">populated areas and large parts</a> of North America, South America, Europe, and Asia, there are still gaps that affect global operators.The lack of coverage is particularly impactful for the agriculture and maritime industries, in which IoT devices continually move in and out of cellular signals. But for any or all mobile IoT, universal coverage is the ultimate prize. Today, a merger of technologies puts it within reach.The addition of satellite networks to cloud-based cellular connectivity is the key to global coverage. Here’s how satellite-cellular integration can make location-based connectivity loss a thing of the past.&nbsp;<h2>Satellite Non-Terrestrial Networks in Cellular IoT</h2>The simplest, most cost-effective way to keep your IoT deployments connected is with the help of a connectivity partner. These connectivity-as-a-service cloud providers offer access to many cellular networks at once, getting close to a global connection with one SIM and self-service fleet management tools.However, even the most well-connected IoT connectivity provider is limited by mobile network operators (MNOs) themselves. An MNO tends to build towers where lots of people will use them. That doesn’t help in low-population regions or far out at sea. In fact, cellular networks are also called terrestrial networks, because they’re bound to land.Contrast that technology with&nbsp;non-terrestrial networks, or NTNs. These satellite-based connectivity networks fill the coverage gaps left by MNOs. The trouble is, until recently, satellite connectivity required different hardware than its cellular counterpart. It was expensive and space-inefficient to offer both cellular and satellite connectivity in the same device.The solution is a connectivity partner that offers integrated satellite NTN with traditional terrestrial networks—all through the same SIM card.&nbsp;<h2>How to Add Satellite NTN to Your Connectivity Plan</h2>First, look for a connectivity-as-a-service provider that offers seamless satellite NTN within existing cellular plans. Just know that not all your choices offer the same benefits. Choose a connectivity partner that provides the following features in its NTN-integrated service:<ul><li>Automatic network switches.&nbsp;You can’t manage every device’s connection manually. Look for a SIM that automatically connects to the correct cellular or satellite network—and a self-service platform that allows you to define which networks are correct.</li><li>Simple tools for integration with your existing technology stack. You shouldn’t have to hire a team of developers to bring satellites into your connectivity portfolio. Choose a partner that ships ready-to-use APIs for quick, low-stress integration.</li><li>Compatibility with 3GPP low-power, wide area network (LPWAN) technologies. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice access to cellular technologies optimized for IoT just to incorporate your NTN. A specification like NB-IoT gives advantages like a small form factor and limited price; choose a connectivity source that bundles NB-IoT or other IoT LPWAN with satellite coverage.</li><li>Pay-as-you-go connectivity. Price has long been the key barrier to satellite IoT. With a pay-as-you-go model, you don’t pay for the satellite data you don’t use—and you can access satellite networks for as little as $1.00 per kilobyte.</li><li>A combined NTN/cellular SIM card. The other price challenge associated with satellite IoT is the module, which can easily run several thousand dollars per unit. With the right connectivity partner, you can access NTN&nbsp;and global cellular networks with the same SIM card.</li></ul>&nbsp;Satellite integration is becoming increasingly more accessible for IoT developers, and the simplest way to access this technology is to find the right partner. This industry development will help fill connectivity gaps for global deployments—and might be the key to transformative new use cases for mobile IoT in general. Every IoT developer should be aware of this powerful tool in the connectivity toolkit.

For some IoT products, connectivity failure is a momentary inconvenience. For others, it’s a disaster.

IoT Everywhere: How Satellite-Cellular Integration Enables Universal Connectivity

In the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, the integration of technology has proven to be a game-changer. One of the most transformative advancements in recent years is the widespread adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT), which has revolutionized traditional farming practices and given rise to the era of smart agriculture. With a particular focus on harnessing the power of mobile connectivity and private 5G networks, farmers worldwide are now equipped with cutting-edge tools to optimize efficiency, increase yields, and ensure sustainable practices.&nbsp;<h2>The Connected Fields</h2>IoT’s impact on agriculture lies in its ability to interconnect various devices and sensors across farmlands, creating an intelligent network that provides real-time data and insights. Farmers can monitor crucial variables like soil moisture, temperature, and crop health remotely, allowing for timely decision-making and resource allocation. This connectivity is further enhanced by the widespread use of mobile networks, enabling farmers to access critical information on their smartphones or tablets, regardless of their physical location.&nbsp;<h2>Unleashing the Power of 5G</h2>The advent of 5G technology has taken smart agriculture to new heights, providing farmers with faster, more reliable, and low-latency connectivity. Private 5G networks, specifically tailored for individual (and often remote) farms, offer a dedicated and secure communication channel. This ensures that the vast amount of data generated by IoT devices is transmitted seamlessly, facilitating quick response times and reducing the risk of interference.&nbsp;<h2>Precision Farming at its Best</h2>One standout application of IoT in agriculture is precision farming, where data-driven insights enable farmers to optimize resource utilization. With the help of IoT devices, farmers can precisely control irrigation systems, monitor crop growth, and even deploy drones for aerial surveys. The integration of 5G ensures that these devices can communicate in real-time, allowing for swift adjustments based on the evolving conditions of the field.&nbsp;<h2>Sustainable Agriculture Practices</h2>Smart agriculture isn’t just about maximizing yields; it’s also about sustainability. IoT devices enable farmers to implement precision pesticide and fertilizer applications, reducing environmental impact and minimizing waste. The efficiency gains achieved through IoT-driven practices contribute to the overall sustainability of agriculture, aligning with global efforts to address climate change and environmental concerns.&nbsp;<h2>A Global Impact</h2>The impact of IoT-enabled smart agriculture is felt across the globe. From large-scale commercial farms to smallholder operations, the adoption of these technologies is transforming the way food is produced. Developing countries, in particular, stand to benefit as these technologies enhance productivity, reduce risks, and empower farmers with tools that were once only available to their more resource-rich counterparts.In conclusion, the marriage of IoT and mobile connectivity, amplified by the capabilities of private 5G networks, is reshaping agriculture into a smarter, more efficient, and sustainable industry. As the world grapples with the challenge of feeding a growing population, these technologies provide a beacon of hope, offering farmers the tools they need to navigate the complexities of modern agriculture and cultivate a bountiful future.

In the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, the integration of technology has proven to be a game-changer. One of the most transformative advancements in recent years is the widespread adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT).

Harvesting the Future: IoT Cultivating Smart Agriculture with Mobile Connectivity and Private 5G Networks

<h2 id="isPasted">What Is a Smart Factory?</h2>A smart factory is a factory that achieves operational process improvements, higher quality, and lower costs based on digital data by connecting processes from design to development, manufacturing, and maintenance in a network. In the manufacturing industry, it refers to automating various processes in a factory to realize product quality and productivity improvements, a reduction in manufacturing costs, a shortening of the commercialization, mass production and delivery periods, and other areas of improvement. In other words, a smart factory is a factory working on digital transformation (DX) that aims to transform the entire business process from design to manufacturing, maintenance, and logistics in addition to improving productivity by automating factory equipment.We introduce here the results of a questionnaire survey* we conducted with people involved in promoting the conversion of regular factories into smart factories in the manufacturing industry in Japan.*About the Questionnaire Survey Organization conducting the survey: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Survey targets: 11,084 workers in the manufacturing industry in Japan (screening survey) and 500 people working in the manufacturing industry who are involved in converting regular factories into smart factories in their companies (main survey) Survey method: Internet survey Survey period: Three days from January 25 (Wed.) to 27 (Fri.), 2023 *Total figures may not match due to rounding.<h3>State of Progress in Converting Regular Factories into Smart Factories</h3>We learned that over 38% of factories are in the process of converting into smart factories or considering converting into a smart factory in the questionnaire we conducted this time (Fig. 1). We can see a trend for even more companies to convert their regular factories into smart factories in the future.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5NTg1NzUzLWltZzAwMDFfZW4ucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 1: Situation concerning the conversion of regular factories into smart factoriesMoreover, the most common reason for converting regular factories into smart factories is to improve productivity. The next most common reason is to reduce costs (Fig. 2).<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5NjU1OTgxLWltZzAwMDJfZW4ucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 2: Reasons for converting regular factories into smart factories<h3 id="isPasted">Main Factors Behind Inability to Promote the Conversion of Regular Factories into Smart Factories</h3>On the other hand, the following are given as the main factors behind the inability to promote conversion of regular factories into smart factories: following on from the understanding of top management, the establishment of specialist teams, the acquisition and training of specialist human resources, cooperation with external partners and other human resources and know-how shortage issues (Fig. 3).<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5Njg1NDc4LWltZzAwMDNfZW4ucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 3: Main factors behind inability to promote the conversion of regular factories into smart factoriesIn addition, we learned that even factories working to convert into smart factories are suffering setbacks in terms of data analysis and prediction and data collection and accumulation (Fig. 4).<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5NzA2MzM1LWltZzAwMDRfZW4ucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 4: Steps where setbacks are being suffered in the conversion of regular factories into smart factoriesIt is thought that how to overcome these steps will be the key to promoting the conversion of regular factories into smart factories. We will consider these issues using the example of short stoppages, which are one type of equipment loss that are a major factor adversely affecting the productivity of smart factories, from here onward.<h2>Short Stoppages: Blind Spot in the Conversion of Regular Factories into Smart Factories</h2>Equipment loss arising in each process is a major issue that must be resolved for the conversion of regular factories into smart factories that greatly contributes to improving productivity in factories.The types of equipment loss include stoppage losses resulting from failures, setup changes, jig replacements and startup, defective product losses, speed reduction losses, and short stoppage losses. In particular, short stoppages are called idling losses and are losses included in the time when, in principle, the equipment could be demonstrating its performance (net operating time) (Fig. 5).<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5NzI4Nzg2LWltZzAwMDVfZW4ucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 5: Equipment loss times and types<h3 id="isPasted">Short Stoppages: Unseen Equipment Loss Lurking in Manufacturing Lines</h3>Setup change, jig replacement, and startup losses are planned. In addition, as it takes a long time to recover from failure losses, we keep a record showing the operational status. However, short stoppages occur unexpectedly on the line and workers at the worksite recover from it and resume work in a short time. The shortness of this time until recovery means that a record of these short stoppages is not kept in most cases. Furthermore, even if attempts are made to keep records of short stoppages, there is currently no time to do so because a speedy recovery is sought.If we do not record the time of a short stoppage, the operating rate is calculated without including that time. Accordingly, a difference arises with the actual operating rate. Furthermore, the cause of long equipment stoppages such as failure losses may be lurking in short stoppages. It is possible to see cases in which problems in the operating rate due to such short stoppages are overlooked even in factories that have been converted into smart factories.<h3>Does Converting Regular Factories into Smart Factories Produce Short Stoppages?</h3>Many industrial robots and automatic machines are installed in the manufacturing lines of smart factories. These comprise precision components. It is not possible to avoid a decline in their precision due to the usage burden and degradation over time. If the precision of these components declines, malfunctions may occur. For example, an industrial robot may fail to grip work or a deviation may arise in the trajectory of a robot arm and it may not be possible to move the part equivalent to the fingers of the robot called the end effector to the correct position. Such malfunctions may cause short stoppages.<h2>Reasons Why Short Stoppages Are Not Eliminated and Countermeasures</h2>Why are short stoppages, which cause various problems in factories in addition to obstructing improvement in productivity, not eliminated? The reason is that in the midst of frequent short stoppages on a daily basis, there is an atmosphere in which manufacturing worksites do not take the situation seriously.The most effective way to prevent such a situation is to calculate and visualize the losses from short stoppages. However, we would need to enter the process, cause, and equipment stoppage time on a worksheet each time such a short stoppage occurs and then aggregate that data to calculate it, which would interfere with production. Moreover, it is difficult to identify the cause of short stoppages by collecting data once a week or once a month.We obtained results from the questionnaire showing that standardization and visualization using digital technologies and optimization of equipment maintenance with sensors and AI are effective ways of resolving such problems in factories which have been successful in promoting their conversion into smart factories (Fig. 6).<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5NzUwNzg4LWltZzAwMDZfZW4ucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 6: Initiatives in promoting the conversion of regular factories into smart factories<h2 id="isPasted">Clues to Reducing Short Stoppages</h2>We need data on the operating status of equipment to reduce short stoppages. For that, we must be able to accurately and quickly record the equipment stoppage times due to the frequent short stoppages and their causes. We introduce here the m-FLIP solution tool that helps to resolve such issues.<h3>What Is m-FLIP?</h3>m-FLIP is a solution that combines Murata Manufacturing’s worksite improvement know-how and IT technologies to maximize the operating rate of manufacturing devices. This solution makes it possible to quantify factors such as operating rate, actual working rate, and equipment stoppages to increase production and achieve optimal maintenance. This greatly contributes to the visualization of problems that are difficult to reveal such as short stoppages.Furthermore, m-FLIP calculates and outputs the operating rate and actual working rate based on data obtained from PLCs made by multiple manufacturers. In addition, it collects workers’ work information through touch-panel PCs. As a result, we can clarify the duration and number of equipment stoppages, which was previously done by guesswork. We are also able to clearly see the main causes of equipment stoppages and the issues that must be resolved (Fig. 7).<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5Nzc2NTU0LWltZzAwMDdfZW4ucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 7: Services provided by m-FLIP<h3 id="isPasted">m-FLIP Utilization Examples</h3>m-FLIP can support the resolution of various issues at manufacturing worksites. We introduce here some typical utilization examples.<h4>Equipment maintenance:</h4>With checks by humans, it is only possible to monitor the operating status temporarily. However, m-FLIP can continuously monitor the operating status of equipment. It is possible to continuously collect data over several months or several years. This allows us to grasp the aging and changes over time of equipment. As a result, it enables maintenance at the optimal timing while minimizing the impact on the operating rate to the greatest possible extent.<h4>Quality control:</h4>For example, it is possible to monitor static electricity generation status based on data from temperature sensors and humidity sensors around the equipment and to output an alert when the set threshold is exceeded. We can utilize this in quality control such as to prevent the outflow of defective products. Moreover, we can also collect data including information on vibrations, current, and voltage. We can then integrate the data we have obtained from multiple sensors and output it as a single piece of information.<h4>Work procedure review, equipment improvement, and personnel allocation optimization:</h4>We can grasp the movements of workers and the operating status of equipment as quantified information. Therefore, we can also utilize it to consider work procedure reviews, equipment improvements, and personnel allocation optimization.<h4>Preparation of reports:</h4>m-FLIP comes with a function to prepare reports that can be used for reporting (Fig. 8). You can display information in charts and tables. It is also possible to input and save comments. You can share the reports you have prepared.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5ODAwNTEwLWltZzAwMDguanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 8: Monthly report screen<h4 id="isPasted">After-sales support by professionals:</h4>After introducing m-FLIP, we can identify issues from the data we have collected and receive suggestions for improvements and other advice from professionals familiar with production technologies, factory technologies, and other technologies.<h2>m-FLIP Introduction Case Study (Example of Ogaki Murata Manufacturing)</h2>We now introduce a case study from Ogaki Murata Manufacturing in which they resolved frequently occurring problems including short stoppages due to tray replacement in the product-washing process and short stoppages due to component adhesion errors with the m-FLIP operating rate improvement solution tool.<h3>Pursuit of the Causes</h3>We intuitively knew that short stoppages were occurring in the tray/rack refilling machine at the manufacturing worksite. However, we were not able to quantify the stoppage time or the number of stops. Accordingly, we collected data on the tray/rack refilling machine and the component adhesion device with m-FLIP. We uncovered the following problems as a result. ・Non-operation due to waiting for tray replacement: 12% ・Non-operation due to adhesion errors: 8%<h3>Improvement 1: Reduction in the Tray Replacement Time</h3>We now display on ANDON the number of trays remaining until the completion of the tray replacement (Fig. 9). We display in ANDON the timing of the tray replacement before the work of refilling the product into the tray is complete. This has meant we have been able to greatly reduce the time spent waiting for tray replacement.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5ODIxMDM5LWltZzAwMDkuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 9: Countdown ANDON that predicts the equipment work completion<h3 id="isPasted">Improvement 2: Resolution of Short Stoppages</h3>We analyzed in detail the contents of the short stoppages. As a result, we ascertained that 80% or more of the short stoppages were component adhesion errors (Fig. 10 and Fig. 11).<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5ODQyMjMyLWltZzAwMTBfZW4ucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 10: Breakdown of the equipment operating rate and non-operating rate items<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMTI5ODU2NjE4LWltZzAwMTBhLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Fig. 11: Operating status Gantt chartWe found that the cause of the component adhesion errors was changes in the clearance between the product adhesion nozzle and product due to changes over time in the washing rack jig. As a countermeasure, we shortened the gap between the adhesion nozzle and the product. This allowed us to significantly reduce short stoppages due to adhesion errors.In this way, it is first necessary to digitize the operating status of equipment and the behavior of workers to improve short stoppages. We can pursue the causes of short stoppages by analyzing and parsing the data we collect.<h2>Summary</h2>This questionnaire revealed issues in the conversion of regular factories into smart factories and challenges in promoting that in numerical data. We can see that quantifying and visualizing the various losses lurking in production lines is essential for improving productivity from these results. We focused on the theme of short stoppages this time. However, quantified data is also indispensable to resolve other issues in the conversion of regular factories into smart factories. The questionnaire results show that this requires high density and quality of the data to be collected as well as analytical skills.<hr id="isPasted"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1711016095493-1711016095493.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii">If you have any questions based on this article that you would like to discuss with an expert at Murata, don't hesitate to reach out. There's an entire team ready to support you with your question.<a href="https://www.murata.com/en-eu/contactform?&Detail=Wevolver%20request" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" class="button-main-action">GET IN TOUCH</a>

A smart factory is a factory that achieves operational process improvements, higher quality, and lower costs based on digital data by connecting processes from design to development, manufacturing, and maintenance in a network.

Pitfalls in the Conversion of Regular Factories into Smart Factories Seen in Data

The Internet of Things, with its vision of linking all aspects to a global network, is currently in the process of radically reshaping our everyday experiences across various domains.

IoT communication protocols with measurements for NB-IoT

LPWA is an abbreviation for Low-Power Wide-Area. It is also referred to as Low-Power Wide-Area Network (LPWAN). LPWA is wireless communication technology that features low power consumption and wide-area and long-distance communication.

What Is Low-Power Wide-Area (LPWA) Wireless Communication?

Condition Monitoring, the backbone of smart industrial maintenance, is a proactive approach that leverages advanced technologies for real-time monitoring of machine conditions. This innovative strategy is pivotal in transitioning from time-based to condition-based maintenance in industrial environments.<h2>Condition Monitoring</h2>At its core, Condition Monitoring focuses on the real-time assessment of machinery by tracking key parameters such as temperature, vibration, pressure, and other vital indicators.&nbsp;This method stands out from traditional reactive or preventive maintenance strategies, which are either failure-induced or schedule-based. Condition Monitoring uses data analytics to identify patterns, trends, and anomalies in machine performance, thereby allowing for timely and precise maintenance interventions. This optimizes machine performance and significantly reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns and associated downtime.<h3>Transitioning to Condition-Based Maintenance</h3>The shift from time-based to condition-based maintenance represents a significant advancement in industrial maintenance practices. Traditional time-based maintenance often leads to unnecessary downtime, as maintenance is performed at predetermined intervals, which may only sometimes be required.&nbsp;In contrast, Condition Monitoring enables maintenance to be scheduled based on the actual condition of the equipment. This data-driven approach leads to more efficient resource allocation, cost savings, and improved machine longevity. It's a smarter strategy emphasizing predictive maintenance, where actions are determined by the machine's condition rather than fixed schedules.<h3>Advantages of Condition Monitoring</h3><ul><li>Increased Equipment Reliability: Early detection of potential issues allows for proactive maintenance, minimizing unexpected failures and downtime.</li><li>Optimized Maintenance Planning: Maintenance activities are more data-driven, avoiding unnecessary interventions and focusing resources where needed most.</li><li>Cost Reduction: Early detection and intervention prevent minor issues from escalating into major failures, reducing overall maintenance costs.</li><li>Improved Safety: Continuous monitoring of critical machine parameters helps identify potential safety hazards, ensuring a safer working environment.</li><li>Enhanced Overall Equipment Efficiency: By maintaining machines in optimal condition, Condition Monitoring ensures efficient performance, reducing energy consumption and enhancing productivity.</li></ul><h3>The Process of Condition Monitoring</h3><h4>Monitoring Key Parameters</h4>Condition Monitoring depends on the continuous tracking of crucial machine parameters. These parameters vary across different types of machinery and industries. For instance, a manufacturing plant might focus on temperature and vibration, whereas a transportation system might monitor speed and fuel efficiency. Selecting these parameters requires a deep understanding of the machine's design, operating conditions, and potential failure modes.<h4>Data Collection and Analysis</h4>This process involves using advanced sensors and data collection systems that capture vital data points from machines. The collected data is then transmitted to a centralized system for processing and analysis. Sophisticated analytics are applied to the data to detect deviations from normal operation, enabling early intervention.<h2>Challenges in Condition Monitoring</h2>The below points outline the key challenges in implementing condition monitoring:Complex Data Collection and Integration<ul><li>Managing data from a diverse range of sensors and machines.</li><li>Standardizing data formats across different equipment and sensors.</li><li>Integrating data from multiple sources for comprehensive analysis.</li></ul>Scalability Issues<ul><li>Expanding the condition monitoring system to include more machines and sensors.</li><li>Ensuring the system can handle increasing data volumes without performance degradation.</li></ul>Infrastructure Limitations<ul><li>Establishing robust networking capabilities to support extensive data transmission.</li><li>Implementing sufficient data storage and processing capabilities.</li><li>Providing adequate computing resources for real-time data analysis.</li></ul>Maintenance and Operational Challenges<ul><li>Training personnel to effectively use and interpret condition monitoring data.</li><li>Implementing effective maintenance strategies based on condition monitoring insights.</li><li>Balancing predictive maintenance with traditional maintenance approaches.</li></ul>Cost Considerations<ul><li>Balancing the initial investment in condition monitoring technology against long-term benefits.</li><li>Managing ongoing costs associated with system upgrades and maintenance.</li></ul>Data Security and Privacy<ul><li>Ensuring the security of data collected from sensors and machines.</li><li>Addressing privacy concerns, especially in sensitive industrial environments.</li></ul>Data Analysis and Interpretation<ul><li>Developing sophisticated analytics to accurately interpret condition monitoring data.</li><li>Turning vast amounts of data into actionable insights for maintenance decision-making.</li></ul>These challenges highlight the need for a strategic approach in implementing condition monitoring systems to effectively leverage their benefits for predictive maintenance and operational efficiency.<h2>Moving Condition Monitoring Online</h2><h3>Transition from "Walk-around" to Online Maintenance</h3>The traditional "walk-around" method of condition-based maintenance, where technicians manually check equipment conditions, is evolving into a more efficient, online system. This change is particularly significant in industrial settings where manual inspections can be tedious and hazardous, especially for hard-to-reach devices.&nbsp;Online condition monitoring systems utilize permanent transducers connected to a multi-channel module for data acquisition, which then feeds into a PC-based processor station for data analysis and processing.&nbsp;This setup enables real-time monitoring and provides high-integrity data from otherwise inaccessible machine locations. The system is designed to automatically check sensor inputs against predefined alarm levels to determine the operating status of machines. Such systems are particularly valuable for machinery considered critical to operations, located in hard-to-access or unsafe areas, or in processes requiring frequent data assessment.<h3>Advantages and Applications of Online Systems</h3>Online systems offer numerous benefits over manual inspections. They reduce the time staff need to collect data, enhance the capacity for detailed machinery analysis, and provide frequent data sampling for faster diagnostics of problems. These systems are not only more efficient but also cost-effective, as they reduce the need for portable instruments and extensive labor.&nbsp;Online condition monitoring is ideal for processes that are event-driven or conditional, require immediate alarm notification, and where collaboration between operations and maintenance personnel is crucial.&nbsp;The integration of online monitoring with route-based tools allows for a comprehensive maintenance strategy, combining the strengths of both methods. For instance, online systems can immediately alert technicians when a machine parameter, like vibration in a gearbox, exceeds its threshold, while handheld devices provide flexibility in data collection and analysis.<h3>Implementing Online Condition Monitoring</h3>When implementing online condition monitoring, it is essential to understand which assets and failure modes should be monitored. Decisions should be based on the number of assets and types of measurements needed. The choice of a condition monitoring solution should consider factors like scalability, openness to new analysis techniques, interoperability with existing systems, and the overall cost-effectiveness of the solution.&nbsp;A successful online condition monitoring system involves data management, analytics, and the ability to detect reliably early indicators of potential issues. The system should balance minimizing false positives and negatives, providing actionable insights for predictive maintenance. This approach allows maintenance managers to schedule and plan maintenance only when necessary, leading to increased revenue, reduced costs, and enhanced safety.Transitioning to online condition monitoring in smart industrial environments offers significant advantages over traditional methods. It improves efficiency, safety, and reliability while reducing costs and downtime. The integration of such systems with existing maintenance strategies is key to achieving optimal asset performance and longevity.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzA4MzU2MzgxNzM0LWxvd3Jhb25lIDEucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h2 id="isPasted">LoRaWAN in Condition Monitoring</h2><h3>Wired vs Wireless Condition Monitoring</h3>The transition from wired to wireless condition monitoring systems introduces a marked change in setup complexity and cost. Wired sensor installations typically involve intricate cabling, which can be labor-intensive and expensive. In contrast, wireless systems offer a streamlined and cost-effective solution for deploying sensors across various locations, particularly in complex industrial settings.<h3>LoRaWAN in the Wireless Landscape</h3>LoRaWAN emerges as a formidable option in the wireless technology arena, especially when compared to other wireless protocols like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth/Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and LTE (Long-Term Evolution). Each of these technologies has its strengths and limitations, influenced by their inherent design to balance range, power consumption, and bandwidth.<ul><li>Wi-Fi: While Wi-Fi excels in high bandwidth, it is limited by shorter range (often not extending beyond 15 meters) and higher power consumption, making it less suitable for scattered IoT devices.</li><li>Bluetooth/BLE: Similar to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and BLE are more focused on short-range communication. They are ideal for small-scale consumer IoT applications but may not be the best fit for industrial IoT due to their limited range.</li><li>LTE: Cellular technologies like LTE offer broader coverage and support for both low and high transmission bandwidths. However, they may involve higher power consumption compared to LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network) technologies like LoRaWAN.</li></ul>&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzA4MzU2NDIxNTAyLWxvd3Jhb25lIDIucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">LoRaWAN, with its long-range capability (several kilometers) and low power consumption, is uniquely positioned for condition monitoring applications. This technology is particularly efficient in sending small packets of data, such as those required for monitoring temperature, humidity, and other environmental variables. Devices on a LoRaWAN network can operate for years on a single battery charge, thanks to its low power design. Additionally, LoRaWAN's star network topology, where each device node communicates with a specific gateway, makes it a robust choice for IoT deployments in varied and challenging environments.&nbsp;<iframe id="65ba23f2cb56854ce719756b" width="250" class="specs-iframe" height="440" src="https://wevolver.com/iframe/specs/advantech-wise-2410sk-na-starter-kit?iframe=true" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe>In the context of IoT, LoRaWAN's advantages are evident when considering the requirements of different use cases. For instance, its ability to efficiently handle small data packets over long distances makes it an excellent choice for applications like asset tracking, environmental monitoring, and smart agriculture.&nbsp;On the other hand, technologies like Wi-Fi and BLE might be more suitable for scenarios requiring higher data throughput over shorter distances, such as in smart homes or retail settings.<h2>Conclusion</h2>LoRaWAN Wireless Condition Monitoring represents a significant leap forward in industrial maintenance. By transitioning from time-based to condition-based maintenance, it offers a more efficient, cost-effective, and data-driven approach. This technology stands out in its ability to facilitate real-time tracking of key machine parameters like temperature, vibration, and pressure, thus enabling predictive maintenance.LoRaWAN, with its long-range, low power capabilities, is particularly suited for this task, overcoming the limitations of traditional wired systems and other wireless technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LTE.&nbsp;Despite facing challenges such as data integration, scalability, and infrastructure demands, the benefits—increased equipment reliability, optimized maintenance planning, cost reduction, improved safety, and enhanced overall efficiency—make it an invaluable tool in modern industrial environments.&nbsp;As industries increasingly adopt smart technologies, LoRaWAN Wireless Condition Monitoring emerges as a pivotal solution for advancing operational excellence and sustainability in the ever-evolving landscape of industrial maintenance.<h2>&nbsp;References</h2><ol start="1" type="1"><li><a href="https://sensemore.io/condition-monitoring-smarter-future-in-industrial-maintenance/" target="_blank">https://sensemore.io/condition-monitoring-smarter-future-in-industrial-maintenance/</a></li><li><a href="https://www.iotforall.com/condition-monitoring-via-lorawan" target="_blank">https://www.iotforall.com/condition-monitoring-via-lorawan</a></li><li><a href="https://www.mokolora.com/lora-and-wireless-technologies/" target="_blank">https://www.mokolora.com/lora-and-wireless-technologies/</a></li><li><a href="https://blog.pruftechnik.com/the-advantages-of-online-and-route-based-condition-monitoring-tools/" target="_blank">https://blog.pruftechnik.com/the-advantages-of-online-and-route-based-condition-monitoring-tools/</a></li><li><a href="https://www.plantservices.com/monitoring/condition-monitoring/article/11292115/addressing-challenges-of-online-condition-monitoring" target="_blank">https://www.plantservices.com/monitoring/condition-monitoring/article/11292115/addressing-challenges-of-online-condition-monitoring</a></li><li><a href="https://reliabilityweb.com/articles/entry/transitions" target="_blank">https://reliabilityweb.com/articles/entry/transitions</a></li><li><a href="https://www.flir.com/discover/professional-tools/what-is-condition-monitoring-guide/" target="_blank">https://www.flir.com/discover/professional-tools/what-is-condition-monitoring-guide/</a></li></ol>

Condition Monitoring with LoRaWAN: A guide to its effectiveness in industrial maintenance, the transition from traditional methods, and overcoming implementation challenges

LoRaWAN Wireless Condition Monitoring

Join us as we showcase how easy it is to create tests for various devices, using the CO2 air quality smart project as an example. Stay tuned to learn more about testing capabilities in the Coiote DM Platform! &nbsp;Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your IoT projects to the next level! Hit that play button and discover the power of testing in the Coiote DM Platform.Grab a board with Anjay IoT SDK, Anjay Zephyr Client, or any LwM2M Client to get started.&nbsp;You can find the list here: <a href="https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/LwM2M_Client/Getting_started/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/LwM2M_Client/Getting_started/</a>Our tutorial will guide you through the Data Integration Center:&nbsp; <a href="https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/Cloud_integrations/Device_Integration_Center/overview/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Device Integration Center</a>Connect your IoT devices with Anjay LwM2M Client:<ul><li><a href="https://github.com/AVSystem/Anjay" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Anjay Client repository</a></li><li><a href="https://github.com/AVSystem/Anjay-zephyr-client" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Anjay Zephyr Client repository</a></li></ul>Coiote IoT Device Management - free registration: Test it out yourself by registering for a free Developer account&nbsp;<a href="https://eu.iot.avsystem.cloud/?__hstc=39182204.e32fc76a6422e9c2d6fd3ce9a95697a7.1691760949211.1704969143251.1704971070640.77&__hssc=39182204.3.1704971070640&__hsfp=689555760" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Coiote IoT DM</a> user account.More information:&nbsp;<a href="https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/Coiote_IoT_DM/Device_Center/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Devzone</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/coiote" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#coiote</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iot" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iot</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iotsolutions" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iotsolutions</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iotcloud" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iotcloud</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iotconnectivity" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iotconnectivity</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/lwm2m" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#lwm2m&nbsp;</a><a tabindex="0" href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/prototypingtools" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" id="isPasted">#prototypingtools</a> <a tabindex="0" href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/devicetests" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#devicetests</a>

In this video, we'll dive into the world of device testing within our IoT Device Management Platform.

What You Can Achieve in Your Next IoT Project with Prototyping Tools?

We will show you the steps to efficiently store and analyze your data using InfluxDB Cloud.&nbsp; Grab a board with Anjay IoT SDK, Anjay Zephyr Client, or any LwM2M Client to get started.&nbsp;You can find the list here: <a href="https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/LwM2M_Client/Getting_started/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/LwM2M_Client/Getting_started/</a>Our tutorial will guide you through the Data Integration Center:&nbsp; <a href="https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/Cloud_integrations/Device_Integration_Center/overview/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Device Integration Center</a>Connect your IoT devices with Anjay LwM2M Client:<ul><li><a href="https://github.com/AVSystem/Anjay" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Anjay Client repository</a></li><li><a href="https://github.com/AVSystem/Anjay-zephyr-client" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Anjay Zephyr Client repository</a></li></ul>Coiote IoT Device Management - free registration: Test it out yourself by registering for a free Developer account&nbsp;<a href="https://eu.iot.avsystem.cloud/?__hstc=39182204.e32fc76a6422e9c2d6fd3ce9a95697a7.1691760949211.1704969143251.1704971070640.77&__hssc=39182204.3.1704971070640&__hsfp=689555760" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Coiote IoT DM</a> user account.More information:&nbsp;<a href="https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/Coiote_IoT_DM/Device_Center/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Devzone</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/coiote" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#coiote</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iot" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iot</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iotsolutions" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iotsolutions</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iotcloud" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iotcloud</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iotconnectivity" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iotconnectivity</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/lwm2m" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#lwm2m</a> <a tabindex="0" href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/influxdb" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" id="isPasted">#influxdb</a>

In this video, we'll explore the exciting world of IoT development and learn how to seamlessly forward telemetry data to InfluxDB Cloud. 

How to forward telemetry data to InfluxDB Cloud?

We'll explore the ins and outs of leveraging Kafka for seamless data forwarding and processing data streams.&nbsp;Grab a board with Anjay IoT SDK, Anjay Zephyr Client, or any LwM2M Client to get started.&nbsp;You can find the list here: <a href="https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/LwM2M_Client/Getting_started/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/LwM2M_Client/Getting_started/</a>Our tutorial will guide you through the Data Integration Center:&nbsp; <a href="https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/Cloud_integrations/Device_Integration_Center/overview/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Device Integration Center</a>Connect your IoT devices with Anjay LwM2M Client:<ul><li><a href="https://github.com/AVSystem/Anjay" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Anjay Client repository</a></li><li><a href="https://github.com/AVSystem/Anjay-zephyr-client" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Anjay Zephyr Client repository</a></li></ul>Coiote IoT Device Management - free registration: Test it out yourself by registering for a free Developer account <a href="https://eu.iot.avsystem.cloud/?__hstc=39182204.e32fc76a6422e9c2d6fd3ce9a95697a7.1691760949211.1704969143251.1704971070640.77&__hssc=39182204.3.1704971070640&__hsfp=689555760" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Coiote IoT DM</a> user account.More information: <a href="https://iotdevzone.avsystem.com/docs/Coiote_IoT_DM/Device_Center/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Devzone</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/coiote" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#coiote</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iot" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iot</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iotsolutions" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iotsolutions</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iotcloud" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iotcloud</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/iotconnectivity" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#iotconnectivity</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/lwm2m" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">#lwm2m</a> <a tabindex="0" href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/kafka" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" id="isPasted">#kafka</a>

In this video, we're delving into the dynamic world of forwarding data to Kafka. 

How to forward telemetry data to Confluent Kafka?

<h2 dir="ltr">Introduction</h2>To successfully deploy Edge AI applications with real-time capabilities and low latency, it is crucial to have access to high bandwidth connectivity that operates at ultra-fast speeds. This is where Wi-Fi comes into play. Deploying Wi-Fi technologies enhances Edge AI’s real-time analysis and reinforces its ability to proactively respond to diverse scenarios with minimal latency and higher bandwidth efficiency. Wi-Fi deployment is further streamlined by an advanced Wi-Fi-as-a-service (WaaS) business model.&nbsp;Our new report, AI at the Edge: Technology Accelerated by Wi-Fi Services, dives deeply into the convergence of Wi-Fi services and Edge AI and explores how a technology model like WaaS can accelerate the adoption of AI at the edge.&nbsp;Download the full 40-page report below.&nbsp;&lt;image&gt;Form.<h3 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Leading the Digital Transformation with Edge AI and Wi-Fi-as-a-Service</h3>The report explore's how Relay2 is serving the global market and learn about its ServiceEdge Platform and PartnerConnect Program. We will also take a good look at some notable use cases of these technologies, including education, healthcare, and retail, and finally peek into the future of Edge AI and Wi-Fi.&nbsp;This report aims to provide a comprehensive, in-depth analysis of how marrying Edge AI with cloud-managed Wi-Fi services will drive the growth of smart and lightweight infrastructure markets and create a smarter connected world with unified wireless access and an application computing platform.<blockquote>“Relay2 is pioneering the convergence of Wi-Fi and Edge Computing, fortifying industries to provide smarter and better-connected services, enhanced security, safety, and privacy, along with operational efficiency and cost optimization.” - Eric Chen, Founder &amp; CEO at Relay2</blockquote>Don't miss out on this comprehensive guide and detailed case studies. Download your copy now.&nbsp;&lt;image&gt;Form.<h3 dir="ltr">Read excerpts of the report chapters here:</h3>Chapter 1: Wi-Fi Services Enabling Edge AIChapter 2: Relay2 and Edge AIChapter 3: Applications &amp; Case StudiesChapter 4: Future of Edge AI with Wi-Fi TechnologyConclusion: Wi-Fi-Powered Edge AI - A Technology for the Future

<h2 dir="ltr">Introduction</h2>To successfully deploy Edge AI applications with real-time capabilities and low latency, it is crucial to have access to high bandwidth connectivity that operates at ultra-fast speeds. This is where Wi-Fi comes into play. Deploying Wi-Fi technologies enhances Edge AI’s real-time analysis and reinforces its ability to proactively respond to diverse scenarios with minimal latency and higher bandwidth efficiency. Wi-Fi deployment is further streamlined by an advanced Wi-Fi-as-a-service (WaaS) business model.&nbsp;Our new report, AI at the Edge: Technology Accelerated by Wi-Fi Services, dives deeply into the convergence of Wi-Fi services and Edge AI and explores how a technology model like WaaS can accelerate the adoption of AI at the edge.&nbsp;Download the full 40-page report below.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1708692972720-Relay+final+%281%29.png" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><iframe src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFAHQ1RzmRq2C4LLaGIyc0SIbhplZVhzapUbUp7RqKP5Lt2roTAWGSz62uJMz4fNFeLGuhZI97irHq9J_4pLu2XbIx9FlrN9A8Gsmo11v03ozf6Qw83e4mk2E2ZWFuzWXMvR6NTo85ClJnyc7jmTIUWK4mQh9GbC-v_4SSumcw_XE_GIVo3OrFmb2b8rsyUNlGSVHQ7quSTDwC" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 540px; height: 455px;" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> <h3 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Leading the Digital Transformation with Edge AI and Wi-Fi-as-a-Service</h3>The report explores how Relay2 is serving the global market and learns about its ServiceEdge Platform and PartnerConnect Program. We will also take a good look at some notable use cases of these technologies, including education, healthcare, and retail, and finally peek into the future of Edge AI and Wi-Fi.&nbsp;This report aims to provide a comprehensive, in-depth analysis of how marrying Edge AI with cloud-managed Wi-Fi services will drive the growth of smart and lightweight infrastructure markets and create a smarter connected world with unified wireless access and an application computing platform.<blockquote>“Relay2 is pioneering the convergence of Wi-Fi and Edge Computing, fortifying industries to provide smarter and better-connected services, enhanced security, safety, and privacy, along with operational efficiency and cost optimization.” - Eric Chen, Founder &amp; CEO at Relay2</blockquote>Don't miss out on this comprehensive report with detailed case studies. Download your copy now.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1708693065073-relay+final+3+%281%29.png" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><iframe src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFAHQ1RzmRq2C4LLaGIyc0SIbhplZVhzapUbUp7RqKP5Lt2roTAWGSz62uJMz4fNFeLGuhZI97irHq9J_4pLu2XbIx9FlrN9A8Gsmo11v03ozf6Qw83e4mk2E2ZWFuzWXMvR6NTo85ClJnyc7jmTIUWK4mQh9GbC-v_4SSumcw_XE_GIVo3OrFmb2b8rsyUNlGSVHQ7quSTDwC" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 540px; height: 455px;" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> <h3 dir="ltr">Read excerpts of the report chapters as they are released:</h3>Chapter 1: Wi-Fi Services Enabling Edge AI (Coming soon)Chapter 2: Relay2 and Edge AI (Coming soon)Chapter 3: Applications &amp; Case Studies (Coming soon)Chapter 4: Future of Edge AI with Wi-Fi Technology (Coming soon)Conclusion: Wi-Fi-Powered Edge AI - A Technology for the Future (Coming soon)

Introduction

Leading the Digital Transformation with Edge AI and Wi-Fi Networking

AI at the Edge: Technology Accelerated by Wi-Fi Services

Particle will host Spectra Showcase, where CEO Zack Supalla will showcase not only Particle's latest devices and software but also offer an exclusive sneak peek into the 2024 product roadmap, on February 22nd at 11 am ET.<a href="https://wevlv.co/particle-io-showcase" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="button-main-action">Register now for free</a>&nbsp; Tune in virtually next Thursday at 5pm CET/11am ET to learn why hundreds of manufacturers, thousands of startups, and 260,000 developers use Particle's integrated platform to power their IoT products.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzA3NzM5MDM0OTIzLUJfU3BlY3RyYV9TaG93Y2FzZSAtMTIwMCB4IDEyMDEgKDIpLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><a href="https://wevlv.co/particle-io-showcase" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="button-main-action">REGISTER FOR FREE NOW</a><h2>Particle Product Reveal</h2>Join the Particle team at 11 am on February 22nd ET as they showcase their latest devices and software and offer an exclusive sneak peek into their 2024 product roadmap.Don't miss this chance to be at the edge of innovation. <a href="https://wevlv.co/particle-io-showcase" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="button-main-action">Register for Spectra Showcase, the free virtual IoT conference now.</a>

Explore Particle's latest devices and software as well as the 2024 product roadmap.

Particle Presents Spectra Showcase

Industrial-grade single-board computers (SBCs) are becoming vital in advanced technology sectors due to their ability to operate in extreme environments. These robust devices are crucial in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and outdoor IoT, where they must withstand severe temperatures. Their reliability and durability are essential in minimizing operational risks and ensuring continuity in critical applications. SBCs like the OKdo DEBIX Model B stand out in this category. Equipped with an advanced Neural Processing Unit (NPU), the DEBIX Model B is tailored for complex tasks like machine learning and real-time data processing, aligning well with the needs of Industry 4.0.<h2 dir="ltr">Overview of OKdo DEBIX Model B</h2>The OKdo DEBIX Model B is a highly capable industrial single-board computer designed to cater to demanding technological environments.&nbsp;The OKdo DEBIX Model B is a sophisticated industrial single-board computer ideal for various demanding applications. Key features include:<ol><li dir="ltr">Powerful Processing Core: It's built around the i.MX 8M Plus processor with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU, complemented by a 2.3 TOPS Neural Processing Unit (NPU), facilitating advanced machine learning and data processing tasks.</li><li dir="ltr">Enhanced Temperature Resilience: The DEBIX Model B operates effectively between -40℃ to 85℃, making it reliable in extreme environments and an upgrade from its predecessor, the DEBIX Model A.</li><li dir="ltr">Advanced Multimedia and Connectivity: This board supports 1080p60 video encoding/decoding and 3D/2D graphic acceleration. It features dual cameras, multiple serial ports, and multi-network interaction, enhancing its utility in multimedia applications.</li><li dir="ltr">Versatility in Application: The DEBIX Model B suits industry 4.0, IoT, smart cities, and multimedia projects, demonstrating adaptability across various industrial applications.</li></ol>Distinct from its predecessor, the&nbsp;<a href="https://debix.io/hardware/model-a.html" target="_blank">DEBIX Model A</a>, the Model B is engineered to withstand extreme temperature ranges, operating effectively from -40℃ to 85℃. This significant enhancement in temperature resilience broadens its applicability in industrial settings that experience such environmental extremes. The upgrade in individual chips and components on the Model B's board underlines OKdo's commitment to providing versatile solutions tailored to specific real-world application environments.3For more detailed information, the&nbsp;<a href="https://debix.io/hardware/model-b.html" target="_blank">official</a> product pages and descriptions provide in-depth insights into the specifications and capabilities of the DEBIX Model B. <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1707211865416-1707211865416.png" width="602" height="575" class="fr-fic fr-dii">&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Figure:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.okdo.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Debix-Model-B-EMB-iMX8MP-04-Datasheet.pdf" target="_blank" data-lf-fd-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">OKDO Debix Model B</a> <h2>Machine Learning &amp; AI Capabilities</h2>The OKdo DEBIX Model B offers capabilities in AI and machine learning, which are increasingly relevant in the realm of industrial automation. This NPU is designed to support a range of machine-learning applications. While it can potentially perform object and scene recognition tasks and sophisticated pattern analysis, its effectiveness depends on targeted programming and application. It can identify various elements, including transportation tools, animals, plants, and documents, and can be tailored for specific scenarios like city night scenes or snowy landscapes.In the industrial sector, the DEBIX Model B's AI capabilities can be applied for quality control through object and defect recognition and automated safety monitoring, such as helmet detection or flame recognition. Its utility in logistics for vehicle and license plate identification showcases its versatility. While these capabilities demonstrate its potential, practical applications require precise and goal-oriented programming.The DEBIX Model B is also designed to perform in environments with extreme temperatures, enhancing its reliability in demanding industrial settings. This adaptability, combined with AI and machine learning capabilities, makes it a valuable asset in industries prioritizing precision and efficiency. However, it's important to note that its effectiveness is contingent on the specific applications and programming it is given.These AI functions illustrate the potential of the DEBIX Model B to streamline processes and enhance safety protocols in the evolving landscape of Industry 4.0. Its rapid and accurate data processing and analysis capacity could be instrumental in advancing smart manufacturing and AI-integrated systems, subject to appropriate application and use.For more detailed insights into the NPU applications of the DEBIX Model B, visit - <a href="https://debix.io/Cases/index2/id/2.html" target="_blank">Debix.io</a>.<h2 dir="ltr">Industrial Automation Applications</h2>The OKdo DEBIX Model B finds its strengths in various industrial automation applications, leveraging its robust technical capabilities. For instance, its use in machine vision and robot control systems is significant, as it assists in automating and optimizing manufacturing processes. It is an industrial computer gateway and Human-Machine Interface (HMI), providing crucial interfacing between complex machinery and operators.The board's contribution to factory automation is also critical, enabling smarter, more efficient, and interconnected manufacturing environments. These applications underscore the board's versatility and capability in handling various facets of industrial automation, making it a valuable asset in the rapidly evolving landscape of Industry 4.0.<h2 dir="ltr"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1707211935116-okdo.png" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></h2>Figure: <a href="https://www.okdo.com/p/debix-model-b-industrial-single-board-computer/" target="_blank">Applications of OKdo Debix Model B</a><h2 dir="ltr">Compatibility with DEBIX Range</h2>The OKdo DEBIX Model B's compatibility with the DEBIX range, specifically the LoRa and I/O boards, significantly expands its application spectrum. For example, the DEBIX Model A LoRa board enhances wireless network capabilities, offering long-range, low-power connectivity through a Mini PCIe interface for the LoRa module.&nbsp;This addition is crucial for applications requiring extensive wireless coverage with minimal energy consumption. Integrating these add-on boards allows the DEBIX Model B to be effectively used in diverse settings, ranging from IoT implementations to complex industrial automation systems, elevating its functional versatility in various technological landscapes.<h2 dir="ltr">DEBIX Model B in Smart Cities and IoT</h2>The DEBIX Model B, with its robust build and advanced capabilities, is well-suited for applications in smart cities and Internet of Things (IoT) integration. The DEBIX Model B can be crucial in managing and optimizing urban infrastructure in smart cities. Its ability to handle extreme temperatures (-40℃ to 85℃) ensures reliable performance in various environmental conditions. This feature is critical for outdoor applications like traffic management systems, environmental monitoring, and public safety systems, where equipment must operate reliably in different weather conditions.In terms of IoT integration, the DEBIX Model B's powerful i.MX 8M Plus processor with 2.3TOPS NPU enables it to handle complex computational tasks, making it suitable for edge computing applications.1&nbsp;This capability allows for real-time data processing in IoT devices, essential for applications such as real-time traffic monitoring, smart energy grids, and advanced security systems in smart buildings. The board's support for various operating systems and its advanced multimedia capabilities further extend its potential use cases in IoT ecosystems, ranging from sophisticated sensor networks to interactive urban infrastructure systemsOverall, the DEBIX Model B's industrial-grade performance and robust features make it a valuable asset in developing smart city infrastructure and IoT applications, providing a reliable platform for innovation and efficiency in urban environments.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1707211865810-1707211865810.png" width="602" height="425" class="fr-fic fr-dii">Figure:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Illustrative-scenario-of-a-BDA-and-IoT-based-Disaster-Resilient-Smart-City_fig1_334408158" target="_blank">An illustration of the application of IoT devices like Debix Model B for smart city use cases.</a><h2 dir="ltr">User and Developer Support</h2>The OKdo DEBIX Model B offers comprehensive user and developer support, ensuring a smooth experience for working with this industrial-grade single-board computer.User Support and Documentation:&nbsp;Users can easily get started with the DEBIX Model B by accessing various resources. The setup involves basic steps like connecting a display and peripherals, installing the operating system using tools likeBalena &nbsp;Etcher, and troubleshooting common issues. Detailed instructions and reference documents are available to guide users through this process. For any additional help, users can join the OKdo Discord community, which provides a platform for interactive support and problem-solvingDeveloper Support and Software Updates:&nbsp;Developers can access a rich set of software development and update resources. The DEBIX Model B supports multiple operating systems, including Android 11, Yocto-L5.10.72_2.2.0, Ubuntu 20.04, and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise.1&nbsp;This diversity in OS support enables developers to choose the best environment for their specific needs—the board's hardware, including its Quad-core i.MX 8M Plus processor is well-suited for various applications, ranging from machine learning to multimedia projectsUsers can download official software images from OKdo's website for updates. This includes various versions of Debian, Ubuntu, and Android. Detailed guides are provided for each step of the software installation process, from downloading the OS to flashing the SD card and initial system setup.To sum up, OKdo offers a comprehensive support system for users and developers working with the DEBIX Model B. This includes detailed documentation, community support, and regular software updates, ensuring users can effectively utilize the board for various industrial applications. Please refer to the official&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.rs-online.com/3236/A700000009529883.pdf" target="_blank" data-lf-fd-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">datasheet</a> for more details.<h2 dir="ltr">Future Outlook and Conclusion</h2>The future holds significant promise for advancements in processing power, energy efficiency, and integration capabilities of Industrial-grade single-board computers (SBCs). As technology progresses, we can expect SBCs like the DEBIX Model B to be equipped with even more advanced processors and neural processing units (NPUs), enhancing their AI and machine learning capabilities. This evolution will likely lead to even more efficient and powerful industrial applications, particularly in environments that require high reliability under extreme conditions.The DEBIX Model B exemplifies the importance and versatility of modern industrial-grade SBCs. Its robust design enables operation in extreme temperatures, making it ideal for challenging industrial environments—the integration of powerful i.MX 8M Plus processor with a 2.3TOPS NPU enables it to handle sophisticated computational tasks, which is crucial for AI and IoT applications.1&nbsp;The board's support for various operating systems and multimedia capabilities makes it a versatile tool for various industrial applications, from automation to smart city infrastructure.In conclusion, the DEBIX Model B is a testament to the advancements in industrial-grade computing, offering a glimpse into the future of industrial automation and AI applications. Its ability to operate in extreme conditions and its powerful processing capabilities position it as a key player in the evolution of industrial and IoT technologies.<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2><ol><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://debix.io/hardware/model-b.html" target="_blank">https://debix.io/hardware/model-b.html</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.okdo.com/p/debix-model-b-industrial-single-board-computer/" target="_blank">https://www.okdo.com/p/debix-model-b-industrial-single-board-computer/</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://debix.io/hardware/model-a.html" target="_blank">https://debix.io/hardware/model-a.html</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.okdo.com/it/smart-world/" target="_blank">https://www.okdo.com/it/smart-world/</a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.okdo.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Debix-Model-B-EMB-iMX8MP-04-Datasheet.pdf" target="_blank" data-lf-fd-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">https://www.okdo.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Debix-Model-B-EMB-iMX8MP-04-Datasheet.pdf</a></li></ol>

Empowering AI-driven Industrial Automation with the OKdo DEBIX Model B in Extreme Conditions


Exploring the OKdo DEBIX Model B: Unleashing AI and Industrial Automation at Extreme Temperatures

The Things Network-Fri Jun 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

The Things Network-Mon Jul 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Things Network-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Things Network-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

The Things Network-Sat Sep 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Particle-Fri Jun 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

Particle-Mon Jul 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Particle-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Particle-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

Particle-Sat Sep 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

SPE - Industrial Partner Network-Fri Jun 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

SPE - Industrial Partner Network-Mon Jul 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

SPE - Industrial Partner Network-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

SPE - Industrial Partner Network-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

SPE - Industrial Partner Network-Sat Sep 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Disruptive Technologies-Fri Jun 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

Disruptive Technologies-Mon Jul 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Disruptive Technologies-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Disruptive Technologies-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

Disruptive Technologies-Sat Sep 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Monogoto

AVSystem

IoT Stars

Soft Robotics Podcast-Fri Jun 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

Soft Robotics Podcast-Mon Jul 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Soft Robotics Podcast-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Soft Robotics Podcast-Thu Aug 31 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0200 (Central European Summer Time)

Soft Robotics Podcast-Sat Sep 30 2023 23:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Particle

industrial internet of things (iiot)

IIoT

Profiles