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Tips on Remote Monitoring and Control of Manufacturing Operations
In an article in Control Engineering, four tips are discussed on how edge computing and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) can help companies adjust operations during this critical time. Briefly:
1. Identify key processes to be virtualized
Identify high-touch repetitive processes that can be better addressed as automated processes through virtualization, and plan, if possible, to enable the running of multiple processes simultaneously on a single platform.
2. Choosing the right edge computing platform
The cited articles also point out five attributes that are essential when choosing an edge computing platform:
- Ability to self-monitor and self-diagnose
- Possess built-in pre-integrated physical and cybersecurity
- Proven high availability with little to no downtime
- Easy to install and maintain
- Support for a wide range of applications.
3. Integrating IIoT with modern monitor and control software powered by edge computing
IIoT-enabled devices, such as sensors and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) improve manufacturing processes when they are combined with modern monitor and control software powered by edge computing. Edge computing platforms collect, organize, and analyze data from sensors and process data on site in real time connecting critical applications with critical equipment or enabling advanced and remote monitoring and control. This allows manufacturers – at a local facility or plant-level – to remotely drive operational efficiency and performance safely while freeing limited available personnel to focus on higher-value.
One caveat, however. It is worth noting that the increased use of IIoT devices within edge computing architectures can introduce security vulnerabilities into the system if they are not addressed properly. So besides investing in systems that provide self-monitoring and diagnosis, these systems must provide built-in physical security and cybersecurity.
4. The team deploying the systems should have an “all hands-on deck” mindset
The team deploying the above systems should include those skilled in both operations technology (OT) and information technology (IT) in order to adequately address the operational needs of the facility or plant.
To help industrial organizations meet their business objectives, leading automation suppliers have developed innovative remote operations solutions, which provide the expertise, skills, and technology capabilities to customers.
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