IIoT Examples and Use Cases by Industry in 2023

The industrial internet of things is the use of smart devices in various processes. The devices connect to gather data and improve efficiency across various sectors in a faster and more accurate way than a human would.

Many smart devices connect to form systems that collect, analyze, and exchange data. Organizations use the industrial internet of things to maintain their business processes.

This article will focus on industrial IoT examples. It discusses the differences between the internet of things and the industrial internet of things. It will also cover industrial IoT use cases across different industries and how it is transforming operations.

1 IIoT vs. IoT: Differences and Similarities

The similarities between IIoT and IoT are:

1. Allow for connectivity and communication of devices over the internet.

2. They use sensors, devices, and networks to collect data.

3. Increase efficiency and automate tasks by allowing devices to communicate and share information.

4. They both rely on cloud computing and data analytics. This will help to process large amounts of data generated by connected devices.

2 Industrial IIoT Examples from 3 Angles

The industrial internet of things increases automation and reduces downtime. Operational efficiency across various industrial settings is also improved. An industrial internet of things example is the manufacturing industry. Others include the agriculture and automotive industries.

1. Different Industries

Manufacturing

IIoT enables connected devices to gather and analyze data for manufacturing processes. The sensor data can track machine performance. It can also detect potential issues before they cause problems.

Production is more efficient and flexible when devices and machines communicate with robots.

Agriculture

One specific industrial internet of things example application in agriculture is Precision Agriculture. Precision Agriculture uses devices like drones to gather data from the farming process.

This data can help to optimize crop production, reducing waste and improving efficiency. For example, sensor data can track soil moisture and nutrient levels.

Another critical industrial internet of things example in agriculture applications is automation and robotics in farming. Autonomous tractors help plant and harvest, reduce waste, and increase crop yields.

Automotive

An industrial internet of things example applicable in the automotive industry is the presence of "Connected Cars." Connected cars use various devices, such as sensors, cameras, and GPS, to scan data from the vehicle.

This data is to improve safety, reduce emissions, and optimize performance. For example, sensor data can track tire pressure. It can also predict traffic patterns to optimize routing. The data is then used for predictive analytics to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

2. Industrial IoT Examples in Action

The internet of things transforms industries. They allow machines and devices to communicate in sync. By integrating IoT with industrial processes, companies can improve efficiency, productivity, and safety. Some examples of industrial IoT use cases in action include:

In the Manufacturing Industry:

GE has implemented IIoT technology to optimize production processes. This has led to a reduction in downtime and the number of defects. It also increases productivity.

In the Transportation Industry:

Routes and supply chain operations are better using IIoT sensors and tracking devices. For example, industrial IoT use cases can be observed in companies like Daimler and Volvo.

IIoT helps to improve the efficiency of their vehicles. Daimler uses IIoT sensors to check the health of truck engines. It also helps to predict when they will need maintenance.

In the Qgriculture Industry:

John Deere is using IIoT technology to improve the efficiency of its farming equipment.

(An American corporation that manufactures agricultural machinery, heavy equipment, forestry machinery, diesel engines, drivetrains used in heavy equipment, and lawn care equipment).

For example, the development of tractors that a farmer can control in a remote setting.  Based on data from sensors, their speed and direction can adjust to suit the farmer.

In the Healthcare Industry:

IoT equipment can check patients' condition from afar. It also improves outcomes in a remote setting.

Medtronic is one of the best industrial IoT use cases in the medical field. They use IIoT technology to track patients' vital signs. It then sends an alert to healthcare professionals if any changes need attention.

3. The main features of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions

Businesses depend on the internet of things to increase efficiency and productivity.  The main features of IIoT are:

Smart Alerts and Notifications

Smart alerts and notifications are critical features of IoT. In manufacturing, it allows for real-time monitoring and control of manufacturing assets. Preset conditions trigger equipment failure alerts. It also helps with production process deviations or safety hazards.

These are then sent to the relevant personnel via various communication channels (e.g., SMS, email, push notifications). IIoT allows for quick response and resolution of issues by manufacturing personnel. It improves total efficiency and reduces downtime in manufacturing operations.

Condition Monitoring & Remote Maintenance

It allows for real-time monitoring and control of equipment and other manufacturing assets. This technology allows the collecting of data and analyzing it to detect potential issues.

Remote maintenance enables technicians to access and diagnose equipment. This leads to a reduction of costs associated with on-site repairs. It allows for proactive maintenance and improved equipment uptime. It also increases efficiency in manufacturing operations.

Location Tracking & Geofencing

Enterprise’s asset includes equipment, tools, and personnel. This technology can be used to track the location of these assets, as well as set up virtual boundaries that trigger alerts when crossed.

This enables manufacturers to improve operational efficiency and increase productivity in manufacturing.

Data Processing and Analyzing

IIoT allow for analyzing large amounts of data from various manufacturing equipment and personnel.

This data can be used to optimize production processes and reduce downtime. It can help to recognize patterns. It can also help to determine trends in the data. This will improve quality control and increase efficiency in manufacturing operations.

3 Should You Adopt IIoT Into Your Business?

Adopting IIoT can bring benefits but also requires significant investment and planning. It is recommended to conduct a thorough analysis.

This will help to determine if the benefits of adopting IIoT outweigh the risk. It will thus help in making an informed decision.

Benefits of  Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)

It reduces manual processes: Allows for device automation when connected to the internet. This leads to a  reduction in manual intervention and increases efficiency.

Reduce errors:  IIoT collects and analyzes data in real-time. This makes it easy to identify and correct errors quickly, reducing the risk of costly mistakes.

Optimize operational processes:  IIoT helps to optimize and analyze data. This leads to an increase in the efficiency of operational processes and reduces costs.

Reduce costs: IIoT reduces costs by automating manual processes. It also reduces errors and optimizes operational processes.

Worker Safety and Productivity:  IIoT helps to automate dangerous and repetitive tasks. This improves worker safety and increases productivity.

Sustainability: IIoT can help companies reduce their environmental impact. This can be done by optimizing operational processes and automating manual tasks.

Challenges of IIoT

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has the potential to revolutionize various industries. They also introduce several security challenges. For example:

Network security: IoT devices are connected to the internet. This becomes a potential entry point for hackers to gain access to a company's network.

Data security: IoT devices collect large amounts of data. This increases the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Privacy: IoT devices contain large amounts of personal data. This can be used for malicious purposes if it falls into the wrong hands.

4 Market Segments of IIoT

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) market is a rapidly growing and diverse field that can be segmented in various ways. This allows companies better to understand the specific needs of their target customers. They can also develop products and services that meet those needs.

The IIoT market segments are based on:

Device and Technology: They include sensors and industrial robots.

Connectivity Technology: They include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and cellular networks.

Software: They include platform software, analytics software, security software, and others.

Vertical: It is present in manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, agriculture, and others.

5 AirDroid Business - Remote Management Strategy for Android Devices

AirDroid Business is a remote management solution for Android devices. It is designed to help businesses increase productivity, reduce IT costs, and enhance security.

With AirDroid Business MDM solution, companies can manage, secure, and support their fleet of Android devices from a single web-based console.

For example, a business has a fleet of 100 Android devices employees use in the field. These devices collect data, access company resources, and stay connectaed with the office.

However, the IT department will need help managing these devices individually. With AirDroid Business, the IT department can remotely access and control these devices to perform all these tasks. This eliminates the need for IT staff to physically access each device, which can save time and reduce costs.

Conclusion

The industrial internet of things can transform a wide range of industries. It can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enable new business models. With the advent of new technologies like 5G and edge computing, the IIoT is becoming more accessible and easier to use. Companies in various industries can take advantage of its benefits.

In the coming years, industries like manufacturing, energy, and healthcare will adopt IIoT. IIoT has the potential to bring significant benefits to a wide range of industries. It will be exciting to see how it continues to shape the future of business and society in 2023 and beyond.