Industrial Internet of Things

Industrial Internet of Things (often IIoT) means using many small, connected devices in industry.  
These devices have sensors. They send data to computers and to each other over a network or the Internet.  
The goal is to watch machines, control them better, and make work safer and cheaper.

 Meaning 
IIoT is a part of the wider Internet of Things.  
It focuses on places like factories, energy plants, farms, mines, transport, and warehouses.  
Devices measure heat, pressure, speed, and many other things.  
The data helps people and software to make quick decisions.

 History 
Ideas that led to IIoT began in the late 1900s.  
Factories first used programmable controllers and later used computer networks.  
When the Internet became common, makers started to connect machines more widely.  
This allowed data to move fast and cheaply between many devices.

 How it works 
An IIoT system usually has:
 Devices and sensors: they collect data and can act on commands.
 Networks: cables or wireless links that move the data.
 Data platforms and apps: they store data and make reports.
 People: workers, engineers, and managers who use the results.

Sometimes the data is processed near the machine.  
This is called edge computing.  
It reduces delay and saves network use, which helps for real-time control.

 Uses 
Common uses include:
 Predictive maintenance (finding problems before a machine breaks);
 Quality control and tracing products;
 Energy management;
 Remote monitoring of pumps, robots, and vehicles;
 Worker safety (for example, gas sensors and wearables).

 Benefits 
IIoT can improve safety and save money.  
It can reduce unplanned stops, lower energy use, and help people make better plans.  
Small changes across many machines can add up to large gains.

 Problems and safety 
Security is a major risk.  
Each connected device can be a new way for an attacker to enter a system.  
Good practice includes strong passwords, updates, network separation, and monitoring.  
Standards like IEC 62443 give rules for protecting industrial systems.

 Related pages 
 Internet of Things
 Cyber-physical system
 Edge computing

 References 

Category:Industrial processes
Category:Manufacturing
Category:Computer networking