What is the Internet of Things

Start your IoT strategy

The digital (r) evolution ensures that the world is constantly changing. The number of devices is increasing every day. “More and more devices” refers not only to the smartphone, tablet and PC, but also to the ever-smarting utensils and gadgets. Everyone knows the well-known examples such as refrigerators who know when products are approaching the expiry date and the smart thermostats.

We are talking about the Internet of Things (IoT)<With IoT, the amount of data is increasing rapidly. This Big Data is a tool for marketers, science, healthcare and of course for the industry. This last branch has our focus. But what can the industrial branch do with it? How does Internet of Things and the resulting Big Data make a positive difference?

What is IoT?

IoT, Big Data … what exactly does this entail? We often talk about “Smart Industry”. This term covers the intelligence which is created. Internet of Things is about devices that communicate with each other and share information. New applications are being developed based on this information, generated by Big Data. Often self-learning. The proper interpretation of the data and these efforts for higher efficiency require close cooperation between industry and IT.

To understand what IoT brings and will bring to the industry, we need use cases. Examples that take it from the IT sphere and make its applicability tangible. We want to show that it contributes to an efficiency improvement and thereby reduces costs.

Sensor-controlled user application

We all know the sensor-controlled devices in the form of outdoor lighting. But this is only the beginning of something that is already taking a huge flight. Think of auxiliary functionalities that contribute at times when it is needed. Sensors observe changes in patterns and take action. Think of sensors that detect a change in air humidity. They forward this information to other devices that make adjustments based on these data.

Self-learning machines and computers

Data in itself is useless, only when you start using data strategically will it work for you. Self-learning machines use data to automate predictive maintenance. Components within a production line are continuously analyzed in an automated manner. If somewhere in a machine a part vibrates at a higher frequency than normal, this could mean that it needs to be replaced. A signal is sent to the service technician. If the part needs replacement and is replaced, the self-learning machine saves this information and can extend such algorithms.

Security

Huge amounts of information, data, incorporate a big security issue. Personal- and company data should accessible to everyone. Therefore with every application of IoT a security issue immediately comes to mind. These security issues are often complex and have to meet a large degree of customization. This investment in security is worth it, given the profit that the developments within Internet of Things can bring.

What is it? The advantages of Industry Internet of Things

The use of IoT in the industrial world is called IIoT, Industry Internet of Things. The opportunities for the companies are twofold:

Lower costs

Higher turnover / Productivity

Processes within a chain – and chains within an industry, are connected to each other. Optimization through this connection ensures an efficiency improvement. Errors are detected more quickly and immediately and automatically anticipated. And all this through the smart link between machines and devices.

The collected data can expand the service package of an industry. Data is costly and the information that is gradually collected in a particular industry can be of great value to another company. There is potential for new revenue models.

Gemba has extensive experience in optimizing business processes through the smart application of IT. With IoT there are new challenges and possibilities. Gemba would be interested to investigate where the opportunities lie in your company and industry.

If you require more information, please contact us.