Five Ways to Improve Agricultural Efficiency With IIoT
The IIoT benefits farmers and their products substantially, especially regarding how efficient growth cycles can become. Learn more in this article. It’s estimated today that half of the organizations in the agriculture sector have adopted IIoT capabilities, according to Inmarsat Research. Even those who have yet to buy-in, largely agree that the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is quickly revolutionizing how farmers grow food and people gain access to healthy food on a global scale. Increased efficiency is one of the main benefits causing farmers to switch to tech-enabled smart agriculture. Below, learn why smart agriculture is quickly becoming ubiquitous, as well as five ways these tools can optimize crop yields, increase profits, and simplify the farming process end-to-end. What Is Smart Agriculture in IIoT? Smart agriculture as it pertains to the Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) is the process of fine-tuning and optimizing the product cycle using digital tools. These devices work synchronously to gather data and deliver critical insights that can be carried out by the technology itself or at the farmer’s discretion. What are the Various IIoT Tools for Agriculture? IIoT agricultural tools include, but aren’t limited to: Crop management devices that collect data such as precipitation levels, temperature, and soil quality. Agricultural drones that determine soil health from up above distribute localized pesticides and more. Cattle health monitoring and management devices. Greenhouse automation systems. End-to-end farm management systems. How does IIoT Impact Our Lives Through Agriculture Automation? It provides larger quantities of natural food for a growing population. It lowers farmer production costs, which passes on savings to consumers. It increases product standards, creating healthier food at lower price points. It keeps workers safe and allows them to work efficiently. It enables farmers to grow their business safely and effectively, with far less risk than previous years. How to Use IIoT in Agriculture to Improve Efficiency (5 Ways) Here are five ways the Industrial Internet of Things can be deployed in agriculture to improve efficiency. 1. Monitor Climate Conditions The use of sensors is one of the keys to well-executed precision farming (or precision agriculture), which is the art and science of making accurate decisions based on data. Often, climate sensors are the first piece of IIoT tech implemented in an agriculture setting. These devices monitor climate conditions, soil quality, pesticide output, and other vital levels to help farmers increase yield using fewer resources. 2. Implement Tools that Reduce Production Risk One of the significant advantages of IIoT in farming is the early identification of issues that could otherwise be missed or overlooked due to human error. This lowers production risk and gives farmers a better idea of what their harvest will look like months in advance. Lower production risk gives farmers better control over product distribution, ensuring they acquire buyers early enough in the season and don’t wind up with unsold products. 3. Use IIoT Agriculture Tools that Lower Cost and Reduced Waste IIoT capabilities reduce operational costs for farms of all sizes. More accurate data boost output without increasing staffing—and healthier, more robust crops yield better profit margins, too. According to Inmarsat, lower operating costs have created a more sustainable farming practice for 37 percent of farmers. 4. Use Technology to Elevate Crop Standards With a firm grasp of the production process and more data to conclude from, farmers can use IIoT devices to produce healthier, nutrient-dense food. A higher standard yields better profits, as well as reputation and growth capacity. This is true for the product of fruits, vegetables, and even cattle. Whatever the product, intelligent agricultural tools help farmers identify outliers, address localized issues such as pest infestations, and deliver those signals (or an appropriate intervention) before it’s too late. 5. Use Mobile Devices That Allow for Flexible Work Gone are the days where farmers had to be on-site throughout the entire grow cycle to ensure the health of their products. Thanks to mobile devices that utilize edge solution technologies, farmers can access information remotely from a smartphone or application. Because many devices work autonomously, the number of decisions farmers must make in general has also been drastically reduced with IIoT technology. What are the Challenges of IIoT In Agriculture? As it stands, the significant challenges of IIoT in agriculture relate to robust internet connectivity in rural areas and elevated hardware costs. Fortunately, though, affordable solutions like ours use rugged hardware and even satellites to provide farms with the power they need to stay connected. The growth of IIoT tech in agriculture (and all sectors) is all but inevitable in the coming years, though. So these current challenges may become nonissues faster than many would expect. Visit our site to learn more about FreeWave’s Smart Ag solutions: https://www.freewave.com/industries-applications/precision-agriculture/.
A Starter’s Guide to IIoT and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (aka Industry 4.0)
Industry 4.0 is revolutionizing how businesses operate and manufacture products. In this guide, learn how the IIoT plays a considerable role in this movement. The Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0, is a term many use to describe the new way products are created and sold thanks to technology, specifically the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Depending on who you ask, we’re right on the cusp of Industry 4.0—or smack dab in the middle of it. While there’s no set definition (the term was originally used for a German initiative in 2011 and has significantly evolved), manufacturers still need to understand how the Fourth Industrial Revolution could impact their business. This starter’s guide will help you understand the critical points about IIoT and Industry 4.0. What Is the Fourth Industrial Revolution? The fourth industrial revolution, or Industry 4.0, is an evolution of manufacturing that enables automation. In short, it’s the marriage of physical production with intelligent technologies. Industry 4.0 builds off the back of industry 3.0 (which began in the 1970s). As a refresher, here are some of the manufacturing advantages that came out of each of the previous Industrial Revolutions: Industry 1.0– mechanization, the introduction of steam and water power Industry 2.0– electrical power that enabled mass production Industry 3.0– tech and electronics make mass production easier, increase efficiency Think of Industry 4.0 as relying more heavily on technology to take manufacturing to the next level. No longer is tech being used in conjunction with people but as the focal point of the operation. The IIoT and Industry 4.0 The industrial internet of things (IIoT) refers to the network of billions of devices (literally) equipped with sensors, monitoring devices, and other technologies that power applications and drive decision-making in industrial settings. Connected capabilities and real-time feedback through sensors are considered major elements of the Industry 4.0 movement. Examples of the IIoT being a part of Industry 4.0 include: The automotive industry relying on industrial robots for manufacturing The oil and gas industry using remote sensors to identify pipeline problems The agriculture industry using industrial monitoring devices to check soil levels and improve yields with harvest automation Even utilities like water and electricity benefit from the IIoT’s capabilities. (For example: see how FreeWave’s capabilities brought 50 percent savings to Sangamon Valley Public Water District in Illinois.) Occasionally, you may find an “IIoT vs. Industry 4.0” debate online, but it isn’t an either-or discussion. The IIoT is a major strategic component of the greater Industry 4.0 movement. The two terms are sometimes confused because they both focus heavily on improving manufacturing processes. Benefits of the IIoT in the Industry 4.0 Movement Adopting technologies that fall under the Industry 4.0 umbrella can be quite valuable for a business. Tangible benefits include: Improved productivity and efficiency Lower operating costs Simpler compliance procedures Improved safety in work environments, especially in dangerous work settings Adopting an Industry 4.0 model also allows leaders to innovate in their field and potentially move ahead of the competition. Below are two specific examples of how the IIoT can improve a business’s operational efficiency and boost its bottom line. Edge Computing IIoT edge computing gives time-sensitive operations predictable, safe analysis from a remote location without a central network system. For example, in the case of an offshore oil rig, a loss of signal could result in expensive repair costs or even security threats. Edge computing uses low-power devices to send vast amounts of data, allowing employees to make decisions from a safe, remote location. Machine Learning, AI, and Predictive Technologies Big data poses endless opportunities for improvements in the manufacturing process. For example, it can improve supply chain management and enable the personalization of products without increasing costs. The problem is, data needs to be organized and usable. Tools like machine learning and AI can sift through and collect data for business leaders and make highly accurate decisions using predictive technologies. What’s Next for the IIoT and Industry 4.0? As it stands, the future of Industry 4.0 is pretty easy to sum up: those who make the switch stand to make significant savings and increase efficiency. Those who don’t adopt Industry 4.0 models risk facing substantial hurdles, especially related to operating costs. When your competition starts using the Industry 4.0 model and can produce a better and faster product for less, that could spell trouble. Most estimates show the IIoT will grow by billions of devices each year for at least the next five years. Of course, each industry will be affected a little differently based on how quickly they adopt the principles of Industry 4.0. Still, the consensus is that this massive network of tiny devices is here to stay—and therefore should be considered carefully by business leaders.
15 Benefits of Embracing IIoT and Automation for Manufacturing
The Industrial Internet of Things helps leaders thrive in crowded and even dangerous markets. Here are 15 benefits of embracing IIoT for manufacturing. Embracing the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) for manufacturing is one way to win in highly competitive or dangerous markets. Automating production and relying on high-tech sensors to give you crucial feedback not only benefits your bottom line but it also benefits those who work for you. Here are 15 benefits of embracing IIoT and automation for manufacturing. 1. Cost Savings IIoT connectivity reduces manufacturing operation costs by: Reducing on-site staff requirements needed for measurements Reducing energy costs Reducing maintenance costs Improving system efficiencies and eliminating bottlenecks Identifying bottlenecks and problems Making any switch can feel uncomfortable for a business, but your bottom line stands to improve from the decision to embrace IIoT for manufacturing. 2. Continuous Monitoring Billions of dollars are lost each year due to downtime, errors, and faulty production in manufacturing. Fortunately, IIoT technology offers continuous monitoring, which alerts you the moment something goes awry. This is another way to save money and reduce the potential for on-site injuries. 3. More Efficient Systems IIoT computing systems move data to the edge, freeing up your on-site devices to collect more information with less power. The future of IIoT and edge computing is even brighter, as more real-time data will be available for extraction, and data will be easier to customize. 4. Improved Production Flow Communication is the key to streamlined production, and it’s simply a fact that computers equipped with high-grade sensors communicate better (and more efficiently) than people. Every aspect of production stands to improve with IIoT making real-time decisions. 5. Mobility Each IIoT item offers a virtual component (along with security features to protect your data). Experts expect that over 50 billion devices will be connected by 2022, which gives your company the ability to do more with its data and mobility by embracing IIoT for manufacturing. 6. Predictive Technologies Newer IIoT connectivity tools come with sensors and wireless transmission capabilities that draw vital conclusions about your manufacturing processes. The longer they run, the more refined their analyses become, identifying more minor bottlenecks and streamlining processes of which you’re probably not aware. 7. Personalization As the Industrial Internet of Things grows, the possibilities for personalization will too. For example, you can customize aspects of your inventory and supply chain management to help your business run smoother. 8. Improved Safety IoT allows manufacturing employees to be off-site while they work. It also ensures continuity in the event of disaster or disruption. This is especially helpful for industries where manufacturing may be dangerous (steel, certain foods, etc.). 9. Improved Customer Service In business, giving customers what they want at the right price is critical. Intelligent devices that automate your work and derive key insights to improve efficiency help you narrow down what you do, do it faster, and perform the job at a higher quality for your customers. 10. More Business Opportunities IIoT frees up time on the manufacturing floor to expand the business. It also allows manufacturers to create new products and pivot or include new services for existing customers to promote retention. 11. Thrives In Competitive Industries The larger and more competitive the industry, the stronger IIoT becomes. For example, IIoT tools in oil and gas free up data to provide critical insights at drilling sites without employee monitoring. Manufacturers can use this data to improve yields, prevent injuries, and lower operational costs, which could save hundreds of millions of dollars. 12. Cut Out Processing Time Manufacturers used to send all their information to a central location for processing. Today, though, the IIoT skips this step altogether without tearing down your network. Amazingly, it also doesn’t require you to replace existing infrastructure. Believe it or not, FreeWave’s industrial manufacturing IIoT solutions can reduce existing bandwidth up to 95% with no drop-offs in quality or transmission time. 13. Ensures Compliance OSHA violations can cripple a manufacturing business. The IIoT promotes a safer environment that helps you stay OSHA-compliant no matter the industry. 14. Improved Maintenance Scheduling Human error is a common factor that leads to serious manufacturing problems. For example, inconsistent or lax maintenance schedules could lead to expensive repairs or injuries. IIoT automation takes this off your business’s plate entirely. 15. Marketability Today, many customers understand the benefits of IIoT and seek it out when shopping for manufacturers. This is one reason experts expect IIoT in manufacturing to surpass $1 billion by 2026 globally. Manufacturers can stay ahead of their competition and even grow their business by offering better and faster data. Are you ready to take the next step in your manufacturing operations with IIoT? FreeWave wants to help. Get in touch with us today.
Increasing Healthy Food Access and Improving Yields With Harvest Automation
Increasing Healthy Food Access and Improving Yields With Harvest Automation What is automation in agriculture, and how are farmers using robots and other technologies to streamline food production? Our guide explains it all. From farm to table, technology in agriculture is quickly becoming an essential part of how Americans access healthy food. Experts anticipate explosive population growth in the coming years, and we expect agricultural automation to increase with it. But how exactly are farmers using harvest automation? And how are they using robots and drones to grow crops safely and cost-efficiently? Here’s an introductory guide to the state of automation in farming today: What Is Automation In Agriculture? Automation in agriculture relies on technology to streamline and optimize the process of food production in traditional farming. From drilling to planting to harvesting crops, automated farming technology is becoming more prevalent at all levels of the growing process. In 2017, TechCrunch estimated that $1.7 billion had been invested in automation farming technologies, a considerable increase from just a decade earlier. How Can Farming Be Automated? Automated farming tools aren’t only used for harvesting crops. Here are just a few examples of how technology is utilized throughout a season: Robotics are deployed to seed and weed areas of a farm. Computer sensors help identify problem areas, which reduces large-scale pesticide use in areas that don’t need it. Drones monitor weather conditions, assess soil states, and even render decisions without contacting the farmer. Beyond the farm and into the warehouse, forklifts are being replaced by automated guided vehicles (AGVs), which can load and unload food trucks, transport items across warehouses, and operate in cold storage climates for longer than human workers can. How Has Automation Affected Agriculture? Automation relies on remote sensors and other tools to more efficiently grow, monitor, and harvest crops. Using the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), the farmer makes real-time judgment calls unnecessary. Drones and robotic devices can collect data and interact with other computer systems and make critical decisions. For example, tech tools that determine soil moisture levels and seed population are being utilized more frequently. Farmers rely on absolute precision to grow their crops. As automation tools become more adept at maneuvering through agricultural challenges (weather patterns, for example), there’s a strong possibility it will become the go-to way to produce food. Is Automation In Agriculture a Good Thing? There are many advantages to automated farming, many of which are related to the ever-growing population of humans on earth and their need for accessible, healthy foods. The UN expects the world’s population to grow by 2 billion people between now and 2050. With a world population of just under 10 billion, it’s more important than ever to think critically about how the farming industry can adapt to the growing number of hungry mouths to feed. Here are some of the advantages and drawbacks of farming automation. Advantages of Agricultural Robots Lower labor costs (improves yields in less time) Provides more food at affordable costs to consumers A potential solution for growing population concerns Trustworthy technology simplifies the job a farmer has to do Enables farmers to hire less staff, giving them wider profit margins Less human error Drawbacks of Agriculture Robots Initial technology investment costs can be steep Potential trust issues with evolving technologies Maintenance costs High energy requirements The Future of Harvest Automation With a more than 30-year decline in the farming job industry and an apparent need for large-scale food development solutions, it’s pretty clear that harvest automation is here to stay. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has forced many American industries to take a hard look at artificial intelligence devices for food production. Going forward, more precise tools will emerge that make a farmer’s job easier and more profitable. Artificial intelligence will continue to improve, and both consumers and landowners will benefit from the round-the-clock abilities of field technology that no farmhand can match. Check out how our Industrial IoT Edge Platform can transform your operations today.
IIoT For Electric Utilities: The Past, Present, and Future
Electric companies are poised to become future IIoT leaders. Here’s why. Primarily driven by Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has fundamentally changed electric utilities. Technologies that let devices act as two-way communicators between consumers and utility providers paved the way for new opportunities. Digital transformation is here, and businesses have to reinvent themselves to stay competitive and relevant. Still, many electric utility providers aren’t ready to leap into Industrial 4.0. Why? Because adopting and integrating smart tech into legacy IT and OT infrastructures can seem daunting. Learning new skills is challenging and takes time, and potential setbacks, like unplanned downtime, can leave utility leaders fearful. Many utility leaders are riddled with doubts regarding the technological uncertainties of IIoT. It’s understandable. With rapid growth come growing pains. The IIoT journey from uncomplicated AMI to vast, smart grid expansions is challenging. Urbanization is quickly expanding, energy prices constantly fluctuate, legislation is always changing, and sustainability is paramount. Because of this, utilities must refine their operations to meet evolving consumer demands for sustainable, affordable infrastructures. IIoT adoption won’t happen overnight, but you have to start somewhere. Here’s how: Introduce real-time monitoring equipment like sensors, readers, and alarms into your operations. And use technology to automate processes, conserve resources, improve outcomes, and eliminate downtime. Still, understanding how IIoT can impact your business is a great place to start. How can IIoT solve your problems? The benefits of IIoT are hard to ignore. Almost no one would balk at real-time data collection or say “no” to monitoring critical system health. Who would pass on the opportunity to improve efficiency and safety? Almost no one. Let’s face it. Competition is stiff, and unhappy customers create churn. Cost and efficiency drive consumers these days. They’ll switch providers with a simple click. Customer churn is inevitable if you can’t provide reliable service. That’s why your technologies must allow you to react in real-time. Seconds count when it comes to your customers. Connecting your devices, sensors, and alarms to the Internet, lets you monitor and utilize data in real-time to: Increase efficiency Use automation Reduce errors Work remotely Enhance security Boost profits Make better decisions These are benefits you can’t afford to miss. Implementing IIoT is a surefire way to open personalized customer communication. IIoT lets you tailor services to specific customer demands. We can’t understate the value of using edge technology and wireless connectivity to remotely operate, analyze, and optimize your electric utility operations. As energycentral.com points out, “utilities who refuse to adapt or change will suffer financial losses, countless preventable maintenance issues, and a waste of resources.” How can utilities lead the next wave of IIoT? IIoT is how power and utility providers will operate in the future (many already are). Traditional energy production and distribution methods are obsolete, and the days of manual processes and zero real-time visibility are over. IIoT is transforming how utilities run vast, widespread, and remote operations, and internet-connected devices and machines are reshaping the ways utilities operate. Technology never stops evolving, and transitioning into Industrial 4.0 and IIoT isn’t an option anymore. The pandemic increased automation and digitization demands, producing a ripple effect that’ll extend into the future of IIoT. Utility companies are partnering with tech companies to create innovative solutions to improve sustainability and become more efficient. As IIoT adoption accelerates, the opportunities to provide amazing service increase exponentially. With IIoT, utilities are proactive instead of reactive. And predictive maintenance through AI lets utilities continually learn and optimize operations. It’s a new era in the power industry. And smaller utilities are outpacing massive corporations. Smaller, more agile businesses are transforming the industry with their smart business models. And these same small businesses pose a threat to established corporations digitally transforming too slow. Providers that embrace IIoT will emerge as utility leaders in the next several years. Put your business and your customers first. You can’t afford to not implement IIoT into your electric utility operations. It’s time to put your business and your customers first FreeWave is second to none when it comes to proven IIoT solutions and making the most of your data. We’re the leaders in edge computing and wireless connectivity. We’ll accelerate your digital transformation. Our technologies are fast, flexible, and easy to deploy. We’ll have you leveraging IIoT, big data analytics, and connectivity to take the guesswork out of your operations in no time. And you can do it all without a complete infrastructure overhaul. You’ve been improving your utility operations for years; why stop now? We want to take your operations to the next level. Get in touch; let’s chat.
What Does the Future Hold for IIoT, Automation, and Edge Computing?
From narrowband communications to edge computing, FreeWave continues to solve significant customer challenges with IIoT, automation, and data collection. We are excited about our 2021 product roadmap. We are making a significant leap forward into Edge Computing. This quarter, we will be releasing two new products: FreeWave Edge and FreeWave Fusion Bridge. Before we look at these new solutions and where we are heading,I’d like to take a quick look back FreeWave has worked primarily in the industrial markets for 27 years, most notably with oil and gas, utilities, and water/wastewater. We would occasionally take on side projects with the military helping out their robotics teams with drones and other technologies, but we have traditionally focused on robust, narrowband communications links. And when I say “narrowband,” I mean the very, very small bits of data that go back and forth in SCADA systems or command and control systems in general. When I came aboard four years ago, the idea was to start pivoting FreeWave toward IIoT in the edge. We began developing radio hardware in the narrowband world that would allow us to do edge computing. As a radio company, this was trailblazing stuff, and we weren’t quite aware of what we were getting ourselves into. Now, before diving deeper, I’d like to reflect on last year’s events. A Look Back at 2020 The pandemic caused us to make significant changes. FreeWave started 2020 with many legacy products and product lines, and it became hard to find the components we needed to push those products forward. We recognized that we’d need to do a significant uplift of these legacy products by rebuilding them from the ground up and ensuring that they were backward-compatible with everything else we had out in the marketplace. After all, we were still talking about 900 megahertz products! In July, we acquired a small software company with a robust solution set focused on proprietary protocols. The acquisition allowed us to focus on the edge with a whole other engineering team section, which is fantastic. Because of this acquisition, our edge computers now come native with protocol converters, which means you can translate proprietary languages brought into the cloud into any language you want. In my opinion, our transition from a primarily OEM and widget manufacturer into a full-blown software application company was a massive win. On top of that, we are currently updating a full SCADA suite that’s been well-received. What You Can Expect from FreeWave in the Next 12 Months We are excited about our 2021 product roadmap as we make a significant leap forward into Edge Computing. This quarter, we will be releasing two new products: FreeWave Edge and FreeWave Fusion Bridge. FreeWave Edge is a data platform that lets customers extract real-time information from their sensors and devices. Edge also allows users to customize alerts and data processing and connects to a customer’s preferred cloud or reporting system. Edge helps companies suffering from unreliable data (or no data at all) improve their operations and, ultimately, accelerates business outcomes. Fusion Bridge is a dual-radio WiFi bridge that introduces connectivity and sensor fusion to 900Mhz networks. New FreeWave customers often have trouble accessing on-site data and quickly transmitting the information to the home office. They’ll install on-site routers to get WiFi connectivity, which can be expensive, and the equipment is usually in the open, where it’s vulnerable to theft. Fusion Bridge enables mobile equipment with WiFi to seamlessly connect smart devices with headquarters. The tool eliminates security vulnerabilities specific to an always-on remote AP and protects on-site assets through the quick and straightforward integration of off-the-shelf wireless security equipment. The Roles IIoT and Data Collection Will Play in the Future of Industrial Automation The future roles of IIoT and data collection are significant. There have been many tire-kickers on the manufacturing side, but nothing comes close to what will occur in the next few years with the various applications coming on-board. We’re entering an exciting era. FreeWave is looking at the possibility of developing – and investing in – the different ways people handle data at the edge and how people make decisions using artificial intelligence. I think this is where many companies will focus their energy — on more of the indoor IoT market, or perhaps even with things like your thermostat. All of the stuff you interact with daily. The possibilities will be endless. Critical Advancements in Data Collection and Communication Companies increasingly want to get more real-time information and insights from their data. Folks have been able to collect a limited amount of data for at least 50 years. Still, if they needed more information, they would have to send someone out to collect data in-person and report back with their findings. In an agile and increasingly competitive world, this kind of data collection is unacceptable. People want to quickly identify urgent issues on-site and make the necessary adjustments right then and there. And with today’s technological advancements, we can do just that! For example, an HR team came to us with concerns that their workers might not be wearing helmets while on a project. They needed to ensure OSHA compliance on a remote site. Using artificial intelligence on a Well Pad, we collected and reported data to them in real-time. Why Customers Return to FreeWave for Multiple Projects We offer an exceptional product; that’s why people return to FreeWave again and again. I still hear from people calling about our first product (DGR). It’s over 20 years old and still in-use! Let’s face it; when people find a reliable, durable product that works, they will continue to come back. Our exceptional customer service is another reason customers return. We provide in-house tech support in the Boulder, Colorado, area (where we also manufacture FreeWave products), and we have a 24-hour hotline for folks needing troubleshooting and installation help. Advice to Customers Customers need to question the viability of the companies with which they
FreeWave CEO Provides Valuable IIoT and Edge Computing Insights on the Talking Industrial Automation Podcast
What Does the Future Hold for IIoT, Automation, and Edge Computing? FreeWave’s CEO chats with Talking Industrial Automation Podcast to provide valuable insight on IIoT and edge computing. Talking Industrial Automation podcast host, Lisa Richter recently sat down with FreeWave CEO Kirk Byles for a timely and informative discussion on the state of industrial automation, edge computing, IIoT, and FreeWave. Here are some key points you’ll take away from the podcast. How FreeWave has transitioned from a smaller, robust narrowband communications company to an IIoT and Edge Solutions company How FreeWave has grown over the past year and what you can expect in the next 12 months The roles IIoT and data collection will play in the future of Industrial Automation Critical advancements in data collection and communication Why customers return to FreeWave for multiple projects And lots more. You can listen to the entire podcast here!
A Starters Guide to the IIoT and Automation in Agriculture
Is your farm smart? Speak to a Freewave Smart Ag expert today. What is automation? How can automation help farmers do more with less? Is automation in agriculture a good idea? How is automation transforming the farming industry? Farmer’s exploring technology tend to ask the same questions. Here are a few of them: What is automation? How can automation transform my farming operation? Is automation in agriculture a sound practice? Why do we need smart agriculture? What is smart farming? There’s a new world of technology available to farmers. But with new technologies come new fears and confusion. It’s understandable. Farmers are afraid they’ll be left behind if they don’t embrace new agricultural technologies. They’re also worried about failure, which means many farmers are unwilling to experiment with new technologies out of a fear of losing it all. Unfortunately, their fears have resulted in an industry that’s resistant to change. Still, many farmers have embraced automation. They’ve invested not only their dollars but also their time. We don’t want to sugarcoat the subject; embracing technology isn’t an easy task. Workforce training is a significant barrier to entry for many farmers exploring automation. A farm’s workforce is diverse, often consisting of temporary, part-time, and permanent employees. The transitory nature of a farm’s employees can make technological training challenging. But the process is less expensive and less time-consuming than you might think. Farmer’s are always looking for larger yields from fewer resources, and for most, automation and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is the answer. IIoT improves agricultural operations with real-time data insights and control to enable more efficient and precise management of crops, resources, and livestock. You might have a cursory – or perhaps in-depth – knowledge of precision agriculture. For the rest of you, first, let’s talk about automation in general. What is automation in agriculture? Farm automation is an aspect of “smart farming.” It’s a technology that improves farm efficiency and automates the livestock or crop production cycle. More companies are developing agriculture-specific technologies to automate these processes with automatic watering, autonomous tractors, robotics, harvesters, and automated seeding machinery. Smart farm technologies are still relatively new, but we’ve seen growing numbers of traditional agriculture companies embrace farm automation. Even small farming operations use automation. Kyler Laird, a farmer in Indiana with a 1,700-acre farm and an engineering degree, developed autonomous machines to complete tasks like harvesting, drilling, and planting crops. He spoke to agriculture.com writer Laurie Bedford in 2017 and explained that “I’m a one-person operation. I need this technology because I really can’t afford to hire anyone. Besides, finding a skilled operator who is willing to work 24 hours a day for three or four days a year is ludicrous. I can’t hire that, but I can make that very inexpensively.” “I’m a one-person operation. I need this technology because I really can’t afford to hire anyone. Besides, finding a skilled operator who is willing to work 24 hours a day for three or four days a year is ludicrous. I can’t hire that, but I can make that very inexpensively.” – Kyler Laird, Farmer Most farmers can’t design and implement smart technologies, but you don’t have to – that’s our job. By using farm automation technology, however, farmers can drastically improve outcomes and spend far less money and time in the long run. What is “smart farming”? Smart farming, sometimes called a “third green revolution,” applies new information and communication technologies in agriculture. The technological farming revolution includes IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things), precision agriculture equipment, actuators and sensors, geo-positioning systems, big data analytics, robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), and more. You can transform your operations to deliver more sustainable and effective agricultural production through smart farming. Smart farming also benefits the environment through more efficient water use and optimizing inputs and treatments. “Smart farming can make agriculture more profitable for the farmer. Decreasing resource inputs will save the farmer money and labor, and increased reliability of spatially explicit data will reduce risks. Optimal, site-specific weather forecasts, yield projections, and probability maps for diseases and disasters based on a dense network of weather and climate data will allow cultivation of cops in an optimal way.” – 2017, PNAS Here are a few ways IIoT can improve modern agriculture: Smart ag sensors collect data surrounding soil quality, weather, crop growth, and herd health so you can track the state of your business, equipment efficiency, and workforce performance. IIoT gives you more control over internal processes and lowers production risks. You can improve distribution forecasts with better production output visibility. IIoT gives you more production control to reduce waste and improve cost management. When you can monitor crop growth or herd health anomalies in real-time, you can lessen the possibility of yield loss. IIoT process automation increases business efficiency. Smart devices allow you to automate critical production cycle processes like irrigation, pest control, fertilization, and more. Automation can enhance product quality and output. Agriculture automation gives you more control over production processes, helps you maintain higher crop quality standards, and enhances growth capacity. Sample Agricultural Automation and IIoT Use-Cases Grain-Bin Level Monitoring and Control Agriculture automation gives farmers real-time visibility into storage conditions and ensures blowers only operate during off-peak electrical hours, saving as much as 50% in energy costs. Automated Irrigation and Compliance Precision agriculture technologies let you schedule off-peak hour irrigation, allowing you to save as much as $30,000 per year in energy costs. You can automate water consumption reporting processes to ensure regulatory compliance. Herd Health Tracking Smart ag technology helps farmers monitor feed intake to improve livestock health and mitigate feed shrink. Self-Driving and Autonomous Tractors Real-time kinetics from precision agriculture technologies improve guidance and steering accuracy up to 100 times compared to traditional GPS. Intelligent Weed Control The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) powers high-accuracy robotic weeders to reduce herbicide consumption by 20%. We want to infuse intelligence into your agriculture operations. Making the most of automation in agriculture means ensuring field
FreeWave’s Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Glossary
Our exploration of terminology related to the Industrial Internet of Things. The tech world is full of buzzwords and terms unfamiliar to most people, many of which you can ignore. But there comes a time when it’s essential to walk the walk and talk the talk. Our IIoT glossary comes in handy for those moments. Here is a list of relevant IIoT terms we think you should know. Access Control Access control ensures that asset access is limited to authorized personnel and is restricted based on security and business requirements. Ambient Computing Ambient computing is the evolution and combination of gesture and voice interfaces, speech recognition, cloud computing, wearable computing, IoT, augmented reality, AI and machine learning, and the quantified self. Analytics Analytics is a systematic analysis of information (data) or statistics for the discovery, communication, and interpretation of meaningful data patterns for better decision-making. Application Domain An application domain is a functional domain for application logic implementation. Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the development and theory of systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, like speech, visual perception, decision-making, language translation, and speech recognition. Asset Assets are mission-critical systems, physical hardware, applications, support systems, high-impact programs, personnel, equipment, locations, and more. Attack Surface Attack surface refers to the system elements and interactions that are vulnerable to cyberattacks. Attack Vector An attack vector is a pathway by which a cybercriminal can gain access to an entity. Autonomy Autonomy is an intelligent system’s ability to independently create and select different courses of action to achieve goals based on the system’s understanding and knowledge of the world and other factors. Brownfield Brownfield refers to an existing industrial system targeted for new functionalities with zero operational disruptions. Business Intelligence Business intelligence refers to the applications, technologies, and practices for collecting, analyzing, and integrating business data to support improved business decision-making. Business Viewpoint A business viewpoint is an architecture viewpoint used to describe the purpose of establishing an IoT system by encompassing a business’s vision, mission, values, and objectives. Cloud Computing Cloud computing is a term used to describe the delivery of computing services over the Internet. Computer Network A computer network is a collection of interconnected endpoints in a many-to-many arrangement. Connectivity Connectivity refers to a system or application’s ability to communicate with other systems, networks, or applications. Connectivity Endpoint Connectivity endpoints are interfaces that provide connectivity. Control Domain Control domains are functional domains for industrial control system implementations. Cross-Cutting Concern A cross-cutting concern impacts an entire system and may also affect multiple architectural viewpoints. Cross-Cutting Function A cross-cutting function is one that can be applied across multiple functional architectural domains to address cross-cutting concerns. Cryptography Cryptography exemplifies the means, principles, and mechanisms for data transformation to hide information to prevent its undetected modification or unauthorized use. Data at Rest Data at rest is stored data that is not processed or transferred. Data Center A data center is a facility that contains connected equipment for computing resources. Data in Motion Data in motion is information that’s transferred from one location to another. Data in Use Data in use is information that’s being processed. Data Integrity Data integrity proves that data hasn’t been tampered with, altered, or destroyed in an unauthorized way. Databus Databus is a data-centric sharing system where applications exchange information in a virtual, global data space. Denial of Service (DoS) Denial of service prevents unauthorized access to resources. It also prevents time-critical operation delays. Digital Twin A digital twin, also called a virtual doppelganger, is a three-dimensional representation of IoT-enabled physical assets that can show how the asset is functioning. ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor Technology) ECM is a smart pump technology that is becoming more common in HVAC and commercial building markets. Edge The edge is the boundary between pertinent physical and digital entities, delineated by IIoT devices. Edge Computing Edge Computing encompasses the space between the network’s core and its endpoints, like local servers, including devices and infrastructure. It also includes essential network gateways that collect data and preliminary analytics before sending the information back to the core for more processing. Emergent Behavior Emergent Behavior is the behavior of a system created by the interactions of its component. Encryption Encryption is a scrambling method using a cryptographic algorithm so that only authorized people can understand the data. Endpoint Endpoints are components with computational capabilities and network connectivity. Environment Environment refers to the circumstances and setting of all IT system interactions, including infrastructure, hardware, systems, and software. Functional Component Functional components are necessary JavaScript actions. They are typically arrow functions but can also be made using the regular function keyword. Functional components are also often called “stateless” or “dumb” because they accept display data in a form mostly responsible for rendering UI (User Interface). Functional Domain Functional domain refers to the collection of functions that make up a system. Functional Framework Functional frameworks are sets of abstract and reusable functional components that can be customized, extended, and applied to many applications in a specific domain. Functional Viewpoint Functional viewpoints are architecture viewpoints that frame concerns specific to the structure and functional capabilities of IoT (Internet of Things) systems and components. Greenfield Greenfield refers to a new industrial system with no operational disruption concerns. Identity Authentication Identity authentication is a formal process of identity verification. Identity Domain An identity domain is an environment that allows an entity to use a set of identification attributes and related purposes. Identity Access Management Identify access management keeps data secure by defining and managing the roles and access privileges of individual network users. It also controls the circumstances under which users are granted – or denied – access permissions. Implementation Viewpoint The implementation viewpoint is an architecture viewpoint to address
The Top Three Reasons to Integrate Wireless Into Your Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Operations
Adding wireless to your IIoT operations is more critical now than ever before. Connected “things” are changing our world. Today, Internet-connected sensors and devices transform what surrounds us, from our homes to our cars, workplaces, to cities. And now, more people are discovering the ways Internet-connected things can transform industrial operations. The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) places intelligent devices and network sensors on manufacturing floors, utilities, farms, mining operations, oil and gas fields, and more. And there are good reasons for the rapid proliferation of connected sensors and devices in the field. Here are some of the reasons why more industries, businesses, and facilities are investing in IIoT: Universal Internet connectivity Reduced hardware costs Affordable analytics tools Increased availability of IIoT-ready sensors and devices Improved operations, performance, and worker safety Integrating wireless and the Industrial Internet of Things takes your operations to the next level. When you integrate wireless with IIoT-connected devices in remote or ruggedized locations, you transform operations. You can add instant WiFi connectivity to remote and mobile assets and connect WiFi-enabled devices to your existing 900MHz networks. Integrating wireless and IIoT also lets you connect any device to the Internet from any location, including sensors, tablets, smartphones, and security cameras. And you can do it without having to install routers at each location for WiFi connectivity. With the pandemic placing restrictions on on-site employee availability and the increase of operational difficulty across industries, integrating wireless and IIoT just makes sense. It makes data available virtually instantly (without the wireless integration, on-site data is often inaccessible until you’re within reach of headquarters) and keeps operations running smoothly under challenging circumstances. The integration can also help to secure field equipment vulnerable to security threats and theft. Keep reading to learn the top three benefits of integrating wireless with your IIoT operations by industry. The Top Three Benefits for Systems Integrators and Network Consultants in Precision Agriculture: Operational efficiency Asset management Increased communications By integrating wireless and IIoT, precision agriculture operations can communicate at long range with devices on mobile assets like tractors and machinery. Operators can use their wireless and IIoT integration to provide location reports for asset tracking, command and control, real-time sensor/output tracking, and more. The wireless integration also allows operators to connect to the Internet at 900MHz range (up to 60 miles) for general communications. Mobile equipment is WiFi-enabled when running, allowing for the seamless connection of smart devices and headquarters. Data Story Modern agriculture machines rely on WiFi-enabled tablet devices in truck cabs for command and control. They depend not only on the control mechanisms but also a suite of sensors integrated into the machinery to send reports to tablet controllers. The tablets can connect to wireless and IIoT integrated platforms as WiFi clients. FreeWave Fusion Bridge™, for example, will create a seamless connection to headquarters, sending information like position, status, uptime, or relevant sensor data. The communication allows for efficient fleet management and equipment health and staff monitoring. Conversely, headquarters can send commands and information to on-site equipment to direct assets in real-time. The Top Three Benefits for Mobile Operators, Oil and Gas, Utilities, and Other Businesses with Remote Mobile Assets Mobile WiFi access Fleet Management Coarse asset tracking Through the integration of IIoT and wireless, as the driver or technician checks on assets like oil pads, they can activate a purpose-built device (Fusion Bridge, for example) to establish a WiFi access point at any remote location. And instead of having a WiFi access point at each pad, which requires power and creates potential security risks, the driver can take the WiFi access point with them and enable or disable the AP as needed. The hardware also avoids the recurring costs typically associated with a cellular solution. With technology like Fusion Bridge, our wireless/IIoT integration solution, the technician can directly install the hardware into the truck system and use the truck’s battery for power, creating a WiFi connection anywhere within the truck’s range without patching into well pad power. Fusion Bridge also lets the operator activate the WiFi access point only when needed, eliminating always-on remote AP security concerns. Data Story Suppose an on-site technician at a remote well pad needs internal network access from headquarters. In that case, they can activate hardware powered by their service vehicle to change cloud system settings or even send emails. Fusion Bridge connects to an existing network (ZumLink in this example) that provides a WiFi access point interface. The technician can log-on and perform any action requiring an Internet connection. Without this kind of hardware, connectivity would require an additional – and costly – network solution, like cellular or a separate long-range WiFi system. The Top Three Benefits to All Other Industries Using IIoT Enhanced on-site security Improved operational value Asset management Integrating wireless and IIoT helps you monitor on-site equipment or systems for security and maintenance. For example, the integration allows you to conduct remote surveillance with motion detection or low-resolution imagery up to a one-kilometer range. It also lets you connect multiple devices to a single endpoint on a remote network. Tools like FreeWave Fusion Bridge let you install and integrate off-the-shelf wireless security equipment quickly. The flexibility allows for multiple security levels, from motion detection for indoor or fenced-in assets to streaming video for assets requiring regular video or recorded monitoring. Data Story Remote fuel stations are at risk of vandalism and theft, but a third-party security system or personnel is cost-prohibitive. Fusion Bridge can be installed on-site with an IP camera and motion detector. Headquarters can monitor motion detector status in the cloud, and when they detect motion after hours, they can activate cameras to record the activity and alert the authorities if necessary. You can install the system in less than one day with off-the-shelf equipment and services and a power connection (no wiring) and operate at a distance of up to 60 miles from the closest ZumLink radio. And since it runs on a private network, it doesn’t incur