Image credit: by Eduardo Hofmann

Industrial IoT

Some things work others don’t

The term “Internet of Things” (IoT) is commonly used to describe physical objects that connect to the internet to transmit or receive data. Although it’s a client-server application like many others, the IoT has become a popular term due to its wide range of applications.

To distinguish the industrial implementation of IoT, which requires fault-tolerance and 24/7 service, the term “Industrial Internet of Things” (IIoT) was coined. The IIoT is a subset of IoT that focuses on the use of smart sensors and actuators in industrial environments. It enables industrial organizations to gather data from machines, analyze it in real-time, and use it to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.

The IIoT is a key component of Industry 4.0, also known as the fourth industrial revolution, which is characterized by the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics into industrial processes. The IIoT enables industrial organizations to create smart factories that are highly automated, flexible, and responsive to changing conditions.

Continuous Improvement

In 2017, I founded Kartano Tech Oy, a startup that developed and released an easy-to-integrate IoT sensor. This sensor collects data and transmits it to cloud servers hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS). Since then, I have been testing and refining the best ways to integrate IoT devices securely.

Infrastructure

The following diagram illustrates a model for system isolation, designed to protect critical sections of the network and provide flexibility for integrating new systems. This model takes into account that some sensors may never receive updates and may come from untrusted suppliers. The key to this approach is the use of MQTT as the communication protocol. By doing so, we ensure that the only accessible component at level 2 is the MQTT broker, and a firewall blocks any other attempts to access any other service. Additionally, VLANs can be created to segregate some devices and enhance security.

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Data Model

A key concept in this data model is the use of a Unified NameSpace (UNS) as the base structure, enabling data sharing between all systems. This approach differs from the traditional model used in Industry 3.0, where data flows up and down but remains locked within individual systems.

Machine talk to machine
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Unified NameSpace UNS replace “Automation stack”

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Machine-to-Machine Communication

In this model, machines communicate directly with each other through the UNS, reducing the need for human intervention and enabling real-time data exchange.

Unified NameSpace Replaces “Automation Stack”

By using UNS, we eliminate the need for a traditional automation stack, simplifying the system and reducing costs.

A Unified NameSpace (UNS) is a concept in machine-to-machine communication where machines directly communicate with each other using a shared namespace. This approach simplifies the system, reduces the need for human intervention, and enables real-time data exchange. UNS replaces the traditional automation stack, streamlining communication and reducing costs.

If you’re interested in learning more about the IIoT and its applications in industrial engineering and maintenance, I invite you to explore my portfolio, posts, and contact me for further information.

Eduardo Luis Hofmann
Head of Engineering and Maintenance

I drive innovation through digital transformation, automation, and data-driven decision-making.

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