IoT Network refers to the communication technologies Internet of Things (IoT) devices use to share or spread data to other devices or interfaces available within reachable distance. Various types of IoT networks are available for IoT devices/sensors to communicate. Choosing the proper networking protocol for given requirements is critical to collecting real-time data and accessing insights through IoT applications.
This technical reference book will explore various types of IoT networks available for IoT implementation and selection strategy.
As the industry revolutionizes with changing times, the current industry 4.0 is a recipient of advancement in telecom technology that has innovated the IoT (Internet of Things). The IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things), a sub-specification of the IoT, is designed to facilitate industry automation and enable Smart manufacturing.
IIoT focuses on parameters exclusive to the manufacturing industry and exhibits potential growth, production, optimization, and maintenance of industrial outputs and equipment, respectively. At the heart of IoT technology for industries, the choice of network plays a vital role in the success of IIoT with Smart Manufacturing. Let’s explore wireless networks for smart manufacturing.
To wisely choose which network appropriately supports the needs of an industry, it is advised to stay informed on network layers in the IoT space. IoT includes a lot of machine communication, device identification, and communication, along with active machine learning tools for data analytics.
Therefore, a robust network is required to support the same.
Owing to facilitate your understanding, here is a structure that pictures the network layering in IoT technology:
The first links layer aligns with industry standards like that of IEEE 802 MAC and IEEE 802 PHY, which deal with local and metropolitan area networks. It is restricted to short data transmission of uniformly sized cells. The next layer is the internet layer (IPv4/IPv6/IP Routing), which is internet-ready connected devices/systems that communicate within internet-connected domains with the help of a device-unique identification.
Following the internet layer is the transport layer consisting of TCP/UDP/DTLS/HTTP over the wire, which helps communicate between systems as part of transportation principles and protocols. The application layer at the apex accommodates industry standard approaches like MQTT, CoAP, and API for application communication between devices/systems.
Progressive standards are being introduced for sophistication, from RFID scanning and communication to Bluetooth (BLE/NFC) data communication. Though BLE/NFC is mobile phone operation-centric, other network protocols serve the purpose of IoT deployment in line with industry prerequisites.
IoT deployment is supported by cellular (2G, 3 G, 4G & 5G) network protocols and WiFi / LoFI by providing efficient local area networking of short-range devices and internet access.
MESH protocols are radio nodes organized in a mesh topology to connect devices and nodes for data transfer and communication that can be opted in IoT deployment based on customers’ needs.
The LPWAN (LoRa, Sigfox) is a futuristic invention that refers to a low-power wide area network that lowers power consumption while offering an advanced network for connectivity. It is designed to facilitate long-range wireless communications at a low bit rate among connected devices/systems.
IoT Network Spec | LTE-M / NB-IOT | LoRa | Sigfox | Cellular (3G/4G) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Specification | 3GPP | LoRa-Alliance (Open) | Sigfox (Private) | 3GPP |
Spectrum | Licensed | Unlicensed / Free | Unlicensed / Free | Licensed |
Bandwidth | 180 Mhz | 125 - 500 Khz | 200 Khz | 5Mhz - 20Mhz |
Data Rate | 200+ Kbps | 27 Kbps | 600 dB | 380+ Kbps |
Payload per day | Unlimited | Low | Low | High |
Power Consumption | Medium | Low | Low | High |
App Usage | Frequent Data | Frequent Data | Periodic Data | Streaming Data |
The above table indicates a comparison of types of IoT network specifications between 4 large competitors across the globe for IoT deployments. Note that these are open specifications, varying from provider to provider.
The left side of the image indicates IoT network specification and the subsequent four columns indicate the wireless network providers. There are restrictions about the network service providers and what it offers, but it can be tailored to suit particular industry needs.
Of the 5G network revolution, there are 3 crucial aspects considered for the deployment of IoT in the manufacturing industry. The bandwidth of data, speed of data transfer, and battery life of IoT devices are most relevant to IoT deployment.
Since IoT deployments are usually remote, higher bandwidth and faster real-time data transmission are mandatory requirements; fortunately, the 5G network is much more advanced in these fields and smoothens IoT deployment and functioning in manufacturing industries between remote units and production centers.
Though currently, the 5G network is cellular-based, meeting IoT standards with a 5G network would require many more accessibility points across the globe. From a futuristic perspective, the 5G wireless network broadens IoT prospects with its features to support smart industries, homes, and buildings.
As is noted, smart manufacturing with IIoT technology is a key enabler of Industry 4.0. Wireless network plays a pivotal role in IoT deployment to collect data, and therefore, the right choice of network is to be made.
So, IIoT smart manufacturing use case specifications are to be addressed along with the volume of data. The image below indicates use case specifications toward the extreme left side, and the following two columns show the volumes of data and wireless network needed for smart manufacturing IoT deployments.
Smart Manufacturing Use Cases | Data Rate | Network Required |
|---|---|---|
Predictive Maintenance | High Volume Data by Machines | Higher Data Rate / Unlimited |
Addictive Production | Bigger Size Data Feeding | Higher Volume |
Asset Performance Optimization | High Volume Data by Asset | Higher Volume |
Remote Services | Streaming Data to Command | Higher Data Rate / Unlimited |
Quality Control & Analysis | Moderate Data by Hour | Low Volume |
Inventory Optimization | Moderate Data by Hour | Low Volume |
Human Robot Collaboration | Streaming Data to Command | Higher Data Rate / Unlimited |
The use of the above case specifications is central to smart manufacturing. Example: Features like predictive maintenance that predicts machine work optimized duration and schedules downtime require a high volume of data transmission in real-time by machine condition monitoring to perform prediction.
As a result, it demands a higher data rate at unlimited service. Likewise, the image helps read and analyze similar use case specifications, data volume, and required network type.
A similar ‘Decision Tree’ can be sketched, primarily considering the deployment location. Once the location (remote, accessible) is noted, the availability of the power supply is to be assessed. Following this, data traffic assessment can be made about the volume of real-time data to be transferred.
Depending on the data, several required nodes can be established, and the wireless network can be chosen accordingly. A customized ‘Decision Tree’ can be prepared using the above image as a model.
In conclusion notes, a wireless network for successful Smart manufacturing with IoT is a necessity. Prior thoughtful decisions are to be taken for valuable results with IoT technology in the manufacturing industry.
Use this guide to explore detailed precisions for wireless network connectivity to strong-arm your entire manufacturing industry (across borders) for unhindered, efficient industry and production operations.
If you have further questions about IoT networks and usage, contact us at [email protected].
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