As Internet of Things (IoT) applications expand, the scope of their associated networks must also expand. While Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee are available for convenient wireless networking near or within industrial facilities, some Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) networks require remote monitoring of field systems that may be several kilometers away or widely distributed and controls, often in locations that are difficult and time-consuming for service technicians to reach. For these situations, cellular networks are the best wireless solution. For example, industrial routers, industrial DTUs, modules and other industrial networking equipment.
The need for remote data monitoring and control of cells in some IIoT applications over long distances, preferably with the advantages of power-saving remote IIoT nodes with little or zero maintenance. A microcontroller can be used to transmit data to a remote server through the LTE network. The networking device used is the industrial router of the cellular network. To facilitate installation, we can consider the rail-type industrial router.
Expanded IIoT network
Conventional IIoT networks are set up in a single location, such as a manufacturing facility, automated warehouse, or outdoor park. The hub’s network can be wired through industrial Ethernet or wirelessly connected through Wi-Fi and Zigbee. Easily managed from a central location with easy access to endpoint locations on the IIoT network, allowing efficient maintenance or replacement.
As IIoT expands, so do the use cases. To increase efficiency and instantly control the network, remote systems need to be proactively monitored and controlled while reducing latency between the remote systems and the headquarters hub. Transportation systems such as trains, subways and interstate trucks can benefit from monitoring various sensors on the train or motor as well as fuel and energy consumption, speed and distance as well as GPS positioning to track location and estimate time to destination. This data is sent to the main agency or company headquarters and analyzed. Data can be used almost immediately to save time and money by improving efficiency and preventing failures, thereby increasing reliability while reducing costs.
Oil and gas pipelines can benefit from IIoT networks by monitoring volume and pressure in pipelines, as well as environmental conditions such as temperature, barometer readings and humidity. Precise GPS location monitoring and vibration and gyro sensors can detect pipeline movement due to external forces such as earthquakes. In some cases, flow through the pipeline can be remotely restricted or stopped in response to a detected emergency, such as an earthquake. The device can run self-diagnostics and send the results to the factory for analysis. Since these pipes can be Several kilometers away from headquarters in harsh environments, it is important for the endpoints to have a fully reliable communications network.
Enter Cellular IoT
To meet these needs, IIoT networks have been extended to send data over existing Long Term Evolution (LTE) cellular networks. IIoT endpoints can be placed almost anywhere in the world with LTE connectivity as long as power can be applied and maintained, plus the cost and effort of cellular network maintenance is the responsibility of the operator. Because these systems can be used in remote, unmonitored, hard-to-reach locations, remote cellular IIoT endpoints must be reliable and resistant to hacking or physical tampering.
The first step towards reliable embedded systems for the IIoT is to keep the system simple while minimizing power consumption. Keeping the system simple reduces the number of points of failure. Reducing power consumption improves reliability by reducing heat, thereby extending the service life of most semiconductors devices and extending the battery life of battery-powered IIoT terminals.