IOT News

Problem

In a certain workshop, old and new equipment coexist, and communication protocols are inconsistent. Many machines are not connected to the network, creating "data silos." In addition, mobile equipment such as AGVs and overhead cranes suffer from frequent network handoffs, leading to poor data communication.

To address these challenges, WideIOT provides a comprehensive and reliable IoT solution.

Solution Overview

1. For key equipment nodes such as CNCs, temperature controllers, and pH monitors, industrial IoT gateways are deployed to collect data and perform protocol conversion. These gateways use Wi-Fi for internet access and the MQTT protocol for uplink communication, enabling both old and new equipment to connect to the network and communicate in real time with the MES system.

2. For AGVs, overhead cranes, and other equipment controlled by PLCs, industrial IoT gateways are deployed with features such as multi-network redundancy and automatic reconnection. If the primary network fails, the gateway automatically switches to an available backup network, maintaining a continuous communication link to ensure reliable and stable data transmission.

3. For areas with weak Wi-Fi coverage, the industrial IoT gateway can function as a wireless access point (AP), extending network coverage to meet the workshop's connectivity needs. This requires no cabling or construction and can be deployed quickly and flexibly.

Key Features Achieved

1. Real-time data collection from CNCs, temperature controllers, pH monitors, and other workshop equipment enables remote monitoring and visualization of equipment status, utilization rate, online rate, process temperature, and process pH levels. When anomalies or faults occur, automatic alarms are triggered, helping operators quickly locate and diagnose issues so corrective actions can be taken.

2. Centralized management of AGVs, overhead cranes, and other mobile equipment provides real-time visibility into equipment status, location, and workload. Equipment faults are automatically reported, and operation logs are recorded in real time. This allows quick access to critical information for traceability, enabling timely responses to avoid disruptions to production stability and safety.

3. Centralized management of all devices connected to the gateways allows operators to monitor the operational status of each downstream device online. An electronic lifecycle record can be created for every piece of equipment, improving asset management. This supports efficient and rational maintenance strategies, ensuring orderly and reliable production.