- moneo IIoT platform
- ABC of IIoT
IIoT explained in ABC format
Discover the exciting world of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) which is revolutionising industry.
By networking devices and analysing data in real time, IIoT
improves production processes, automates operations and enables predictive maintenance.
Deepen your understanding and knowledge with our collection of important terms
which we have explained for you in the “ABC of IIoT”.
Actuator
A device that converts energy into mechanical movement. In automation technology, actuators are used to perform physical actions such as opening or closing valves or moving machines.
Actuator-sensor interface (AS-i)
An industrial networking technology that simplifies the wiring of sensors and actuators in automation systems. AS-i enables low-cost communication and power supply for the devices via a simple two-wire bus.
Advanced planning and scheduling (APS)
Advanced planning and scheduling technologies designed to optimise production processes and minimise bottlenecks.
Advanced vibration analysis (AVA)
Advanced analysis methods for assessing the condition of machines based on vibration data. AVA helps detect irregularities and potential problems at an early stage.
Algorithm
A precise step-by-step plan or sequence of instructions for solving a problem or completing a task. Algorithms are fundamental to data processing and machine learning.
Anomaly detection
Describes the identification of unusual or deviating patterns in data to detect potential disruptions or failures in industrial plants at an early stage.
Artificial neural network
Network computer model used for machine learning inspired by biological neural networks. It detects complex patterns in data and is used in IIoT for advanced analytics.
Artificial general intelligence
A form of artificial intelligence (AI) that can handle diverse tasks – comparable to human intelligence. These systems can handle comprehensive tasks in industrial environments.
Describes the development of computers and systems that can perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. AI is used in various areas such as predictive maintenance and process optimisation.
Asset performance management (APM)
A strategy that uses data and analytics to optimise the performance and service life of industrial assets.
Augmented reality (AR)
Augmented reality technology overlays the physical world with digital information and is widely used in industry for maintenance, training and remote assistance.
Automation
Use of technology to control or optimise processes or procedures without human intervention. In IIoT, this means integrating automation technologies into industrial systems for greater efficiency and precision.
Big Data
Large datasets that are difficult to process and analyse using traditional methods. This involves comprehensive collection, storage and analysis of data from various sources to derive insights and optimisations.
Blockchain
A decentralised, distributed register technology that increases security and transparency in IIoT applications by providing a tamper-proof record of transactions.
CAN bus
Standardised communication protocol used in vehicles and other industrial applications. It enables communication between various control devices, sensors and actuators installed in a vehicle or machine.
Provision of computing power, storage and applications via the internet. Instead of using local servers or data centres, resources are hosted in remote cloud services and can be used flexibly and scalably as needed.
Computerised maintenance management system (CMMS)
Computer-aided system designed to manage the maintenance and servicing of plants, machines and resources in companies.
Condition monitoring
Continuous monitoring of devices or machines to assess their operating status, often using sensors and data analysis to predict possible failures.
Corrective maintenance
Immediate correction of errors, defects or failures as they occur. The goal is to restore the normal functioning and performance of plants or machines.
Cyber security
Involves protecting computer systems, networks and data from unauthorised access, attacks and damage to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of digital information.
Cyber-physical systems (CPS)
Systems consisting of interconnected computing devices and physical components. They work together to monitor and control physical processes.
Dashboard
Visual representation of data, often in the form of graphs or charts, that provides a quick overview of specific information. Dashboards are used in various areas, such as business reporting, monitoring key performance indicators and controlling systems.
Data flow
The flow of data within a network or system.
Data lake
A central location that allows large amounts of raw data to be stored in its native format, facilitating analysis and investigation.
Data management
The management and organisation of data in a system in order to optimise its access and use.
Data mining
A process that enables data patterns from large datasets to be identified and described as autonomously and efficiently as possible.
Data science
Interdisciplinary field that uses statistical methods, machine learning and data analysis to derive insights and information from data.
Data transfer interval - Data stream interval (Software)
The rate at which data is transferred in a network or system.
Data warehouse
Central database that collects, stores and prepares data from various sources for analysis and reports.
Decision tree
Graphical representation of a decision-making process, structured in the shape of a tree. It is commonly used in data analysis and machine learning.
Deep learning
Subfield of machine learning that focuses on artificial neural networks with multiple layers (deep networks). This enables complex patterns and features to be processed into data.
Digital transformation
Comprehensive organisational transformation that integrates digital technologies into all aspects of business operations to drive efficiency and innovation.
Digital representation of a physical object, process or system. It facilitates monitoring, analysis and simulation in a virtual environment.
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
A network protocol that automatically provides IP addresses and network configurations to computers on a network.
Edge computing
Data processing in the immediate vicinity of the source, often directly on the terminal devices or sensors. Unlike sending all data to a central data centre, this enables rapid data processing, minimises latency and improves efficiency.
Embedded systems
Computer systems integrated into machines or devices that are responsible for specific functions or tasks. Widely used in IIoT devices.
Enterprise resource planning (ERP)
Software solution that integrates various business processes in a company. It enables resources such as finance, personnel, production and storage to be managed centrally to improve efficiency and coordination.
Ethernet
A widely used standard for computer network wiring. Often used in industrial environments for connecting devices in the IIoT.
Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA)
Systematic method for evaluating possible failure modes of a system and their effects. The aim is to identify potential risks and develop measures to minimise them.
Fieldbus
Industrial communication bus that allows sensors, actuators and other devices to be interconnected in a production environment. Fieldbus systems facilitate data transmission and control in distributed automation systems.
Field device
A device that collects or controls data in the environment, often in automated systems.
Firewall
Security device that monitors and regulates data traffic between an internal network and external networks. It provides protection against unauthorised access and security threats.
Fog computing
Extension of cloud computing to process data locally, reduce latency and facilitate real-time analysis.
Gateway
An interface that connects different networks and enables data to be exchanged between them. This can act as an intermediary between local devices and the cloud to transfer and interpret data.
Generic Station Description Markup Language (GDSML)
Markup language used in industrial automation, particularly in the context of field devices and industrial networks. It is used to describe device information in a standardised way so that control and automation systems can efficiently recognise and integrate these devices.
HMI (human-machine interface)
The interface that enables interaction between humans and machines, often through screens, touch panels or other input/output devices.
Hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS)
Secure variant of the HTTP protocol used for transmitting data on the World Wide Web. It encrypts communications between the web browser and web server to ensure the security of transmitted information.
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
A network of connected devices, sensors and machines in industrial environments that enable data collection, analysis and automation to increase efficiency and productivity.
Industrial personal computer (IPC)
A powerful computer designed for industrial applications and used in production environments. It can support functions such as control, monitoring and data collection.
Industry 4.0
The fourth industrial revolution, characterised by the integration of intelligent technologies such as IoT, AI, and Big Data into industrial processes to increase efficiency, flexibility and productivity.
Industry cloud platforms
Specialised cloud services tailored to the needs of specific industries. They offer industry-specific solutions to support the use of cloud technologies in various industrial enterprises.
Latency
The time delay between the initiation of an action and the response, which is critical in the IIoT to ensure real-time or near-real-time operations.
Linear regression
Statistical method used to model the relationship between a dependent variable and one or more independent variables. It is often used for forecasting and trend analysis.
Long-term evolution(LTE)
Wireless communications technology and the standard for 4G mobile networks. It enables fast data transfer rates and improved wireless connectivity.
Machine learning
Form of artificial intelligence that uses algorithms to learn from data and make predictions or decisions.
Machine-to-machine (M2M)
Direct communication between devices without human interaction. This enables the exchange of data and information between networked machines.
Manufacturing execution system (MES)
Computer-based system used in the manufacturing industry to monitor, control and optimise production processes.
Material management
Managing material flow and inventory levels within a company to ensure efficient use of resources.
Mean time between failures (MTBF)
Average uptime of a system or device between two consecutive failures.
Mean time to failure (MTTF)
Average uptime of a system or device before it fails.
Mean time to recovery (MTTR)
Average time required for a system to recover from a failure and return to normal operation.
Mean time to repair(MTTR)
Average time it takes to repair a system or device after a failure.
Mean time to resolve (MTTR)
Average time it takes to fully resolve an issue after it has been identified.
Mean time to respond (MTTR)
Average time it takes to respond to a problem or failure after it has been detected.
Message queuing telemetry transport (MQTT)
An efficient messaging protocol that is used for communication in IoT and IIoT applications and is ideal for remote, low-bandwidth locations.
Modbus
Communication protocol used in industrial automation to enable communication between electronic devices.
Navigation node
A point or node in a network that directs data and helps control the flow of data, or serves as a central node where other systems, data, or similar elements are collected or grouped.
Near-field communication (NFC)
Wireless communication technology that uses short distances. It allows devices to exchange data simply by approaching or touching each other.
On-premises
Describes a license and usage model for server-based software in which the user rents or purchases the software and operates it independently in their own data centre or on their own hardware.
Open platform communications unified architecture (OPC UA)
A standard for secure and efficient data communication in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).
Operational technology (OT)
Hardware and software technologies for controlling, monitoring and automating physical processes in industrial environments. In contrast to information technology (IT), the focus of OT is on the direct control of real processes.
Overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
Metric that measures the efficiency of production plants. It takes into account factors such as availability, performance and quality.
Predictive analytics
Using data, statistical algorithms and machine learning to predict future events or trends and make informed decisions based on them.
Using data analytics and machine learning to predict equipment failures or maintenance needs before they occur. This reduces downtime and increases efficiency.
Preventive maintenance
Preventative maintenance measures performed regularly to prevent potential problems that could lead to breakdowns or inefficient operation.
Process data
Data that is displayed or processed in a system in order to perform specific tasks or operations.
Production planning and control (PPC)
Process that includes resource planning and production planning and control in a company to ensure that manufacturing processes run smoothly.
Profibus
Widely used industry standard for communication between automation devices in industrial automation technology. It enables sensors, actuators and controls to be networked in a fieldbus system.
Programmable logic controller (PLC)
Special industrial computer used in automation technology to control machines and processes. PLCs are configured through programming to perform specific tasks.
Proof of concept (PoC)
Practical demonstration designed to demonstrate the feasibility or effectiveness of an idea, concept or technology before it is implemented on a larger scale.
Protocol
Standards, such as MQTT, CoAP (Constrained Application Protocol) and others, that determine how data is transferred between devices and systems in the IIoT.
Quality of service (QoS)
Parameters and mechanisms that ensure a certain level of data transmission performance, which is crucial for reliable IIoT operation.
Quantum computing
Using principles of quantum mechanics to develop computers that can perform complex calculations at great speed. This technology has the potential to solve certain problems faster than traditional computers can.
Radio-frequency identification (RFID)
Technology that uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track labels attached to objects. This simplifies inventory management and tracking of assets.
Remote monitoring
Continuous monitoring and analysis of devices or processes remotely using sensors and connectivity technologies.
Updates or upgrades of existing systems, plants or devices to provide new functionality or improved performance without changing the fundamental structure.
Robotics
Design, development and use of robots. Robots are programmable, mechanical devices capable of performing tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously.
Root cause analysis
Systematic process for identifying the underlying causes of problems or errors. The goal is not just to treat symptoms, but to address the actual causes.
Router
Routers are network devices that can transmit network packets between several PC networks. They are mainly used for internet connections, for safe coupling of several locations or for direct coupling of several local network segments.
Secure sockets layer (SSL)
Encryption protocol used in information security to ensure the secure transmission of data over the internet. It is often used to protect sensitive information during online transactions.
Sensor
Electronic or mechanical device that measures physical properties or environmental conditions and converts them into electrical signals or data. Sensors are used in various applications, from industrial automation to consumer devices.
Shop floor / Plant floor
Physical location in a manufacturing company where actual production and manufacturing takes place. This is where machines, employees and production facilities are active.
Shop floor integration (SFI)
Connects the production level with the management level and therefore ensures that all digitalised business processes in the value and supply chains mesh seamlessly and are effectively controlled.
Six Sigma
Quality management methodology that aims to reduce the rate of errors in processes and improve the quality of products or services. It is based on statistical methods and helps to increase efficiency.
Smart factory
A smart factory integrates advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence and automation to make production more efficient, flexible and connected.
Smart grid
Power grid that uses advanced technologies to optimise energy consumption, integrate renewable energy sources and improve grid stability.
Smart manufacturing
Smart manufacturing uses digital technologies to optimise manufacturing processes. This includes integrating data analytics, automation and connected systems for more efficient production.
Software as a service (SaaS)
Licensing model in which the applications are operated by a third party and accessible via the internet, eliminating the need for on-premises installations.
Strong AI
Highly advanced form of artificial intelligence that has the ability to perform all intellectual tasks that a human can perform. To date, this type of artificial intelligence does not yet exist.
Supervised learning
A form of machine learning in which a model is trained on labelled training data to recognise patterns and classify or predict future data.
Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA)
A control system architecture used in industrial processes to monitor and control equipment, collect real-time data and manage processes.
Supply chain
Entire process of manufacturing, transporting and delivering products or services from manufacturer to end user.
Supply chain visibility (SCV)
Leveraging IIoT to track and monitor the entire supply chain to provide real-time visibility into the movement of goods and materials.
System interfaces
The interfaces that enable different systems or components to communicate with each other.
Telemetry
Automated measurement and (usually wireless) transfer of various sensor data from remote sources.
Tenant
Tenant refers to a customer in a cloud.
Time series data
Data collected in chronological order. It is a sequence of values or events in which a specific value is assigned to each point in time.
Top floor
Upper levels of a company that deal with strategic decisions, leadership and corporate governance. In contrast, the shop floor/plant floor represents the operational level of production.
Total productive maintenance (TPM)
Strategy in the manufacturing industry that aims to maximise overall equipment effectiveness. This is achieved through preventive maintenance, servicing and continuous improvement to minimise downtime and increase productivity.
Training data
Data presented to a machine learning model to train it. This data includes labelled information that helps the model recognise patterns and make predictions.
Transmission control protocol (TCP)
Protocol in the Internet protocol stack that is responsible for reliably transmitting data between computers on a network. It ensures that data arrives in the correct order and is retransmitted when necessary.
Virtual machine (VM)
A software-based simulation of a physical computing environment that allows multiple operating systems to run on a single computer.
Virtual private network (VPN)
Secure internet connection that allows users to securely access a private network as if they were directly on site. VPNs are often used for secure remote access to corporate networks.
Virtual reality (VR)
Computer-generated environment simulated by special devices. Users can immerse themselves in this artificial world and undergo immersive experiences by interacting with the environment.
Virtualization
Creating virtual versions of resources such as computer hardware, operating systems, storage devices and networks. This facilitates efficient use and management of resources and the provision of virtual environments.
Warehouse management
Efficient organisation and control of inventory in a warehouse or distribution centre. This includes processes such as inventory tracking, order picking and storage space optimisation.
Weak AI
Artificial Intelligence that is limited to a specific task or limited area, as opposed to Strong AI, which aims for more comprehensive intelligence.
