Emerson Exchange 365

Dramatic advances in electronics and network technology, notably in consumer electronics and automation, continue to generate interest in the so-called "Internet of Things" (IoT). Industrial applications of these technologies have been dubbed the “Industrial Internet of Things” (IIoT).

As intriguing and complex as IoT sounds, a sentiment shared by many across the manufacturing world is relatively simple. “IoT may be important, but what does it really mean for my business?”

This week at Emerson Exchange, Paul Maurath of Procter & Gamble explored how these technologies may impact process enterprises, and how they could challenge or disrupt the status quo. For Maurath, this realm is the Internet of Process Things (IoPT).

The IoT has generally been described as a network of objects with built-in connectivity to a manufacturer, operator, or other devices making use of sensors, software, microchips or electronics. Today, the emerging IoT includes things as diverse as phones, home appliances and utilities, personal electronics, medical devices, agricultural equipment, retail payment systems, cameras, civil infrastructure, vehicles, and much more—even people and cows.

The context in which the IoT functions is also taken into account. “When it comes to the Internet of Process Things,” said Maurath, “the larger scope includes everything from sensors on the manufacturing floor to the boardroom, plus controllers, human machine interfaces, networks, manufacturing execution systems, historians, databases, and business management systems.”

According to Maurath, some of the challenges posed by IoPT include security, ease of use, power, interoperability and standards, wired and wireless networks, and IT/OT convergence. “How we integrate new and existing systems and technologies will be a key concern, including the cost,” he noted.

While some may view technological evolution as disruptive or even threatening, Maurath sees change as opportunity.

“These technologies may fundamentally alter the markets for basic process instrumentation, like temperature and pressure, by dramatically reducing sensor costs,” he explained. “Other innovations may reshape our networks, bolster cloud computing and big data capabilities, and create new and different business models.” 

“End users and suppliers alike will have to pay attention to the technologies and the markets,” continued Maurath. “Most companies want to avoid being on the bleeding edge of technology, but they also don’t want to miss any big opportunities. Strategic planning is key. Existing sensor and automation vendors will either adapt and leverage these technological changes, or risk being overwhelmed by them.”

How does Maurath see the IoT taking shape at P&G?

“Procter & Gamble is continually seeking and developing competitive advantages in its markets,” he said. “Toward that goal, we’re investigating IoT-related technologies for product manufacturing, including Emerson’s Pervasive Sensing strategies. We are working to influence a range of potential suppliers to deliver products and systems that will meet our needs for security, ease of use, interoperability, and cost.”

Maurath concluded with a global view of IoT, which is being put into motion largely by the proliferation of low-cost sensors built into personal electronics and a plethora of other consumer goods.

“Consumer IoT will take the lead, and those technologies will be adapted for industrial applications by companies large and small,” he said. “It won’t be long until IoT technologies penetrate the process industrial space, particularly in sensing and measurement. Many process automation businesses will be disrupted by these technologies, with communication standards and security as critical touchpoints. How these businesses adapt to IoT, giving shape to the Internet of Process Things, remains to be seen.”