When the world inaugurated Industry 5.0, a revolutionary collaboration between machines and humans has begun. But even if we integrate Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0, one specific technology that remains central between the two is the intelligent sensor. This technology has arrived at the right time: when IoT is explosive in industries. IoT applications are becoming increasingly demanding and demanding, increasing pressure on bandwidth and the cloud. The introduction of intelligent sensors is an excellent response to this gap, improving precision and connectivity. Read on as we explore the transformative nature of this technology.
A review of smart sensors
Smart sensor technology is critical to the Industry 4 revolution.0, which involves the Internet of Things (IoT), advanced analytics and artificial intelligence. Compared to the basic sensor, the smart sensor is much more capable. It integrates data conversion, digital processing and communication with cloud-based devices. A smart sensor adds a communications module, microprocessor, and integrated diagnostics on top of the basic sensor. This configuration gives the sensor greater capabilities such as self-assessment and self-calibration. It is not surprising to find smart sensors that detect different parameters: pressure, temperature and more.
According to the signal processing method, the categories of industrial basic sensors are listed below:
• Magnetic
• Chemical
• Mechanical
• Optical
• Electrical
• Thermal
• Radiation
While these continue to serve many industrial setups, the adoption of smart sensors can improve data collection and communication. They provide a 360-degree perspective of communication, data analysis, data relevance and actions needed for greater return on investment.
Greater precision for industrial processes
One of the fundamental requirements of industrial processes is optimal precision. Essential industrial processes cannot proceed without the assurance of precise measurement and control. Fortunately, advanced devices and systems exist; intelligent sensors included. In industrial settings, precise measurement and control helps when proximity, pressure, radiation, temperature and level data are involved. Smart sensors exist for each of these categories and this has transformed the effectiveness and reliability of these processes.
For example, regarding temperature, there are intelligent temperature monitoring systems for industry. These systems allow you to stay updated on temperature conditions with the intelligent industrial plant. They provide real-time temperature data and reports. The best temperature sensors can be customized to the unique requirements of an industrial facility. Smart sensors work in tandem with cloud-based applications accessible via smartphones, tablets and similar smart devices. This type of setup is essential because the precision it offers helps keep industrial processes safe and economical.
Let's consider a sensor for the temperature of transmissions in plant machinery. Obtaining this data in real time can help a plant manager act proactively and avoid costs and damages resulting from accidents, injuries and machine failures. With the data derived from these intelligent temperature sensors, it is easier to carry out predictive maintenance, which not only ensures optimal use of machines but also increases their longevity.
The connectivity factor of intelligent sensors
In the modern world of industrial automation, connectivity is critical because it provides a link between the control layer and the field layer. Once the devices of the two levels have been connected it will be easier to obtain:
• Automated tasks where necessary
• Greater accuracy of tasks
• Reduced downtime thanks to predictive maintenance
• Greater scalability and flexibility
• Greater safety
• Fewer production errors
Applications of intelligent sensor technology in industries
Smart sensors are applicable in a wide range of industries for process monitoring, predictive maintenance and remote data management. Here is an example of these sectors:
Oil and Gas
With smart sensors in oil and gas production, processes are not only cheaper but also safer. Smart sensors help monitor equipment vibrations, temperature vibrations, and even leaks. The main objective of this monitoring is the early detection of problems to prevent disastrous outcomes.
Aerospace
With ongoing challenges related to safety, environmental impact and cost reduction, the aerospace industry needs intelligent sensors for effective monitoring. This is particularly essential in component manufacturing, where energy efficiency and compliance with international standards is necessary.
Automotive sector
Sensors are essential during the manufacturing process where they offer predictive maintenance support, but it doesn't end there. Modern cars are equipped with smart sensors that monitor numerous elements including air quality, engine temperature and filter status.
Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)
Smart sensors and IoT solutions in general are at the heart of the success of the modern consumer goods factory. Current trends show that companies in the FMCG sector are improving their future preparedness using the latest automation strategies: additive manufacturing, advanced analytics, augmented reality, etc.
Integration of the intelligent sensor with other components
Smart sensor technology is highly adaptable and versatile, something small businesses thrive on. These sensors form a strong synergy with important system components in the industrial environment to enhance the intelligence of the automated environment. Good examples of these components are float switches and frequency converters. Using real-time data from intelligent sensors, the operation of frequency converters can be controlled through this integration. Automated processes can be more precise and energy efficient in such a setup.
Where float switches are integrated with smart sensor technology, facility managers can monitor processes more accurately and undertake timely preventative maintenance.
Effective application of intelligent sensors
With all these benefits of integrating smart sensors, why do some industries struggle with inaccuracies and other technology-related challenges? Aside from maintenance challenges/expenses, a potential problem for most facilities is the incompatibility with existing infrastructure. Sometimes the devices are also used inappropriately.
Adhering to best practices is critical when using smart sensors and related industrial automation products. For example, the smart sensor technology selected should match the goals of the facility. Furthermore, the implementation of the solution should be compliant with standards. Regular review and improvement of the technology is also advisable.
Concluding remarks
The path to continuously upgrading the industrial automation environment may not be possible without the incorporation of sensor technology. In the modern connected world, the conventional sensor limited to physical variables is inadequate. We have outlined the relevance of smart sensors in today's industrial processes. Industries are now taking advantage of the enormous benefits of cloud computing and IoT offerings. When adopting sensor technology for your processes, consider doing so with a systems approach using the best products available.
DMS Tech Mart's industrial automation products can be a valuable part of this ecosystem. If you would like to know more about what we offer for industrial automation, contact us.