Imagine a large modern factory that needs to monitor its production facilities for processing time, throughput and equipment wear. The factory deploys IoT gateways that collect data from vibration, temperature and ultrasonic sensors attached to critical machinery and tools. An IoT gateway is a device that connects those sensors, devices, and machines to the cloud or a central processing system.
Does Edge Computing affect IoT device configuration?
Edge computing allows gateways to process data closer to the source rather than relying entirely on cloud-based systems. This reduces latency, lowers bandwidth use and improves real-time decision-making.
Instead of sending all raw data to the cloud, the gateway uses edge computing to analyze data on-site. Due to the volume of real-time data from multiple sensor arrays, one of the important functions of a cohesive system is to know what data points are important. And, conversely, what elements of the data stream do not need to be collated and analyzed.
If the system detects anomalous patterns, such as a spike in vibration indicating a potential failure, it triggers an alert, allowing maintenance crews to intervene before the line stops and production halts.
A facility might use the Advantech UNO-2271G Edge Gateway. This ruggedized gateway supports multiple communication protocols (including LTE and WiFi) and comes with built-in edge computing capabilities. It can process sensor data locally, run AI algorithms for predictive maintenance and relay alerts over cellular networks, enabling real-time decision-making on the shop floor.
Another option in industrial settings is the Cisco IR829 Industrial Integrated Services Router: Designed for harsh environments, it provides robust security and supports different IoT protocols. With its ability to run edge applications, it helps consolidate data from sensors, streamlining operations in environments where reliability and security matter.
When choosing an IoT gateway with edge computing for industrial use applications, consider …
- 🟧Connectivity: Look for modules that support LTE Cat M1, NB-IoT, and 2G. This offers flexibility in how you want to design and deploy your data pathways within the constraints of your location (rural, urban, mobile, etc.) or business use case. Ensure the gateway has options for wireless (cellular, WiFi, LoRa) and wired (Ethernet) connectivity.
- 🟧Processing Power: For applications requiring local analytics, select gateways with integrated processors or the ability to run edge computing frameworks (e.g., using platforms like EdgeX Foundry). The Dell Edge Gateway 5000 series offers robust computing power in a compact, industrial-grade form factor.
- 🟧Environmental Robustness: In industrial or agricultural settings, ruggedized devices that can operate under extreme temperatures, dust, and moisture are crucial.
- 🟧Security Features: Ensure the gateway supports encryption and secure boot processes to protect data integrity. Look for devices with built-in VPN and firewall capabilities.
- 🟧Scalability and Integration: Consider whether the gateway can scale to support a growing number of sensors and integrate easily with existing cloud platforms or SCADA systems. Modular designs allow for future expansion without a complete system overhaul.
