If you operate or manage a production plant, there are three things that you almost certainly want to do: predict machine availability, improve process quality, and optimise energy usage.
Most of the data you need probably exists in your plant, but how can you get at it without spending a fortune and upsetting operation? This can be particularly challenging with legacy installations where, for example, sensors may only have a single 4-20mA analogue output.
There are expensive solutions that involve adding many extra sensors or even replacing all the older devices, but these drastic methods may not offer a good return on investment. Fortunately, there are alternatives that are more convenient and cost effective.
Read the full article in DPA's July 2025 issue