Modern IoT and factory automation systems are increasingly complex, with many different components needing to work together for efficient and reliable performance. In this article, learn about Industry 4.0 Infrastructure from Littelfuse, including power supply units, PoE++, circuit protection, UPS, and more.
Key elements of Industry 4.0 IoT infrastructure
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) - Main building block processing data coming from input devices and controls outputs. It enables connectivity to various fieldbuses including PROFIBUS, Modbus, CAN open, Profinet, EtherCAT, wireless, and to the backplane bus of the system.
- Fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet - In Industrial IoT applications, wired communication technology is continuously growing and is evolving from traditional fieldbus to ethernet-based bus in order to connect Human Machine Interfaces, PLC, machines, I/Os, etc.
- Industrial IoT Gateway - Plays a critical role in collecting data from multiple wired or wireless sensor nodes, and transmitting them to cloud applications or a central condition monitoring systems to enable process data analysis.
- Datacenter and Cloud - Backbone of Industrial IoT network for data storage and analytics, individually configured for on-site use in manufacturing. The system includes important core components such as high-performance computing, network, backup & disaster recovery, process data archiving, and security.
- Human Machin Interface (HMI) - Display used to effectively control equipment as well as make decisions based on machine feedback.
- Input/Output (I/O) - Modules collecting data from input devices including proximity, pressure, temperature sensors and push buttons, and control actuators such as valves, relays, and lamps (output devices). These modules can either be added to a PLC control cabinet or be integrated into manufacturing equipment on the factory floor.
Littelfuse solutions for industrial controller (PLC) & communication infrastructure
