Introduction to the Industrial Internet of Things 111

Agile

Resourceful and flexible manufacturing that allows for fast responses to customers and suppliers. Agile capabilities rely on smart technology.

AI

Artificial intelligence. The use of algorithms that function as behavioral rules allowing a computer to imitate intelligent human behavior. AI is able to discern and learn from its experiences in order to make optimized decisions.

algorithms

A logical and mathematical expression that models a process or action. Algorithms are coded into a computer program that forms the rules by which a machine will interface with its environment.

Applications

Apps. Software that is designed for mobile devices, such as smart phones and tablets. Applications are a way of interacting with smart devices.

Artificial Intelligence

AI. The use of algorithms that function as behavioral rules allowing a computer to imitate intelligent human behavior. Artificial intelligence is able to discern and learn from its experiences in order to make optimized decisions.

autonomous

Self-governing. Autonomous systems can be configured to make decisions independent of human interaction.

Cloud

A network of remote servers that can be accessed through the internet. The cloud stores many software applications and can be used to back up data.

Cloud computing

The practice of using software and storing data on remote servers that can be accessed through the internet. Cloud computing is common amongst manufacturers and consumers.

CNC

Computer numerical control. A combination of software and hardware that directs the operation of a machine. CNC machines are used for many manufacturing operations, such as cutting and grinding metal parts.

Computer numerical control

CNC. A combination of software and hardware that directs the operation of a machine. Computer numerical control machines are used for many manufacturing operations, such as cutting and grinding metal parts.

Cyber attack

An effort to disrupt, disable, or gain illegal access to a digital device or network. Cyber attacks include hacking, phishing, and installing malware.

Cyber-physical system

CPS. A hardware device that links physical objects and processes with virtual objects and processes in an interconnected network. A cyber-physical system increases the capabilities of a device.

Cybersecurity

Protection against criminal or unauthorized access to computer networks, programs, and data. Cybersecurity has become a major industrial concern as networking and connectivity have increased.

Data

A collection of numbers, facts, and information about a process or product. Data can be created, communicated, and recorded by sensors in smart objects.

device attestation

A security process that verifies the identity and integrity of a device before it is allowed to connect to a network or system. Device attestation uses cryptographic proofs to confirm that the device is authentic and running trusted software, preventing unauthorized or tampered devices from gaining access.

Device cloning

The process of creating an exact copy of machine software, configuration, and sometimes its hardware identity so the duplicate functions like the original. Device cloning is often used to backup or replacing faulty devices without reconfiguring from scratch.

Downtime

An unproductive period when machine production ceases. Downtime is often due to mechanical failure, part changeover, or maintenance needs.

Edge devices

A computing device that processes data near the source that created it. Edge devices may include routers, gateways, and smart devices that process data.

Enterprise resource planning

ERP. A management information system application that takes the data from internal and external information systems and integrates it throughout the organization. Enterprise resource planning is often integrated into the product lifecycle management of cyber-physical manufacturing via the digital thread.

Forecasting

A prediction of demand patterns for a product based on real-time data. Forecasting is used to calculate future inventory levels.

Gateways

A device used to join two incompatible hardware components or protocols on a network. Gateway devices may be preconfigured or configurable.

Geofence

A virtual geographic boundary that triggers a response when a person with wearable technology or a smart device enters or leaves an area. A geofence can be used to monitor safety.

Geolocation

The process of identifying real-world geographic location of a person or object. Geolocation trackers make it possible to monitor the position of inventory in real time.

HMI

Human-machine interface. A device connected to a machine that allows operators to monitor and control a machine or process. HMIs may have a touch screen or control pad.

Human-Machine Interfaces

HMI. A device connected to a machine that allows operators to monitor and control a machine or process. A human-machine interface may have a touch screen or control pad.

IEC 62443

A cybersecurity standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission that provides guidance on improving security for operating technology and industrial control systems. IEC 62443 offers similar guidance to NIST 800-82.

IIoT

Industrial Internet of Things. A network of smart industrial machines and devices. The IIoT is the manufacturing-specific part of the overall Internet of Things (IoT).

IIoT architecture

The structured framework that connects manufacturing machines, sensors, networks, and software so they can collect, share, and analyze data in real time. IIoT architecture defines how edge devices, cloud systems, and operational technologies interact.

Industrial Internet of Things

IIoT. A network of smart industrial machines and devices. The Industrial Internet of Things is the manufacturing-specific part of the overall Internet of Things (IoT).

International Electrotechnical Commission

IEC. An international organization that prepares and publishes all standards for electrical, electronic, and related technologies. The International Electrotechnical Commission develops standards that are applied in Europe and other countries.

Internet

A global communication network accessible by anyone. Internet networks allow an unlimited number of devices to connect.

Internet of Things

IoT. A network of devices that contain sensors allowing them to send and receive data. The Internet of Things represents interconnected physical devices embedded with sensors and software that exchange data over networks.

Interoperability

The capability of different systems and equipment from different vendors to communicate and share information and resources. Interoperability is made possible through digital networking, the Industrial Internet of Things, standardized data exchange, and other technologies that allow smart manufacturing systems to communicate.

Machine-to-machine

M2M. The transfer of data between machines and the internet without human interaction. Machine-to-machine communication relies on sensors and computing devices.

Malware

Any malicious code or software that can potentially harm a computer, device, or network, or retrieve data from the network or device without authorization. Malware often exists undetected on systems for extended periods of time.

National Institute of Standards and Technology

NIST. A non-regulatory federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce. The National Institute of Standards and Technology is a primary resource for developing cybersecurity standards and protocols.

NIST 800-82

A cybersecurity standard developed by NIST that provides guidance on improving security for operating technology and industrial control systems. NIST 800-82 is often used in conjunction with the NIST cybersecurity framework.

Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture

OPC UA. A collection of communication protocols and standards used with industrial equipment. Open Platform Communications United Architecture works as a universal translator, allowing computer software to communicate easily with thousands of different manufacturing sensors, CNC machines, and other compatible devices.

Part program

A series of alpha-numeric instructions that direct a CNC machine to perform the necessary sequence of operations to process a specific workpiece. Multiple part programs can be stored in a CNC machine at one time.

physically unclonable functions

Special hardware features that create unique digital keys by using tiny, natural differences in the physical design of a chip. Physically unclonable functions help keep devices secure by proving their identity and preventing cloning.

PLC

Programmable logic controllers. A processor-driven device that uses logic-based software to provide electrical control to machines. Programmable logic controllers are used in factory automation.

programmable logic controller

PLCs. A processor-driven device that uses logic-based software to provide electrical control to machines. Programmable logic controllers are used in factory automation.

Radio-frequency identification

RFID. A technology that uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. Radio-frequency identification tags consist of a tiny radio transponder, radio receiver, and radio transmitter.

Real-time

The almost-instantaneous interval of time that computers require to process data. Real-time is virtually the same as actual time because computers process data nearly immediately.

RFID

Radio frequency identification. A technology that uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. RFID tags consist of a tiny radio transponder, radio receiver, and radio transmitter.

Scalability

A configuration that allows for growth. Scalability in smart manufacturing can occur through the use of added hardware and software.

Secure boot

A security feature that ensures only trusted and digitally signed software can run during a device startup process. Secure boots prevent unauthorized or malicious code from loading by verifying the integrity of the firmware and operating system before execution.

Sensors

A device that detects a physical stimulus and turns it into a signal that can be measured or recorded. Sensors in smart devices make it possible for machines to communicate digitally.

servers

The physical computer that shares information with other computers within its network. The server performs specialized functions in coordination with other computers.

Smart

Able to connect to and send data across the internet. Smart devices can track performance without human intervention.

Software

The programs, instructions, and formulas that structure the actions of a computer. Software controls computer hardware functions and operations.

Supply chain

A network of companies that exchange resources such as materials and information to deliver products to customers. Supply chains consist of a company, its suppliers, its distributors, and its customers.

Support technologies

Systems and tools that enable core IIoT functions by providing security and data management. Support technology in the IIoT includes artificial intelligence, communication protocols, and cybersecurity measures.

time-sensitive networking

TSN. A set of IEEE standards that enhance Ethernet by adding real-time capabilities, ensuring data is transmitted within precise time constraints. Time-sensitive networking provides deterministic communication for critical industrial applications, enabling synchronized and predictable data delivery across networks.

Tiny machine learning

TinyML. A technology that allows small, low-power devices like microcontrollers to run machine learning models directly on the device instead of relying on the cloud. Tiny machine learning makes it possible to process data locally while using very little energy.

Tool wear

The erosion of tool material as a result of friction. Tool wear degrades the accuracy and precision of a tool.

Transponder

A device attached to an identified object that receives a radio signal and then automatically transmits a different signal in radio-frequency identification. A transponder is also known as an RFID tag.

Virtual

Existing on or simulated within a computer program or system rather than physically existing. Virtual representations of real-world objects are known as digital twins.

Wearable technology

A category of smart devices that people can wear. Wearable technology can track and transmit data created by personnel.