Key Terms, Descriptions, and Definitions

We have used a few terms in our postings with which you may not be familiar. This posting contains key terms, descriptions, and definitions. 

Big Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence allow factories to analyze the data derived from the digital connections between virtual and physical worlds and quickly optimize their operations.  

Cloud Computing and 5G allows smart factories to store, process, and share data with greater flexibility at a lower cost than traditional on-premises alternatives. Interconnected devices and machines can quickly upload large amounts of data that can be processed to provide feedback and make decisions in near real-time.

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) are collections of physical and computer components that are integrated with each other and controlled or monitored by computer-based algorithms. The most advanced of these systems are Intelligent Products. For example, fully autonomous manufacturing robots can produce patterns, reason, learn, anticipate events, and link with larger networks.

Digital Twin (DT) technology creates in virtual spaces, high-fidelity, parallel, 3-D virtual digital images of physically existing environments, processes, or individual objects. It simulates the behaviors of the objects in the real world and provides feedback. By quickly and accurately detecting and predicting physical issues with CPS systems, it contributes to the optimization of manufacturing processes.

Human-Machine Interface (HMI) is the user interface that allows operators to connect the controller for an industrial system. The controllers are integrated software designed to monitor and control the operation of machinery and associated devices in industrial environments.

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoTs). These are interconnected sensors, instruments, devices, machines, and/or processes that are linked by data communication systems to enable the exchange and use of data between people and machines. They allow higher levels of automation and production optimization by collecting and storing data on a cloud for tracking, data exchange, and analysis.