The industrial internet of things (IIoT) is one of the most popular terms nowadays. Typically, IIoT is an extension and use of internet of things (IoT) in diverse industrial sectors and includes interconnected IoT connectors, devices, and different instruments organized along with systems’ industrial applications. Focused on big data, machine to machine (M2M) communication and machine learning, industrial IoT facilitates enterprises and industries with better efficiency and reliability in their operations. Industrial IoT encompasses several industries such as auto parts industry, medical device industry, robotics, and software-defined production processes. The streamlining of Industrial IoT is to connect people, products and processes with the power of digital transformation.

However, by bringing different Industrial IoT platforms into use, companies can connect, monitor, analyze, and act on data in new ways. Until now, massive use of Industrial IoT has been found in the auto parts industry. Before we talk about the applications of Industrial IoT in the auto parts industry, let‘s take a look at the general challenges and requirements associated with it.

Requirements and Challenges of Auto Parts Industry

The requirements are pretty much straightforward. Nevertheless, the most crucial need for auto parts industry is to utilize Industrial IoT platforms to connect, monitor, and analyze the processes.

As far as challenges are concerned, the advancement in technology keeps replacing products with new and better ones, and the same is the case with the auto parts industry. The cost reduction of their processes, effective management of data, and in-depth analysis of functions are the most significant challenges. Let’s discuss about them.

1. Cost Reduction

Manufacturers are experiencing significant descending pressure from their automaker clients on driving businesses to become inventive in the quest for approaches to reduce costs and increase profitability. Meanwhile, cost reduction is directly related to the utmost replacement of manual processes. But, before they move to reducing cost, huge costs are required to automate the flow of the process. Cost reduction also includes:

  • Modern MES for advanced planning and scheduling.

  • Streamlining logistics.

  • Minimizing raw material and finished product inventories.

2. Effective Data Management

Effective management of data is not only the desperate need of auto parts industry, but it is also the need of most industries. Given that, documentation is an integral part of the process, from designing parts to manufacturing them. Proper documentation can help figure out loopholes and corresponding solutions.

3. Process Analysis

Processes might be of different kinds; however, the analysis of each type of process is mandatory. Small and medium-sized auto parts companies utilize manual efforts to overcome this gap but mainstreaming Industrial IoT has all the earmarks of being essential since it automates the process for better efficiency and productivity.

4. Preparation for Upcoming Recession

Experts believe that we may be entering a recession. But fortunately, individuals keep their vehicles longer in a downturn and maintain their old cars instead of ordering a new one. Therefore, auto parts businesses flourish in a recession, but not without vigilant planning that involves keeping a close eye on the cash flow, cutting back on pointless costs, and making conservative forecasts.

Applications of Industrial IoT for Auto Parts Industry

As indicated by the BCG, more than half of IoT spending will be driven by transportation and logistics, discrete manufacturing, and utilities by the coming years. If we talk about the advanced applications of Industrial IoT for auto parts industries, here are some of them:

1. Light MES in Workshop Management

Predictive analytics is one of the most appealing features of Industrial IoT for the auto parts industry. The sensors are attached to the automotive components, which collect data and share them with the platform. The data are then analyzed and processed by the platform to predict the future outcomes.

2. Digital Workshop Management for Precision Machining

The core features of MES depend on machine management and tool management. For example, there are multiple digital modules in MES such as data collection, process preparation, as well as process management throughout the entire process. In this regard, digital workshop management for precision auto parts machining can achieve centralized management of quality data, thus reduce costs, and improve efficiency.

3. Injection Molding MES Solution

The injection molding MES solution is of great significance in order management and scheduling of injection molding process. It can live display the real-time data, injection molding process monitoring, as well as the capability of quality traceability and management. Through digital analysis, MES solution is essential in improving equipment utilization.

ROOTCLOUD is a leading company that provides different management solutions by utilizing Industrial IoT at a lower cost, making heavy machinery more efficient, intelligent, and highly competitive. We provide Industrial IoT solutions to almost every industrial sector, including construction machinery, logistics, injection molding, and textile machinery. If you also want to benefit from our services, please feel free to contact us.