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IIoT gateways provide optional smart functions

06 September, 2018

Beijer Electronics has announced a series of IIoT gateways, protocol converters and edge controllers that allow users to add optional smart functions. The BoX2 devices are said to solve the challenge of finding smart ways to access data and to bridge the gap between the worlds of automation and IT.

They also make deep information accessible in a structured cloud-based data environment, as well as facilitating data exchange and transferring data securely to the cloud for remote access and analysis. The devices can be used to create mobile systems and to add local control on the edge of the cloud to perform corrective measures on machines.

Beijer says that BoX2 will deliver IIoT in four “unique” applications with the ability to:

• Share data between machines to optimise operations  BoX2 supports several forms of communication between machines: linking old and new machines; linking one machine with another; facilitating complex setups with multiple machines communicating with each other; routing key data using communication drivers for all major controllers; and exchanging data with supervisory systems.

• Perform local Codesys control  The technology enables local control using Codesys which supports the IEC 61131-3 languages. Control applications can be combined with HMI server functions, IIoT and cloud connectivity, and additional smart functions.

• Present data on mobile devices via HTML5 screens and dashboards  BoX2 can be used for HMI and dashboard applications on the go. Using HTML5 tools, the devices can keep operators or facility managers updated with status information and data from a plant. The data is shown in clear interactive graphics and can reveal trends, alarms and the need for maintenance. It facilitates decisions and corrective measures from anywhere within the enterprise.

Beijer's Box2 IIoT gateways allow users to add smart functions

• Create IIoT and cloud solutions to provide data for analysis.  BoX2 provides the data needed for analysis when you have an installed base of machines and want to optimise uptime and efficiency. Using communication drivers for all major controllers, BoX2 can access data hidden in machine controllers and transfer it via secure IIoT connections to and from the cloud. Adding smart software functions refines and structures the data, allowing it to be turned into business insights.

The BoX2 devices are available in base, pro and extreme versions for industrial environments including those with high temperatures, moisture and vibration. As well as standard industrial certifications, they offer extended classes of marine and hazardous area certifications.

The devices are configured using Beijer’s Warp Engineering Studio which facilitates the interconnection of machines and IT systems to the cloud. It can be used to set up all of Beijer Electronics’ products using an intuitive, drag-and-drop user interface, speeding configuration and design times.




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