The debate between cloud and edge computing strategies remains a point of contention for many controls engineers in the packaging industry. However, most agree that smart factories in an Industry 4.0 context must efficiently collect, visualize and analyze data from machines and production lines to enhance equipment performance and production processes. Using advanced analytics algorithms, companies can sift through this mass of information, or Big Data, to identify areas for improvement.
To some, edge computing devices may seem to create an unnecessary step when all data can simply be handled in the cloud. Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and other cloud platforms offer limitless space for this purpose. Moreover, MQTT encryption and data security built into the OPC UA protocol ensure that all data remain secure while in transport. When it comes to analytics and simple data management, however, edge computing presents important advantages to closely monitor equipment health and maximize uptime in production.