A closer look at the recent market trends and audio technologies that enhance the functionalities of TWS devices.

TWS Evolution: What is next in True Wireless Audio?

<p dir="ltr" id="isPasted"><em>This is the first article in a 7-part series examining solutions for robot control. The series looks into solutions for power, data, and signal, necessary to push the role and capabilities of industrial robots. This series is sponsored by <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/mouser.electronics" target="_blank">Mouser Electronics</a>, an online distributor of electronic components. Through their sponsorship, Mouser Electronics is dedicated to sharing knowledge about the possibility of a greener, more reliable, and better-connected manufacturing future.</em></p><p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Robots on the smart factory floor are enabling incredible efficiency gains in manufacturing. New robotic equipment paired with sensors and connectivity allows for pervasive and ubiquitous data collection about operational status and effectiveness. &nbsp;This goes for processes happening both before and after the goods being manufactured come in contact with that equipment. Now, the overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) of a given robot may be measured, controlled, and improved upon with precision and flexibility once thought impossible.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/the-engineer-s-guide-to-industrial-iot-and-industry-4-0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">smart factory</a> is a major leap forward from traditional automation to a fully connected and flexible system that can use data from operations to continually learn and improve. Yet to ensure this, industrial robots and machines need the connectivity to ensure the flow of data. &nbsp;</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 766px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><p dir="ltr"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI5MTkzODQ5NTAyLXRyaWZsZXgtZmFudWMtcm9ib3QucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true">Image 1: Connectivity is making industrial robots smarter.&nbsp;</span></p></span></span></div><h2>Connected Devices Across the Smart Factory</h2><p>The critical factor is not the mechanics and productivity of these robots in isolation, but rather how the machines are connected reliably in harsh manufacturing environments. In this connected environment, they work in unison towards the smart factory&rsquo;s ultimate goals. Critical and reliable connections facilitate the gathering and routing of enormous quantities of data points from the robots and their manufacturing environment.&nbsp;</p><p>However, this interconnectivity must be accomplished without an untenable amount of power supplies, headers, cabling, shielding for that cabling, and proprietary onboard computing systems to physically accommodate and maintain.&nbsp;</p><h2>Ethernet for Industrial Connectivity</h2><p>Globally, the industrial engineering and automation communities have spent years hashing out a common pathway to develop more straightforward and more sophisticated connectivity for network infrastructure. What is the best choice for connecting the smart factory, from the sensors at the tip of a robotic arm to the analytical &lsquo;brain&rsquo; in the computing cloud?</p><p>Ethernet may be the best choice of technology for industrial connectivity, based partly on how automotive networks are making a step-function jump up in their network speed and power capability by working within an Ethernet framework. Automotive Ethernet is overcoming many limitations of serial bus protocols, helping provide the reliable and fast connectivity new vehicles need. Industry of all types can learn from the example of automotive manufacturers here.&nbsp;</p><p>Rather than having smart factory floor network systems created using a layered build-up of serial, bus, and partial Ethernet, a better, more flexible system may be implemented by using Ethernet everywhere. This flexibility requires the industrial networking ecosystem to map a pathway from where they are to a <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/the-future-of-wired-communication-infrastructure-single-pair-ethernet" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Single Pair Ethernet (SPE)</a> future.&nbsp;</p><p>Designed to meet the needs of the IIoT, Single Pair Ethernet is a cable configuration that uses on pair of copper wires to transmit data at speeds of up to 10 Mbps (with potential to go to 1 GB/s in the future), while also supporting up to 52 watts of DC power in order to provide reliable power to devices and sensors that may not have their own power source. SPE&nbsp;</p><p>To establish the future SPE ecosystem, an industrial partner network including companies such as Harting and TE Connectivity are setting standards for transmission protocols, cabling, and device components. Members of the partner program, as well as the ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 25/WG 3, are in close exchange cooperation with IEEE 802.3 and IEC SC46C for uniform transmission standards and copper data cables.</p><p>On January 23, 2020, the international standard for Single Pair Ethernet interfaces in industrial applications was published with IEC 63171-6. According to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard provides the most robust specification type that industrial environments need.</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 766px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI5MTkzMjczNjY2LUpFU1MgTkVXLTAxICgxKS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 766px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false">Figure 2: SPE provides a connection from the cloud to the sensor.&nbsp;</span></span></span></div><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Connecting Data to Multiple Systems</h2><p>Advances in connectivity are going to benefit many smart factory stakeholders. Robotic equipment makers will integrate connectors and headers and even get dual-functioning power and data signals via a single cable and connector. The beauty is the ease with which they will all connect and feed data to vital software systems, be that the manufacturing execution system (MES) or further up at the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, with less complexity in cabling and subsystems.</p><p><em>This article was initially published by Mouser and TE in an<a href="https://www.mouser.com/news/teroboticssebook/mobile/index.html#p=1" target="_blank">&nbsp;e-magazine</a>. It has been substantially edited by the Wevolver team and robotics writer Dillon Garrison. It&#39;s the first article of a 7-part series exploring solutions for robot control. Future articles provide an overview of servo motor connections, discuss the role of digital twins in robot connectivity and look at trends in manufacturing automation. &nbsp;</em></p><p id="isPasted"><em><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/connectivity-enables-new-efficiency-gains-for-robots-in-manufacturing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"></a></em><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/connectivity-enables-new-efficiency-gains-for-robots-in-manufacturing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"></a></p><p id="isPasted"><em>Article one</em><em>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/connectivity-enables-new-efficiency-gains-for-robots-in-manufacturing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">looked at gains made by improved connectivity in industrial settings.&nbsp;</a></em></p><p><em>Article two&nbsp;</em><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/high-performance-connectivity-in-robotics" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>looked at the quality of connectors for harsh environments.</em></a></p><p><em>Article three <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/motion-control-in-robotics-4-types-of-motors-for-industrial-robots" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">provided an overview of common motor types.&nbsp;</a></em></p><p><em>Article four <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/6-connectivity-solutions-for-industrial-robotic-applications" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">listed 6 Connectivity Solutions For Industrial Robotic Applications.&nbsp;</a><br></em></p><p><em>Article five&nbsp;</em><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/cobots-and-iiot-create-a-synergistic-working-relationship" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>explores cobots and connectivity.</em></a></p><h2 dir="ltr"><em>About the sponsor: Mouser Electronics</em></h2><p dir="ltr"><em><a href="https://eu.mouser.com/" target="_blank">Mouser Electronics</a> is a worldwide leading authorized distributor of semiconductors and electronic components for over 1,100 manufacturer brands. They specialize in the rapid introduction of new products and technologies for design engineers and buyers. Their extensive product offering includes semiconductors, interconnects, passives, and electromechanical components.</em><em>&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI4ODU3NzEyMjQ1LUdvb2QgbW91c2VyIGJhbm5lciBmb3IgYXJ0aWNlbHMuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></em></p>

Article #1 Robot Control Series. Key players are working together to implement single pair ethernet for a fast, connected manufacturing future. 

Connectivity Enables New Efficiency Gains for Robots in Manufacturing

Why and how modern WANs and LANs provide support for IoT Deployments

WAN vs LAN: How do they differ?

<p dir="ltr">The life of a startup begins with limited resources. The small founding team typically comprises experts but may lack knowledge in areas such as quality or manufacturing. Successful startups observe their deficiencies and seek out the necessary support from outside experts.</p><p dir="ltr">Founders and decision-makers from thriving companies presented at the third<a href="https://kreatize.com/launchpad/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">&nbsp;KREATIZE Launchpad event</a>, during which they provided their experiences and recommendations to the hardware startup community. Their insights were both practical and forward-thinking for anyone looking to start or grow a hardware startup. Below are the highlights from the series.</p><h1 dir="ltr">Having a strong founding team&nbsp;</h1><p dir="ltr">The success of a hardware startup begins with a functional founding team with solid experience. The team can build resilience through the many challenges encountered by startups, learning along the way, as Pascal Blum, co-founder, and CEO of <a href="https://unumotors.com/de-de/scooter/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">unu Motors</a> explains. An estimated 65% of unsuccessful companies owe their collapses to “people problems.”<sup>[1]&nbsp;</sup>Those with complementary skills, knowledge, and experience can form a superior founding team.</p><p dir="ltr">While complete harmony seems ideal, Blum adds that “constructive conflicts” within help keep a company on track. Inevitable disagreement among internal teams, such as marketing and engineering, can prevent issues down the road. Relying on the expertise of trusted colleagues and enabling good communication allows each contributor to perform their tasks to support the priorities of the company.<sup>[1]</sup> Blum’s education stems from the business side, so he sought out experts in the technology side to be part of his startup, which has proven to be a good choice given the success of the impressive electric scooter by unu Motors.</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qbYn_MAIZkc?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 767px; height: 432px;"></iframe></span><br></div><h1 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Build a network</h1><p dir="ltr">Once a founding team is established, gaps in knowledge and capabilities will no doubt still exist. Stefan Klocke of Volocopter GmbH advises hardware startups to “find the right partners.” Having sufficient support allows for a shared workload, increased objectivity, added skills, expanded network, and improved focus.<sup>[2]</sup> Various relationships can result in services such as manufacturing, software design, and marketing.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">The network of support surrounding a startup is referred to as an “ecosystem.” The members of the ecosystem are&nbsp;interdependent, resulting in a culture of reciprocity.<sup>[3]</sup> This give-and-take promotes a valuable community of resources, both financial and supply-related, for the startup. The components of an ecosystem include not only other companies but also shared spaces, community events, and public relations.</p><p dir="ltr">Klocke discovered that <a href="https://www.volocopter.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Volocopter&nbsp;</a>would benefit from a rapport with local authorities. The appropriate government entities were kept apprised of their testing of air taxis and drones, such that Volocopter could follow the legal requirements of various regions. Including authorities in their ecosystem maintained trust and even fostered the opportunity to supply air mobility to the upcoming Paris Olympics.</p><p dir="ltr">Blum of unu Motors also states, “It is really good to network and get to know other hardware companies.” Each startup develops a unique product, but the challenges ahead are shared with other hardware startups. In addition, experienced entrepreneurs can offer direct advice on navigating the world of small-business hardware. A startup is twice as likely to succeed for five-plus years with a mentorship within their network.<sup>[3]</sup></p><p dir="ltr">Creating a functional ecosystem is key for hardware startup success. Whether it’s a mentor, investor, or supplier, a supportive community can help make hardware less hard.</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2DwkMQytej0?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 765px; height: 431px;"></iframe></span></p><h1 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">How to get investors</h1><p dir="ltr">A hardware startup cannot actually start up without capital. Unfortunately, the initial investment required for hardware is large, which is partly why investors often prefer to support software startups. Additionally, a software company’s money requirement is a function of its growth, so the risk is reduced for those who choose to see evidence of success prior to investing.[4]&nbsp;However, VP at SAP, Christian Dahlen, is an experienced investor who opts to help both software and hardware startups. In the growing world of the Internet of Things (IoT), hardware and software go hand-in-hand.</p><p dir="ltr">Most hardware startups require significant software integration, like the all-electric air taxi by Volocopter and the unu Scooter with software that can be updated from the cloud. Investors are becoming more interested in this overlap and the agility of IoT. After all, the IoT-device market is expected to break $1 trillion next year.<sup>[5]&nbsp;</sup></p><p dir="ltr">Financing can come from friends, crowd-funding, and advanced sales. Even suppliers can offer investments in the form of payment plans or through strategic negotiations.<sup>[6]</sup> Venture capital is available to those hardware startups who can stand out and show the potential for a high profit margin. Regardless of the source, the picky investor looks for certain skills and features in a startup, according to Dahlen. An established ecosystem, a sizable target market, and a defined vision pique his interest. In addition, investors tend to like a strong founding team, an appropriate business model, and efficient use of capital.<sup>[7]</sup></p><p dir="ltr">Doing the required homework can land a startup the necessary cash to keep the business on track.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yM7QLJDWYB8?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 756px; height: 432px;"></iframe></span><br></p><h1 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Scrum with hardware?</h1><p dir="ltr">Software development in startups has excelled using the Scrum framework, which employs an agile approach. Scrum uses short durations to milestones, or “sprints,” such that the design can be efficiently adjusted based on lessons learned. Within each sprint lies “transparency, inspection, and adaptation.”<sup>[8]</sup></p><p dir="ltr">Chris Mikoda is the CEO of <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/squadtec/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">SquadTec</a>, a company that provides extensive engineering and hardware services. Mikoda notes that Scrum has its application in the initial stages of hardware development, when the product design requirements may be fuzzy. The customer can be presented with a proof of concept early on, allowing iterative improvements to the hardware before proceeding with production-level manufacturing. Scrum takes advantage of the inherent agility that exists at the beginning of hardware design.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">The latter part of hardware development is less conducive to the Scrum methodology. At this time, a design typically requires stability to proceed to the final stages leading to high-volume production. Still, according to Mikoda, the IoT of the product incorporates agile software design, which can continuously be optimized through Scrum. Similarly, Pascal Blum describes the approach unu Motors takes, using standard automotive development processes for hardware while maintaining a more agile mindset for the software side.</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rGzUYRB2SKo?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 766px; height: 401px;"></iframe></span><br></p><h1 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">What about IP?&nbsp;</h1><p dir="ltr">Intellectual property (IP) comes in many forms. Julia Luksan, Attorney at Law, and Christiane Feichter, Associate at Jarolim Partner Rechtsanwälte GmbH, elaborate on the typical IP that companies in the EU often pursue:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><strong>Trademark.&nbsp;</strong>Trademarks can include a company name, logo, or even a sound.</li><li dir="ltr"><strong>Right of design.</strong> A startup can obtain a “limited monopoly” on its product appearance with a right of design.</li><li dir="ltr"><strong>Copyright.&nbsp;</strong>When creativity is involved, copyrights can offer adequate protection for a specific duration.</li><li dir="ltr"><strong>Patent.&nbsp;</strong>Innovative inventions can be protected through patents. Preventing others from using a specific technology can make a startup more competitive.</li></ul><p dir="ltr">Both Luksan and Feichter advise hardware startups to act fast with IP since timing is of the essence. The famous Facebook case is a clear example of how protecting technology is paramount. ConnectU fought hard to receive $65 million after claiming Mark Zuckerberg took their concept and ran with it.<sup>[9]</sup> Had any of the Harvard classmates secured IP, the lawsuit would likely have been avoided. While investment in IP can be costly, future headaches and unplanned expenses can be prevented.</p><p dir="ltr">Secondly, the attorneys recommend that a startup must know the market in which they seek IP. &nbsp;Patents, copyrights, and the like are specific to a region, and, therefore, IP costs increase as a startup widens its target market. Although global IP does not exist, WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) advises expanding IP geographically, which will protect a startup’s unique technology in vulnerable areas while fostering relationships with other companies: “they will be interested in collaborating with you and obtaining the right to use your IP rights through licensing or other such arrangements.”<sup>[10]</sup>&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">The final piece of advice is to simply do the required research. Along with research regarding where the IP should be registered, startups must also decide what needs IP protection and how. Herskowitz of Columbia Technology Ventures notes the balance between IP and expense needs to be assessed early on.<sup>[11]</sup> Dumping capital in numerous expensive patents is not necessarily the best decision. Startups can tackle this IP question in the way of university technology transfer offices, determining if the technology really requires this protection.</p><p dir="ltr">The innovations of a hardware startup are worth protecting. A successful launch of IP can help secure a startup’s role in the competitive market.</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z6amlNHorqQ?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 767px; height: 427px;"></iframe></span></p><h1 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">How can KREATIZE help?</h1><p dir="ltr">A supportive community is vital to a startup. Harnessing the experience, knowledge, and connections of others can let a startup dedicate its internal resources to what they know best. On that note, cloud manufacturing can help accelerate the innovation process of hardware products. We are at a unique point in time, as technologies now give people easy access to quality global manufacturing capacities. Cloud manufacturing platform KREATIZE, enables hardware startups to be customers of leading manufacturers.</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RqjtOiJ8asw?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 768px; height: 450px;"></iframe></span>&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Fabio Sulser, Tech Lead Data &amp; Automation at <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/kreatize" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">KREATIZE</a>, shares how cloud manufacturing lowers the entry barriers for hardware startups. He provides a brief tutorial on how KREATIZE’s technology and cloud manufacturing network can assist startups in their journey to develop game-changing products with less up-front cost.&nbsp;</p><h3 dir="ltr"><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PON6S06oxCI?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 762px; height: 432px;"></iframe></span><br></h3><h3><strong>References and further reading:</strong></h3><ol><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://foundr.com/articles/leadership/founding-team" target="_blank">https://foundr.com/articles/leadership/founding-team</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.thekickassentrepreneur.com/finding-the-right-business-partner/" target="_blank">https://www.thekickassentrepreneur.com/finding-the-right-business-partner/</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://hubbublabs.com/the-insider/startup-ecosystem/" target="_blank">https://hubbublabs.com/the-insider/startup-ecosystem/</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.techstars.com/the-line/pov/the-hardware-manufacturing-funding-dilemma-and-why-its-changing" target="_blank">https://www.techstars.com/the-line/pov/the-hardware-manufacturing-funding-dilemma-and-why-its-changing</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/article/what-is-the-internet-of-things-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-iot-right-now/" target="_blank">https://www.zdnet.com/article/what-is-the-internet-of-things-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-iot-right-now/</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://startupnation.com/manage-your-business/hardware-startup/" target="_blank">https://startupnation.com/manage-your-business/hardware-startup/</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://outdesign.medium.com/this-is-what-investors-look-for-in-a-hardware-startup-665aba36abee" target="_blank">https://outdesign.medium.com/this-is-what-investors-look-for-in-a-hardware-startup-665aba36abee</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://scrumguides.org/scrum-guide.html" target="_blank">https://scrumguides.org/scrum-guide.html</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2009/feb/12/facebook-mark-zuckerberg-ex-classmates" target="_blank">https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2009/feb/12/facebook-mark-zuckerberg-ex-classmates</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.wipo.int/sme/en/international_markets/" target="_blank">https://www.wipo.int/sme/en/international_markets/</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=69aaa019-5fc6-4e18-8d46-07d1c942fac4" target="_blank">https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=69aaa019-5fc6-4e18-8d46-07d1c942fac4</a></p></li></ol><p><br></p><p dir="ltr"><em>This article was written with contribution and editing from engineer and technical writer <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/kimberly.sweetland" id="isPasted" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kimberly Sweetland</a>.</em></p><p><br></p>

Founders and decision-makers from thriving companies share their tips to hardware success. 


Empowering hardware startups

<p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Starting a business can be tricky. The challenges associated with starting a hardware business that requires manufacturing services are even more substantial. Traditional manufacturing is a capital-intensive process that requires high up-front and operating costs and a sophisticated set of interdisciplinary teams developing products. At its core, manufacturing is a technology-based industry that is constantly evolving as its processes improve. Therefore, a degree of agility is necessary to meet market demands. This flexibility, often naturally present in startups, can be helpful only if the company possesses the core elements of a mature manufacturing business. This article explores five main challenges hardware startups face and how<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/the-cloud-is-disrupting-manufacturing-and-its-only-just-the-beginning" target="_blank">&nbsp;cloud manufacturing</a> can help them prevail.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">1. Building the Right Supply Network</h2><p dir="ltr">Startups are naturally hyper-focused on their products. This product-centricity is one of their greatest strengths. Equally important, however, is developing effective networks to supply the industrial components necessary to procure their products. This part of the equation consumes significant time and resources and can chip away at the go-to-market timeline and add expense.</p><p dir="ltr">A typical startup lacks the workforce to develop its product and a superb supply network simultaneously. The due diligence, negotiations, and back-and-forth with potential suppliers result in an exhaustive process—one that shifts the focus away from product innovation and revenue-generating activities. Larger companies can employ supply chain managers to perform this process successfully, leaving the engineers to focus on product development.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">While software can be fine-tuned before, during, and after delivery, hardware needs to function right out of the box, complicating supply network management. A case in point is the failure of the Coin electronic credit card almost a decade ago<sup>[1]</sup>. The company worked with a supplier to manufacture only a fraction of what was later ordered after the technology was announced. Not only was the manufacturer unable to meet these demands, but the product also required tweaks that pushed the first shipment back by nearly a year. These circumstances resulted in faulty Coin cards in the customers’ hands and, ultimately, business shutdown<sup>[2]</sup>.</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 766px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><p dir="ltr"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI3Mjg1MjAzODg4LWhhcmR3YXJlIG5ldHdvci5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true">Cloud manufacturing enables startups direct access to an established network of suppliers that would otherwise take years to foster and grow.&nbsp;</span></p></span></span></div><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">How can cloud manufacturing help?</h2><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/cloud-manufacturing-moves-industry-towards-a-decarbonized-future" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cloud manufacturing</a> enables a hardware startup to have immediate access to a network of audited suppliers and part manufacturers. Access to multiple suppliers that have the capacity and can accommodate running changes could have saved Coin from failure. Using a cloud manufacturing platform, companies are <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/hourly-model-manufacturing-succeeds-the-request-for-quote-process" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">liberated from the request-for-quote processes</a>, back-and-forth negotiations, and the development of a high-caliber supply network. Startups, in particular, benefit from skipping these painstaking, time- and resource-consuming tasks. A supply network available through cloud manufacturing provides them with better chances of success.</p><h2 dir="ltr">2. Product Quality</h2><p dir="ltr">In addition to the supply network challenges, product quality tends to suffer in hardware startups. Smaller companies often lack the resources to find stable and capable suppliers quickly. They also may not have the time and team expertise to ensure quality materials. Even upon finding adequate suppliers, the initially low production volumes common for startups fail to warrant the attention needed. Companies with larger bulk orders tend to receive better customer service, preference for key talent, and, as a result, better overall quality from suppliers. Therefore, many startups grow frustrated, rightfully so, because their quality expectations are not being met.</p><p dir="ltr">Appropriate prototyping is key in the early stage of product development, as well as prior to production, for the quality of the final product<sup>[3]</sup>. Proper investment early on can lead to higher quality and cost savings in the long run. Quality prototypes from day one can establish customer faith and allow for user input, securing sales after production. However, prototype manufacturing costs can be high because of the extremely low volume, required manufacturing setup, and material choice. For example, although volume-limited, aluminum molds are effective for the fine-tuning of injection molded components<sup>[4]</sup>. Once the design is optimized, the expensive production-ready mold with a material capable of high volume can be purchased.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Taking advantage of cloud manufacturing can help achieve quality parts in all stages of development, maintaining customer interest, reducing design costs, and meeting market demands.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI3Mjg0NTUxMzkyLWhhcmR3YXJlIHF1YWxpdHkucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true"></span></p><p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Quality is essential throughout the development process.</p><h2>How can cloud manufacturing help?</h2><p dir="ltr">Cloud manufacturing opens up access to a quality management service. Partnerships are maintained between the cloud service and each supplier, such that parts are made to spec, thereby achieving a high degree of quality assurance. An advantage of cloud manufacturing for a small company needing low-production volume is that orders can be bundled with those from other startups and sent to top-notch manufacturers, which prioritize larger orders. This approach not only lowers the price but also improves quality, thanks to better customer service and access to expertise. With cloud manufacturing services, startups can obtain the same quality service as larger established players, from the very start of their development process.</p><h2 dir="ltr">3. Skilled Labor</h2><p dir="ltr">The manufacturing industry as a whole is struggling to recruit and maintain skilled laborers. Startups may feel this reality even more acutely, as large companies often have more resources to attract the best candidates. The skills gap across the industry also means that startups may have to work with temporary or freelance talent, which can further complicate operations.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">While crowdfunding is providing entrepreneurs a way to access up-front cash<sup>[5]</sup>, most hardware startups are initially low on capital. Compared to software, success in hardware production requires more experts from various fields, including engineering, business, quality, and supply chain. While team members can cover multiple roles, a lack of specific talent will no doubt exist, and these gaps are often unknown until way down the road. Hiring additional people for these jobs is ideal, but qualified candidates need to be willing to take the risk. A startup may be only able to offer equity along with the promise of a future full-time salary<sup>[6]</sup>. Capitalizing on established expertise through a cloud service can alleviate this skill shortage.&nbsp;</p><h2 class="fr-img-space-wrap"><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 756px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI3Mjg0MjMwNTk3LTE2MjcyODQyMzA1OTcucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 756px;"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false"><p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Quality is essential throughout the development process.</p></span></span></span></div>How can cloud manufacturing help?</h2><p dir="ltr">Success with a lean team is possible with cloud manufacturing. Since procurement needs are mostly digitized, less staff is required to operate effectively. The investment in other skilled labor has already been made by the cloud manufacturer and its network of top suppliers. Engineers from the hardware startup can optimize their designs in real-time during the production process with access to the cloud solution.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">4. System Know-how</h2><p dir="ltr">Hardware startups usually have a high IQ in terms of product development and innovation. However, when setting up systems to deliver their products on time, they often stumble. Most budding companies lack experience in setting up high-volume manufacturing operations. The journey from the initial vision to the final product is a challenge for anyone, and startups may require additional time or a more experienced partner to show them the ropes.</p><p dir="ltr">Regardless of a product’s excellence, actual success still requires a sufficient overall system that can ensure promises to customers are honored. Tesla is a classic example of this, despite being one of the most famous electric vehicle companies in the world, they faced massive challenges when attempting to deliver the low-cost model 3 after facing manufacturing volume challenges<sup>[7]</sup>. An established system that can anticipate problems rather than problem-solve them on the fly will lead to a successful journey to the final product.</p><h2 class="fr-img-space-wrap"><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 766px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI3Mjg0ODY1MzExLU1YLUhlcm8tRGVza3RvcC5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false">Precision engineering doesn't always lead to customer satisfaction. Image source: Tesla.&nbsp;</span></span></span></div></h2><h2 class="fr-img-space-wrap">How can cloud manufacturing help?¶</h2><p dir="ltr">Cloud manufacturing can be utilized from the initial planning stages of a manufacturing project. In addition to establishing supply capacity, manufacturing networks can be used early on to identify any problematic features within initial component drawings. Additionally, suppliers can offer alternative material choices that are more cost-effective or meet other market requirements. Assessing any issues at the beginning stages helps prevent significant slips of the schedule and budget, allowing for a smooth scale-up.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">5. Scaling</h2><p dir="ltr">The discussion of system knowledge introduces the need for scaling methodology. To find success, a startup must evolve to a position where it can foster and support the growth of its business. This means having the ability to grow without significant impediments, gain a larger market share, and introduce new products without major disruptions in business operations. Scaling is the ultimate challenge for any startup and can only be attained after successfully tackling all previously stated challenges.</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 766px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><p dir="ltr"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI3NDg1OTU1OTQyLUNOQy1JbWFnZS0yLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true">Scaling while maintaining quality control is essential for hardware startups to grow. Image credit: Fast Castings.</span></p></span></span></div><h3 dir="ltr">How can cloud manufacturing help?</h3><p dir="ltr">To achieve growth at scale, a startup needs the right staff, systems, technology, supply chain, and partners. Cloud manufacturing can be a one-stop solution to help hardware startups address these factors. Resources are available to build a quality supply chain, access highly skilled labor, and manage procurement. A startup can request real-time input from a team of experts during the component design phase. Scaling a small company while continuously improving the product is possible without disturbing the existing business processes.</p><h2 dir="ltr">KREATIZE understands startup specific challenges</h2><p dir="ltr">Hardware startups have distinct challenges they must face on their journey to maturity. As a startup itself, <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/kreatize" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">KREATIZE</a> was created to transform the outdated and inefficient procurement processes of both small and large hardware businesses. We are also deeply familiar with some of the challenges faced by startups in this space. In fact, one of our main goals is to provide fellow startups with solutions to their specific problems as nascent businesses that require top-notch manufacturing services.</p><p dir="ltr">KREATIZE offers startups access to a network of manufacturers for a variety of materials and processes for their low-volume needs. Our <a href="https://kreatize.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">team of experts</a> can guide the hardware development process and liaise with suppliers to achieve product quality, on-time delivery, and successful business scale-up. With our services, hardware startups can focus on innovation while still maintaining control of the product release through the cloud.</p><h2 dir="ltr">References</h2><ol><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Statt, N. For hardware startups, it’s getting less hard [Internet]. 2015 Apr 11 [cited 2021 Jul 11] Available from: <a href="https://www.cnet.com/news/for-hardware-startups-its-getting-less-hard/%C2%B6" target="_blank">https://www.cnet.com/news/for-hardware-startups-its-getting-less-hard/</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.vox.com/2015/7/13/11614656/i-waited-19-months-for-the-magic-coin-card-and-it-was-a-big" target="_blank">https://www.vox.com/2015/7/13/11614656/i-waited-19-months-for-the-magic-coin-card-and-it-was-a-big</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://rapidsrepro.com/advantages-disadvantages-prototyping/" target="_blank">https://rapidsrepro.com/advantages-disadvantages-prototyping/</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://predictabledesigns.com/from-prototype-to-mass-manufacturing-understanding-scaling-costs-for-physical-products/" target="_blank">https://predictabledesigns.com/from-prototype-to-mass-manufacturing-understanding-scaling-costs-for-physical-products/</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.wired.com/2013/09/the-hardware-revolution-will-not-be-hyped-heres-what-itll-take-to-make-this-really-happen/" target="_blank">https://www.wired.com/2013/09/the-hardware-revolution-will-not-be-hyped-heres-what-itll-take-to-make-this-really-happen/</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://beneinstein.medium.com/the-complete-guide-to-building-hardware-startup-teams-part-2-contributors-product-9d93b431e4a7" target="_blank">https://beneinstein.medium.com/the-complete-guide-to-building-hardware-startup-teams-part-2-contributors-product-9d93b431e4a7</a></p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-model-3-model-y-orders-delay/" target="_blank">https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-model-3-model-y-orders-delay/</a></p></li></ol><p><br></p><p dir="ltr">This article was written with contribution and editing from engineer and technical writer <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/kimberly.sweetland" id="isPasted" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kimberly Sweetland</a>. </p>

Hardware startups have a unique set of challenges to overcome to be successful. 

Five Manufacturing Challenges For Hardware Startups

<p id="isPasted"><em>Together with Ansys, a developer of simulation software, we are creating&nbsp;</em><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/decarbonization-sustainability-and-innovations-in-transportation-and-mobility" target="_blank"><em>a series of content</em></a><em>&nbsp;about the technologies that make sustainable transportation possible. Electric vehicles, hybrids, and hydrogen cars are greener alternatives to traditional vehicles powered by fossil fuels, but they still have an environmental impact. In this article, we take a closer look at their emissions examining their carbon footprint at the point of manufacturing as well as through their lifetime. This article was based on case studies from Ansys with significant editing and additions by Wevolver, and IoT expert&nbsp;</em><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/john.soldatos" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>John Soldatos.</em></a></p><h2><strong>Introduction</strong></h2><p>For nearly a decade, industrial enterprises have been heavily investing in their digital transformation as part of the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0). The latter leverages cutting-edge technologies like Internet-of-Things (IoT), Cyber Physical Systems (CPS), cloud computing, Big Data, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to digitize physical production processes and to improve the quality, speed, resilience, and cost-efficiency of business processes. Specifically, Industry 4.0 enables a host of data-driven, added-value use cases in areas like intelligent asset management, quality management, supply chain management, and generative product design. Such use cases have been already deployed and demonstrated in various industrial sectors such as manufacturing, energy, oil &amp; gas, mining, smart buildings, and facilities management.</p><p>In recent years it is also evident that digital technologies are key enablers for reducing CO2 emissions and achieving sustainability targets. For instance, the implementation of predictive maintenance and predictive quality approaches helps to avoid machine failures, which reduces scrap and waste. As another example, the digitization of the manufacturing value chain facilitates products and materials flow traceability. The latter boost the implementation of eco-friendly production practices and of circular economy use cases (e.g., recycling). Overall, digital technologies ease and accelerate the implementation of sustainable production practices. This is the reason why many enterprises focus on the so-called twin transition i.e., the combined digital transformation and green transformation towards a zero-carbon and zero-waste economy. The twin transition is perfectly aligned to the strategic agendas of governments and of industrial enterprises, such as the <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/info/strategy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal_en" target="_blank">recently announced European Green Deal of the European Commission</a>.</p><h2><strong>Digital Twins as Sustainability Enablers</strong></h2><p>A digital twin provides an accurate virtual representation of one or more connected physical assets or processes in the cyberspace. It is a real-time virtual copy of connected industrial equipment, which reflects the actual context of assets and operating processes that comprise the environment. For instance, a digital twin of a piece of industrial machinery within a plant provides a digital representation of the context and the condition of the asset, including information on its performance and maintenance needs. A digital twin remains synchronized to the status of the physical world: As the operational status of the machine changes, the parameters of the digital twin are altered accordingly. Digital twins can be used to simulate complex processes in the digital world i.e., without affecting the status of physical items and processes. Moreover, they enable what/if analysis of alternative physical scenarios in safe and cost-efficient ways. This is because the different scenarios and their outcomes are evaluated in the cyber world i.e., their adverse effects on the industrial environment are avoided. The analysis and assessment of alternative scenarios is a key to optimizing production processes, through identifying optimal configurations in areas like assets maintenance, process control, logistics, and supply chain management.</p><p>Digital twins are one of the most prominent building blocks of Industry 4.0 applications. Cyber Physical Production Systems (CPPS) systems, system-simulation and digital technologies like Big Data, Cloud computing, and AI enable the development of rich, accurate, and versatile digital twins. Specifically, CPPS systems and IoT devices facilitate the acquisition of real-time information about assets and physical production processes. Likewise, system-simulation and data analytics(ML/AI) eases the task of creating rich cyber-representation of complex physical processes and they can be used to simulate and assess alternative scenarios as part of what/if analysis.</p><p>Digital twins are a very powerful tool when it comes to determining production configurations that optimize waste and improve sustainability. For example, a digital twin can be used to determine the process control parameters that avoid products’ defects and minimize waste generation. Similarly, a digital twin can be used to test and validate alternative maintenance schedules for one or more assets, which helps determining the schedule that prevents unplanned downtimes, avoids machine failures, and reduces relevant CO2 emissions. Overall, a digital twin is a key enabler for sustainable industrial operations as part of the emerging twin transition of modern enterprises.</p><h2>Green Digital Twin Use Cases</h2><p>Digital twins enable a host of sustainability optimizations in many different use cases (e.g., maintenance, recycling, energy optimization) across different sectors. Some of the most prominent use cases include:</p><h3>1. Product development and testing</h3><p>Developing products is a long and intricate process. For instance, it takes up to 6 years to design and launch a new car model. It needs to be a seamless transition from the preceding model to the new model. A slight mistake during the process can undermine the brand's value and profitability.</p><p>A digital twin helps to integrate data between previous-generation models with the new concept in their digital formats. Twinning also enables seamless communication between product designers, end customers, and other stakeholders. When it comes to product testing, having a digital twin negates the need to wait for performance data gathered during vehicle trials to determine its performance and quality.&nbsp;</p><h3 id="isPasted"><strong>2. Digital Twins for Enterprise Maintenance</strong></h3><p>Once upon a time, industrial enterprises used to maintain their assets (e.g., machines, equipment) in a reactive manner, i.e., they used to replace or repair the asset when it failed. This resulted in unplanned downtimes of production processes, which led to considerable loss of time and money. Over the years, most enterprises transitioned to a preventive maintenance approach, i.e., replacing or repairing assets before their break, within a time window suggested by the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). Preventive approaches help to avoid catastrophic downtimes, yet they do not lead to optimal utilization of the asset, as they service or replace assets in advance of their end of life. In recent years, the advent of Industry 4.0 enables a shift from preventive maintenance to Condition Based Maintenance (CBM). CBM considers the status of the assets, when planning and performing maintenance activities, which leads to optimal Operating Equipment Efficiency (OEE). For instance, in the scope of CBM, enterprises estimate the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) of an asset in order to schedule its maintenance at the best point-in-time. The latter leads to predictive maintenance approaches, which predict when the asset will break in order to optimize the scheduling of maintenance, repair, and service operations.</p><p><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable fr-active" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3Y1lnF4_pKY?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 762px; height: 407px;"></iframe></span><br></p><p>Digital twins are key enablers of CBM and predictive maintenance processes. They construct a virtual cyber-representation of the asset in the digital world, through collecting and analyzing detailed information about the condition of the asset. In this direction, a digital twin for predictive maintenance leverages IoT data that are collected from devices like vibration sensors, acoustic sensors, ultrasonic sensors, temperature sensors, power consumption sensors, and thermal cameras. Likewise, the digital twin makes use of physics (e.g. system-simulation) and data analytics techniques (e.g., machine learning) to extract knowledge and insights about the condition of the assets and to estimate its RUL. Using the digital twin, maintenance engineers can analyze different maintenance scenarios in terms of their timeliness, cost, and impact on production operations. Furthermore, digital twins can be used to quantify the benefits of alternative maintenance scenarios that involve multiple assets and production lines. Specifically, they can help in evaluating the scale up of predictive maintenance scenarios across many different assets, through calculating their ROI (Return on Investment) and the CO2 they produce.</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 788px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI2NzcyMzM3OTg1LUlsbHVzdHJhdGlvbiAxLTAxICg0KS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true">A digital twin manufacturing model.</span></p></span></span></div><p>It is also possible to combine digital twins with ergonomic Simulated Reality (SR) visualizations of the assets to provide remote support to field technicians that repair or service the assets. For instance, an experienced engineer of the OEM can provide the field worker with remote real-time instructions about maintaining the asset. In this case, the remote instructions are superimposed over an Augmented Reality (AR) cyber-representation of the digital twin and displayed to the worker’s AR device (e.g., smart glasses). This is a very popular use case of the COVID19 era, where traveling is much more difficult and less frequent than it used to be. It is also a use case that contributes to a decarbonized economy due to more sustainable production operations and the reduction of travel-related CO2 emissions.</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 788px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI2NzcyMzg1NjM4LWFpcmJ1cy5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true"><i id="isPasted">An Airbus engineer is trained in a mantence procedure using &nbsp;digital twin and virtual reality technology. Image credit:&nbsp;</i><a href="https://www.airbus.com/newsroom/stories/stepping-into-the-virtual-world-to-enhance-aircraft-maintenance-.html" target="_blank"><em>Airbus.</em></a></span></p></span></span></div><p id="isPasted">Predictive maintenance applications are among the most popular use cases for digital twins. This is because all industrial sectors (e.g., manufacturing, energy, oil &amp; gas, mining, buildings) are concerned with improving the timeliness, effectiveness, cost, and sustainability of their maintenance processes.</p><h3><strong>3. HVAC Optimization in Smart building management</strong></h3><p>Facility managers’ top priority is to ensure the sustainability and cost-efficiency of the properties that they manage, as well as to maximize the comfort and satisfaction of their tenants. In this direction, facility managers strive to optimize the operation of HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) installations of their properties. HVAC systems are a primary source of power consumption in modern buildings. This is the reason why their optimal operation is contributing to the buildings’ and facilities’ sustainability. At the same time, HVAC systems play a key role in ensuring a pleasant and comfortable environment for tenants.</p><p>The optimization of HVAC operations hinges on the availability of accurate information about the temperature conditions and the occupancy of the various spaces. To this end, it is possible to develop a digital twin of the facility that will collect, analyze and track the conditions of the various spaces to configure HVAC operations accordingly. &nbsp;The digital twin shall adapt the operation of HVAC in line with the temperature of the various rooms and spaces, provided that they are occupied. On the other hand, it should stop HVAC systems in rooms that are not occupied.</p><p>HVAC tuning is already taking place in several buildings, based on heuristic information about the building’s occupancy. Nevertheless, the COVID19 pandemic has disrupted conventional occupancy patterns due to the scale-up of teleworking and work-from-home policies. For instance, many offices are no longer occupied during conventional working days and hours (e.g., weekdays, 9 to 5), which asks for more context awareness about the spaces of the facility. Therefore, a digital twin for HVAC operations monitoring and adaptation is an excellent COVID19 use case. Furthermore, the use of digital twins is expected to expand following the end of the pandemic i.e., in the new normal.</p><h2 id="isPasted">Summary</h2><p>Overall, digital twins are very powerful when it comes to evaluating alternative industrial scenarios in terms of their cost-effectiveness and sustainability. Furthermore, they are excellent tools for determining how to best decarbonize an asset, an object, or an entire system within an industrial environment. As such digital twins will provide substantial help in realizing the envisaged twin transition of industrial enterprises.</p><h2>Understanding and overcoming digital twin challenges with Ansys Twin Builder</h2><p>The benefits of digital twins ar<ins cite="mailto:Graziella%20Alves" datetime="2021-07-12T14:13">e</ins> obvious but widespread implementation is hampered by the lack of resources to create a simulated product model, verify the model, deploy the model by connecting it to actual working products, then analyze the collected information. Because this process typically involves multiple functions and multiple technology platforms, the majority of companies are intimidated by the practical challenges of implementing the concept of digital twins within their own operations. Ansys<ins cite="mailto:Graziella%20Alves" datetime="2021-07-12T14:13">, a founding member of the&nbsp;</ins><ins cite="mailto:Graziella%20Alves" datetime="2021-07-12T14:14">Digital Twin Consortium,</ins> has developed its Twin Builder software to assist enterprises of all sizes to create and leverage digital twins. In addition to the packages, easy workflows and high levels of automation Ansys has produced<s>&nbsp;</s>comprehensive educational resources to educate and inspire on digital twin topics. Visit their<a href="https://www.ansys.com/products/digital-twin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">&nbsp;Digital Twin microsite</a> for more detail.</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 766px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><p><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1627051207356-ezgif.com-gif-maker+%289%29.jpg" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true">The Ansys Digital Twin Builder interface. Image credit: Ansys.&nbsp;</span></p></span></span></div><h2><em>About the sponsor: Ansys</em></h2><p><em>Ansys provides engineering simulation software used to predict how product designs will behave in real-world environments. Founded in 1970, Ansys employs more than 4,400 professionals, many of whom are expert M.S. and Ph.D.-level engineers in finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics, electronics, semiconductors, embedded software, and design optimization.</em></p><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI2NzcyNTM3NDc0LUFuc3lzIGJhbm5lciBpbWFnZS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><p><br></p>

Digital Twins are a key sustainability enabler across industries.

Digital Twins bridge the gap between product development and product operations

<p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Hands free products have become increasingly popular and even more important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ranging from an automatic paper towel dispenser to soap and hand sanitizer dispensers, people expect these types of products to be available in public areas.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Typically, a touch-less paper towel dispenser is run by a 6V DC motor or gear motor. These applications are usually designed to run off of batteries. To maximize time between battery changes the motor must be extremely efficient.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">ISL Products offers low current draw, high torque 6V DC motor and gear motors designed specifically for battery powered devices. These efficient motors are not exclusive to paper towel dispensers, they are also great additions to other 6V appliances like:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Soap Dispensers</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Sanitizer Dispenser</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Touch-less Faucets</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Touch-less Sinks</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Automatic Garbage Lid Openers</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">These efficiency-focused motors are available as both DC motors or DC gear motors, making them ideal for most applications.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">Overview</h2><p dir="ltr">A leading manufacturer of a battery-operated paper towel dispenser was experiencing shorter than desired battery life during product use. The dispenser was using a 6V DC spur gear motor that was drawing too much current, creating a significant drain on the product’s power bank of batteries.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Challenge</h2><p dir="ltr">The customer tasked us with developing a direct drop-in replacement<a href="https://islproducts.com/component/spur-gear-motors/" target="_blank">&nbsp;spur gear motor</a> that would draw 25% – 50% less current than their existing motor.</p><p dir="ltr">During our investigation of the incumbent gear motor we found that the current draw was 800 – 850mA. Additional investigation of similar motors, from several manufacturers, showed a range of current draw under load from 800mA – 1400mA. The customer requested that we find a way to reduce that current down to 600mA or less.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Another issue we came across was that, over time, excessive brush and commutator wear escalated the current draw problem even further.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">Solution</h2><p dir="ltr">ISL Products International and our team of engineers tore down the incumbent motors and found a variety of factors that contributed to the higher current draw issue that our customer was experiencing. In addition to the excessive brush and commutator wear, in some cases we found foreign conductive material floating within the motor itself creating unwanted spikes in the current draw.</p><p dir="ltr">The ISL engineers and our factory’s engineering department agreed on a methodology for improving the motor quality and bringing the current draw in line with the customer’s expectations. The current draw was reduced by improvements to the armature windings, and the addition of high-quality brushes increased longevity and removed the wear problem. Our factory's good manufacturing practices guaranteed precision tolerances and high quality material sourcing, as well as preventing foreign conductive material from floating in the motor like that found in the incumbent motor.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Once the new motors were created they were tested and showed minimal wear patterns while having a current draw of 590mA.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h2><p dir="ltr">After implementing the ISL motor in their contact-less paper towel dispenser the client achieved the desired battery life of the device. The client was able to avoid designing and implementing a new battery system by replacing a single part in their device. This dramatically reduced the cost of increasing battery life and reduced service time by the end user.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">These motors have dispensed hundreds of thousands of paper towels in locations from airports to arenas and will continue to do so for a long time.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">If you are facing a component challenge, reach out to ISL Products so that you can discover a value-added solution. </p>

Low Current Draw Gear Motor Designed with Efficiency in Mind!

6V DC Spur Gear Motor for Hands-Free Products: Automated Paper Towel Dispenser

<p id="isPasted">With the urgency to prevent environmental degradation, reduce waste and increase profitability, farmers around the globe are increasingly opting for more efficient crop management solutions that are supported by optimization and controlling technologies derived from the <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/the-engineer-s-guide-to-industrial-iot-and-industry-4-0" target="_blank">Industrial Internet of Things</a> (IIoT).</p><p>Intelligent information and communication technologies (IICT) (machine learning (ML), AI, IoT, cloud-based analytics, actuators, and sensors) are being implemented to achieve higher control of spatial and temporal variabilities <sup>[1]</sup> with the aid of satellite remote sensing. The use and application of this set of interconnected technologies are known as “Smart Agriculture” (SA). &nbsp;</p><p>In Smart Agriculture, real-time and continuous monitoring of weather, crop growth, plant physical/chemical variables, and other important environmental factors allow the optimization of yield production, reduction of labor, and improvement of farming products (See figure 1)<sup>[2]</sup>. Practices such as irrigation management, resource management, production, or fertilization operations are being facilitated by the integration of IoT systems that are capable to provide information about multiple crop factors (see Fig. 1). In this way, while quality and quantity of production are boosted, the negative aspects of unsustainable and costly agriculture practices are also prevented with advanced interconnected actuators and sensors.</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 788px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI1MDM2MDE5NTE1LUlNQUdFIDEtMDEuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false"><strong>Figure 1</strong> Cluster of sensors in a typical crop field.</span></span></span></p><h2>Why Smart Agriculture?</h2><p>In this relatively new field, the major focus is crop optimization through higher productivity and major control over environmental variations. SA provides a convenient way to integrate farming management by having in-hand mobile devices that receive data collected from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), satellites, or wireless sensors that operate directly at the plant level and are connected for example to cloud-based systems. In general, SA can potentially:</p><ul><li>Reduce water consumption,</li><li>Implement a better plant nursing process with optimized nutrient levels,</li><li>Decrease risk of yield loss,</li><li>Assurance of higher revenue,</li><li>Better yield quality,</li><li>Decrease overall production of waste,</li><li>Simplification of labour,</li><li>Enhance environmental protection.</li></ul><h2 id="isPasted">Fundamentals</h2><p>Usually, in SA-IoT ecosystems, the exchange of information occurs in web-based systems that operate at a rapid speed (see Figure 2). For example, ML integrated with multi-scale AI models is used to analyze weather dynamics to <em>predict crop behavior</em> <sup>[3]</sup>. Signals collected by multifunctional sensors are sent to a remote gateway for further analysis. Data is stored in cloud services that farmers can access away from the farming fields. Cloud analytics help the farmer to configure farming daily duties, responding faster to ever-changing and unpredictable environmental patterns and therefore, allowing better decision making.</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 788px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"></span></span></p><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI1MDM2MTY0NDcwLUlNQUdFIDItMDEuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true"><strong id="isPasted">Figure 2</strong> Ubiquitous network in real-time farming.</span></p><p></p><p>Figure 3 suggests a fundamental configuration of IoT ecosystems that can be replicated for agricultural purposes. The set of elements representing the network makes use of sensors to collect data that is simultaneously captured via ML (see also Fig. 1) and actuators to obtain predictive information. In the physical layer, sensors interact with the environment while humans access data via mobile devices. In the network layer, 4G or 5G technology is used to transmit the data to cloud services. In the cloud section, tensor processing units (TPU) allow speeding computational analysis through the integration of AI, ML, and analytical libraries <sup>[4]</sup>. Such IoT systems can aid farmers to work remotely by making crop and animal management an automated process with reduced direct human intervention.</p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 788px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI1MDM2NDYzMTE2LUlNQUdFIDMtMDEuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true"><span contenteditable="true" id="isPasted"><strong>Figure 3</strong> IoT cloud-based farming.</span></span></p></span></span><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>From small farming to urban gardening</strong></h2><p>The IoT can provide solutions for small farmers ranging from resource management to climate adaptability. However, urban gardeners or small producers are also benefiting from innovations brought through the evolution of IoT. Figure 4 shows a common low budget and high precision system <sup>[5]</sup> designed to improve irrigation in urban gardens. &nbsp;The system is rather simple, but it shows the potential easiness of building open-source solutions without major technical constraints in different setups where adaptation to environmental conditions is required. Basic electromagnetic sensors, power supply, a water pump, relays, and the irrigation system are hardware interconnected and managed via cloud-based monitoring. A control unit receives the data that is later accessed by the user via the internet.</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 788px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI1MDM3MDIwNDgyLUlNQUdFIDQtMDEtMDEuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false"><strong>Figure 4</strong> A Smart Agriculture system.</span></span></span></div></div></div><p id="isPasted">The functionality of the system remains linked to scripted algorithms. With threshold values such as atmospheric temperature or soil moisture, a microcontroller can be fed to fulfill a specific function, such as irrigation <sup>[5]</sup>. The system permits optimization of limited gardening spaces while providing control of resources to increase plant quality or production yield.</p><p><strong>Technology democratization can boost the competitiveness of small producers&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Despite the tremendous potential of SA, technical issues are just one aspect of the whole story. The deployment of high-tech solutions, that are less costly, accessible, reliable, and durable has not yet reached maximum potential. The limited internet coverage in rural areas, especially in emerging economies slows down the deployment of SA technologies. &nbsp;It is why the democratization of IICT including the internet is not a discussion of privilege. It is a crucial step to support the sustainable transformation of agriculture in which small farmers and rural communities can also benefit from technological development.</p><p>To increase the adaptation of IIoT solutions, several options exist. Offering open access to quality tech solutions presents a potential route to democratize technological advances <sup>[6]</sup>. The proliferation of mobile connectivity options (e.g. LoRa WAN) and smart technology can support opening such processes to small producers (inclusive from remote locations) who could directly improve their farming experience and access new consumer niches. In the meantime, helping them to connect with investors and other partners. Therefore, facilitating communication between farmers and allowing sharing e.g., IoT projects and best practices.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p id="isPasted">In sum, this article has covered some of the basic principles of Smart Agriculture, including a description of the structure of fundamental IoT systems and the functional basic principles. In this exploration, an idea about the opportunities that IICT technologies bring to small producers was highlighted. The concept of smart technologies to support the sustainable transition of agriculture was explored. With the implementation of IoT solutions, it was mentioned that small farmers and producers can potentially make better use of their resources with interconnected technologies that can be developed with the use of open-source alternatives. This article just scratches the surface of the ways IIoT can enable positive change in the agricultural sector.</p><p>This article is the second in a series about IIoT. Read the first article; an engineer's guide to IIoT <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/the-engineer-s-guide-to-industrial-iot-and-industry-4-0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;</p><h2 id="isPasted">About the sponsor: Arduino Pro</h2><p>Arduino Pro, aiming to offer adequate solutions for different size companies that are looking to easily evolve their application platforms with the IoT. With a variety of alternatives such as Arduino Edge Control, remote monitoring and control of farming activities can be better managed in a variety of rough environmental settings. With its easiness to adapt to solar-based power supply, the Arduino Edge Control offers the power of AI with state-of-the-art connectivity modems. The Arduino Edge Control, as well as other devices, can be managed via the <a href="https://www.arduino.cc/pro/arduino-iot-cloud" target="_blank">Arduino IoT Cloud</a>. &nbsp;</p><p>Open source is trustworthy. Farmers can leverage ideas and support from a community of over 30 million users to begin to integrate Arduino components into their smart agriculture solutions. The range of connectivity options available to suit the local conditions along with the ability to process AI on the edge, thereby reducing the frequency and size of data transmitted to the Cloud, makes the Arduino Pro range particularly suited to SA. &nbsp;</p><p>The design team at Arduino Pro understands the need to move forward in industrial sectors with the commitment to gain major sustainability. For Smart Agriculture, the company offers a set of reliable, manageable, and cost-effective solutions. The evaluation of remote sensor-collected data can be done with Arduino Pro with the advantages that remote monitoring offers. Sensing weather data, soil conditions, and plant health can be improved with the new Arduino Pro solutions. With the Arduino Edge Control, the company aims to reduce effort, improve efficiency and sustainability with the automation of farming processes.</p><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjI1MDM2NzI5ODQ3LWFyZHVpbm8gcHJvIGxvZ28gYXJ0aWNlbCBib3R0b20gYmFubmVyLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><h2>References</h2><ol><li>Goel, R. K., Yadav, C. S., Vishnoi, S., &amp; Rastogi, R. (2021). Smart agriculture – Urgent need of the day in developing countries. <em>Sustainable Computing: Informatics and Systems</em>, <em>30</em>(January), 100512. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.suscom.2021.100512" target="_blank">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.suscom.2021.100512</a></li><li>Cicioğlu, M., &amp; Çalhan, A. (2021). Smart agriculture with internet of things in cornfields. <em>Computers and Electrical Engineering</em>, <em>90</em>(January). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compeleceng.2021.106982</li><li>Kiran, S., Sandeep Kanumalli, S., Venkata Sesha Sai Rama Krishna, K., &amp; Chandra, N. (2021). Internet of things integrated smart agriculture for weather predictions and preventive mechanism. <em>Materials Today: Proceedings</em>, <em>xxxx</em>. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matpr.2020.11.081</li><li>Idoje, G., Dagiuklas, T., &amp; Iqbal, M. (2021). Survey for smart farming technologies: Challenges and issues. <em>Computers and Electrical Engineering</em>, <em>92</em>(April), 107104. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compeleceng.2021.107104</li><li>Podder, A. K., Bukhari, A. Al, Islam, S., Mia, S., Mohammed, M. A., Kumar, N. M., Cengiz, K., &amp; Abdulkareem, K. H. (2021). IoT based smart agrotech system for verification of Urban farming parameters. <em>Microprocessors and Microsystems</em>, <em>82</em>(January), 104025. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.micpro.2021.104025</li><li>Goap, A., Sharma, D., Shukla, A. K., &amp; Rama Krishna, C. (2018). An IoT based smart irrigation management system using Machine learning and open source technologies. <em>Computers and Electronics in Agriculture</em>, <em>155</em>(May), 41–49. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compag.2018.09.040</li></ol>

A short guide to the technologies behind the next agricultural revolution.

Enabling the sustainable transformation of agriculture with the Internet of Things

<p>Dig below the hype and you’ll discover there are real benefits to mesh networking.</p><p>Some people in the industry view mesh networking as the next ‘shiny object’, nothing more than another excuse to raise prices. But mesh does deliver significant benefits over star or peer-to-peer networks and looks set to make a real impact on the industrial IoT and in the smart home in the years to come.</p><p>The reason is simple: mesh networks solve a specific problem. A conventional wireless router offers limited coverage if you can’t hardwire additional access points to it, which drives up complexity and expense in large spaces such an office building. On the other hand, mesh networks bring wireless connectivity to such a space far more simply than ever before.</p><h2>The benefits of going mesh</h2><p>While traditional networks use a small number of wired access points to connect users, a wireless mesh network is spread out among many nodes that connect with one another to share the network connection across a much larger area.</p><p>Mesh networking treats each base station as a node that exchanges information continuously about network conditions with all adjacent nodes across the entire set. This allows nodes that aren’t sending and receiving data to each other to still know all about each other. This knowledge might reside in a cloud-based backend or in firmware on each router.</p><p>Mesh networks don’t retransmit all the data passing through among a set of base stations. The systems on the market dynamically adjust radio attributes and channels to create the least possible interference and the greatest possible coverage area, which results in a high level of throughput.</p><h2>Proprietary protocols and latency</h2><p>Better efficiency comes with a price. Wi-Fi is standardized, but no two mesh systems currently on the market work with each other. Every major router manufacturer and some emerging tech startups offer mesh networking equipment, so right now there is a very difficult choice to make.</p><p>The latency, or the time it takes a message to get from a specific node to the gateway, can impact the design and management of your network. Latency becomes more of an issue in smaller, low-power networks because of the lack of processing capacity, so this is something to consider when designing your network.</p><p>Finally, because each node in a mesh must act as an endpoint and a router, it must draw more power to operate. Thus, if you have battery-powered, low-power nodes, a mesh may be difficult to deploy without a lot of network planning.</p><h2>Different flavors of mesh</h2><p>Bluetooth mesh is optimized for creating large-scale device networks and is ideally suited for building automation, sensor network and asset tracking solutions. Only Bluetooth mesh networking brings the proven, global interoperability and mature, trusted ecosystem associated with Bluetooth technology to the creation of industrial-grade device networks.</p><p>ZigBee is a wireless technology developed as an open global standard, which can be deployed in both star and mesh topologies. It takes full advantage of the IEEE 802.15.4 physical radio specification. If the sensor density is not sufficient, low-cost repeaters can fill in the mesh to provide more connections for the network. While there are many benefits to the use of ZigBee, there are concerns that have prevented a wider adoption including system cost, security, reliability, battery life and sensor management.</p><p>Z-Wave is another efficient, low-cost solution for device connectivity and management, geared primarily towards the smart home. A Z-Wave smart hub is required to function as the action point. From here, up to 4 “hops” between devices are supported in a mesh-like network.</p><p>Thread is another IEEE 802.15.4 based mesh standard primarily aimed at smart home applications. It is IPv6 based, and has a strong focus on security and reliability, with a system in place for healing the network if the leader node drops out of the network.</p><h2>Potential applications</h2><p><strong>The smart home</strong><strong>:&nbsp;</strong>A mesh-enabled smart home allows devices to be placed in their optimum location for usability, not just where the best signal is. There are challenges with the likely piecemeal approach to building a home mesh network, such as interoperability, but the future smart home will likely use mesh.</p><p>An exiting new ecosystem for the smart home is the Connected Home over IP project (CHIP), which has backing from many large tech companies such as Amazon, Apple and Google. Originally released in early 2020, the standard aims to be open and royalty-free, while using IP to better integrate with existing IP based networking equipment.</p><p>The project is managed as a working group in the Zigbee alliance but is intended to be transport agnostic so it can run over any transport layer that supports IP, such as Thread, Bluetooth or WiFi.</p><p><strong>Smart cities</strong>: From intelligent public transit to more informed emergency services, the potential applications of mesh networking in the modern city are almost limitless. Within office buildings, mesh promises easier maintenance, asset tracking, and many other benefits.</p><p><strong>Developing countries</strong>: For a country without an existing wired infrastructure, a wireless mesh network is a common-sense approach to connectivity. Solar-powered nodes could connect to a satellite internet connection to keep entire communities connected.</p><p><strong>Education</strong>: Remove the need to wire up old buildings and offer connectivity to researchers, teachers and students wherever they are on campus.</p><hr><p>This article was first published on Nordic's&nbsp;<a href="https://blog.nordicsemi.com/getconnected" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"></a><a href="https://blog.nordicsemi.com/getconnected?utm_campaign=2021%20wevolver" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get Connected Blog</a>. </p>

While traditional networks use a small number of wired access points to connect users, a wireless mesh network is spread out among many nodes that connect with one another to share the network connection across a much larger area.

Mesh networks explained

<p>The recent rapid rise in 3D scanning technologies has made laser scanners an increasingly essential tool for manufacturing facilities moving towards Industrie 4.0. By adopting 3D scanners for automating quality control, manufacturers can save time, resources, and open space for innovation through continual improvement.&nbsp;</p><h1 dir="ltr">Quality control with 3D scanning&nbsp;</h1><p dir="ltr">3D laser scanning technologies are increasingly used for quality control operations within industrial settings. 3D scanners and software accuracy capture the geometry of small and large objects to construct a 3D digital replication. Manufacturers use 3D point clouds and meshes to speed up their quality control processes, as machines outperform humans when comparing datasets that accurately measure the sizes of castings or for quick quality checks of manufactured end products. As such, 3D scanners make metrology tools obsolete and leave more time for manufacturers to devote to other tasks.</p><p dir="ltr">Let’s have a quick look at the two main types of scanners used in industrial settings: handheld and fixed scanners.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Handheld scanners</h3><p dir="ltr">The term “handheld scanners” is self-explanatory, as the scanners are handheld. Being lightweight and small, handheld scanners offer portability and speed, enabling capturing of objects in 3D through continuous scanning, without the need for a rotating platform to move the scanned object so that it can be captured from all angles: being handheld and with no cables or wires attached to it, the user is free to move the scanner around the object.</p><p dir="ltr">With regards to quality control in industrial settings, handheld scanners help ensure that castings meet expected values. For example, a 3D scanner is able to capture a casting digitally and compare it to the original CAD files: <a href="about%3Ablank" target="_blank">precision casting</a> is an advanced process in machinery manufacturing where ferrous and nonferrous metal parts are produced with the aid of 3D laser scanning. The same process can be applied for tooling, where the scanner helps to ensure that the shape of the forms that are used for tooling is still accurate after substantial usage.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Fixed Scanners</h3><p dir="ltr">Stationary or fixed 3D scanners are mounted to a robotic arm or tripod and therefore offer less flexibility and portability compared to a handheld scanner. For small objects, an optional rotary table facilitates the scanning process so that the scanner can capture a scan until the entire object is scanned at various angles. Scanners require processing software to create 3D representations of the scanned objects. The software processes the data and merges the scans together during the scanning process or after collecting all scans. In that case, individual scans are stitched together at a later moment to a single, digital 3D model.</p><p dir="ltr">Manufacturers use automated 3D scanners in either a pre-programmed or without a pre-programmed mode. Scanning with a pre-programmed mode is useful for capturing many similar objects, whereas automated scanning without a pre-programmed mode is to be preferred for objects that differ in size and shape.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">3D Scanning and Industrie 4.O</h2><h3 dir="ltr">Why 3D scanning is important for Digital Twinning and Industrie 4.0</h3><p dir="ltr">This capacity of laser scanners to accurately replicate objects in 3D makes them important for the creation of digital twins. A digital twin combines a real-life object, a digital copy of that object, and a connection between the two so that changes in the real-world object are translated to its digital representation and is always up-to-date. Bringing in Artificial Intelligence, the next step is the creation of a self-managing data capture and maintenance process so that a digital twin is able to manage itself.</p><p dir="ltr">As an example of this, laser scanners could play a significant role in the realization of Industrie 4.0, or the fourth industrial revolution, where the manufacturing process is controlled by Artificial Intelligence and machines that are able to make decisions based on continuous data capture by multiple devices that communicate with other.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Recent advances in sensor technology mean that all aspects of a factory can be under real-time continuous monitoring, generating an enormous amount of data. Advanced analytics provide the potential to convert these large datasets into actionable insights in real-time. Laser scanners could fulfill the need of capturing such data sets, which can be brought into data pipelines and analyzed along with other relevant datasets.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable fr-active" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cYasz_sbyjg?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" style="width: 745px; height: 464px;"></iframe></span><br></p><h3 dir="ltr">Challenges and opportunities of 3D scanning in manufacturing</h3><p dir="ltr">In an ideal world, the availability of relevant data and the systems to analyze would make makes automation of some or all of the production process within a manufacturing facility possible, offering control to operations of all sizes to understand its functions to a granular level without additional management or complex quality control.</p><p dir="ltr">However, we’re not there yet. To start off with laser scanning technology, laser scanners still need to be operated by humans in some way. The latest breakthrough in scanning operations is remotely operated scanning, which is a step in the right direction as a scanner can be operated without a human being physically near a scanner, but this is still far removed from laser scanners being self-operating.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">The same goes for processing, visualizing, and interpreting scanning data. Humans need to supervise the data capture, processing, and visualization process before they can take action. A further complication for managing a manufacturing process in real-time is that it takes a considerable amount of time to process data after capture, as scanning datasets are large and therefore take time to process. For data interpretation and decision-making based on data interpretation, human interaction is also still necessary.</p><p dir="ltr">3D scanners are already successfully used in many manufacturing processes as they can very accurately duplicate physical objects and simulate how devices have performed over time. This makes laser scanners useful for capturing data that is used for predicting future performance and possible failure. As such, they are great test cases for other industry verticals that want to explore the opportunities of digital twins and prototyping digital twins before building any physical version.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h2><p dir="ltr">3D laser scanning technologies are being used more and more for quality control operations within industrial settings. These can be handheld or fixed, desktop scanners that offer various degrees of flexibility. Additionally, because laser scanners can replicate physical objects in high detail, they can be used as data capture devices that fuel AI-based predictions, paving the way for the realization of Industrie 4.0.&nbsp;</p><h3 dir="ltr">References and further reading</h3><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.manufacturing.net/industry40/article/13227099/the-future-of-3d-scanning-and-its-impact-on-industrial-quality-control" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.manufacturing.net/industry40/article/13227099/the-future-of-3d-scanning-and-its-impact-on-industrial-quality-control</a></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.manufacturing.net/industry40/article/13227099/the-future-of-3d-scanning-and-its-impact-on-industrial-quality-control" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://gomeasure3d.com/blog/stationary-or-handheld-3d-scanner/&nbsp;</a></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.manufacturing.net/industry40/article/13227099/the-future-of-3d-scanning-and-its-impact-on-industrial-quality-control" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.networkworld.com/article/3219847/seeing-double-why-iot-digital-twins-will-change-the-face-of-manufacturing.html </a></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.manufacturing.net/industry40/article/13227099/the-future-of-3d-scanning-and-its-impact-on-industrial-quality-control" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.single-pair-ethernet.com/sites/default/files/2021-02/202012spe-wp-usecasesv10en.pdf</a></p>

3D scanners are becoming invaluable tools for quality control operations within industrial settings

The Importance of 3D Scanning in Quality Control Operations and Manufacturing

<p>When Ben Calhoun and Dave Wentzloff co-founded Everactive in 2012, analysts and tech companies were forecasting a massive increase in the number of internet-connected devices, collectively referred to as the internet of things (IoT). IBM, for example, predicted a staggering 1 trillion IoT-connected devices by 2015.</p><p>But Calhoun and Wentzloff knew better. The pair, who’d met as graduate students researching ultra-low-power circuits in Anantha Chandrakasan’s research group at MIT, recognized that 1 trillion devices meant the near-impossible task of managing 1 trillion batteries to sustain all of the sensors needed to continuously collect, analyze, and send data.</p><p>“Ben and I recognized that there was no way those IoT projections could happen if all of the devices had to run on batteries,” says Wentzloff. “We started Everactive with the collective vision of ridding the IoT world of batteries while ushering in the next era of self-powered computing systems.”</p><p>Within an industrial environment like a manufacturing plant, there are often thousands of assets that require careful attention to ensure efficient operation. An effective real-time monitoring solution must continuously stream data from each of these points to keep information flowing in a timely fashion so that stakeholders can react quickly to any issues that might interrupt operation, damage equipment, or cause safety risks and environmental harm.</p><p>But this is tough to do at scale. Existing solutions that rely on wired sensing are cost-prohibitive to deploy at all of the locations necessary to make them useful. The same is true for battery-powered solutions, especially considering our collective struggle with short battery life.</p><p>“We’ve had customers in the industrial manufacturing context say they currently have a maintenance problem, but if they employ battery-powered solutions they’re just replacing their existing maintenance problem with a different maintenance problem of constantly replacing batteries across thousands of devices,” says Calhoun.</p><p>Now imagine that issue spread across a world where we have 1 trillion IoT devices. Even if we do get to a point where we have an IoT battery with a 10-year lifespan (the current industry goal), we’d be looking at changing more than 270 million batteries every day.</p><p>In addition to battery limitations, the scaling issues are compounded by existing wireless networking technology. To effectively address the needs of a manufacturing plant — let alone a 1 trillion-node world — we need extremely high-density sensor networks to communicate at relatively long range throughout environments that are notoriously inhospitable to wireless signals.</p><p>Everactive’s innovation solves both of these problems, simultaneously getting rid of the battery and reinventing low-power wireless networking with its differentiating technology: ultra-low-power integrated circuits.</p><p>Yes, the same technology Calhoun and Wentzloff researched as graduate students at the Institute. The same field they continued to work on as professors at their undergraduate alma maters, the University of Virginia and the University of Michigan, respectively. In fact, after completing their doctorates at MIT — Calhoun in 2006 and Wentzloff in 2007 — they maintained close ties and eventually began to cooperate across those university boundaries.</p><p>Calhoun's research group focused on low-power digital systems, and Wentzloff’s group explored low-power communication. "Our specific areas of interest dovetail quite nicely to form complete solutions, so our groups started to collaborate — it became a very close connection,” explains Wentzloff.</p><p>When the two technical co-founders looked to expand their startup, they tapped a collection of their newly minted PhD students who had the expertise of developing wireless system-on-chip technologies in the lab. Today, Everactive has expanded into a team of nearly 90 industry veterans and technical experts, including talented minds like Alice Wang, who joined up with Calhoun and Wentzloff in 2018 after successful stints with industry giants Texas Instruments and MediaTek. Another MIT alum, she now serves as VP of hardware for Everactive, directing both silicon and hardware systems design.</p><p>“We’re exceptionally proud of the team that we’ve developed,” says Wentzloff. “I think a large part of why we continue to succeed is that we’ve done a great job of surrounding our core technology students with a broad set of talented industry leaders.”&nbsp;</p><p>Thanks to their advances in ultra-low-power circuits and wireless communication, Everactive sells full-stack industrial IoT solutions powered by their always-on Eversensors, harvesting energy exclusively from the surrounding environment. The sensors can be deployed at a larger scale than battery-powered devices, and they cost less to operate. At the other end of their system, the Evercloud transforms new data into high-value, actionable insights.</p><p>Their first product is a steam trap monitor. In a small factory, there might be hundreds of these mechanisms, while large oil and chemical refineries are often home to thousands of them.</p><p>Steam may be an old technology, but it’s ubiquitous from an energy standpoint. We still use it in our power plants to generate electricity and it’s a common source of heat for our homes and buildings.</p><p>“Steam is a great way to move energy around a large area, which is why it’s still used across so many application verticals and marketing segments,” explains Calhoun. In a steam distribution network, as energy is extracted from the steam it turns back into water. Steam traps function as valves that allow the condensed water to exit the system while keeping the steam inside.</p><p>Their failure can lead to wasted energy, costly downtime if the process has to be taken offline, or even dangerous explosions. And monitoring thousands of steam traps for malfunctions is not that simple. “Some steam traps are buried in the ground, and some of them are located two or three stories up,” says Wentzloff. “It can be difficult to reach them. Hence, the manual inspection problem.”</p><p>But Everactive’s solution can be deployed on every single steam trap in a steam distribution network for real-time assessment of the state of the system. This is why top industry players like Armstrong International, the second-largest steam trap manufacturer globally, has chosen to partner with them. “Armstrong was so impressed with what we have to offer that we’re now working together to bring Everactive's monitoring services to market, in conjunction with Armstrong's excellent steam traps,” says Calhoun.</p><p>Successful case studies abound, which is a key factor in their being named to MIT STEX25. Just last year they deployed their sensors in an industrial facility with 1,200 steam traps. They saved that customer close to $2.5 million in energy costs and around 34,000 metric tons of CO<sub>2</sub>, “which is equivalent to about 7,000 passenger cars per year being taken off the road,” says Wentzloff. They also averted the loss of 60 million gallons of wastewater that would otherwise be leaking through failed traps.</p><p>But the industrial space isn’t the beginning and the end for Everactive. Consumer electronics, particularly wearables, is often talked about when discussing the IoT, and it’s very much on Everactive's radar. Logistics is another area they are exploring. By adding localization technology to their next generation of sensors, Everactive could help provide the ability to track assets anywhere across the globe. “There's an unbounded list of industries and applications where we can apply this technology. We're really excited about what's coming ahead,” says Wentzloff.</p><p>In the face of the coronavirus pandemic, businesses are reevaluating how they operate and how they will function going forward. With workforces reduced, especially in factory settings where Everactive’s clients are building products essential to the economy, it has become even more important to understand what’s going on in places that aren’t easily accessible.</p><p>Intent on filling that need, Everactive expects to play an essential role in driving self-powered solutions to make ubiquitous remote monitoring possible. “At Everactive, we believe in a future where all of our environments and assets are monitored and smart, capable of providing information to computing systems to make our world more efficient, safer, and just better for the way we live,” says Calhoun. “We want to be a part of that, and we think our batteryless solution is the right path forward.”</p>

Benton Calhoun SM '02 PhD '06 and David Wentzloff SM '02 PhD '07 are co-founders of Everactive, which uses wireless sensing to provide continuous remote monitoring for the industrial internet of things.

The future of the IoT (batteries not required)

A deep dive into the most important network topologies. What are Mesh, Star, Bus, Ring, and Hybrid Topologies?

Types of Network Topology in Computer Networks

<p dir="ltr">There are few challenges as pressing and all-encompassing right now as the move towards decarbonization. The manufacturing industry accounts for 19% of direct global carbon emissions with "manufacturing adjacent" activities such as the consumer use of powered and manufactured goods, including electronics and vehicles accounting for much more. The Paris Climate Agreement of 2015 was a watershed moment in the drive towards a greener future, with virtually every country in the world pledging to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. Since then, governments around the globe have actively committed to decarbonization as part of their wider industrial strategies.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">The UK government recently published its <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/970229/Industrial_Decarbonisation_Strategy_March_2021.pdf" target="_blank">industrial decarbonization strategy</a> which sets out how the industry can decarbonize in line with a net-zero agenda, while also remaining competitive. The European Union has also introduced its <a href="https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?qid=1596443911913&uri=CELEX:52019DC0640#document2" target="_blank">European Green Deal</a>, which aims to make the union carbon-neutral by 2050. &nbsp;Manufacturing has an impact on the environment not just in terms of the processes involved, energy, and materials, but also the carbon footprint of <a href="https://www.open.edu/openlearn/money-business/leadership-management/supply-chain-sustainability/content-section-2.2" target="_blank">transportation</a> of end products. Of course, no company wants to be a negative contributor to the environment but being able to curb their impact can be far easier said than done.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Manufacturing processes are often long-established and dependent on tried-and-tested methods. The financial cost of change can be high if it involves things such as repurposing entire factories. Also, while the manufacturing sector may be expected to cut back on its carbon output, there is no sign of a drop in demand for its products, necessitating a requirement on the industry to somehow ‘do more with less, or at least ‘do more but different’.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Manufacturing is already contributing to the shift towards a greener globe through the production of lower emission products but the core change is occurring within the deep structural systems of request for quote and commissioning. This article examines how cloud manufacturing has a measurable impact on the decarbonization of the industry.&nbsp;</p><h1 dir="ltr">Understanding the challenge</h1><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/what.is.cloud.manufacturing.and.who.can.benefit.from.it" target="_blank">Cloud manufacturing</a>, also referred to as CMfg or CM, transforms manufacturing resources and capabilities into manufacturing services based on a cloud platform. As manufacturing becomes more complex and integrated, cloud manufacturing offers a robust supply chain based on intelligent decision-making and accurate resource management. The move to this cloud-based data-driven system has immediate benefits for sustainability including :</p><ul><li dir="ltr">Reduced physical waste due to tight resource management and evolved procurement process.</li><li dir="ltr">The ability to leverage local manufacturing capabilities that were previously sought from Asia.&nbsp;</li><li dir="ltr">Increased options for low-risk innovation such as alternative material choice.</li><li dir="ltr">Shortened time to market.</li></ul><h2 dir="ltr">Cloud releases industry from wasteful procurement processes</h2><p dir="ltr">Just as the cloud revolutionized the software industry, the same technology is enabling manufacturers to reap similar benefits with physical component parts. Traditionally the power within the procurement process was locked up in suppliers who supplied quotes for each job based on an inaccurate estimation of time and cost. This power came with the weight of a heavy administrative load and an inability to innovate due to risk. A cloud-based platform can create a conglomerate of specialized service providers whose availability and resources are pooled and analyzed - then offered to customers with flexibility and price transparency.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Utilizing cloud technology frees both sides from having to engage in the bloated request for quote process delivering two new ways to procure material services. First, the <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/hourly-model-manufacturing-succeeds-the-request-for-quote-process" target="_blank">hourly model</a>, which harnesses AI-based software via a cloud-based platform to analyze a buyer’s manufacturing request. It then assigns the best provider to deliver the service. An hourly rate is then negotiated based on things like the type of process, its complexity, and the anticipated future demand, and the part is manufactured and delivered by one or more manufacturers from the network. Similarly, the <a href="https://www.trumpf.com/en_INT/presse/global-press-releases/press-release-detail-page/release/pay-per-part-trumpf-and-munich-re-plan-new-business-model-for-the-manufacturing-industry/" target="_blank">pay per part model</a> enables service providers to offer a fixed price per piece. Along with the huge cost-saving benefits, the potential environmental benefits of these offerings are clear.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Much the same way as the cloud means companies no longer need long licenses for software they do not use, or to pay for massive storage centers and IT departments which they may only need to utilize now and again, they can now select the specific manufacturing solutions they need, when they need them, via an open and transparent method. It is this ability that is key because the cloud platform analyzes and calculates process times for manufacturing services. By doing so, allows companies to understand the time and cost involved in the process at a granular level.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">This close control on materials and costs reduces waste and offers insight into further savings both financially and environmentally by way of a physical product, excessive transport, and energy spent on over-production. Additionally, this 360-degree view into a product’s lifecycle can be shared with investors and customers who are increasingly demanding to know the footprint of a product from ideation to delivery.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">Agile innovation essential to product evolution</h2><p dir="ltr">As described above utilizing a cloud-based platform for the procurement of manufacturing supplies enables highly accurate pricing. This in turn gives product makers the ability to innovate, experiment, and ultimately pivot with a new level of agility. Imagine a product maker who has been using aluminum, who can then prototype in carbon fibre with zero investment and a clear understanding of the exact costs. This ability to innovate compresses design cycles and speeds up a time to market, inevitably with fewer design iterations (meaning less waste) and without excessive manufacturing investment. This is an increasingly essential ability as manufacturing steps towards Industry 4.0 and Made-to-Order (MTO), Configure-to-Order (CTO), and Engineering to Order (ETO) models.&nbsp;</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 788px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1621331312338-carlos-aranda-QMjCzOGeglA-unsplash.jpg" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Unpainted cars are suspended in a manufacturing row."><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false">Image: Manufacturing will become more agile enabling highly customizable products.&nbsp;</span></span></span><h2 class="fr-img-space-wrap2">Data-driven makers and data-driven buyers.</h2></div><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.digitalnewsreport.org/survey/2020/how-people-access-news-about-climate-change/" target="_blank">A study</a> by the Reuters Institute revealed that climate change is something that matters to most people. The research found that on average, 69% of those that responded said that they thought climate change was an extremely or very serious problem. This concern for the environment extends into how individual companies are viewed too, with transparency being of considerable concern to the public. The same goes for employees, with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reutersevents.com/sustainability/employees-want-climate-positive-action-companies-heres-how-they-can-deliver#:~:text=We%20found%20that%20workers%20don,company%20with%20strong%20environmental%20policies." target="_blank">another survey</a> finding that 60% of staff said they were more likely to work for a company with strong environmental policies.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">Kreatize offers a sustainable path to cloud manufacturing in Europe.&nbsp;</h2><p dir="ltr">German-based <a href="https://kreatize.com/" target="_blank">Kreatize</a> has built a cloud-based platform that enables both manufacturing process outfits and product makers to increase sustainability through a transparent and accurate system of procurement. Kreatize makes it easy for innovative hardware companies to access the tools&nbsp;to evaluate and measure the potential of new products during the development process. For fabrication suppliers, the platform enables low-risk methods to offer their services and increase their ability to respond to fast-changing technology and markets.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Summary</h2><p dir="ltr">The environmental clock is ticking and manufacturing has the potential to lead a global trend towards decarbonization through the embrace of data-driven resource management and fostering systems that reduce the risk of innovation. &nbsp;</p>

Manufacturing will be led into a greener future through the game-changing ability of cloud-based procurement and collaboration tools.

Cloud manufacturing moves industry towards a decarbonized future

An overview of the architecture of IIoT and how it is developing to drive the scalability of Industry 4.0.

The engineer's guide to Industrial IoT and Industry 4.0

<p>Single processor solutions will inevitably have to trade-off the processor's computational power against its efficiency. When that trade-off becomes too great, developers look towards dual-core solutions.</p><p>Tomorrow’s commercial products will demand connectivity solutions to support advanced, highly-complex applications while also reducing time-to-market and development risk.</p><h2>Two cores better than one</h2><p>In a dual-core wireless SoC, one powerful processor with a high clock rate can be dedicated to the computational heavy lifting (and then switched off to save power until it is next needed). The other, a power-optimized processor with a slower clock, can be dedicated to wireless networking.</p><p>Better yet, each core can also run its own software, preventing clashes between application code and RF protocol and allowing optimized algorithms for their destined processor. To make things even more battery-friendly, each processor can benefit from its own power management system.</p><p>Moreover, the application code can run continuously without interruptions from the radio. Or the other way around, the radio can run without being interrupted by the application code. Such a configuration is useful in mesh (for example, lighting) and mission-critical motor control applications.</p><h2>An SoC for today … and tomorrow</h2><p><a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Low-power-short-range-wireless/nRF5340?utm_campaign=2021%20wevolver" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nordic’s nRF5340</a> is the world’s first wireless SoC to integrate two user-accessible Arm Cortex-M33 processor cores. The application processor is optimized for performance and can run at either 128 (for 514 CoreMark performance) or 64 MHz, and the network processor is optimized for efficiency (101 CoreMark/mA at 64 MHz).</p><p>The nRF5340’ dual-core architecture has been cleverly divided into distinctly defined subsystems:</p><ul><li>An efficient and stable subsystem based on the network processor and used to supervise the RF protocol software (for example, a Bluetooth LE stack)</li><li>The application processor subsystem, with the powerful processor only needing to wake up when it’s time to run the complex application software and quickly returning to a low power sleep mode when the operation is complete.</li></ul><p>Separating the subsystems in this way frees up the developer to focus on innovative application software to differentiate their product from the competition, safe in the knowledge that the network subsystem will look after itself. However, Nordic gives customers full access to both cores and freedom to use each as they want. For example, a developer might want to select application software elements to run on the network processor, utilizing its higher efficiency.</p><p>A dual-core SoC eliminates the difficult trade-off between processing capability and power consumption associated with a single core. In the hands of the right developer, this extra capability will result in advanced and innovative applications.</p><h2>Module makers take advantage</h2><p>Nordic’s <a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Software-and-tools/3rd-Party/3rd-party-modules?utm_campaign=2021%20wevolver" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">design partner module makers</a> have been quick to take advantage of the nRF5340’s capabilities. Companies such as Abluetech, Fanstel, Laird, Raytac, Taiyo Yuden, and u-blox have already incorporated the nRF5340 to provide the core processing and wireless connectivity for their latest modules.</p><p>These companies offer a range of qualified and certified modules based on Nordic’s technology. In the case of the nRF5340, that means developers can immediately take advantage of dual-core technology for low-power advanced wireless designs without going through the complex and costly paperwork and testing associated with short-range radio regulatory approvals.</p><p>The nRF5340 SoC’s dual-core architecture further extends the advantages of Nordic’s proven nRF52 Series SoCs. These advantages include ultra-low power consumption, a high link budget and multi-protocol capabilities, including support for Bluetooth LE, Thread, Zigbee, IEEE 802.15.4, and NFC. And some nRF5340 modules, for example, Laird’s BL5340PA and Fanstel’s BT40X, can provide adjustable power boosts through an integrated <a href="https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Low-power-short-range-wireless/nRF21540?utm_campaign=2021%20wevolver" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">nRF21540</a> RF Front End Module (FEM), which is Nordic's power amplifier/low noise amplifier (PA/LNA) solution supporting high TX power applications.</p><h2>A win for developers</h2><p>The nRF5340 modules are targeted at wireless product designers requiring the highest possible performance and security without compromising on ultra-low power consumption. They enable demanding IoT applications in core target markets such as smart building, asset tracking, secure medical peripherals, telehealth, and industrial automation.</p><p>Geir Langeland, Nordic’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said these third-party products allow the module makers’ customers to design the next generation of advanced multi-protocol wireless solutions confidently.</p><p>Laird’s Jonathan Kaye, Senior Director – Product Management, said that the nRF5340’s dual-core Arm M33 architecture, excellent multi-protocol radio, and next-generation security capabilities combine to provide a state-of-the-art SoC for third-party developers. He added that the product will serve to enhance Nordic’s considerable reputation in short-range wireless solutions further.</p><hr><p>This article was first published on Nordic's&nbsp;<a href="https://blog.nordicsemi.com/getconnected" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"></a><a href="https://blog.nordicsemi.com/getconnected?utm_campaign=2021%20wevolver" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get Connected Blog</a>. </p>

Single processor solutions will inevitably have to trade-off the processor's computational power against its efficiency. When that trade-off becomes too great, developers look towards dual-core solutions.

IIoT

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