Machine-to-Machine: Possible applications in industrial networks

Industry operators and plant designers are constantly seeking economic methods to improve plant output, maximize process efficiency and reduce system downtime. This is typically facilitated through industrial automation and control in an industrial network. The industrial network typically consists of a closed network of specialized controllers and sensors with the singular purpose of automation and process control. Machine-to-Machine (M2M) networking can potentially be integrated into the industrial network to expand on the benefits of industrial networking through the access and distribution of additional information. By networking the individual process controllers as well as other relevant sensors and machines a wealth of information can be generated to better model, control and manage the plant. A host of technologies are available to facilitate M2M based on the specific applications and system requirements, allowing both custom and standardized solutions. This report provides a brief overview of M2M in the context of general industry as well as its potential applications in industrial automation and process control.