How measured values are turned into decisions

Intelligent sensor technology as the key to transparency

Sensors continuously record water levels and environmental data and form the basis for a digital flood early warning system. © Endress+Hauser

While Ethernet-APL ensures that data is transmitted reliably and without detours, a second question comes into focus: what information do the devices themselves actually provide and how accessible is it in everyday life? This is where IO-Link comes in and makes even simple sensors digitally usable without increasing the complexity of the system.

IO-Link transforms classic field devices into intelligent data sources. This means that it is no longer just a single measured value that is available, but additional information such as device statuses, diagnostics or parameters are supplied directly. At the same time, devices can be configured and adapted centrally without the need for on-site intervention. Replacing components is also much easier, as new devices are automatically recognized and provided with the correct settings. This "plug and produce" principle reduces downtimes and makes commissioning noticeably easier.

The benefits are particularly evident in applications with many measuring points, such as in the food or pharmaceutical industry. Where individual devices were previously viewed in isolation, a consistent picture of the entire process is now created. All relevant data is consistently available and can be evaluated in context. This not only makes troubleshooting easier, but also creates the basis for stable processes and targeted optimization during operation.

From data transfer to data use

Once data is available and universally accessible, the crucial question arises: what actually happens to it in the next step? After all, the mere transfer and visibility of information does not create any added value. Only when data is specifically evaluated, categorized and integrated into everyday working life does it become useful. This is where many approaches fail, because although data is available, it is not translated into specific applications.

Ethernet-APL enables the continuous, near-real-time transmission of process data directly from the field to higher-level systems and cloud applications. © Endress+Hauser

The measurement technology specialist Endress+- Hauser has therefore developed the digital ecosystem Netilion, which closes the gap between data acquisition and actual use. Information from a wide variety of sources is bundled there and made visible and usable in a standardized environment. It doesn't matter whether the data comes from Endress+Hauser devices or from third-party providers. What matters is that it is brought together, structured and put into an understandable context. This creates an understandable overall picture of the system from a large number of individual data points.

One major advantage is the easy accessibility. Information is available at all times via cloud-based applications, regardless of location. Employees can access devices or check statuses on site without having to rely on additional systems. This speeds up processes and reduces coordination efforts. At the same time, applications such as asset management or monitoring help to maintain an overview of systems and devices. Statuses become transparent, deviations are detected at an early stage and measures are planned in a more targeted manner. Instead of acting reactively, predictive operation becomes possible. Data can also be integrated into existing systems via standardized interfaces so that it has an impact beyond individual applications. In this way, they become part of higher-level processes and support maintenance or quality management, for example.

Data becomes the basis for decision-making

The potential of the intelligent use of data is particularly evident in specific applications. Against the backdrop of climate change, the risk of heavy rainfall and flooding is increasing noticeably, while at the same time the need for quick and well-founded decisions is growing. This is where the Netilion Flood Monitoring early warning system comes in, for example.

In the municipality of Lenzkirch in the Black Forest, various sensors continuously record water levels, precipitation and soil moisture. This locally collected data is not viewed in isolation, but is linked to weather forecasts and information on the nature of the terrain. On this basis, artificial intelligence analyzes the situation and creates a precise picture of the situation that makes possible developments visible at an early stage.

The decisive difference lies in the fact that a comprehensible context is created from many individual measured values. This not only provides those responsible in local authorities, fire departments or technical relief organizations with data, but also a reliable basis for decision-making. They can identify risks earlier, assess developments better and initiate targeted measures before critical situations escalate.

This example makes it clear what is important when it comes to digitalization: data alone is not enough. Only when it is brought together, interpreted and placed in a specific application context is real added value created. Individual measuring points thus become an overall picture that helps to understand complex relationships and act correctly.

Pirmin Lickert, Portfolio Manager Innovation & Digitalization at Endress+Hauser

Sensor+Test, Hall 1, Stand 313