Process Automation and Monitoring Systems Based on IIoT Using Private LoRaWAN Networks: A Case Study of ArcelorMittal Vega Facilities

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) is increasingly pervasive and ubiquitous in various areas. The industry is incorporating intelligence into its processes through the Industrial IoT (IIoT). However, availability and performance issues may limit IoT usage on the shop floor. Several IoT and IIoT initiatives can be applied on the factory floor to improve processes, also allowing the inclusion of less reliable equipment. Thus, there are several implementation approaches, wireless being the most used one due to its deployment flexibility and centered management. We analyze a real shop floor environment, identifying opportunities for using IIoT systems and equipment such as Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) technologies. Our results show the possibility of improving process automation and monitoring using simple IIoT devices in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) still far from Industry 4.0 level.