WIFI without tears in industry

The adoption of 'smart' tools is on the rise.

Whether the driver is more flexible manufacturing, improving efficiency or boosting productivity, digitalization of the workplace is becoming the norm. Smart factories rely on quality data, so an effective communications network is key to delivering fully digitalized and flexible production.

The transition to a wireless production environment represents a significant investment, so it is important to make sure that the new network is not only fit for purpose in the short term, but will also accommodate the longer term needs of the business. This may sound straightforward enough, but in practice it can be difficult to achieve.

Network problems

Unlike production equipment where maintenance can be planned, a wireless network can be working one minute and down the next – without warning and without any indication of how to fix it. Sometimes a network failure is made worse because it is unclear who should take responsibility for restoring the network. Is it the job of the Operations Manager or IT Manager to respond to such issues?

Wireless communication is a relatively new technology, so Operations Managers and Quality Teams - while highly experienced in mechanical means of production - do not always have the relevant skills to design and implement a wireless-based production network. As a result, the responsibility commonly devolves to the IT team who may understand the basic principles of wireless communication, but generally lack the specific knowledge required to apply it successfully in a manufacturing context. The same is true of external Wi-Fi suppliers: they understand how to assess a network, perform a WiFi survey and build a heat map, but lack the vital industrial expertise.

This can lead to real problems. If the chosen wireless technology is not fit for purpose, it will be inherently unreliable. So, instead of improving production, going wireless can lead to more issues than it was supposed to fix. Snagging issues can lead to delays - all of which adds cost.

How to overcome the big, bad Wi-Fi

What becomes clear is that the technology is not really the issue: it is the human factor that leads to difficulties, whether through lack of competence or confidence. By taking some sensible precautions, these common pitfalls can be avoided.

Plan ahead. Your wireless network represents a significant investment, so don’t just focus on what you want it to achieve today. What demands will be made of it in two, three, or five years’ time? For example, how will it deliver flexibility, capacity, speed or future compatibility? A clear definition of current and future requirements will help you make the right choices about technology and put the correct support in place. Build the team. You may require both internal and external expertise to deliver the best solution, so make sure you involve the right people and appoint a clear team leader. The initial expert audit will be key for the success of the overall project. Define who is responsible for delivery, and any necessary handover once the network becomes operational. Choose the right technology. Any supplier will tell you that they have the best technology on the market, but it really depends on what you want to do with it – so compare the options with your vision. In very simple terms, Bluetooth is best chosen when the application requires a quite simple point-to-point connection. WiFi is preferable for establishing accurate network and security management overall. Ultra Wide Band is the most reliable way to avoid disruption from any other wireless technology. RFID can be used to achieve automatic connection with another piece of equipment in close proximity. Define troubleshooting roles. Make sure that, if problems arise during normal operation, everyone knows in advance what to do and what is expected of them. Clear supplier agreements are essential for peace of mind. Also include any associated actions: we know of at least one company whose network simply stopped working one day because its wireless authentication certification had not been renewed.

In summary, wireless technology is a specialist area and it requires a unique combination of knowledge and skills to implement it effectively in a production environment. Manufacturing companies often don’t have the time or all of the expertise in house, so it is often vital to find an expert supplier who understands the technical aspects, but also appreciates the practical drivers of the modern manufacturing environment.

Discover our Service Solutions

At Desoutter Tools, our Service team can support at any stage. We are experts and can help you to set up your installation successfully (for example, providing initial audits, establishing what wireless technology would work best, or providing performance validation analysis). Our support services also include certification management and production of WiFi reports for customers who need to know in real time how their network is performing, enabling manufacturers to focus on boosting productivity and uptime.

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