The industrial automation sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by wireless devices and artificial intelligence (AI). Wireless solutions are replacing traditional wired systems, offering more flexibility in challenging environments, and AI is accelerating optimization across various industrial processes. Recent reports highlight significant growth in wireless device shipments, and key players are investing heavily in AI-based industrial solutions. This article explores how wireless devices and AI are shaping the future of industrial automation, analyzing key trends, technologies, and players.
Growth of Wireless Devices in Industrial Automation
Wireless technologies are making waves in industrial automation. In 2023, global shipments of wireless devices for automation applications hit 10.7 million units, a 9% share of all new connected nodes. The adoption of wireless devices is projected to maintain steady growth, with an estimated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3%. By 2028, annual shipments are expected to reach 19.1 million, further expanding the installed base of 56.5 million devices.
Key Trends in Wireless Technologies
While wired systems still dominate industrial communication, wireless solutions are gaining traction in specific use cases. In areas where wired connections are impractical, such as hazardous locations or places with limited access, wireless technologies provide a flexible alternative. Factory automation is seeing the rapid integration of wireless devices to connect mobile industrial equipment and enable remote machine access for servicing. In process automation, wireless technologies are increasingly being used for non-critical applications like remote monitoring and optimization, alongside enhancing worker safety.
Leading Wireless Technologies in Industrial Automation
Wi-Fi is the most widely adopted wireless technology in industrial settings, largely due to its availability and compatibility with existing hardware. Key players in this space include Siemens, Cisco, and Belden. Following closely is WirelessHART, which has gained significant ground in process industries, particularly for remote monitoring applications. Emerson has become a leader in WirelessHART adoption, boasting an installed base of over 10 million wireless pressure transmitters.
Cellular solutions are also emerging as key players in data acquisition and backhaul communications for distributed automation systems. Providers like Cisco, Semtech, and HMS Networks are at the forefront of this technology shift, offering cellular IoT gateways and routers specifically designed for industrial use. Notably, devices using Wi-Fi, WirelessHART, and cellular connectivity now represent 70% of the installed base in 2023.
AI’s Impact on Industrial Automation
AI Integration in Industrial Automation
AI is quickly becoming a cornerstone in industrial automation, driving innovation and efficiency across multiple sectors. Collaborations between industrial automation firms and tech giants are deepening, with an increasing focus on AI-powered solutions. Notable examples include partnerships between ABB, Siemens, and Microsoft, focusing on generative AI to enhance digital solutions. Schneider Electric and Siemens are also collaborating with NVIDIA to further develop AI-based industrial automation technologies.
AI-Powered Applications in Industry
One area where AI is gaining significant traction is the use of industrial robots. In 2024, Rockwell Automation partnered with NVIDIA to scale AI deployment in mobile industrial robots, a trend that is expected to continue in the coming years. AI’s role in optimizing industrial processes is becoming more prominent, particularly in areas such as predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and process optimization. As more companies embrace AI, we can expect to see a significant impact on the efficiency and productivity of industrial systems.
The rapid integration of wireless devices and AI is fundamentally changing the landscape of industrial automation. Wireless technologies are enabling more flexible and cost-effective solutions in challenging environments, while AI is driving new levels of efficiency and optimization. As the sector continues to grow, partnerships between industrial and tech companies will remain crucial to the development of innovative solutions. The future of industrial automation will be increasingly wireless and AI-driven, creating vast opportunities for companies and industries to improve their processes and productivity.
Source: https://iottechnews.com/news/wireless-and-ai-transforming-industrial-automation/
