Global Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) leader Wi-NEXT has announced a partnership with software giant IBM, in a move set to revolutionise traditional methods of statistical process control.
The partnership is expected to produce a combined solution which offers an advanced analytics platform be best suited to the fast-moving manufacturing sectors involving the creation of consumer goods and food.
Wi-NEXT’s IIoT hardware and IBM’s Predictive Quality and Maintenance (PMQ) software will come together in a single, combined offering, creating an ‘unrivalled’ IIoT tool. IBM’s PMQ-powered analytics help manufacturers meet the full operational potential, enhancing plant management through the use of sophisticated IIoT processes and data. The companies expect to sell the new platform through Wi-NEXT’s existing channels and IBM’s partners.
In an official press release, Armando Pereira, CEO of Wi-NEXT, said: “Small changes in productivity equal large gains for the bottom line, and this is even more true in industries with low margins and high competition, such as with fast moving consumer goods and food service where the investment to achieve even a one-percent productivity increase or cost savings is relevant. Thanks to this strategic collaboration with IBM, Wi-NEXT will now provide a wealth of new data analytics to identify inefficiencies and make operational actions we have never seen before and with a clear and simple-to-understand return on investment for our clients.”
IoT and Big Data equals smart manufacturing
According to the latest Industrial Internet Insight Report from Accenture, 42 percent of manufacturers rank Big Data as their highest priority. Because of this IBM and Wi-NEXT will offer a solution ideal for both in-cloud and on-premise operations.
Speaking exclusively to Internet of Business earlier today, Dave Sutton, product marketing manager at connected technology suppliers Schneider Electric, spoke positively about advances in manufacturing connectivity. He said: “Introducing IIoT solutions alongside existing applications, as opposed to a “rip & replace” approach will enable greater business control, and will drive the evolution towards a smart manufacturing enterprise that is more efficient, safer, and sustainable.”