MES meets IIoT for a fabric of the future

MES solutions (Manufacturing Execution System) have proven themselves in production optimization over decades. In the course of the requirements for the factory of the future, however, these autonomous systems are reaching their limits due to their monolithic and proprietary architecture. A modern MES can therefore play to its strengths ideally in combination with an IIoT platform. In this way, the advantages of all solutions are consolidated in one system and made easy to use.

The smart factory requires the networking of people, things and services. This creates more and more valuable data and business potential. Accordingly, the traditional automation pyramid with its various IT levels is gradually being replaced by more flexible IIoT platforms. However, MES solutions are not to be replaced, but integrated in a meaningful way. In this way, for example, new solutions can be created in the area of automation.

MES delivers core functions for the smart factory

A manufacturing execution system is usually a multi-layer overall system and is classically used in operational production management. It is connected to the production-related systems and enables, among other things, the control and monitoring of production processes in real time.

The MES takes over, for example, tasks such as data acquisition and processing (operating data, machine data, personnel data). Traceability and process interlocking for error detection and reduction are also among the classic capabilities. With these and other features, an MES solution delivers core functions for the smart factory. It can therefore be an important integral part of IIoT platforms.

MES and IIoT platform grow together

An IIoT platform is a multi-layered technology that relies on M2M communications, sensors and automation. These technologies are complemented by existing information systems and enriched with data analytics based on algorithms. This can result in automatic action derivations.

In an industrial IoT platform, software is integrated that makes it possible to map many different functions in one system. It brings together existing control systems on a single unit, networks production or planning, and is able to integrate third-party solutions through open programming interfaces.

An IIoT platform that covers all essential MES functionalities can take production management to a new level. Combining information from an MES with data available from other sources opens up entirely new possibilities for process optimization and automation. This is because the Manufacturing Execution System can not only collect data from the production process, but also provides the necessary context for interpretation. In combination with tools for real-time data analysis and further processing, the basis for machine learning and AI applications is created. The interaction of MES and IIoT thus successively results in new solutions that drive Industry 4.0.