Big data is an important key element for Industry 4.0. Large-scale data collection and data analysis are seen as an essential prerequisite for improved planning and optimization of production processes. What big data is all about is explained below.
What is big data?
The term big data initially refers to the gigantic amounts of data that are generated within a very short period of time as part of modern production processes. Due to its enormous volume and the fact that it is a mix of structured, semi-structured and unstructured data, it cannot be handled using conventional data processing methods. This is where the second meaning of the term big data comes in: it also refers to the evaluation and analysis of data volumes, making them usable for the company.
What are the characteristics of big data?
The so-called “5 Vs” are often used to define and describe big data more precisely:
Volume (quantity): Extremely large volumes of data are generated every day as part of Big Data.
Variety: In the context of Big Data, data of different types is generated - from structured to semi-structured to completely unstructured data.
Velocity: Data is collected in real time and should also be processed in real time in order to react to changes and exploit optimization potential.
Veracity (truthfulness): For data to be usable for companies, it must be accurate. Only then are meaningful analyses possible.
Value: The data must have added value for the company, as this is the only way to derive meaningful conclusions from it.
What advantages does big data offer industrial companies?
Big data can support companies on various levels. Two examples:
Process optimization
With regard to production, data analysis can help to identify and improve inefficient processes. This makes it possible to increase production speed and quality, for example. At the same time, production costs can be lowered by reducing waste or optimizing energy consumption, for example.
Repair and maintenance
If systems are constantly collecting data, conclusions can be drawn about the condition of the respective system. As a result, deviations from the operating parameters, for example, can be detected and rectified immediately. Big data also makes it possible to plan maintenance work more accurately (predictive maintenance). This in turn reduces downtimes and prevents repair costs. At the same time, system availability and safety are increased.
How does the collection of big data work?
Big data in industry is closely linked to the Internet of Things (IoT). Systems and machines equipped with numerous sensors are constantly collecting and storing data about themselves and the production processes carried out. Data collection is usually automated and takes place in real time.
How is big data analyzed?
The huge volumes of data are analyzed in real time. This requires special, high-performance data analytics applications. Ideally, these also integrate suitable algorithms for machine learning. This enables machines and systems to independently derive conclusions from the data and make decisions based on them.