Manufacturers are rapidly adopting the use of cobots, which are robots with direct physical interaction with a human user within a shared workspace. Cobots consist of a mechanical arm that can be programmed to perform tasks in a manufacturing facility, such as material handling, assembly, quality inspection and packaging, while working directly alongside humans. Their close coordination with humans requires a risk assessment to protect workers and equipment.
Internet of Things and Big Data
IoT (Inetrnet of Things) is defined as the network of devices that contain the hardware, software, firmware and actuators that allow the devices to connect, interact and freely exchange data and information. IoT is about connecting "things," such as objects and machines, to the internet and eventually to each other.
IoT collects data from physical objects and Big Data allows for more efficient and effective processing and storage of this data. The combination of IoT and big data makes the collection and analysis of data available to improve production.
Cloud manufacturing
he use of both internal and external cloud applications in manufacturing enables sharing and the circulation of resources and capabilities.
Cloud manufacturing can provide safe and reliable, high quality, inexpensive and on-demand manufacturing services for the whole lifecycle of manufacturing. Cloud manufacturing is a system where different manufacturing resources and abilities are connected and shared through a virtual network called a "manufacturing cloud”. This also includes the capabilities of intelligent management and on-demand use of services to provide solutions for all kinds of users involved in the manufacturing of a product.
Industry 4.0 is transforming manufacturing by making it more accurate, efficient and autonomous. Technology connects systems through hardware and software, provides information transparency, complements the human decision-making process, improves real-time decision making, and decentralizes decisions within technological systems so the frequency of human interference is reduced.
These pieces of Industry 4.0 all rely on the interconnection of machinery and production management systems, information across manufacturing processes and information throughout the manufacturing lifecycle.
When you think Industry 4.0, think cybersecurity
Across all of these aspects of Industry 4.0, communication among machines, sensors and people is the key to success — and they must be protected. Cybersecurity must be at the forefront of adopting and implementing these new technologies. Manufacturers of all sizes must pay attention to the potential risks and be ready to minimize these risks.
Data from all departments of an organization can be used to deliver actionable information and assist in business modernization, but it can also introduce new cybersecurity concerns. If sensors are being used along with remote access, this may provide entry points for hackers, cybercriminals or industry competitors to gain access to systems.
Cybersecurity challenges in the manufacturing industry include malware and ransomware attacks, denial of service attacks, and data breaches. Features such as two-factor authentication and secure password rules can provide some protection, but it is important that networks and systems remain secure, data is encrypted, and all connected devices are properly patched and updated to reduce the risk of a successful attack.
Before implementing new technologies, a cyber risk assessment should be performed to provide a full understanding of the company’s cybersecurity needs and vulnerabilities. It is imperative to understand the benefits and the potential cybersecurity risks implementing Industry 4.0 may introduce.
Patricia R. Toth is principal at FairWinds Cybersecurity, a cybersecurity contractor to NIST MEP.
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