How can the new Raspberry Pi 3 be used to help control machines and more?

March 3, 2016
What does the future hold for this device in industry and manufacturing?

How can the new Raspberry Pi 3 be used to help control machines, monitor factories and automate remote sites by creating smart edge devices?

The new Raspberry Pi 3 Model B (RPi) is now available and faster than ever. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth onboard, it's ready for the IIoT and well positioned as a future controller or edge device. My application includes small, automated agricultural equipment and remote pumping stations, but I think any small machine or process is applicable for this small controller. Can I use this low-cost computer to monitor and/or control small machines and remote skids, or should I stick with traditional controllers and HMIs? 

Being able to have a low-cost controller, onboard wireless connectivity and the ability to use my smartphone as an HMI seems like something worth investigating. At a minimum, the RPi looks like it can turn every industrial edge device or small machine into smart devices on the factory floor or in the field.

So we want to know: what does the future hold for this device in industry and manufacturing?

Let us know in the comments section below. 

Sponsored Recommendations

Minimizing downtime with linear guide wheels in dirty environments

Is debris causing costly downtime and equipment failure? Learn how advanced self-cleaning guide wheel systems with solid lubrication can tackle debris, reduce wear, and keep operations...

2024 State of Technology Report: PLCs and PACs

Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and programmable automation controllers (PACs) are the brains of the machine in many regards. They have evolved over the years.This new State...

High Sensitivity Accelerometers to Monitor Traffic and Railroad Vibration for Semiconductor Manufacturing

This paper examines highly sensitive piezoelectric sensors for precise vibration measurement which is critical in semiconductor production to prevent quality and yield issues....

Simulation for Automation Guide

How digital twin solutions are expanding the capabilities of plant engineers.