In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, unplanned downtime remains a costly challenge—estimated to cost U.S. manufacturers over $50 billion annually. Traditional centralized systems often fall short in addressing issues in real time, leading to delays in detection, diagnosis, and resolution. Enter edge computing: a transformative approach that brings processing power closer to the source of data, enabling faster, smarter, and more resilient operations.
Why Edge Computing Matters Now
Edge computing processes data at or near the source—on the factory floor, at the machine, or within remote facilities—rather than relying solely on cloud or centralized servers. This proximity allows for real-time analytics, immediate alerts, and faster decision-making. With the exponential growth of connected devices—projected to reach 75 billion by 2045—edge computing helps manage the data deluge by filtering and contextualizing information before it’s sent upstream.
Key Benefits of Edge Architecture
- Reduced Latency: Real-time feedback loops improve responsiveness for high-speed machinery and safety systems.
- Improved Reliability: Systems can continue operating even during network outages, ensuring business continuity.
- Bandwidth Optimization: Only essential, processed data is transmitted, reducing network strain.
- Enhanced Security: Localized processing minimizes exposure to external threats by reducing the attack surface.
Ignition Edge: A Game-Changer
Ignition Edge, a lightweight version of the Ignition platform, delivers the full power of edge computing in a compact, flexible package. It supports over 300 industrial protocols, offers built-in scripting and event-based logic, and includes a local SQLite database for store-and-forward capabilities. Whether deployed on industrial PCs, soft PLCs, or containerized environments, Ignition Edge enables seamless integration with existing systems and supports scalable, modular architectures.
Overcoming Barriers to Adoption
While edge computing offers compelling advantages, challenges such as system complexity, integration with legacy equipment, and maintenance requirements can hinder adoption. However, with the right strategy—such as implementing a common data model (CDM) and leveraging containerized deployments—organizations can streamline integration and scale efficiently.
Getting Started
Ignition Edge is easy to deploy, with a free trial available and a vibrant community offering support and training. Whether you’re modernizing a single machine or scaling across an enterprise, edge computing with Ignition Edge provides a future-ready foundation for smarter manufacturing.
Sandalwood Systems Integration Services Group provides services for manufacturers on a dedicated, project, support contract, or part-time basis.
Our services range from tactical, mission-critical integrations and implementations to strategic planning and resource development.
We work with Change Agents and Operation Technology/Information Technology teams to drive improvements in their company’s digital capabilities with maximum focus and optimal yield on resources.
Why Sandalwood?
We are a one-stop-shop for launching job rotation for any employer from conception to implementation. Our experts tailor our services to meet the needs of our customers by collaborating with them throughout the entire process. We do not offer cookie cutter solutions for job rotation because the needs of employers vary significantly.
Why Sandalwood?
Sandalwood is pleased to offer solutions above and beyond the traditional ergonomic assessments. With an in-depth knowledge of various digital human modelling software suites, integration and adoption to your health and safety programs has never been easier. Sandalwood is experienced in ergonomic program design as well as industry leaders in digital human modelling services. We have a diverse team that is able the leverage the results from the digital human model to provide in depth risk assessments of future designs and current state. Sandalwood is also able to pair these assessments with expertise and provide guidance on the best solution for you. Sandalwood is also on the forefront of emerging technologies and able to integrate Motion capture, Wearables, and extended or virtual reality into your ergonomic program.
