Industrial IoT Spotlight

In today's episode, we're joined by Nikunj Mehta, Founder and CEO of Falkonry, a company revolutionizing plant operations with AI-driven insights. We explore the evolution of AI from project-based work to scalable software solutions, discussing the role of generative AI in automating data processing and simplifying output delivery. Nikunj shares insights on building trust in AI systems and leveraging wearables for real-time insights on the shop floor. Key Discussion Points: To learn more about our guest, you can find him at: Website: https://falkonry.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nrmehta/

In this podcast, Erik hosts Ron Konezny from Digi, a company with a long-standing history in providing reliable hardware but has evolved to become a solutions provider focusing on IoT. Ron details his journey from his initial steps in the wireless communications industry to his role in integrating technology and business models at Digi, aiming to transform it into a solutions provider with a significant portion of its revenue being recurring. They discuss how IoT has evolved, the importance of considering a holistic system rather than fragmented pieces, and the challenges of managing IoT solutions. Ron emphasizes the shift towards hardware-enabled recurring revenue models and the integration of software and services to create more resilient and adaptable solutions. The conversation covers the role of AI in refining IoT data analysis, the potential and limitations of technologies like 5G and LoRa, and the strategic movement towards offering more comprehensive IoT solutions that allow customers to focus on leveraging data insights. Additionally, Ron reflects on Digi's venture into vertical integration with SmartSense, offering a turnkey IoT solution for condition monitoring, underlining the importance of domain expertise in developing impactful IoT applications. 00:11 The Evolution of IoT and Digi's Journey 01:32 The Transformation from Hardware to Solutions Provider 02:29 Navigating the IoT Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities 04:30 The Role of Services in IoT Solutions 16:27 Exploring Use Cases and the Impact of IoT 31:53 The Future of IoT: Technologies and Trends 36:24 Digi's Strategic Focus and Vision for IoT

In this episode of the Industrial IoT Spotlight podcast, Erik Walenza of IoT ONE hosts Mike McCamon from the NFC Forum to explore the future of NFC technology. We explore how IoT device manufacturers are collaborating to drive the rapid development of NFC standards and technical capabilities. These efforts led to the NFC Forum’s recent release of its next gen technology development roadmap, which includes power harvesting, range extension, device-to- device connectivity, multi-tap use cases, and digital product passports for sustainability. Mike shares his vision for the potential of NFC beyond payments, such as in access control for building and data sharing between IoT devices. He also shares critical challenges yet to overcome, such as the need for improved user experience and range to simplify the design process for OEMs. About Mike McCamon Mike McCamon is a seasoned technology executive with over 30 years of experience in the tech industry. He is currently the Executive Director of the NFC Forum, an industry association dedicated to advancing NFC, standards and use cases. Under his leadership, the NFC Forum has grown to include over 300 member companies from all over the world. Demonstrating a wide range of skills and passions he has been both the inaugural executive director of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group and later on the executive team that launched Water.org. He also led high-growth teams at Apple, Iomega, Intel and several startups. He is a frequent speaker and author on technology and social impact topics. About the NFC Forum The NFC Forum, established in 2004, is a non-profit industry association comprised of leading mobile communications, semiconductor, and consumer electronics companies. Its mission is to advance the use of Near Field Communication technology by developing specifications, ensuring interoperability, and educating the market about NFC technology. The NFC Forum's global member companies share skills, technical expertise and industry knowledge to develop specifications and protocols for interoperable data exchange, device-independent service delivery, and device capability. Forum’s supporting certification program and user marks enhance and promote a consistent, reliable, seamless and secure NFC user experience. To learn more about joining the Forum, visit https://nfc-forum.org/

In this episode of the Industrial IoT Spotlight podcast, Kenta Yasukawa, CTO of Soracom, and Erik Walenza, CEO of IoT ONE, discuss the integration of generative AI with IoT. Kenta highlights how gen AI lowers the barrier to entry for AI and IoT solutions, enabling a broader audience to leverage machine learning without extensive data collection or model building. He outlines Soracom's platform capabilities, including secure connectivity and application integration, and its role in facilitating innovation for diverse organizations. They explore the value of IoT data in various applications and the importance of human involvement in AI decision-making. The episode emphasizes Soracom's commitment to customer-driven platform evolution and the potential of AI and IoT to revolutionize industrial connectivity. Tune in to learn: • Potential applications of generative AI (gen AI) in IoT • Soracom's efforts in incorporating gen AI into its IoT platform • Challenges and opportunities in the collaboration between humans and AI in IoT scenarios • Use of gen AI to streamline processes and aid in logo design • Potential value of IoT data and its incremental value to different stakeholders • Bottom-up nature of AI solutions and its potential for driving innovation and connectivity in the industrial IoT space

Today, we have Samuel Van de Velde, the Chief Technology Officer at Pozyx, as our guest. Pozyx stands out as a top-notch supplier of real-time location systems and cutting-edge tracking solutions designed to ensure the durability of asset tracking, both indoors and outdoors. In this episode we discussed the utilization of ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, examining its role in enhancing scalability and adaptability within asset tracking scenarios. Additionally, we investigate the pivotal role of location tracking in supplying data to artificial intelligence algorithms, enabling detailed analytics on asset health and predictions of behavioral patterns. Key Discussion Points: What specific use cases does your solution address in tracking cows' locations in optimizing dairy production?How does Pozyx facilitate the large-scale deployment of tracking systems for its customers?What innovations we expect from your business in the near future? To learn more about our guest, you can find him at: Website: https://www.pozyx.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuelvandevelde

Today, we have Eric Daimler, the CEO and co-founder of Conexus AI. Conexus AI serves as a hybrid generative AI platform, facilitating reliable and rapid digital modernization, empowering enterprises to seamlessly migrate, integrate, and transform their IT systems. In this episode, we delve into the utilization of category algebra to implement a domain-driven approach to interoperability. This approach focuses on computing the optimal data model rather than relying on manual design. Additionally, we explore the common issue of architects misunderstanding the practical structure of databases, leading to the failure of IT programs, as opposed to adhering to their originally intended structures. Key Discussion Points: What key concepts, such as data mesh and strategies, should companies consider when building the right architecture to effectively leverage their data assets?How does Conexus AI help companies facing decentralized data challenges?What does the before-and-after scenario look like in terms of data usage and outcomes? To learn more about our guest, you can find him at: Website: https://conexus.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdaimler/

In this episode, we have Matt Kleiman, the CEO of Cumulus. Cumulus enhances the efficiency and safety of crucial tasks like bolt tightening, welding, and pressure testing by seamlessly incorporating sensors, digital tools, and other IoT devices. During our conversation, we delved into the integration of a mobile application that provides workers with detailed, step-by-step instructions. This involves leveraging data collected by interconnected Bluetooth tools and sensors. Additionally, we examined the utilization of advanced digital tools, including AI for system analytics, aiming to bring about enduring improvements by automating and optimizing processes that reduce errors. Key Discussion Points: How can architecture be laid out to transform isolated silos into a cohesive system?How can organizations address the gap between pilot success and large-scale implementation of technology?How do you approach the integration of both traditional and generative AI technologies? To know more about our guest, you can find him at: Website: https://cumulusds.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kleimanmatthew/

Today, we have Andrea Aranguren, the CEO of Minehub, as our guest. MineHub offers advanced digital solutions that establish connections among buyers, sellers, and financiers in physical commodities supply chains. These connections operate within a digitally integrated workflow, utilizing data that is both usable and shareable, with a focus on verifiability and incorruptibility. In this episode, we delved into the necessity for transparency in supply chains stemming from widespread disruptions, labor shortages, systemic fraud, and ESG reporting requirements. We also examined how the digitization of supply chain operations unlocked real-time visibility, highlighted risks, and improved the resilience of revenue and feedstock streams. Key Discussion Points: Who is currently driving the strongest push for the adoption of solutions that offer better visibility and management? How does Minehub tailors the needs of users from finance to operational teams for both buyers and sellers?With GPT being designed for handling messy communication, how do you see its role in enhancing communication within your solution at Minehub? To know more about our guest, you can find Andrea Aranguren on: Website: https://minehub.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-aranguren-454544a/

In this week’s episode, we have Brian Pawlowski, the Chief Development Officer at Quantum. Quantum helps organizations in harnessing the potential of their expanding unstructured data, offering an affordable solution for storing data for decades to come. During our conversation, we delved into the shifting data environment, driven by the exponential growth of unstructured data and the transformative capabilities of AI, empowering organizations to derive meaningful insights from this data abundance. Furthermore, we investigated the optimal combination of cloud and on-premises storage solutions, taking into account specific use case needs, budget constraints, and security considerations. Key Discussion Points: What fundamental changes in data usage and characteristics distinguish unstructured data from the past? Are the use cases of long-term data archiving, enterprise backup, surveillance and security all served by the same architecture? How do government regulations on data storage and handling of PII impact Quantum in countries like China, and India? You can find him on: Website: https://www.quantum.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianpawlowski

In this episode, we had Tony Nicolaidis, who served as the Chief Commercial Officer of Origin AI. Origin AI utilized Wi-Fi sensing along with AI analytics to empower businesses in monitoring presence, motion, and specific events like falls using existing Wi-Fi signals. During our discussion, we explored how Wi-Fi signal sensing eliminates the necessity for specialized sensors, particularly in use cases like security systems and fall detection. We also delved into the potential business models for telecommunication providers when Wi-Fi signals had evolved into a valuable data source. Key Discussion Points: What enables Wi-Fi sensing technology to detect subtle actions, and what's the detection setup?In what ways does Origin AI's approach support end-user privacy and bandwidthHow is Origin AI prepared for ongoing algorithm and data processing advancements? You can find him on: Website: https://www.originwirelessai.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-nicolaidis-9b5b236/

Our guest today is Tsiki Naftaly, Co-Founder of Copilot.CX, a unique solution in the consumer electronics industry. Copilot.CX transforms occasional buyers into loyal, prime users. Through customer collaboration, they boost sales, enhance reviews, and ultimately elevate the overall customer experience. In this episode, we delved into the challenges encountered during the shift from being a hardware device manufacturer selling units to becoming an IoT device manufacturer offering SAS subscriptions. We also talked about the benefits of incorporating automated customer touchpoints throughout the product's lifecycle, customer satisfaction and opportunities for upselling supplementary services. Key Discussion Points: How has the company's shift from hardware distribution to customer engagement platform affected its value proposition?What is the process of using customer data to improve Salesforce, refine marketing, and potentially shape product development? How do you see the tech services in your solution stack to bring valuable proposition to life? You can find him on: Website: https://www.copilot.cx/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tsikinaftaly

Today, we have David Hartmann, Founder and CEO of Helio Additive. Helio Additive has revolutionized 3D printing through the creation of simulation software tools deeply rooted in the principles of physics. These tools have had a profound impact on enhancing production efficiency in the realm of 3D printing. During our discussion, we delved into the intricate challenges associated with transitioning a 3D product into full-scale production. These challenges encompass a substantial engineering endeavor, multiple rounds of test runs, and a notable scrap rate. Furthermore, we explored the remarkable opportunities that lie ahead in production optimization by creating models that encapsulate the intricate interplay between machinery, materials, and design files. Key Discussion Points: ● What factors are hindering additive manufacturing infrastructure for both large-scale and local applications? ● Who is responsible for integrating your software into the system? Is it the OEM or asset owner? ● What are the primary core features of your 3D printing and modeling technology? You can find him on: Website: https://www.helioadditive.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hartmann-725a2b16/

In this episode, we were joined by Frederic Joye, the Co-founder of Arcanys, a Swiss software outsourcing company based in the Philippines. Arcanys is renowned for its expertise in assembling top-tier developer teams tailored to the needs of tech-enabled businesses. For more than 20 years, Frederic has helped more than 250 companies through outsourcing in the Philippines. During this conversation, we explored the strategies for constructing a high-performing engineering team and, notably, maintaining its longevity. Additionally, we delved into finding the optimal balance between an internal core team and external collaborators, such as agencies or freelance professionals. Key Discussion Points: ● What sets Frederic’s approach to outsourcing apart from traditional companies ● What advice do you give to early-stage startups to help them navigate their initial challenges? ● How can corporations enhance retention and foster better team dynamics? You can find him on: Website: https://www.arcanys.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredjoye/

Today, we have Andrei Ciobotar as our guest, who serves as the Chief Technology Officer at Relayr. Relayr provides comprehensive industrial IoT solutions and data-powered financial services to assist their customers in their transition towards Equipment-as-a-Service. With a decade of experience, Andrei is instrumental in relayr's success across cloud development, edge development, and AI engineering. In this episode, we explored how IoT can facilitate the transition from capital expenditure (CAPEX) to operational expenditure (OPEX) models for industrial equipment suppliers, simultaneously mitigating financial risks for operators. Additionally, we delved into the progression of artificial intelligence within industrial settings, moving away from customized, labor-intensive solutions towards standardized offerings tailored to specific asset categories and application scenarios. Key Discussion Points: What industries are most open to rethinking asset ownership and OEM business models?How do predictive maintenance and simulation work together to reduce downtime, considering the complexity of the predictive maintenance process?Do you see the value of creating simulated data and how generative AI as part of your tech stack? If you're curious to know more about our guest, you can find him on: Website: https://relayr.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreiciobotar/

Our guest today is Ross Sabolcik, the Senior Vice President and General Manager of Industrial and Commercial IoT Products at Silicon Labs. Silicon Labs is a renowned technology company specializing in the design and sale of semiconductors and software for manufacturers in the Internet of Things infrastructure sector. Ross boasts an impressive track record with over two decades of experience in this field and holds a Master's Degree in Computer and System Engineering, as well as BSEE from Penn State University. In this talk, we will delve into the advancements in edge connectivity for industrial IoT devices. This will include recent breakthroughs in cross-technology compatibility and simplified programming. Additionally, we will explore the underlying value proposition of three recent and upcoming product launches, namely FG-28, GA, and Series 3. Our primary focus will be on how these innovations facilitate machine learning capabilities at the edge. Don’t miss out! Tune in to learn more. Key Discussion Points: - What innovations does Silicon Labs introduce to the market, and what are the prevailing industry trends? - In what ways does Bluetooth technology change the cost of connectivity? - The importance of security for these edge devices If you're curious to know more about our guest, you can find him on: Website: https://www.silabs.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosssabolcik/

In this week's episode, Erik is in conversation with Gareth Evans, the CEO and founder of VECKTA. VECKTA is dedicated to enabling businesses to embrace competitive energy solutions across their operations, providing them with access to affordable and environmentally friendly energy. With two decades of expertise in the energy and resource sectors, Gareth is a specialist in microgrid and distributed energy planning and design, construction, and monitoring During this discussion, we delve into the future of the energy sector and strategies for implementing cost-effective energy solutions for businesses. We also examine the challenges associated with navigating technical and regulatory hurdles during the transition, as well as potential solutions for streamlining coordination. Gareth's mission revolves around empowering businesses and communities to access affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy, contributing to the global shift toward a more environmentally friendly energy future. Tune in and be part of the energy revolution! Key Discussion Points: ● What is the purpose of VECKTA and what motivated Gareth to establish it? ● Identifying the significant factors that support the business case for energy storage. ● How does the VECKTA platform assist companies and businesses in monitoring their emissions scope? If you are curious to know more about our guest, you can find him on: Company Website: https://www.veckta.com Company Podcast: https://www.veckta.com/renewable-rides-podcast/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gareth-evans-41015726

In this week’s episode, Erik is joined by Jan Burian, Associate Vice President and Head of IDC Manufacturing Insights EMEA. His core research coverage includes Industry 4.0, digital transformation, and IT and automation tools. At IDC, their focus lies in aiding IT experts, corporate leaders, and investors in making informed decisions regarding technology investments and business tactics. Our conversation delves into the intricate framework of the industrial Metaverse. Discover how businesses are meticulously constructing this landscape, piece by piece, with Jan shedding light on various technologies and specific use cases. Moreover, we explore the fascinating realm of generative AI and its application in industrial contexts. Learn how it serves as an intuitive interface within the industrial Metaverse, effectively navigating the complex terrain of data saturation. Give it a listen and enjoy the podcast! Key Questions: ● What is industry metaverse and how does it work? ● Scaling and scalability of metaverse as digital twin of the enterprise world. ● What do you see today in terms of adoption of generative AI and solutions that are used in the industrial environment? If you're curious to know more about our Jan Burian, you can find him on: Website: https://www.idc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janburian/?originalSubdomain=cz

During this week's episode, Erik interviewed Gil Dror, the Chief Technology Officer, and Sammy Kolt, the Chief Product Officer at SmartSense. SmartSense offers a solution that empowers organizations to leverage wireless sensors, digital technology, and advanced analytics, resulting in actionable insights based on remote sensing and artificial intelligence. Throughout the discussion, we delved into the ways IoT facilitates workflow streamlining and introduces a novel approach to data-driven decision-making. Additionally, we explored how IoT is making a significant impact on the healthcare and food services industries, where it is utilized to enhance safety measures, ensure compliance with regulations, and maintain stringent quality control standards. Listen and enjoy the show! Key Questions: ● What solution stack does SmartSense utilize for its software and hardware? ● How do they ensure the longevity and efficiency of sensors and equipment? ● What enhancements have they implemented to enrich the user experience through their IoT solutions? ● What exciting developments can we expect in the realm of Smarter AI? If you're curious to know more about our esteemed guests, Gil Dror and Sammy Kolt, you can find them on LinkedIn: Gil Dror: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gil-dror/ Sammy Kolt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sammykolt

In this episode, we talked with Dave Fick, co-founder and CEO of Mythic. Mythic has developed analog computing technology to deliver high-performance AI processors that are ten times more power-efficient and cost-effective than digital solutions. In this talk, we discussed why analog computing is uniquely well-suited for machine learning on the edge, due to low energy consumption, low latency, and high capability. We also talk about several industrial applications that are using analog computing today. Key Questions: ● What is analog computing? ● What is the difference in form and cost structure for analog and digital solutions? ● How does analog computing deal with 'messy data'?

This week, Erik and Darwin interviewed Paul McCarthy, Founder and CEO of Snapfix. Snapfix is the simplest maintenance platform on the planet, making maintenance easy with a streamlined system of photos and traffic lights that everyone can use. In this special episode of IoT One Podcast, Darwin Wang joined Erik Walenza as his co-host! Darwin is a multifaceted professional with a diverse education and career background, and previously as Head of Innovation at JLL. In this talk, they discussed why the building management industry has been a laggard in technology adoption despite being among the largest sectors in the economy. They also explored the application of consumer app best practices for building enterprise solutions that can be used by frontline staff with little or no training. Listen and enjoy the show! Key Questions: ● What are the challenges of the management industry that prevents digitalization? ● What does the integration of systems for consumer apps look like today for providing solutions? ● What does localization look like for building enterprise solutions? Know more about our co-host for today’s episode, Darwin Wang by visiting his profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/d1wang/