“But our goal when we’re done is to have a truly open wireless standard that anyone, including our competitors, will be able to plug into.”

The wireless network design will be based on a unique systems architecture that will tightly integrate highly robust radio communications with a redundant, yet flexible infrastructure, Sheflin says. Spread spectrum and mesh network methodologies are among technologies being explored. Minimization of device power consumption as well as network security will also be key design considerations, he adds.

“Our estimates are that about 60 percent of the cost of installing a sensor today is in the wiring,” says Sheflin. “So from that point of view, the wireless network architecture that we’re proposing will really change the game.” With the high cost of wiring eliminated, companies will be able to place more sensors in more places, providing higher process visibility, he explains. The result, Sheflin believes, will be “much tighter control over processes, saving energy, saving scrap and improving output.”

Wes Iversen

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