Lab for Science and Technologies Applied to Industry 4.0

Lab Objectives

The lab “IIoT gateway fundamentals: from sensor to cloud” aims to introduce and explore how IIoT industrial gateways work, with particular reference to the interconnection between industrial automation systems and IT infrastructure. The central goal is to build a bridge between physical sensors and the cloud, using industry-standard technologies and protocols (PROFINET, MQTT, OPC UA, Node -RED). Students will have the opportunity to:

• Design and configure a working IIoT architecture that connects the field level (sensors and PLCs) with the higher IT level (cloud, visualisation systems, MQTT servers).
• Use Node -RED as a visual tool for managing data flows and processing information.
• Integrate the gateway into a simulated PROFINET network, collecting and displaying real data from field devices.
• Acquire skills in HTTP, SSL, MQTT and OPC UA technologies, and in secure network communication.

Educational Aims

The lab meets the growing need to train professionals able to manage the digitalisation of industry, with particular attention to the convergence of OT (Operational Technology) and IT (Information Technology). 1. Technology skills

• Knowledge of the IIoT ecosystem, its layered architectures and M2M communication technologies.
• Command of industrial and IoT protocols (PROFINET, MQTT, OPC UA).
• Ability to configure and use a gateway as an intermediate node between closed networks and the Internet.
• Understanding of the concepts of IP addressing, communication ports and cyber security in industrial settings. 2. Complete hands-on experience
• Use of the S7 -1516 Advanced PLC, analogue sensors and a TP700 touch panel to simulate real factory conditions.
• Commissioning and programming with TIA Portal and WinCC Advanced.
• Progressive exercises in Node -RED, from managing nodes to the visualisation and graphical analysis of data coming from the network. 3. Developing systems thinking
• Designing a complete automation chain, from the physical sensor to the cloud, identifying data access points and optimising information flows.
• Integrating different languages and technologies: control logic (PLC), data flows (Node -RED), data formats (JSON), network protocols.

Conclusion

The lab is an advanced training ground for preparing students for the challenges of the digital transition in industry, with particular attention to Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things. Through the use of real hardware, professional gateways and visual development environments, the lab makes it possible to:

• Gain an in-depth understanding of the interaction between field devices and IT systems;
• Develop scalable and secure IIoT solutions;
• Experiment with real-time data processing and transmission, right through to cloud integration. This learning experience produces technologically competent, versatile and future-oriented students, ready to work in connected, intelligent industrial environments.