// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Edge Computing
A distributed computing paradigm that brings computation and data storage closer to the sources of data, reducing latency and bandwidth usage. It processes data locally before sending it to the cloud.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Edge computing is a distributed computing framework that processes data closer to the point of origin (the 'edge' of the network), rather than relying solely on a centralized cloud or data center, thereby minimizing latency, bandwidth consumption, and enhancing real-time processing capabilities for IoT devices and industrial applications.
BACKGROUND
The Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as 4IR, Industry 4.0 or the Intelligence Age, is a neologism describing rapid technological advancement in the 21st century. It follows the Third Industrial Revolution. The term was popularized in 2016 by Klaus Schwab, the World Economic Forum founder and former executive chairman, who asserts that these developments represent a significant shift in industrial capitalism.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Fog computing
- Local computing
- Distributed processing
USAGE NOTE
Edge computing is essential for supporting real-time applications and ensuring data privacy in smart factories, especially for critical operational technology.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Edge Computing.
A global technology powerhouse focusing on industrial automation and digitalization, providing edge computing solutions for real-time control, data processing, and AI applications directly on the factory floor.
A leading company in industrial automation and digital transformation, offering edge control and analytics platforms to bring intelligence closer to machines and processes in manufacturing.
Develops a wide range of industrial technology and IoT solutions, including robust edge devices and software platforms that enable data processing and AI at the industrial edge for predictive maintenance and quality control.
Provides industrial automation and energy management solutions, with a strong focus on EcoStruxure Edge Control which integrates edge computing capabilities for efficient, secure, and resilient operations in industrial environments.
Known for its industrial IoT platform ThingWorx, PTC enables organizations to build and deploy edge computing applications for real-time operational intelligence, augmented reality, and digital transformation in manufacturing.
Offers a comprehensive portfolio of edge computing hardware and software solutions designed to bring compute power closer to data sources in industrial settings, supporting analytics, AI, and automation.
Provides ruggedized edge servers and software platforms (e.g., HPE Edgeline Converged Edge Systems) specifically engineered for operational technology (OT) environments, enabling real-time analytics and control in manufacturing.
A global leader in industrial IoT, providing a wide range of industrial PCs, embedded systems, and edge AI platforms optimized for rugged manufacturing environments, enabling data acquisition, processing, and control at the edge.