The universe of objects connected for communication via Internet — the Internet of Things (IoT) or Industrial Internet — has the potential to change manufacturing through enhanced data collection. In fact, General Electric predicts the efficiencies and data collection IoT enables could mean as much as a $15 trillion boost in global GDP over the next two decades.[1]  

For pharmaceutical manufacturers, IoT benefits include facilitating data analysis and remote access to equipment, streamlining efficiencies and even preventing counterfeiting.

Data Collection and Analysis
As the number of devices connected to the Internet increases from 10 billion today to potentially 50 billion by 2020, data will be generated on an incredible scale.[2] However, this data only becomes truly valuable once it is analyzed and turned actionable. Advanced analytics allow manufacturers to achieve this by automatically converting machine data into key performance indicators such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).

Remote Access
IoT technology affords manufacturers the ability to monitor a facility, and everything connected within it, remotely from almost anywhere. Plant managers can check the status of a facility in real time from hundreds of miles away on their smart phones. Technicians can perform diagnostic services on a specific machine remotely and verify data collection from the other data devices on the line. The implementation of predictive algorithms makes it possible to identify potential problems on the line and enact swift corrective action. In short, remote access equips pharmaceutical manufacturers with capabilities that can reduce machine downtime and waste, lower production costs, and increase productivity and efficiency.

Track and Trace
For the pharmaceutical industry in particular, IoT’s impact may extend well beyond the manufacturing plant walls. The problem of counterfeit drugs continues to push the need for improved track-and-trace capabilities throughout production and distribution channel. In linking the monitoring and data collection capabilities in production with intelligent product identifiers such as 2D barcodes and RFID tags directly on packaging, manufacturers create a more complete and quickly available digital record.

Sourcing IoT Solutions

Pharmaceutical manufacturers looking for technology for their real-world IoT applications can look to PACK EXPO East (Feb. 16-18, 2015; Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia), where they’ll find state-of-the-art sensors for remote monitoring and control, the most recent innovations in track-and-trace capabilities and other technologies that will bring IoT to life. The range of technologies at their fingertips will give attendees new opportunities to draw inspiration from other industries, as will educational opportunities such as exhibitors’ in-booth sessions, the Innovation Stage and PMMI’s Education Pavilion which will connect attendees with e-learning and certificate programs for professional development.