Uncertain about when to replace a fixed asset? Wireless sensors can help. These devices can monitor changes in lighting, position, temperature, humidity, incline, vibration, and pitch/roll/yaw. When configured as wireless devices that transmit from difficult-to-reach locations, they are ideal for monitoring the condition of fixed assets, especially those on the factory floor. A typical setup is for the sensor to transmit a wireless signal to a local router when it senses a significant change, which passes the data along to a computer which in turn matches the data against a predetermined out-of-specification condition. If the reported condition is considered to be outside the predetermined boundary, then the computer sends a warning e-mail to the appropriate person.
While wireless sensors have been available for several years, the key improvement that allows for their more widespread use is the Zigbee communication protocol, which is designed for devices with low data transmission rates and low power consumption. This protocol allows sensors to run for well over a year on a single battery. Also, a recent estimate of the cost of a Zigbee-configured radio is just $1.10 (when produced in high volume), though the radio must be coupled with a sensor device that raises its total price considerably.
The wireless sensor is extremely useful for determining the exact moment when a fixed asset is failing, since the asset’s temperature or level of vibration may rise by a measurable amount shortly before it fails. By monitoring these key indicators, management can determine precisely when asset replacement is needed, rather than guessing and either replacing it much too soon or waiting until it fails, precipitating a replacement crisis.
Suppliers of wireless sensor equipment include Cirronet, Helicomm, Crossbow Technology, Dust Networks, and Enocean.