One of the unusual features of Telemecanique Sensors self-powered XIOT cloud connected sensors is they work outside of buildings. Indoor wireless sensor applications are not new, but now users can use them outdoors with no external cabling. Furthermore, they allow faster and lower cost installation, with no cabling costs or breakdowns due to broken wires. Markedly, the technology opens a myriad of new applications.
XIOT Cloud Connected Sensors
The Internet of Things (IoT) is the extension of the Internet to connected devices. Telemecanique Sensors XIOT cloud connected sensors offer a wireless solution to collect data from remote equipment via the Interent/IoT. The data is also available for use in real-time, via the Internet, on a PC or mobile device or phone. This makes then suited for areas without electricity or difficult-to-access areas.
The XIOT Cloud connected sensors use LPWAN (low power wide area network) technology, operated by Sigfox. Their network covers 32 countries and is already very extensive, chiefly in the UK and Europe, but growing elsewhere.
How do XIOT remote sensors work?
When a contact on the remote device changes state (1), the transmitter (2) sends a message to the IoT network (LPWAN) (3), that is then sent to a secure server (4). Message delivery is then to one or more recipients as an alert on PC, tablet, or smartphone (5).
The XIOT cloud-connected sensors signal a significant or abnormal change of state on your devices in real-time. It uses antennas with a range of around 50 km. The map on the Sigfox website shows exactly which areas covered by the network (see https://www.sigfox.com/coverage/).
Typical remote applications for self-powered remote sensors
Agricultural applications
- Irrigation system pressure threshold monitoring
- Buildings and hoisting equipment hatch and door positions
- Remote security for gates and fences
Water treatment applications
- Pumping, tank monitoring
- Valves and flood gates
Mining and quarrying applications
- Conveyors and emergency stop monitoring
Robust Performance
The remote standalone transmitters use a rugged construction with IP66 sealed case and one cable outlet with two volt-free contacts. Power comes from the built-in Lithium battery with a lifespan of over 5 years, with use determining battery life of up to 10 years standalone usage assuming two frames/day. The transmitter is also accessible from a smartphone app or via a web page.
Energy harvesting will replace batteries
Future models will employ mechanical energy harvester technology like that used in Schneider Electric’s Harmony push-buttons and Telemecanique limit-switches. The energy is generated by the actuation of the push-button or the limit-switch actuation head and consistent with industrial machinery life cycles.
When actuated, mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy. This supplies the transmission of a one-time radio message to one or more receivers. Moreover, up to 32 push buttons/ limit-switches can be synchronized to one receiver, providing greater mobility in any environment.
Finally, battery-less solutions offer permanent availability and also benefits the environment, eliminating costly battery maintenance, re-charging, and recycling.
Download the Telemacanique XIOT Sensor brochure.
BPX are the UK’s longest-standing technical distributor of Telemecanique products. If you would like to discuss your particular sensing requirements with us, please contact your local BPX branch, or submit our contact form below and one of our Application Support engineers will be back in touch with you.
