In a global manufacturing landscape where output surpasses $16 trillion annually, data is all that you can depend on for efficiency and innovation. For manufacturers, seamless data flow is extremely important. It helps you manage supply chains, production schedules, and customer relationships.  

The roadblock here becomes data silos. These result from isolated systems and departmental barriers. Data silos are repositories controlled by one department. Thus, it becomes difficult for others to access and use relevant information.  

Thus, when an executive tries to make a data-driven decision, they fail. Moreover, data silos restrict operational staff from using important data that could otherwise help improve customer relationship and experience. 

Nevertheless, to fight this problem with data silos and streamline operations and decision making, UNS functions as a manufacturing data integration tool.  

In this guide we’ll talk about Unified Namespace (UNS), its importance and use cases in the manufacturing industry.

What is a Unified Namespace (UNS) and Why is It Important?

A Unified Namespace (UNS) is a centralized data framework. It helps the process of manufacturing data integration by organizing and standardizing data across an organization. 

Consequently, UNS helps you create and maintain a single source of truth for all data.  

This source acts as a common naming convention and hierarchical structure for industrial data connectivity. UNS data integration takes place in real-time as your datasets are exchanged between various systems, devices, and applications.  

The UNS framework, particularly in the manufacturing industry, helps integrate data from machinery, production lines, sensors, and ERP systems. Hence, it is the system that facilitates IT-OT convergence for manufacturing data integration. 

How UNS Enables Real-Time Visibility Across MES, SCADA, and IIoT?

A factory floor generates thousands of data points every second. But where does all that data go and how do you put it to your use? 

For most companies, the data ends up sitting in isolated systems such as SCADA, MES, and ERP. These systems hold different pieces of the puzzle without delivering any definite direction. 

This is where manufacturing data integration becomes essential. An UNS system transforms the way you handle data. It acts as a real-time data hub that continuously collects and distributes information across all connected systems.  

The process flows as recorded below: 

Step 1: Data producers, such as PLCs, SCADA, MES and IIoT stream valuable information into the namespace 

Step 2: Data consumers, such as BI tools, ERP systems, and dashboards pull particular datasets at particular time  

With this process, you can eliminate the hassle of manual transfers or issues with outdated reports.  

The moment a change occurs on the production floor, it’s instantly reflected in all data consumers. Whether an operator makes an adjustment to a process, or an executive analyzes key performance indicators (KPIs), they benefit from the most up-to-date information. 

This approach not only allows you to take decisions faster but also leaves fewer blind spots to support a truly connected operation.  

Moreover, it aligns with modern industrial data architecture principles so that you can leverage your data more effectively. With UNS’ manufacturing data integration, you can drive continuous improvement across their operations.

Ready to enhance your manufacturing efficiency? Discover how MES and SCADA modernization streamline operations, reduce downtime, and boost productivity.

Use Cases: How Leading Manufacturers Use UNS for Smart Operations

Enterprise Functions

At the enterprise level, you need lower levels of data to make strategic decisions related to production scheduling and resource planning.

These high-level decisions can directly affect operations in the lower layers. With an UNS system, you can issue these commands for necessary adjustments in production plans or resource allocation.

This manufacturing data integration helps maintain the balance in enterprise operations, giving your manufacturing company the best interconnected environment for functioning.

Field Level Data Usage

Sensors and actuators make up for extremely important equipment at the field level. They help you gather critical data about physical processes such as temperature, pressure, and flow rates.  

With the help of UNS systems, you can transmit this data to the control level, where PLCs and DCS can process the information.  

By executing control algorithms based on the received data, PLCs and DCS influence the behavior of machinery and processes on the factory floor. Thus, it forms an integral part of your industrial data architecture. 

Data for Supervisory Purpose

Supervisory data is collected at the control level through PLCs and DCS units. Each of these units manage different segments of the industrial process.  

Consequently, the UNS system sends this data to the supervisory level, where SCADA systems provide real-time insights and visualizations of operations.  

You can them use this information to send commands back to the control level for adjusting process parameters or initiating specific actions, thus facilitating seamless manufacturing data integration.

SCADA to MES Data Transfer

SCADA systems that are present at the supervisory level relay pertinent process data to the MES systems and higher-level ERPS using UNS frameworks.  

Consequently, it helps the MES to leverage this data to efficiently manage resource allocation, scheduling, and production activities. Thus, you can enhance the overall operational efficiency.  

Insights collected from multiple points within the automation framework are crucial for analysis and decision-making at the enterprise level.

Enabling Feedback Loops

You can enable feedback loops among all layers of data transfer using UNS frameworks. With this usage you can ensure that actions taken at one level achieve the desired outcomes on the processes below.  

For instance, if a specific production target is established at the enterprise level, the control level modifies operation parameters to align with that target, and the results are fed back for evaluation, you can enhance the effectiveness of your industrial data architecture. 

What’s the Best Way to Implement UNS in Your Manufacturing Business?

Here are some of the best practices that you must follow while integrating UNS frameworks to your manufacturing data integration process:

Set Objectives Strategically

Clearly articulate the strategic objectives of implementing a Manufacturing Data Integration system, such as enhancing data visibility, improving operational efficiency, and enabling real-time decision-making. 

Set up the Required Infrastructure

Evaluate the readiness of existing infrastructure for Manufacturing Data Integration implementation.  

This involves assessing the compatibility of machines, sensors, and data sources with IIoT protocols to ensure a seamless transition.

Select Integration Protocols

Select appropriate integration protocols that ensure interoperability for manufacturing data integration. Common protocols for IoT in Manufacturing includes CoAP, MQTT, and OPC UA. 

Moreover, choose protocols that align with the specific needs and devices present in your manufacturing environment.

Set Up Standardized Naming Convention

Develop clear and standardized naming conventions for resources within the manufacturing ecosystem.  

This consistency not only simplifies the integration process but also enhances the effectiveness of manufacturing data integration by making it easier to identify and access resources. 

Ensure Data Security

Establish robust data security measures. This must include access controls, encryption protocols and audit trails tailored for your UNS framework.  

Also, develop data governance policies that ensure compliance with industry regulations and protect sensitive information. 

Keep it Scalable

Design the architecture of the Manufacturing Data Integration system with scalability in mind.  

Thus, you can consider technologies and frameworks that support future growth and advancements in the IIoT landscape. This will ensure that your implementation remains relevant and adaptable over time.

Get Started with UNS with INS3’s Expertise

Keeping innovation and adaptability by your side, manufacturing companies are capitalizing success in this agile market. 

With UNS frameworks, you can empower your journey and leverage data for quick responses. Thus, you can focus better on strategic initiatives.  

In that light, INS3 comes with the potential to help you develop a UNS framework, with tools for integration, real-time data access, and scalable architecture.  

We help you aggregate data from SCADA, MES, IIoT devices, and ERP systems while ensuring consistent naming conventions using protocols like MQTT and ISA-95.

So, take your step to advancement with UNS frameworks and improve your operational efficiency positioning your business in the industry 4.0 era.