Future of Smart Manufacturing and Industrial Automation

 May 15, 2025

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The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is a subset of the Internet of Things (IoT) that focuses on the industrial sector. It involves the integration of smart sensors, actuators, and other advanced technologies with industrial systems to improve automation, efficiency, and productivity. IIoT is a key component of Industry 4.0, enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and enhanced decision-making processes.

IIoT has evolved from traditional industrial automation and control systems. Over time, industries have progressed from mechanization using steam engines (Industry 1.0) to mass production with electricity (Industry 2.0), followed by computer-driven automation (Industry 3.0), and now the fusion of digital technologies, IoT, AI, and machine learning (Industry 4.0). The importance of IIoT in Industry 4.0 is immense as it enhances efficiency, reduces costs, enables predictive maintenance, and supports data-driven decision-making.

Core Technologies Powering IIoT

IIoT relies on various technologies that enable its functionalities. Sensors and actuators play a key role in data collection and process control. These include temperature, vibration, proximity, and pressure sensors, which help monitor and optimize industrial operations.

Edge computing and cloud integration improve IIoT efficiency by processing data closer to the source, reducing latency, and minimizing bandwidth usage. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) analyze vast amounts of industrial data, allowing predictive maintenance, process optimization, and automated quality control. The adoption of 5G in IIoT enhances real-time monitoring, remote operations, and scalability, making industrial processes more reliable and efficient.

IIoT Architecture and Components

IIoT architecture consists of multiple interconnected layers. The perception layer includes sensors and devices that collect data. The network layer is responsible for data transmission through wired or wireless connections. The edge layer processes data locally before sending it to the cloud, where deeper analysis and storage occur. Finally, the application layer provides user interfaces for monitoring and control. Data acquisition and processing are critical components of IIoT. Techniques such as data filtering, aggregation, and real-time analytics ensure that only relevant information is processed and utilized.

However, security remains a challenge, as IIoT networks are vulnerable to cyber threats. Measures like data encryption, access control, and network security tools help mitigate these risks and protect industrial assets.

Applications of IIoT Across Industries

IIoT is widely used across various industries, revolutionizing operations and increasing efficiency. In smart manufacturing, automated assembly lines, energy management, and inventory tracking improve productivity. The oil and gas industry benefits from IIoT through pipeline monitoring, remote asset management, and enhanced safety protocols.

Energy management and smart grids use IIoT to optimize demand response, track energy consumption through smart meters, and improve power distribution. Logistics and supply chains integrate IIoT for fleet management, cold chain monitoring, and warehouse automation, ensuring seamless operations. The healthcare sector also leverages IIoT for remote patient monitoring, smart hospital operations, and predictive maintenance of medical equipment.

Challenges and Risks in IIoT Implementation

Despite its advantages, IIoT faces several challenges. Security and data privacy are major concerns, as industrial networks are targets for cyberattacks. Implementing robust security measures such as encryption, authentication protocols, and network monitoring is essential.

Scalability challenges arise due to infrastructure costs, interoperability issues with legacy systems, and data overload. Managing large volumes of sensor data efficiently and ensuring seamless integration with existing industrial processes are crucial for successful IIoT adoption.

Future Trends in IIoT

The future of IIoT is driven by technological advancements. Predictive maintenance using AI and IoT allows businesses to anticipate and prevent equipment failures, reducing downtime and costs. Digital twins, virtual replicas of physical assets, enable real-time simulation and monitoring, improving operational efficiency.

Blockchain technology enhances IIoT security by providing tamper-proof transaction records and decentralized data management. As industries continue to evolve, IIoT will play a vital role in shaping the next generation of smart manufacturing and automation.

Case Studies of IIoT in Action

Several companies have successfully implemented IIoT to enhance their operations. Siemens’ MindSphere, a cloud-based IIoT platform, enables real-time analytics for industrial processes. GE’s Predix software helps businesses leverage IIoT for predictive maintenance and operational efficiency. In agriculture, John Deere’s smart farming solutions use IIoT for precision agriculture, automated irrigation, and real-time monitoring of crops and equipment.

How to Implement IIoT in Your Business

Deploying IIoT solutions requires a strategic approach. Businesses should first assess their needs and identify areas for IIoT integration. Choosing suitable technologies, such as sensors, connectivity solutions, and cloud platforms, is essential for a seamless transition.

A well-defined data strategy, including data collection, storage, and analysis, ensures the effectiveness of IIoT systems. Implementing strong security measures, such as encryption and access controls, protects industrial networks from cyber threats. Conducting pilot tests before full deployment helps evaluate IIoT solutions and optimize their performance. IIoT is transforming industries by enabling smarter operations, improving efficiency, and reducing costs. By leveraging advanced technologies such as AI, ML, and blockchain, businesses can enhance productivity and ensure long-term success. As IIoT adoption continues to grow, industries will witness a new era of industrial automation and digital transformation

Air and water pollution: A public health concern requiring proactive measures

 May 26, 2025

Image: © waymoreawesomer | iStock

Ian Culbert, Executive Director of the Canadian Public Health Association, discusses the health impacts of air and water pollution and steps needed to mitigate their impact

The health of Canadians is inextricably linked to the health of our environment. Clean air and water are fundamental determinants of health, yet pollution continues to pose challenges to communities across the country. The Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) recognizes the need for policies that protect the environment as a means of safeguarding public health. Air and water pollution are not just environmental issues – they are public health matters that require coordinated action at all levels of government and society.

The public health impact of air pollution

Air pollution is one of the most significant environmental health risks facing Canadians. According to Health Canada, air pollution contributes to approximately 15,300 premature deaths annually in Canada, with billions of dollars in associated healthcare costs and lost productivity. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and ground-level ozone is linked to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and increased susceptibility to infections, including COVID-19.

Children, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing conditions are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution. Low-income and other structurally disadvantaged communities, whose homes are often located near industrial facilities or high motor vehicle traffic areas, experience higher exposure levels, exacerbating existing health inequities. Addressing air pollution is not only an environmental priority but also a matter of health equity.

While Canada has made progress in reducing some pollutants, climate change is influencing air quality through increased wildfires and heatwaves. Wildfire smoke is now a major source of PM2.5 pollution, with health effects that are widespread and difficult to mitigate. Strengthening air quality standards, reducing fossil fuel dependency, and enhancing monitoring of pollutants that impact public health can help improve overall air quality.

The water pollution challenge

Clean water is also essential for human health, yet many Canadians still face risks from contaminated drinking water and polluted waterways. Industrial runoff, agricultural waste, and aging infrastructure contribute to the presence of heavy metals, pesticides, and pathogens in water sources. In particular, too many Indigenous communities continue to struggle with boil water advisories and inadequate access to safe drinking water.

Microplastics and pharmaceutical contaminants are emerging concerns that require regulatory attention. Studies have detected microplastics in drinking water sources across Canada, with unknown long-term health implications. Meanwhile, the presence of pharmaceutical residues in water supplies poses risks to both human and ecosystem health, necessitating stricter controls on disposal and wastewater treatment.

Climate change is affecting water quality by intensifying extreme weather events, increasing the risk of floods and contamination. Ensuring the safety of Canada’s water systems requires investment in infrastructure, strengthened regulations on industrial and agricultural pollutants, and improved access to safe drinking water for all communities.

Policy solutions for a healthier future

The intersection of environmental and public health calls for evidence-based responses. CPHA encourages federal, provincial, and municipal governments to adopt the following measures to mitigate air and water pollution:

1. Strengthen air quality standards:
   • Canada’s air quality guidelines should align with the most stringent global standards, incorporating updated scientific research on the health effects of pollution.
2. Advance clean energy and transportation:
   • A transition to clean energy sources, coupled with investments in public transit and active transportation, will reduce emissions and improve air quality.
3. Expand pollution monitoring and public reporting:
   • Improved data collection and transparency will empower communities to advocate for cleaner environments and hold polluters accountable.
4. Modernize water infrastructure:
   • Federal and provincial investments in water treatment facilities and lead pipe replacement are essential to ensuring safe drinking water, especially in publicly-funded schools.
5. Enhance industrial and agricultural regulations:
   • Reducing pollution from industrial runoff, agricultural chemicals, and wastewater discharge will protect water sources for generations to come.
6. Promote environmental equity:
   • Ensuring that structurally disadvantaged communities, particularly Indigenous Peoples, have access to clean air and water must be a key policy priority.

A call to action

The health impacts of air and water pollution can be mitigated through proactive measures. Canada has both the knowledge and resources to lead in environmental health policy, yet action must be sustained. Governments, industries, and communities must work together to implement solutions that protect public health while addressing environmental challenges.

CPHA is committed to advocating for policies that recognize the intrinsic connection between environmental stewardship and public health. By taking thoughtful and effective steps today, we can help ensure a healthier environment for all Canadians.

Striking A Balance Between Engineering Innovation And Regulatory Compliance – What’s The Mantra?

The roundtable on Engineering Lifecycle Management (ELM) emphasised balancing innovation and compliance through automation, collaboration, and data governance to drive sustainable business success




A dynamic interplay between innovation and regulatory compliance is critical for modern Engineering Lifecycle Management (ELM) success. While the concept of managing the entire engineering lifecycle (ELM) has been around for a long time, its widespread adoption and the specific term ‘ELM’ is emerging in many industries in India. The need for improved efficiency and compliance has driven the rise of automated ELM workflows that offer more scope for interdepartmental collaboration in product design and delivery. Hence, the adoption of ELM software is seeing an uptick among large organisations and those in highly regulated sectors, further fuelled by technological advancements such as cloud computing and AI/ML to reduce process workflow errors and for informed decision-making.



ADVERTISEMENFactoring in the rising popularity of ELM platforms, BW Businessworld recently organized an exclusive Roundtable discussion on this topic. This Roundtable brought together six experts from different industries to share their valuable insights on the interplay between innovation and regulatory compliInnovation is crucial to stay competitive and relevant in today's fast-paced, technology-driven market. However, organizations that believe in constant innovation must tackle several challenges. The foremost challenge is compliance with the regulatory frameworks of their respective industries. Kickstarting the discussion with the most critical question of what challenges have emerged in maintaining a balance between innovation and evolving regulatory frameworks, interesting perspectives emerged.

“At LTTS, we support our global clients across the entire product and solutions lifecycle, and innovation is not just about meeting evolving customer needs but delivering lasting value throughout the product lifecycle. Given that engineering lifecycles can span from three years to over a decade, it is essential to optimise engineering processes for greater efficiency and seamless collaboration at every stage of product development. Our focus on process automation enhances this efficiency, reducing manual intervention and enabling faster, more reliable outcomes. Data Engineering is also integral to this effort, addressing the complex interplay of regulatory compliance and innovation by managing large datasets with precision and ensuring adherence to frameworks like GDPR. Meanwhile, our AI-driven platforms unite PLM and Data Engineering to create a resilient ecosystem that manages current regulatory complexities in industries such as Mobility and MedTech and proactively adapts to emerging AI compliance needs. Technology evolves within cycles as short as three years, making it necessary to balance disruption with adherence to compliance. To achieve this, we employ robust controls from project inception and containerised operations, ensuring innovation and regulatory compliance go hand in hand, delivering meaningful outcomes for our clients,” said Ashish Khushu, CTO at L&T Technology Services.

Successful innovation demands close collaboration between industry and regulators to ensure that regulatory frameworks support, rather than hinder, the development and deployment of new technologies. R. Harinivas, Senior Executive Director of IT & DA Supply Chain Systems at Boeing India, shared that Boeing is focusing on new technologies, data governance, and automation to drive efficiency and productivity while navigating the complexities of innovation in regulated environments.

According to Harinivas, to tackle the challenges, Boeing invests in modern technologies such as IoT and digital engineering, including concepts like digital twins, to enhance its manufacturing processes. The company is also exploring automation in supply chain management to improve efficiency and productivity to handle repetitive and mundane tasks.

Sharing more, from an aerospace and defense engineering perspective, Harinivas said, “Data, given context, makes meaningful information that allows leaders to make informed decisions. The aerospace and defense industry deals with products with lifecycles of 30 to 50 years, which presents challenges in technology and information management. Consequently, Boeing is developing frameworks to exploit AI that allow innovation and regulatory compliance.”

Boeing invests in modern technologies such as IoT and digital engineering, including concepts like digital twins, to enhance its manufacturing processes. The company is also exploring automation in supply chain management to improve efficiency and productivity to handle repetitive and mundane tasks.

Sharing a point of view from the electronics industry, where the speed for innovation is the highest, Sumi Vivek, CDIO of a leading global electronics organisation, says, “The pace of technological change in electronics is incredibly fast. New technologies like AI, IoT, 5G, and advanced materials emerge constantly, demanding rapid adaptation and innovation to remain competitive. So, there is an increased need for agility and adaptability in processes to manage the complexities of compliance in a fast-moving product development environment, particularly for seasonal products like smartphones. Unlike industries with longer product lifecycles, the rapid introduction of new smartphone models means that compliance requirements may not be fully known in advance. This uncertainty adds complexity to the development process. The ability to adapt quickly to new compliance requirements is crucial. In a situation like this, companies need to ensure that its processes are agile enough to absorb and implement changes as they arise during the product development cycle.”

From all three participants’ perspectives, we can understand that the simple mantra is that organisations must constantly keep their processes agile to meet new demands effectively. This requires a proactive approach to compliance management, a flexible operational framework, and the standardisation of core processes.

Compliance Management – Framing Best Practices
Effective compliance management requires a proactive and strategic approach beyond mere adherence to rules. It demands a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape, a commitment to ethical conduct, and a proactive mindset that anticipates and adapts to evolving standards. At this juncture, a question arises on how organisations integrate compliance management into their existing engineering workflows and processes and what best practices are adapted to overcome challenges in terms of data silos, collaboration challenges, etc., to simplify and improve compliance management.

Boeing, for example, emphasises a structured approach to application management akin to building aircraft. Boeing adopts a ‘system criticality management process’ that involves gathering comprehensive application information to ensure proper management and compliance. Harinivas said, “We bundle compliance activities into three broad categories, ensuring all necessary security measures, access controls, and validation rules are in place. This structured approach allows for efficient management of compliance requirements. Automated tools and workflows ensure compliance checks are integrated into the development process before writing any code. This systematic approach helps maintain high standards and accountability among experts in various fields.”

Undeniably, delays caused by compliance issues can have extensive repercussions, including financial losses and damage to an organisation's brand reputation. Compliance-related delays can severely impact market competitiveness in industries with rapid product cycles. Adding a point here, Ashish Khushu, said, “Stringent rules must be enforced from the moment a statement of work (SOW) is received, ensuring that all elements are managed carefully and containerisation must be implemented for consistent operations.”

One of IBM's Solution leasder remarked, “One critical challenge is ensuring end-to-end traceability of requirements throughout the product lifecycle. This involves tracking how requirements are met, tested, and validated, which is essential for identifying defects and understanding their impact on design and testing. Integrating AI and automation into engineering processes enhances compliance management. These technologies can streamline documentation and auditing processes, making organisations more audit-ready and allowing them to focus on innovation rather than being bogged down by compliance-related tasks.”

Agreeing to the automation requirement, Manojkumar SG of MicroGenesis TechSoft, said, “Automation is highlighted as a major factor in expediting the product development process. Organisations can quickly bring products to market by automating various tasks and ensuring compliance requirements are still met. I believe ELM solutions must provide lifecycle traceability and support a risk-based approach, particularly in industries like automotive, where compliance and quality are paramount. It is also important to maintain process documentation and its standardisation throughout the product development life cycle.”

Addressing Cross-functional And Collaboration-related Pain Points
Collaboration is emphasised as a necessity that extends beyond just the engineering function. It involves multiple departments, including manufacturing, quality assurance, and customer service, which must be integrated into the collaborative process to ensure effective product development. Wabtec is a company that fits perfectly in this situation. Wabtec has grown through numerous acquisitions, resulting in a complex organisational structure. This growth has led to the company’s operations being spread across over 100+ sites, with multiple and different ERP systems and multiple Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) instances. This adds to significant collaboration-based challenges.

Commenting on what is the need of the hour for companies like Wabtec, Neha Misra, Portfolio & Integration Programs Leader, said, “We have excellent systems in place for specific functions—such as product design (eBOMs and mBOMs), ERP processes, and quality management— but these systems operate in silos. This separation limits their ability to work together effectively. Therefore, the need of the hour is systems that can collaborate and pull information from legacy systems. To improve its processes, there is a pressing need to create a more cohesive system that allows for seamless information sharing and collaboration across all product development and management functions.”

The Ultimate Goal Of Fostering Innovation
The roundtable discussion underscored the critical role of seamless integration between compliance, automation, and collaboration in achieving ELM success. It is crucial to recognise that these elements are not barriers but enablers of innovation. Robust data governance is also essential. The collective opinion and knowledge shared indicate that when data-driven insights derived from unified frameworks can fuel innovation and drive continuous improvement, organisations are positively on the path to achieving competitive business success.

Top 10 Nations Leading in Space Technology in 2025

 Discover the top 10 countries leading in space technology in 2025. Explore global achievements in satellite launches, Mars missions, lunar exploration, and commercial space innovation.

Posted bySumit Arora  Last updated on May 23rd, 2025 12:38 pm

In 2025, the race for space supremacy is no longer confined to Cold War rivals. A new era of multi-polar space leadership is being shaped by countries investing heavily in launch systems, satellite infrastructure, deep space exploration, and commercial space ecosystems. Space is no longer just a frontier—it’s a platform for strategic dominance, economic growth, and technological prestige.

This article ranks the top 10 countries leading in space technology in 2025, highlighting their unique contributions, missions, and emerging space industries.

Top 10 Spacefaring Nations in 2025

Rank	Country	Key Strengths	Notable Achievements
1	United States	Human spaceflight, reusability, deep space missions	Artemis, Starlink, Mars rovers
2	China	Moon & Mars exploration, space station, ASAT tech	Tiangong, Tianwen-1, Chang’e series
3	Russia	Heritage systems, heavy launch, lunar ambitions	Soyuz, GLONASS, Oryol
4	India	Affordable launch, lunar missions, private sector growth	Chandrayaan-3, Gaganyaan, Aditya-L1
5	European Union (ESA)	Earth observation, deep-space science, launch collaboration	Ariane 6, JUICE, Copernicus
6	Japan	Planetary probes, ISS partner, lunar plans	Hayabusa2, Martian moons mission
7	UAE	Mars mission, Moon rover, regional diplomacy	Hope Probe, Rashid, MBRSC
8	South Korea	Launch vehicles, lunar orbiters, satellite tech	KPLO, Nuri rocket, 6G satellites
9	Iran	Military satellites, domestic launch capability	Noor-2, Qased, Simorgh
10	Brazil	Satellite applications, equatorial launch site	Amazon monitoring, Alcântara Launch Center

1. United States: Unmatched Leader in Space Exploration and Innovation

The United States remains the global leader in space technology in 2025, with unmatched capabilities across government, military, and commercial sectors.

Government and Civil Space Leadership

NASA continues to lead in planetary science, Mars exploration, and Artemis Moon missions, with Artemis III preparing for the first human landing since Apollo. The James Webb Space Telescope has revolutionized astrophysics.

Commercial Space Dominance

The U.S. dominates commercial space through SpaceX, Blue Origin, Rocket Lab, and Sierra Space. Reusable launch vehicles, mega-constellations (Starlink), and plans for private space stations give the U.S. a unique edge.

Defense Space Capabilities

The U.S. Space Force continues to expand its role in satellite defense, space-based ISR, and anti-satellite resilience, making the country the most space-capable nation by far.

2. China: Rapid Expansion and Strategic Ambitions

China has emerged as the United States’ closest space competitor, executing an ambitious space program with increasing autonomy and global ambition.

National Space Strategy

Led by CNSA (China National Space Administration), China has launched its own modular space station—Tiangong, successfully landed rovers on the Moon (Chang’e missions) and Mars (Tianwen-1), and is planning a Moon base with Russia.

Military and Commercial Integration

China integrates civil, military, and commercial efforts under state direction. It has developed its own GNSS system (BeiDou), and state-backed firms like CASIC and i-Space are advancing in launch and satellite services.

3. Russia: Legacy Power with Deep-Space Focus

Despite economic challenges, Russia remains a major space power due to its extensive heritage in launch vehicles, ISS operations, and deep-space missions.

Technological Backbone

Russia’s Soyuz, Proton, and Angara rockets continue to serve global markets. New efforts include the Oryol crewed spacecraft, Moon missions, and future participation in a BRICS-led space station.

Strategic Influence

Roscosmos maintains strong cooperation with countries like India, Iran, Venezuela, and China, leveraging its heritage and GLONASS satellite system to maintain global relevance.

4. India: Precision, Pragmatism, and Progress

In 2025, India stands out as a rising force in space through ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and its expanding private space sector.

Scientific and Operational Excellence

India launched its Chandrayaan-3 Moon lander and Aditya-L1 solar observatory successfully, and has planned the Gaganyaan crewed mission. It maintains an efficient and cost-effective launch program with PSLV and GSLV rockets.

Commercial Growth

With the rise of Skyroot Aerospace, Agnikul Cosmos, and Dhruva Space, India’s NewSpace ecosystem is growing rapidly, contributing to satellite manufacturing, launch services, and space analytics.

5. European Union (ESA Members): Collaborative Technological Leadership

While not a single country, the European Space Agency (ESA) represents the combined capabilities of major European nations like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, making Europe a formidable space force.

Multi-national Coordination

ESA continues to develop and operate Ariane 6 launchers, Copernicus Earth observation satellites, and deep-space probes like JUICE to study Jupiter’s moons.

Member Nation Strength

France’s CNES leads in satellite technology; Germany excels in scientific instruments and rover development; Italy contributes to ISS modules and robotics.

6. Japan: Deep-Space and Asteroid Exploration Pioneer

Japan is known for its high-impact contributions to space science and planetary exploration. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) focuses on sample-return missions, deep-space research, and ISS collaboration.

Asteroid Missions and Innovation

Japan’s Hayabusa2 was the first to retrieve and return asteroid samples, and future missions will study Martian moons and interplanetary particles. It also plays a crucial role in the Artemis lunar program.

Commercial Launch Progress

Japanese companies like Interstellar Technologies and IHI Aerospace are growing in the small satellite launch market.

7. United Arab Emirates (UAE): Ambitious and Accelerating

The UAE has emerged as the Arab world’s space pioneer, demonstrating strong achievements in Mars exploration, satellite development, and space diplomacy.

Key Missions

The UAE’s Hope Probe became the first Arab spacecraft to orbit Mars. The nation has also launched the Rashid Moon rover and is working toward a crew mission by the 2030s.

Long-Term Vision

Backed by the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), the UAE is investing in STEM education, Mars colonization plans, and regional cooperation.

8. South Korea: Emerging Commercial and Government Space Force

South Korea has made major strides in space launch systems, satellite technology, and lunar research. It has developed its own Nuri rocket, successfully launched in 2022 and upgraded since.

Satellite and Moon Ambitions

With the Korea Pathfinder Lunar Orbiter (KPLO), South Korea joined elite lunar exploration nations. The country also excels in defense satellites, space weather monitoring, and precision navigation.

Private Sector Growth

Companies like Hanwha Aerospace and INNOSPACE are investing in reusable rockets and nanosatellite services.

9. Iran: Regional Military and Civilian Space Aspirations

Despite sanctions, Iran continues to develop indigenous launch vehicles, reconnaissance satellites, and military space programs.

Strategic Assets

Iran has successfully launched satellites like Noor-2, and its military space command oversees operations linked to intelligence gathering and deterrence. The Qased and Simorgh rockets form the backbone of its orbital ambitions.

Self-Reliance Focus

Iran’s space program emphasizes indigenous development, often linked to its ballistic missile and aerospace industries.

10. Brazil: Latin America’s Space Leader

Brazil leads Latin America in space technology, with operational satellite programs and a growing interest in launch services from the Alcântara Launch Center.

Civilian and Commercial Growth

Brazil operates under AEB (Brazilian Space Agency) and partners with nations like the U.S., Israel, and India. Its satellite programs support agriculture, Amazon monitoring, and communications.

Future Potential

Brazil is poised to become a regional hub for small satellite launches, with international companies eyeing equatorial launch advantages.