Edge Computing vs. Cloud Computing: Which is Best for Your Automation Needs

The natural evolution of automation is progressing towards data-driven decisions, without human intervention. This transfer of data must be reliable, fast, and most importantly, secure. But when it comes to computing, there's a debate: edge computing vs cloud computing. How do you know which one is best for your business? To determine which option is best suited for your automation needs, consider a few key factors. Let's break it down and see which solution best suits you.

What is Edge Computing?

Edge computing is the process of storing data closer to the physical devices themselves. This means that the data storage happens locally, within the organization's environment. The data is processed locally, typically within PLCs, edge devices, or an IT area on-site at the business or manufacturing facility.

Edge computing has two main components:

1. 1.Sensors (analog inputs, camera, etc.)
2. 2.Edge device performing the actual storage of data

A significant benefit of edge computing is speed and autonomy, as it eliminates the need for internet access to utilize it. It enables manufacturers to access the data at any time, allowing for real-time processing and other actions that require immediate attention. Another critical benefit is security. Since data stays within a given facility, it is more secure.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing refers to data collected off-site and stored in the "cloud" by using remote servers that store and process it. It differs from edge computing in several ways, such as its cybersecurity requirements. Since the data is being stored in the cloud, there is a critical need for robust cybersecurity to protect sensitive data.

Essentially, cloud computing is a computing option accessed through the internet, rather than a physical computing device. It provides a central area for access, scaling, and monitoring, which isn't located in a physical location (like edge computing). A familiar example of cloud computing includes software as a service (SaaS).

What Are the Benefits of Edge Computing?

As businesses increasingly seek faster, more reliable, and secure ways to manage their data, edge computing stands out as a transformative solution. By processing information at the source, close to where it is generated, computing offers numerous advantages over traditional methods that rely solely on centralized cloud services. In the following section, we'll highlight the key benefits of an edge computing solution and explore how it can empower organizations to operate with greater speed, autonomy, and resilience.

Real Time Processing

Edge computing enables real-time data processing with minimal latency because processing occurs directly on-site. This eliminates delays and ensures you can access important information even if you lose your internet connection. Such immediate access is especially beneficial for applications like quality control, robotics, and alarm notifications.

Reliability

Edge computing is known to be highly reliable, as it doesn't rely on external connections or functions to be operational. This means your data won't be affected in instances of an internet connection issue or power outage. In addition, when data is stored across multiple edge devices, an outage or other failure on a single centralized data storage system won't affect all of the data. Edge computing is also reliable because the information is close to the source, which prevents delays in processing and transmission. Data transfers and responses can be accomplished quickly.

Enhanced Security

The nature of edge computing doesn't require intense security protection for the data, as it is stored on-site. Potential breaches are much less likely to occur, and all data is pre-processed before transmission.

Is Cloud Computing the Right Fit for You?

Although there are many benefits to edge computing, cloud computing may still be a suitable option for many businesses.
For example, cloud computing can be the right fit if
   ✔ You are looking to centralize data from a remote location or multiple facilities
   ✔ Your business requires trend analysis or long-term data storage
   ✔ You can invest in hefty cybersecurity measures to keep sensitive information secure in the cloud

Edge Computing vs Cloud Computing

Edge Computing

Speed: Instant/close to real-time processing
Location: On-site
Security: Higher, as it stays on-site
Reliability: Reliable as it doesn't depend on internet access
AI Integration: Built into the device
Best Used For: Real-time automation, quality control, or predictive maintenance

Cloud Computing

Speed: Not instant/can experience latency
Location: Off-site
Security: Needs intense cybersecurity protocols
Reliability: Needs internet access
AI Integration: Typically external
Best Used For: Long-term analytics, centralized data, or remote visibility

Edge Computing with Mitsubishi Electric

Mitsubishi Electric offers comprehensive edge computing solutions, designed into our automation components. Many of which utilize AI to detect abnormalities or when service is needed. We provide solutions that help with computing throughout every step, from the IT system to edge computing to the shop floor. Mitsubishi Electric's e-F@ctory concept is our approach to smart factories. Here is a handful of the e-F@ctory solution offerings that can help with gaining data from the shop floor:

MELSOFT Mailab: This software analyzes and diagnoses data while contributing to automation and productivity improvement on the floor. It helps analyze potential issues while also calculating optimum times for restoring or replacing malfunctioning areas.

EcoAdvisor: This software collects energy data, analyzes it, and generates reports based on the information to diagnose issues better and track energy use, consumption, and sustainability methods.

GENESIS: This is an IoT (Internet of Things) software that scales across multiple types of devices, including browsers, tablets, desktops, and wearable devices, to provide real-time information and keep operations running smoothly.

NC Machine Tool Analyzer: This tool is used to analyze data that's been collected from machine tools and peripheral equipment. It analyzes, diagnoses, and gives a trend analysis on equipment.

MELSOFT Gemini: This allows businesses to see the simulation of how production and lines will work before launch. It can show line simulation with operating times and equipment simulation with interference check, among other features, for machine confirmation.

Is Edge Computing or Cloud Computing the Right Fit for You?

Choosing between edge computing and cloud computing ultimately depends on your specific software requirements. Ultimately, this can depend on your needs for speed, security, or real-time insight, as these are the primary differences between the two. If you are a manufacturer that prioritizes AI or uptime, then edge computing is most likely the clear choice. With that being said, many manufacturers may find more benefits in cloud computing solutions; however, they should prioritize cybersecurity if they choose to adopt this approach. If you do decide to choose edge computing, Mitsubishi Electric is leading the way. You can explore what Mitsubishi Electric has to offer to help modernize your factory while maintaining control and keeping all of the important factors at the forefront.

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