Introduction:
This article discusses the implementation of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) in the bioprocessing industry. It explores the regulatory barriers to adopting IIoT, the benefits it offers, and the potential for future developments in the field.
- The IIoT involves implementing an embedded data-collection, modeling, and control strategy to predict and adjust future actions in a process.
- Currently, companies are implementing the minimum required components of IoT in patches to support cell line or process development, rather than manufacturing.
- There may be more advanced implementations of IIoT that are not publicly shared due to the nature of the industry and regulation.
- Regulatory issues pose significant challenges for implementing IIoT, as companies need assurance and incentives to invest in the necessary changes.
- The benefits of IIoT in the bioprocessing industry include improved understanding of bioprocesses, better modeling and control of manufacturing steps, and streamlined regulatory submissions.
Conclusion:
The implementation of IIoT in the bioprocessing industry is still in its early stages, with companies focusing on patchwork implementations rather than comprehensive integration. Regulatory barriers and the need for incentives to invest in IIoT technologies pose challenges to widespread adoption. However, the benefits offered by IIoT, such as improved process understanding and quality control, make it a promising technology for the future of bioprocessing.