Mobile Devices for Today’s CPI

New mobile devices, apps and augmented reality are supporting the digitalization revolution, as well as keeping business going during the pandemic Anyone who has visited or toured a production plant of the chemical process industries (CPI) knows that mobile phones not only have to be turned off, but are often even forbidden to be carried inside the production site. That’s because common mobile devices are safety hazards as potential ignition sources — even when turned off. Nevertheless, with the advent of Industry 4.0 and the industrial internet of things (IIoT), smartphones, tablets and other hand-held devices are increasingly becoming a common sight within production plants. These “special” devices have been designed to be safe, as well as rugged, in order to be used in such industrial settings. And like the electronic gadgets widely used by consumers, new models, as well as the applications (apps) running on them, are regularly being introduced. In addition, the use of augmented reality (AR) is becoming more important, especially for performing service work, while meeting new distancing restrictions due to the novel coronavirus. What follows is an overview of some products and services recently introduced.   Mobile…