One of the biggest advantages of using cloud-based IT systems is that it allows access to company data from anywhere, at any time and using any device. Until recently this was not possible, since the information was generated, stored and consumed in the work centers. Lantek’s new value proposition is based on cloud solutions and aims to solve this problem.
In this new paradigm, information is still mostly generated in the work environments, but now, the storage and consumption of this information is done in the cloud. This synergy between environments is known as a hybrid cloud which requires the local infrastructure and cloud infrastructure to be connected, creating a secure communication channel.
Connecting both worlds
Sherlock is the solution offered by Lantek for secure data transfer from industrial plants to the cloud. This tool serves as a gateway between local information systems, both those of Lantek and other suppliers, and Lantek applications in the cloud.
Sherlock has been developed with the following objectives in mind:
Guarantee the integrity and security of the transported data.
Allow data transfer both in real time and in batches.
Ensure data retention in the event of communication errors.
Offer flexibility when adding new information sources or destinations.
Architecture and operation
Sherlock consists of two main tools, Sherlock Secure Connect, which is installed in each of the plants, and Sherlock Cloud, the central node of the cloud. Communication channels are established between the two components for the transfer of data in real time and for periodic batch transfers.
Users must install a Sherlock Secure Connect for each plant from which they want to send information, register it in Sherlock Cloud and configure the different data sources. Sherlock can be connected to an ERP/MES like Lantek Integra/Manager, to different types of machines, sensors, etc. Once configured, the system will take care of all the tasks autonomously.
Security, the key to success
Doubts and concerns about data security often arise during the digital transformation process, especially when we talk about the cloud. Like the rest of Lantek’s products, Sherlock’s main objective is to secure data on its journey from the plants to the cloud. For this purpose, data encryption techniques, communication isolation, password and user authentication encryption are implemented to guarantee the security and integrity of the information.
There has been a considerable amount of publicity about the advantages of cloud computing and rightly so. The advantages are clear as it removes the need to have skilled people to set up and run complex in-house computer networks and also takes away the need to invest in expensive equipment and continually reinvest to keep it up to date.
If we look back in time, we will see that the machines of the future will follow the same paradigm as previous industrial revolutions, producing more at a lower cost.