Introducing Edge IO: a new edge device from Tulip

Tulip is replacing its flagship I/O Gateway device with the new Edge IO, a wifi-enabled, easy-to-implement, low-cost edge device for collecting operational data.

This new device integrates data from machines, PLCs, and sensors with industrial I/O ports and USB connectivity. Data can be used in Tulip to display in dashboards, as inputs in applications, or to push into other systems that can be integrated with the platform.

Edge IO comes with a new and unique set of features that set it apart from traditional edge devices on the market. With these, Edge IO enables teams to create agile, self-serve solutions that are integrated and connected with their entire operation.

Previously announced in a limited beta, Edge IO has been tested in operations across the world, at leading organizations like Autodesk Technology Centers, and Protolabs. The devices have been deployed to monitor networked and analog machines with sensors, connect to microcomputers and serial equipment, and build algorithms to filter data in Node-RED. Edge IO has proven to be a powerful tool, with advanced, reliable features and use cases.

Edge IO supports high-speed current and vibration measurements in the device. Connecting an external vibration sensor and a current clamp enables you to collect data from stranded or proprietary machines, and access that data in Tulip. By using Node-RED, you can deploy advanced flows for monitoring anomalies in Tulip apps.

Protolabs, a company specializing in custom prototypes and low-volume production parts, leverages Edge IOs to connect to stranded machines. “Some of our injection molding machines are analog and not network capable which requires additional supervision to prevent excess scrap,” said Alex Klick, Sr Manufacturing Engineer at Protolabs. “With the Edge IO, we converted this analog machine into a “networked” machine quickly and easily. Now we can get reliable machine output signals and real-time insights into our production, allowing us to set up alerts that reduce scrap and maintain our critical app functionality.”

Like the Edge MC, Tulip’s Edge IO enables machine connectivity with native support for OPC UA and the ability to translate serial and other protocols through Node-RED. Connect networked machines and get up and running quickly with machine monitoring capabilities in Tulip. A Tulip Connector Host on Edge IO makes it easy to get started with Machine Monitoring and sending data securely to the cloud without extensive IT support.

Get started with Tulip quickly, with the ability to run Tulip apps on Edge IO with an external touchscreen monitor, reducing the need for equipment at a station. Let Edge IO power a complete workstation with the addition of 2 integrated Tulip Light Kit channels, making it easy to scale connected operations.

Like the I/O Gateway before it, Edge IO provides users with plenty of industrial inputs and outputs to connect IIoT devices and sensors for guided digital workflows and condition monitoring. Edge IO is plug-and-play with Tulip’s library of supported devices, including barcode scanners, scales, smart tools, break-beam sensors, and more. Tulip Factory Kit provides an easy way to get started using Edge IO to bring apps augmented with devices and sensors into your operation.

Edge IO is now available for purchase online as a standalone device or in a Factory Kit. For questions or large orders, please contact sales.