Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates, in general, to industrial automation, and more specifically, relates to a system and method for smart 4G cellular-based universal remote monitoring and control in industrial automation.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Industrial automation involves the use of advanced technologies and control systems to automate industrial processes, reducing human intervention and maximizing operational efficiency. It has revolutionized the manufacturing landscape, enhancing productivity, efficiency, safety, and security.
[0003] Gateways serve as communication backbone in an automated industrial environment. They facilitate the exchange of data between different devices, protocols, and networks, enabling seamless interoperability and integration.
[0004] Presently, some key challenges which need to be addressed in this regard are:
• High initial upfront cost for implementation of automation systems, which in turn create a barrier for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) looking for adopting automation.
• Training, restructuring the workforce to operate, maintain and troubleshoot automated systems may pose a challenge in terms of time, cost, and acceptance.
• Seamless integration of various devices, services and protocols from various vendors can give rise to issues with compatibility, data synchronization, communication etc.
• Data Management and security is difficult and abundant data is generated from various devices. Analyzing and driving control decisions from them can be challenging. Also, ensuring authorized access, data security and protection proves to be an arduous task.
• There is a need for frequent maintenance, and which may result in downtimes.
• Rapid Technological advances often lead to systems becoming obsolete rather quickly. Hence, frequent upgrades and replacements to keep up with the evolving technologies are needed, which requires investment of time and money.
[0005] Therefore, it is desired to overcome the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and develop a systems of ever-accelerating complexity to meet with the requirements of Industry, development of new, innovative, easy to implement, reliable and cost-effective solutions for expansion of systems, maintenance concerns, device upgrades, security is crucial.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0006] An object of the present disclosure relates, in general, to industrial automation, and more specifically, relates to a system and method for smart 4G cellular-based universal remote monitoring and control in industrial automation.
[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that includes multiple devices that can seamlessly connect to the gateway using Modbus RS485, promoting efficient and integrated data communication.
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that enables the migration of traditional "dumb" devices to a digital platform, unlocking new capabilities and functionalities.
[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system with having gateway that supports multiple servers from diverse vendors through the MQTT protocol, offering flexibility and compatibility with various server infrastructures.
[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that supports 4G, coupled with a provision for 2G fallback, to ensure reliable connectivity across different network conditions.
[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that enables users to remotely monitor and control connected devices from any location, enhancing operational flexibility.
[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system with visual indicators on the devices to provide clear feedback on network strength, server connectivity, and other critical features, aiding in quick assessments.
[0013] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that offers a secure provision for local data storage, ensuring data availability even when cloud connectivity is compromised.
[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system with a single configuration tool that streamlines the setup process for both servers and devices, enhancing ease of use and reducing complexity.
[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that supports advanced analytics on the server side, enabling data-driven insights and informed decision-making.
[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that is designed to be easy to maintain, manage, operate, and troubleshoot, reducing downtime and operational challenges.
[0017] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that is designed with cybersecurity, ensuring the protection of data and systems from potential threats.
[0018] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system with firmware updates that allow for the continuous improvement and adaptation of the system to evolving needs and technologies.
[0019] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a cost-effective system, providing a comprehensive solution without compromising on functionality.

SUMMARY
[0020] The present disclosure relates in general, to industrial automation, and more specifically, relates to a system and method for smart 4G cellular-based universal remote monitoring and control in industrial automation. The main objective of the present disclosure is to overcome the drawbacks, limitations, and shortcomings of the existing system and solution, by providing a system that includes a universal remote monitoring unit, designed to collect and transmit data from two or more versatile gateway devices through the RS485 protocol. The RS485 protocol is strategically positioned between the two or more versatile gateway devices and the universal remote monitoring unit. Additionally, a cloud server is configured to receive the collected data from the universal remote monitoring unit using the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol. The MQTT protocol serves as the communication link between the cloud server and the universal remote monitoring unit. Furthermore, a configuration tool integrated into the universal remote monitoring unit is designed to centrally receive details of the versatile gateway devices, cloud server, and parameters of these devices. This configuration tool facilitates monitoring and control through a dashboard.
[0021] In an aspect, the universal remote monitoring unit is configured to establish connections with up to 16 devices through the RS485 protocol. This feature enhances the system's efficiency in data migration. The universal remote monitoring unit incorporates a SIM card slot to ensure primary network connectivity. This provision enables efficient data transmission to the cloud server through the MQTT protocol. Further, the universal remote monitoring unit integrates contingency measures, including a fallback provision to secondary network connectivity in the absence of primary network connectivity. This ensures continuous data transmission under varying network conditions. The primary network connectivity is specified as 4G, and the secondary network connectivity is 2G, providing the system with adaptability to different network standards.
[0022] Additionally, the universal remote monitoring unit is equipped with an SD card slot featuring a 32 GB storage capacity. This allows secure local data storage in scenarios where data transfer to the cloud server may be impeded. Moreover, the MQTT protocol facilitates energy-efficient and scalable communication between the two or more versatile gateway devices and the cloud server through a publish-subscribe messaging model.
[0023] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented herein.
[0025] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary functional component of a system for remote monitoring and data communication in industrial automation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary view of the configuration tool, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 1C illustrates an exemplary view of the dashboard, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary view of a method for remote monitoring and data communication in industrial automation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0030] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0031] The present disclosure relates, in general, to industrial automation, and more specifically, relates to a system and method for smart 4G cellular-based universal remote monitoring and control in industrial automation. The present disclosure introduces a comprehensive system for remote monitoring and data communication, featuring a universal remote monitoring unit strategically connected to two or more versatile gateway devices through the RS485 protocol and seamlessly transmitting data to a cloud server via the MQTT protocol. This system is augmented by a configuration tool integrated into the universal remote monitoring unit for centralized monitoring and control. The universal remote monitoring unit exhibits robust connectivity, accommodating up to 16 devices through the RS485 protocol, ensuring primary network connectivity with a SIM card slot, and implementing contingency measures for continuous data transmission. With dual network connectivity standards and versatile storage options, including a 32 GB SD card slot, the system offers adaptability and resilience. The disclosed system presents an integrated solution for efficient, scalable, and versatile remote monitoring, driven by the advanced capabilities of the universal remote monitoring unit. The present disclosure can be described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0032] The advantages achieved by the system of the present disclosure can be clear from the embodiments provided herein. The comprehensive system is configured to address various challenges in data communication and device management. Multiple devices seamlessly connect to the gateway using Modbus RS485, fostering efficient and integrated data communication. Notably, the system facilitates the transformation of traditional "dumb" devices to a digital platform, unlocking new capabilities and functionalities. The gateway supports multiple servers through the MQTT protocol, ensuring flexibility and compatibility with diverse server infrastructures. The gateway is characterized by server agnosticism, thereby facilitating configuration compatibility with any server, including but not limited to platforms such as Azure and AWS and the like. With support for 4G and a provision for 2G fallback, the system guarantees reliable connectivity across different network conditions. Users benefit from remote monitoring and control capabilities, enhancing operational flexibility, while visual indicators on devices offer quick assessments of network strength and server connectivity. The system prioritizes data security, incorporating secure local data storage and adhering to cybersecurity compliance standards. A single configuration tool simplifies setup, reducing complexity. Advanced analytics on the server side empower data-driven insights, and the system is designed for ease of maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting, minimizing downtime. Additionally, firmware updates enable continuous improvement, and the system is cost-effective, providing a comprehensive solution without compromising functionality. The description of terms and features related to the present disclosure shall be clear from the embodiments that are illustrated and described; however, the invention is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents of the embodiments are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the invention can include other embodiments that are within the scope of the claims but are not described in detail with respect to the following description.
[0033] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary functional component of a system for remote monitoring and data communication in industrial automation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0034] Referring to FIG. 1A, the disclosed invention is a system 100 for remote monitoring and data communication is disclosed. The system 100 can include a universal remote monitoring unit 102 (also referred to as Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) 102, herein), two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N( collectively referred to as versatile gateway devices 104, herein)), RS485-protocal 106, power supply 108, secure digital (SD) card slot 110, subscriber identity module (SIM) card 112, MQTT protocol 114 and cloud server 116.
[0035] The universal remote monitoring unit 102 can connect two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) through RS485-protocal 106 and transmit the data collected from universal remote monitoring unit 102 to any cloud server 116 using MQTT protocol 114, which is an energy-efficient protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, the universal remote monitoring unit 102 can connect up to 16 devices via Modbus RS485 protocol. Additionally, the universal remote monitoring unit 102 is equipped with the sim card slot 112 to accommodate a 4G sim, ensuring 4G network connectivity for efficient data transmission to the cloud server 116 through the MQTT protocol 114. Furthermore, the universal remote monitoring unit 102 incorporates the SD card slot 110 with the storage capacity of 32 GB, serving as a local data storage solution in scenarios where data transfer to the cloud server 116 may be impeded.
[0036] The universal remote monitoring unit 102 configured to collect and transmit a set of data from two or more versatile gateway devices through the RS485 protocol (106), with the RS485 protocol 106 positioned between the two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) and the universal remote monitoring unit 102. The data are collected from devices, including but not limited to meters, VFDs, PLCs, and other industrial products and being sent to cloud 116 through remote monitoring unit 102. The system employs a singular remote monitoring unit capable of aggregating data from multiple devices, optimizing cost efficiency, and streamlining device management within a unified system for transmission to a cloud infrastructure.
[0037] The set of data collected and transmitted by the universal remote monitoring unit 102 pertains to sensor readings, operational parameters of the two or more versatile gateway devices and any combination thereof.
[0038] In an embodiment, the RS485-protocal 106 are positioned between two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) and the universal remote monitoring unit (102). The specified quantity of versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) is limited to a maximum of 16. These versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) encompass devices such as drives, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Air Circuit Breakers (ACBs), Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs), or any other devices capable of communication over the RS485 protocol.
[0039] RS485 is a standard defining the electrical characteristics of drivers and receivers for use in serial communications systems, and it is commonly used for communication over long distances. The RS485-protocal 106 can collect various types of data such as sensor readings, operational parameters, or any other relevant information from the connected devices for data migration to the cloud server 116.
[0040] The cloud server 116 configured to receive the set of data from the universal remote monitoring unit 102 through the MQTT protocol (114), with the MQTT protocol 114 positioned between the cloud server 116 and the universal remote monitoring unit 102 and a configuration tool 120 integrated into the universal remote monitoring unit 102, configured to centrally receive details of the two or more versatile gateway devices, cloud server, and parameters of the two or more versatile gateway devices, facilitating monitoring and control through a dashboard 122.
[0041] In an embodiment, the universal remote monitoring unit 102 incorporates the SIM card slot 112 to ensure primary network connectivity, enabling efficient transmission of the set of data to the cloud server 116 through the MQTT protocol 114. The universal remote monitoring unit 102 incorporates contingency measures, including a fallback provision to secondary network connectivity in the absence of the primary network connectivity, ensuring continuous transmission of the set of data under varying network conditions. In an exemplary embodiment, the primary network connectivity is fourth generation (4G), and secondary network connectivity is second generation (2G).
[0042] The disclosed universal remote monitoring unit (102) establishes connectivity with the cloud server 116 utilizing the MQTT protocol 114 over a network. In an exemplary embodiment, the universal remote monitoring unit 102 establishes this connection over the MQTT protocol specifically over a 4G network. Additionally, contingency measures are implemented, wherein, in the absence of 4G connectivity, a fallback provision to a 2G network is available.
[0043] The universal remote monitoring unit 102 incorporates the SD card slot 110 with a storage capacity of 32 GB for secure local data storage in scenarios impeding data transfer to the cloud server 116. Further, the MQTT protocol 114 enables energy-efficient and scalable communication between the two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) and the cloud server 116 using a publish-subscribe messaging model.
[0044] The term "publish-subscribe messaging model" relates to a communication framework in the disclosed invention, where data dissemination from the sender (publisher) to multiple recipients (subscribers) occurs without explicit knowledge of the subscribers' identities. This model allows for efficient and scalable data transmission in the industrial automation system, promoting flexibility and real-time responsiveness.
[0045] In another embodiment, the MQTT protocol 114 for the universal remote monitoring unit is disclosed to establish a connection with the cloud server 116. The MQTT protocol 114 used for communication between the versatile gateway devices and the cloud server 116. The MQTT protocol 114 is characterized by its energy-efficient and highly scalable nature, operating on the publish-subscribe messaging model. This protocol facilitates the reliable transmission of data over diverse cellular networks, particularly well-suited for scenarios with high latency and low bandwidth. Further, the 24 Volt power supply 108 provides the necessary power to operate the versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N).
[0046] Furthermore, the present disclosure incorporates the configuration tool shown in FIG. 1B configured to facilitate the configuration of the gateway. This tool allows for the monitoring and control of various parameters for a maximum of 16 devices. The configuration tool acts as a centralized platform where details of the gateway, server, and parameters of different devices can be inputted. Additionally, the configuration tool enables the monitoring and control of device parameters through a dashboard depicted in FIG. 1C, providing users with valuable insights.
[0047] The present disclosure encompasses the dashboard 122, serving as a visual representation of data snippets sourced from two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) and transmitted to cloud server 116. This mechanism ensures the data obtained from two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) are presented in a legible format tailored to customer requirements. The two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) facilitate data acquisition from any RS485 Modbus 4-wire communicative device (D+, D-, 24V, GND). The terms "D+" and "D-" are employed to designate transmit and receive inputs, or alternatively, "Rx" and "Tx" may be utilized as terminologies within the described system. Both devices (104-1 to 104-N) and the cloud server 116 are configurable through an integrated utility, allowing seamless configuration of various devices such as drives, PLC, MCCB, breaker to the cloud platform. This comprehensive remote monitoring unit 102 empowers users to continually receive data. Additionally, the present disclosure incorporates a feature ensuring data integrity in the event of a 4G connection loss. During such instances, data is temporarily stored in an SD card, and upon network restoration, it is efficiently transmitted to the server 116.
[0048] Moreover, the system can include firmware updates, firmware upgrades and user authentication to enhance the integrity and security of user accounts. Over-the-air firmware upgrades are supported, enabling on-the-field programming or configuration adjustments. The firmware update may utilize secure encryption protocols to ensure the integrity and authenticity of firmware during updates. The firmware upgrade incorporates a secure boot process and digital signature verification to prevent unauthorized access and manipulation. The user authentication employs robust multi-factor authentication (MFA) methods to enhance the security of user accounts.
[0049] In an exemplary implementation of an embodiment, in an industrial automation setting, the disclosed system for remote monitoring and data communication could be applied to continuously monitor the operational parameters of manufacturing equipment. The universal remote monitoring unit, equipped with 4G cellular connectivity, collects real-time data from versatile gateway devices, such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and drives, through the RS485 protocol. This data is then transmitted to the cloud server using the MQTT protocol, enabling instant access to critical information. The configuration tool 120 integrated into the system facilitates centralized monitoring and control, allowing operators to optimize industrial processes through a user-friendly dashboard, enhancing overall efficiency and minimizing downtime.
[0050] Thus, the present invention overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and provides a comprehensive system configured to address various challenges in data communication and device management. Multiple devices seamlessly connect to the gateway using Modbus RS485, fostering efficient and integrated data communication. The system facilitates the transformation of traditional "dumb" devices to a digital platform, unlocking new capabilities and functionalities. The gateway supports multiple servers through the MQTT protocol, ensuring flexibility and compatibility with diverse server infrastructures. The gateway is characterized by server agnosticism, thereby facilitating configuration compatibility with any server, including but not limited to platforms such as Azure and AWS and the like. With support for 4G and a provision for 2G fallback, the system guarantees reliable connectivity across different network conditions. Users benefit from remote monitoring and control capabilities, enhancing operational flexibility, while visual indicators on devices offer quick assessments of network strength and server connectivity. The system prioritizes data security, incorporating secure local data storage and adhering to cybersecurity compliance standards. A single configuration tool simplifies setup, reducing complexity. Advanced analytics on the server side empower data-driven insights, and the system is designed for ease of maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting, minimizing downtime. Additionally, firmware updates enable continuous improvement, and the system is cost-effective, providing a comprehensive solution without compromising functionality.
[0051] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary view of a method for remote monitoring and data communication in industrial automation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure
[0052] Referring to FIG. 2, the method 200 for remote monitoring and data communication, includes at block 202 collecting a set of data from two or more versatile gateway devices by a universal remote monitoring unit. At block 204, transmitting the collected set of data, from the two or more versatile gateway devices to the universal remote monitoring unit 102 through an RS485 protocol 106, wherein the RS485 protocol 106 is positioned between the universal remote monitoring unit 102 and the two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N).
[0053] At block 206, receiving, at a cloud server, the set of data transmitted by the universal remote monitoring unit 102 through a Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol 114, with the MQTT protocol 114 positioned between the cloud server and the universal remote monitoring unit 102. At block 208, centrally receiving details of the two or more versatile gateway devices, cloud server, and parameters of the two or more versatile gateway devices by a configuration tool integrated into the universal remote monitoring unit 102 and at block 210 facilitating monitoring and control of the two or more versatile gateway devices through a dashboard using the configuration tool. The dashboard serves as a visual indicator for network strength, server connectivity, configuration status, and other critical parameters.
[0054] The system 100 facilitates the communication of data from two or more versatile gateway devices to the cloud through an energy-efficient Internet of Things (IoT) protocol, utilizing 4G General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) over MQTT. MQTT, recognized as a lightweight, publish-subscribe, machine-to-machine network protocol, caters to devices with resource constraints or limited network bandwidth. This technology enables the migration of any Modbus RS485-compatible device to a digital platform via the cloud, utilizing MQTT over 4G for data transfer, allowing virtual monitoring and control from remote locations. The system prioritizes cybersecurity compliance, supporting firmware update, upgrade, and user authentication. It is designed for easy maintenance, management, operation, and troubleshooting. Additionally, a user-friendly configuration tool facilitates the setup of communication between devices and servers. The system incorporates local data and configuration storage provisions and provides clear visual indicators for network strength, server connectivity, configuration status, and other critical parameters.
[0055] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the system 100 of the disclosure may be provided using some or all of the mentioned features and components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0056] The present invention provides a system that includes multiple devices that can seamlessly connect to the gateway using Modbus RS485, promoting efficient and integrated data communication.
[0057] The present invention provides a system that enables the migration of traditional "dumb" devices to a digital platform, unlocking new capabilities and functionalities.
[0058] The present invention provides a system with having gateway that supports multiple servers from diverse vendors through the MQTT protocol, offering flexibility and compatibility with various server infrastructures.
[0059] The present invention provides a system that supports 4G, coupled with a provision for 2G fallback, ensuring reliable connectivity across different network conditions.
[0060] The present invention enables users to remotely monitor and control connected devices from any location, enhancing operational flexibility.
[0061] The present invention provides a system with visual indicators on the devices that provide clear feedback on network strength, server connectivity, and other critical features, aiding in quick assessments.
[0062] The present invention provides a gateway that is characterized by server agnosticism, thereby facilitating configuration compatibility with any server, including but not limited to platforms such as Azure and AWS and the like.
[0063] The present invention provides a system that offers a secure provision for local data storage, ensuring data availability even when cloud connectivity is compromised.
[0064] The present invention provides a system with a single configuration tool that streamlines the setup process for both servers and devices, enhancing ease of use and reducing complexity.
[0065] The present invention provides a system that supports advanced analytics on the server side, enabling data-driven insights and informed decision-making.
[0066] The present invention provides a system that is designed to be easy to maintain, manage, operate, and troubleshoot, reducing downtime and operational challenges.
[0067] The present invention provides a system that is designed with cybersecurity compliance in mind, ensuring the protection of data and systems from potential threats.
[0068] The present invention provides a system with firmware updates that allow for the continuous improvement and adaptation of the system to evolving needs and technologies.
[0069] The present invention provides a cost-effective system, providing a comprehensive solution without compromising on functionality.

, Claims:1. A system (100) for remote monitoring and data communication in industrial automation, the system comprising:
a universal remote monitoring unit (102) configured to collect and transmit a set of data from two or more versatile gateway devices (104) through a RS485 protocol (106), with the RS485 protocol (106) positioned between the two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) and the universal remote monitoring unit (102);
a cloud server (116) configured to receive the set of data from the universal remote monitoring unit (102) through a Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol (114), with the MQTT protocol (114) positioned between the cloud server and the universal remote monitoring unit (102); and
a configuration tool (120) integrated into the universal remote monitoring unit (102), configured to centrally receive details of the two or more versatile gateway devices, cloud server, and parameters of the two or more versatile gateway devices, facilitating monitoring and control through a dashboard (122), wherein the dashboard serves as a visual indicator to display network strength, server connectivity, configuration status, and other critical parameters.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the universal remote monitoring unit (102) configured to connect up to 16 devices through the RS485 protocol for efficient data migration.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the universal remote monitoring unit (102) incorporates a subscriber identity module (SIM) card slot (112) to ensure primary network connectivity, enabling efficient transmission of the set of data to the cloud server (116) through the MQTT protocol (114).
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the universal remote monitoring unit (102) incorporates contingency measures, including a fallback provision to secondary network connectivity in the absence of the primary network connectivity, ensuring continuous transmission of the set of data under varying network conditions, wherein the primary network connectivity is a fourth generation (4G), and the secondary network connectivity is second generation (2G).
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system comprises firmware updates, firmware upgrades and user authentication to enhance integrity and security of user accounts.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the universal remote monitoring unit (102) incorporates a secure digital (SD) card slot (110) with a storage capacity of 32 GB for secure local data storage in scenarios impeding data transfer to the cloud server (116).
7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) encompass drives, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), air circuit breakers (ACBs), molded case circuit breakers (MCCBs), or any other devices capable of communication over the RS485 protocol (106).
8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of data collected and transmitted by the universal remote monitoring unit (102) pertains to sensor readings, operational parameters of the two or more versatile gateway devices and any combination thereof.
9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the MQTT protocol (114) enables energy-efficient and scalable communication between the two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N) and the cloud server (116) using a publish-subscribe messaging model.
10. A method (200) for remote monitoring and data communication in industrial automation, the method comprising:
collecting (202) a set of data from two or more versatile gateway devices by a universal remote monitoring unit (102);
transmitting (204) the collected set of data, from the two or more versatile gateway devices to the universal remote monitoring unit (102) through an RS485 protocol (106), wherein the RS485 protocol (106) is positioned between the universal remote monitoring unit (102) and the two or more versatile gateway devices (104-1 to 104-N);
receiving (206), at a cloud server, the set of data transmitted by the universal remote monitoring unit (102) through a Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol (114), with the MQTT protocol (114) positioned between the cloud server and the universal remote monitoring unit (102);
centrally receiving (208) details of the two or more versatile gateway devices, cloud server, and parameters of the two or more versatile gateway devices by a configuration tool integrated into the universal remote monitoring unit (102); and
facilitating (210) monitoring and control of the two or more versatile gateway devices through a dashboard using the configuration tool, wherein the dashboard serves as a visual indicator to display network strength, server connectivity, configuration status, and other critical parameters.