SAP IoT Integration: The SAP Internet of Things solution (SAP IoT) is a collection of services, apps, and UI templates that help you modeling digital twins of real-world objects that you want to monitor, track, or analyze.
Introduction
The SAP IoT processing service is configured through the Message Processing API as described in section Create a Configuration for the SAP IoT Processing Service or you can use the Internet of Things Service Cockpit as described in section Create a Configuration in the Internet of Things Service Cockpit documentation.
Applicability of This Documentation
This documentation describes the functions of the Device Connectivity feature of SAP IoT.
This Device Connectivity documentation is only relevant to you if you have a new SAP IoT license under which the Device Connectivity feature is an integral part of SAP IoT.
You can find out which type of license you’re using by going to your SAP BTP subaccount in the SAP BTP Cockpit and looking under Subscriptions.
- If you’re subscribed to SAP IoT (new license: oneproduct application plan), this documentation is relevant to you.
- If you’re subscribed to SAP Leonardo IoT (older license: standard service plan), this documentation is not relevant to you. Please refer instead to the documentation for SAP IoT services for SAP BTP for the Cloud Foundry Environment, which explains how to use this older Internet of Things service for device management.
Architecture
The following figure provides an overview of the architecture.
Device Connectivity
The Gadget Network Programming interface that gives usefulness to the association of IoT gadget and its lifecycle the executives. This incorporates the meaning of the message design for measures and orders, setup of the convention to be utilized for information transmission and setting up the qualifications for getting to Gadget Availability.
Gadget Network can be utilized to test the relating REST APIs. An itemized portrayal of the gadget model can be found in the segment Gadget Model. For more data, kindly allude Make a Gadget Model utilizing Programming interface.
IoT Gateway Cloud and IoT Edge
The IoT Gateway is available in the cloud and can be deployed at the edge. It was originally available as IoT Edge platform, but is now available as a new product, Edge Gateway Service,since November 2021.
SAP suggests involving Edge Entryway Administration for new ventures. It is accessible as a piece of SAP IoT Edge and can be remotely sent to the edge from the SAP cloud. SAP IoT Edge additionally considers conveying custom programming written in any language involving any system to the edge as Docker holders. The Augmentation Administration can handle IoT sensor readings at the edge when they are gotten by the Edge Door Administration.
The more established IoT Edge Stage can be introduced at the edge and gives connectors to arrange assembly and syntactic convention standardization. Its usefulness can be broadened utilizing IoT Edge Stage SDK.
Device Model
The device model for Device Connectivity consists of six entities: Gateway, Device, Sensor, Sensor Type, Capability, and Property as shown in the following graphic.
To be able to distinguish between commands (messages sent to the device) and measures (messages sent from the device) the relationship between SensorType and Capability can be attributed.
Typical Device Connectivity Workflow
SAP IoT Device Connectivity starts with Device Model creation.
In order to create digital twin of physical asset, such as silos, in the SAP system, Device entity is onboarded. This is done by creating a Device Model, which includes four entities: Capability, Sensor Type, Device, and Sensor.
Step 1: Create Capabilities and Sensor Types
To start with Device Connectivity, you need to create Capabilities and Sensor Types using the Device Connectivity API.
- Create new Capabilities
- Create new Sensor Type
Step 2: Onboard a new device
Next step is to onboard Device into the system using the Device Connectivity API.
- Create a Device
- Generate a certificate and put it onto the device
- Create a Sensor
- Update device firmware to send data expected by the sensor from the device to the Device Connectivity endpoint
Step 3: Set up End-to-End Data Ingestion
Once you create device and entities, you need to set up data ingestion.
- Send Data with MQTT (
- Send Data with REST
- Send Commands with MQTT
Step 4: Read Measures
You can read the Measures received to check that they arrive correctly.
- Check Incoming Data
Step 5: Handle Security Issues During Operation and Monitoring
If you have reason to believe that a device may have been compromised, you must revoke its certificate. For description of this task, see Certificate Revocation.
Step 6: Create and Manage Custom Properties for Device
You can create and manage Custom Properties for the Device associated to the given ID using the Device Connectivity API:
- Add Custom Properties
- Edit Custom Properties
- Delete Custom Properties
Conclusion
A. Recap of Key Points
In this comprehensive exploration of SAP IoT Integration, we’ve covered its definition, significance, benefits, challenges, and tips for successful implementation. The synergy between SAP’s tools and the Internet of Things has proven transformative for industries.
B. Emphasizing the Importance of SAP IoT Integration
As we conclude, it’s crucial to emphasize the pivotal role SAP plays in shaping the future of industries through IoT Integration. The benefits, though multifaceted, all contribute to a more agile, efficient, and data-driven approach to business operations.
FAQs
A. What industries benefit most from SAP IoT Integration?
SAP IoT Integration is versatile and beneficial across various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and more. Its adaptability makes it a valuable asset for businesses seeking digital transformation.
B. How does SAP address security concerns in IoT Integration?
SAP prioritizes security in its IoT Integration solutions, implementing encryption, authentication protocols, and regular updates to mitigate security risks. Businesses can trust SAP’s commitment to safeguarding sensitive data.
C. Can small businesses also leverage SAP IoT Integration?
Absolutely. SAP offers scalable solutions that cater to the needs of businesses of all sizes. Small businesses can leverage SAP IoT Integration to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in their respective markets.
D. Are there ongoing costs associated with SAP IoT Integration?
While initial investment is necessary for implementation, ongoing costs are manageable. SAP provides transparent pricing models, and the long-term benefits often outweigh the operational expenses.
E. What makes SAP’s approach to IoT Integration unique?
SAP’s approach stands out due to its comprehensive suite of tools, continuous innovation, and user-friendly interfaces. The integration of SAP Leonardo, SAP Cloud Platform, and SAP Analytics Cloud creates a seamless and powerful ecosystem.