A Look at Edge Computing in Smart Agriculture and Mining Automation with OnLogic

The Edge conjures images of network architecture diagrams, but for users of edge computers the edge is a physical location. Today’s modern edge systems are deployed well away from carpeted spaces, and users of edge computing have very specific requirements. In this presentation, OnLogic Systems Architect, Ross Hamilton explores specific edge use cases (Smart Agriculture & Mining Automation), what they represent about the changing needs of tech innovators, and what goes into designing solutions that can survive wherever they’re needed.

In this presentation, Ross Hamilton from OnLogic discusses the evolving landscape of edge computing, emphasizing that the edge is not just a network concept but a physical location where computing systems are deployed in challenging environments. OnLogic specializes in creating industrial-grade edge computers designed to withstand harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures, vibrations, and dust. Their product lines, including the Karbon series, are built to meet the specific needs of industries like agriculture and mining, where reliable, rugged computing is essential for real-time data processing and decision-making.

Hamilton highlights two specific use cases to illustrate the challenges and solutions in edge computing. In smart agriculture, OnLogic worked with a company developing robotic food harvesters that needed to operate in environments with fluctuating temperatures, vibrations, and dust. The Karbon 800 series was ideal for this application, offering fanless design, wide temperature range support, and the ability to process sensor data and communicate with motor controllers. The system also supports cellular connectivity, enabling real-time data transmission to the cloud, making it a robust solution for agricultural automation.

In the mining industry, OnLogic’s Karbon 400 series was deployed in a facility in northern Sweden, where temperatures can drop to -40°C. The system needed to operate reliably in these extreme conditions while supporting LiDAR sensors to detect spillage and ensure worker safety in dark, hazardous environments. The Karbon 400 series, with its Intel Atom processor and long lifecycle, provided the necessary compute power and connectivity, including dual LAN with Power over Ethernet (PoE) for cameras and sensors. These examples demonstrate how OnLogic’s rugged edge computing solutions are tailored to meet the specific demands of various industries, ensuring reliability and performance in the most challenging environments.