ARMxy-based SBC BL450 and Thingsboard: Edge Computing for Industry 4.0
Case Details
The ARMxy-based SBC BL450 series, an industrial-grade embedded computer powered by the Rockchip RK3588J/RK3588 processor, integrates seamlessly with the Thingsboard IoT platform to deliver a robust "device-edge-cloud" solution. This architecture supports industrial control, smart manufacturing, and IoT applications with low-latency processing (<20ms), local AI inference, and multi-protocol compatibility. Designed for harsh environments (-40°C to 85°C), the BL450 series ensures reliability, security, and scalability for Industrial 4.0 transformation.
Hardware and System Architecture
ARMxy-based SBC BL450 Hardware Specifications
Processor: Rockchip RK3588J/RK3588, featuring 4×ARM Cortex-A76 (up to 2.4GHz), 4×ARM Cortex-A55, and 3×Cortex-M0, with a 6TOPS NPU for AI tasks.
Interfaces: 1–3 RJ-45 Ethernet ports (2×10/100/1000M, 1×10/100M), 2×USB 3.1, optional HDMI 2.1, Mini PCIe for WiFi/4G/5G, and flexible X/Y-series I/O boards (RS485, RS232, DI/DO, etc.).
Durability: Aluminum alloy casing, IP30 protection, DIN35 rail/wall mounting, and wide voltage range (9–36VDC) with reverse polarity and overcurrent protection.
System Architecture
Edge Layer: Runs Ubuntu 20.04 LTS or Linux-5.10.209 with Docker-hosted Thingsboard Edge for real-time data collection, rule-based processing, and local visualization.
Cloud Layer: Thingsboard cloud instance (AWS/Azure) for data aggregation, long-term storage, and multi-tenant analytics.
Collaboration: MQTT/HTTP protocols enable edge-cloud synchronization, with critical commands issued locally and non-real-time data uploaded in batches.
Core Functionalities
Data Acquisition and Processing
Multi-Protocol Support: Integrates with PLCs and sensors via RS485 (Modbus RTU/TCP) and wireless devices via WiFi/4G/5G. X/Y-series I/O boards support diverse inputs (e.g., PT100, 4–20mA).
Thingsboard Edge Rules: Configurable for data filtering, threshold-based alerts (e.g., temperature anomalies), and local actions (e.g., valve control) or notifications to mobile apps.
Edge AI and Computing
AI Inference: The 6TOPS NPU accelerates TensorFlow/PyTorch models for tasks like image classification (e.g., defect detection) and predictive maintenance (e.g., LSTM-based fault prediction).
Task Optimization: Cortex-A76/A55 handles lightweight tasks, while the NPU processes complex models, improving energy efficiency by 50%.
Cloud Integration and Visualization
Data Sync: Key metrics (e.g., energy usage, production rates) are uploaded to the cloud for cross-site analysis.
Dashboards: Thingsboard’s customizable dashboards provide real-time device status, historical trends, and integration with tools like Grafana, accessible on PC/mobile.
Security and Scalability
Security Features
Hardware Security: TrustZone isolates sensitive data, with robust electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) passing GB/T 9254 and IEC 61000 standards.
Data Protection: MQTT over TLS/SSL ensures secure transmission, with anonymized data uploads compliant with GDPR.
Scalability
Flexible Configuration: Modular X/Y-series I/O boards and SOM options (e.g., SOM450–SOM454) support diverse application needs.
Software Ecosystem: Supports Python, C++, Node-RED, and Docker for rapid development, with BLIoTLink enabling integration with AWS IoT, Thingsboard, and OPC UA.
Use Cases
Smart Manufacturing: Vibration data analysis via LSTM models predicts equipment failure, reducing downtime by 43% through MES integration.
Smart Agriculture: Soil sensor data triggers precision irrigation, with 4G-enabled reports cutting deployment costs by 60%.
Smart Buildings: ISP-processed camera feeds optimize HVAC based on occupancy, reducing energy use by 18.6% with dual Ethernet for network isolation.
Implementation and Benefits
Deployment Steps
Hardware Setup: Install BL450, configure network/interfaces, and deploy Ubuntu/Docker.
Software Configuration: Install Thingsboard Edge, set up device rules, and enable cloud sync.
AI Integration: Deploy pre-trained models to the NPU using optimized frameworks.
Benefits
Cost Efficiency: Replaces multiple devices, saving 40% on wiring and space.
Performance: Reduces AI inference latency from 2s to 200ms, boosting responsiveness by 10x.
Reliability: Operates in extreme temperatures (-40°C to 85°C) and passes vibration/free-fall tests.
Conclusion
The ARMxy-based SBC BL450 series, combined with Thingsboard, delivers a high-performance, secure, and scalable edge computing solution. Its robust hardware, flexible I/O, and seamless cloud integration empower enterprises to achieve real-time intelligence and cost-effective digital transformation in Industrial 4.0 and beyond.
ARMxy BL450 Edge AI box computer with flexible I/O ports. Adopts Rockchip RK3588 processor with 4*A76+4*A55 and 3*M0, up to 2.4GHz. with 32/
ARMxy + Node-RED + ThingsBoard: The Ultimate Solution for IoT Applications
With the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoT), how to quickly build an efficient, reliable and low-cost system has become a core challenge facing the industry. The solution consisting of the ARMxy Industrial Edge Gateway, the Node-RED low-code platform and the ThingsBoard IoT platform can meet 99% of the IoT scenario requirements with its flexibility, development efficiency and comprehensive functions. Whether it is industrial automation, smart agriculture, or smart cities, this combination has demonstrated strong adaptability. The following analyzes its advantages from three aspects: hardware, development tools and platforms.
ARMxy: Combined Industrial Edge Gateway, flexible hardware selection to meet different project requirements
As the "nerve endings" of the IoT system, the performance and reliability of the hardware acquisition module are crucial. Through the flexible combination of X board and Y board, the ARMxy series can support tens of thousands of IO interface configurations, including RS485, RS232, CAN, Ethernet port, analog/digital input and output, thermal resistance, etc., covering almost all access requirements of industrial sensors and equipment.
Its multi-level configuration strategy (high/medium/low configuration) further optimizes the cost: the high-profile version is suitable for industrial scenarios with many data points and strict real-time requirements; while the medium and low-profile versions can meet lightweight requirements such as agricultural monitoring or small environmental monitoring. In addition, ARMxy adopts industrial-grade design, with dustproof, vibration-resistant, wide temperature operation and other characteristics, ensuring long-term stable operation in harsh environments, laying the foundation for the reliability of the Internet of Things system.
Node-RED: Low-code development, opening up the "highway" of data flow
Node-RED, with its visual drag-and-drop programming and rich protocol support, has become a key bridge connecting hardware and the cloud.
Full coverage of protocols: Built-in Modbus, Siemens PLC protocol, power industry DL/T645 and other industrial protocol nodes, easily connect to various devices; uplink supports MQTT and HTTP, seamlessly integrates mainstream cloud platforms such as Alibaba Cloud and AWS.
Edge computing capabilities: Through custom nodes or plug-in extensions, data can be pre-processed (such as filtering and compression), reducing cloud bandwidth pressure and improving system efficiency.
Rapid development: Non-professional developers can also build data collection, processing and transmission logic by dragging nodes, greatly shortening the development cycle, especially suitable for prototype verification and agile iteration.
ThingsBoard: An all-round platform for refined management of data and devices
As an open source IoT platform, ThingsBoard provides one-stop services from data storage to visualization:
Real-time monitoring and visualization: Through custom dashboards, users can intuitively view device status and generate dynamic charts or reports, such as temperature curves of factory equipment and heat maps of urban traffic flow.
Large-scale device management: Supports batch access, remote control and OTA upgrades of thousands of devices to meet industrial-grade scenario requirements.
Highly scalable: Open source features allow developers to customize functional modules according to business needs, such as integrating AI algorithms to achieve predictive maintenance.
ARMxy + Node-RED + ThingsBoard synergistic advantages release the potential of the IoT
The combination of ARMxy, Node-RED and ThingsBoard builds a complete closed loop from hardware to cloud:
Seamless collaboration: ARMxy is responsible for data collection, Node-RED performs edge processing and protocol conversion, ThingsBoard realizes centralized management and visualization, and the three form an efficient data flow.
Extreme cost optimization: ARMxy's flexible configuration reduces hardware costs, and the open source features of Node-RED and ThingsBoard eliminate software licensing fees. The overall solution cost is only 1/3 of the traditional solution.
Full coverage of scenarios: Industrial production lines, farmland environmental monitoring, urban infrastructure management and other scenarios can be quickly adapted to meet 99% of the Internet of Things needs.
Rapid deployment: Node-RED's low-code development and ThingsBoard's ready-to-use functions can compress project cycles from months to weeks.
Conclusion: The future of IoT begins with an efficient tool combination
The golden combination of ARMxy + Node-RED + ThingsBoard not only solves the compatibility problem in the fragmented IoT scenario, but also becomes the preferred solution for enterprise digital transformation through its advantages of low cost, high flexibility and rapid implementation. Whether it is a startup team or a large enterprise, this combination can help them seize the initiative in the IoT wave and truly realize the vision of "Internet of Everything".
ARMxy SBC, Industrial ARM SBC, ARM-based SBC, Arm-Based Single Board Computers, ARM IoT Gateways, ARM embedded controller, ARM based industr
As a large mechanical equipment, air compressors will generate a lot of after-sales maintenance and troubleshooting needs during long-term use. High power consumption and maintenance costs amplify the impact of failures, which can result in significant losses through delayed repairs and extended downtime.
By making air compressors IoT-enabled, maintenance personnel can remotely monitor compressor operation, detect abnormalities in a timely manner and proactively solve problems. This strategy minimizes downtime-related losses, enriches customer service, and enhances the overall value proposition.
Air compressor monitoring requirements
Real-Time Monitoring and Remote Control
Through real-time collection of key parameters such as temperature, pressure, and rotational speed of the air compressor. Allows remote control to adjust parameters and optimize production processes.
Troubleshooting and Predictive Maintenance
Analyze collected data and diagnose potential machine failures, issuing timely alerts to prevent production interruptions and equipment damage.
Data Analysis and Reporting
Advanced data analytics platforms are required to process, analyze and visualize machine operation data. It should support report and chart generation, allowing customers to monitor production efficiency, quality metrics, equipment utilization and drive continuous improvement.
Application of RTU S275 in Remote Monitoring of Air Compressors
Data collection and monitoring
Through RTU S275, we can easily configure oil temperature and lubricant level sensors to monitor key parameters of the air compressor in real time. The equipment provides data storage and historical recording functions to ensure the traceability of production data.
Air compressor controller connection
RTU S275 can establish a connection with the air compressor controller to realize real-time monitoring and remote control of the air compressor status. In this way, operators can adjust operating parameters in a timely manner to optimize production efficiency.
4G network transmission
The device supports 4G network communication and transmits the collected data to the remote management platform in a dedicated protocol format. This ensures efficient transmission and real-time performance of data.
Remote visualization and analysis
The remote management platform receives, parses and stores data transmitted through RTU S275, providing customers with a convenient way to view, count and analyze data anytime and anywhere through a computer or mobile phone. This provides more intuitive and real-time data support for production management.
Security
To ensure the security of data transmission and storage, RTU S275 provides multiple security measures, including data encryption and authentication. These measures help prevent unauthorized access and ensure data integrity.
In conclusion
RTU S275 provides an intelligent solution for remote monitoring of air compressors. Its powerful functions and flexible configuration make it suitable for various industrial environments. Through real-time monitoring and remote control, RTU S275 not only improves the safety and reliability of the air compressor system, but also reduces maintenance costs and production risks.
More information about BLIIoT Remote Monitoring RTU Gateway S275 : https://www.bliiot.com/m2m-rtu-p00175p1.html
Messing with ThingsBoard CE local server, a quartet of ESPs & DHT22s. Using IFTTT to trigger humidifiers, pellet stove, and space heaters. I want winter to be over...
What we do
