BERLIN: The Port of Hamburg is becoming a ‘smart port’. Some 40,000 lorries pass through the port every day, and a new road management system, consisting of sensors on roads and in parking spaces connected via the internet, is now helping to speed up the flow.
This is the internet of things (IoT) in a real-world application.
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The system delivers real-time traffic information, including personalised alerts, to tablets, smartphones and in-cab telematics units, increasing productivity of the logistics companies using the port.
Hamburg’s ‘smartPORT’ system is just one of several examples of smart technology in practice to be presented by IHS Technology analyst Mark Watson at this year’s CWIEME Berlin exhibition in May.
“There has been a lot of important progress made in these areas recently that, when applied in a manufacturing context, could offer exponential benefits.
For example, instead of having sensors on roads, as in Hamburg, sensors on a production line could be used to monitor performance and relay information back to a central control room, enhancing efficiency by reducing the need for hands-on measurements.”
Watson believes electrical and electronics manufacturing companies can harness its potential and use it to their full advantage.
“The implementation of smart technology is a gradual process. It requires investment in hardware and software and involves a certain degree of training.
However, recent case studies have shown that devices can be installed to allow remote access to components, ensure quick customisation, and provide a large amount of data for maintenance and servicing, enhancing the efficiency of the manufacturing process.
“The development of ‘smart cities’ and ‘smart homes’ has introduced this technology to the public. It is now time to investigate how this can be used to positively impact businesses
