Smart Sensors and IoT in Logistics

Technological progress is forcing all types of businesses to adapt to modern technical capabilities. The logistics market is one of the leading factors in the transformation.

?? Smart devices have already become an inescapable part of everyday life in technologically advanced countries and have penetrated industry and transportation infrastructure. In the latter case, IoT equipment offers many advantages, which we will discuss today.

Why am I focusing on transportation and the logistics sector in general?

It's simple: it is here that the impact of smart sensors on business performance and personal security is most clearly revealed. As well as process automation, customer experience transformation, etc.

Read about this and more in the article.

Definition of IoT (Internet of Things)

In simple terms, it is a network of interconnected equipment. Traditionally, WiFi and Bluetooth communications are used to exchange data between devices, but increasingly, such systems transmit information and receive commands via the Internet.

IoT equipment is most commonly a physical device with a built-in processor and command interpreter, an external GUI for management, and powerful communication algorithms. Such devices are used everywhere, but it is in the logistics segment where their potential is maximized.

Importance of Smart Sensors and IoT in Logistics

IoT equipment can have completely different capabilities.

Here are some examples:

• Devices can communicate with each other and exchange information seamlessly.
• Many IoT systems operate autonomously, trimming the need for human intervention.
• Continuous data collection allows for instant analysis and decision-making.
• If necessary, IoT systems can be expanded to include additional devices.

In the context of logistics, the equipment can collect information about the microclimate in containers with cargo and regulate it. It can also be helpful to hold track of the condition of the vehicle, the driver, and the situation on the route and transmit this and other data to the dispatcher's console.

A striking example is the delivery status monitoring system, when a end-user can keep up with the movement of their cargo in almost real time.

Types of Smart Sensors

If you follow technology news, you've seen a variety of devices, including those for smart home systems. But you've hardly ever seen specialized equipment.

Next, I will guide you to the most typical IoT devices used in the logistics business.

Temperature Sensors

This type of sensor is essential for the transportation of highly sensitive goods, such as chemicals, food with a limited shelf life, etc. Generally, it is used to monitor the temperature in containers, tanks, and refrigerators and adjust the microclimate according to the set parameters.

Humidity Sensors

Similar to the previous option, these sensors monitor and manage the microclimate in containers and work in tandem with other sensors. They are most frequently used for the transportation of aggressive substances, toxins, food, and other goods that require certain conditions.

Proximity Sensors

This class of equipment is installed both on trucks and in containers. In the first case, they serve as indicators that alert you to obstacles in blind spots, approaching objects, etc. In the latter case, they can act as a detector for the displacement of a fixed cargo.

Pressure Sensors

This kind of sensor monitors and regulates the pressure in specialized containers, such as tanks, drain excess, etc. Directly in trucks, such equipment is used to monitor the pressure in tires, in the lubrication system, and in other units, from where the data is transmitted to the onboard computer.

GPS Trackers

This is the equipment you love about your logistics providers. They transmit data in real-time to the control panel and user devices about the truck's geolocation and cargo, parcels, etc. This assists you to calculate the arrival time, considering all related factors accurately.

Benefits of Smart Sensors

Considering effective equipment as a class, it is impossible not to note its usefulness in completely different scenarios and applications. Here are some of the strengths of this type of device:

• Real-Time Monitoring. Sensors collect information about certain processes, space, its characteristics, etc., and then transmit the data to the control panel or user GUI in a convenient format. Mostly in a numerical value or in the form of a generalization that informs about the current state of the measured environment.
• Improved Efficiency. With equipment of this sort, there is no necessity for manual control of processes and the microclimate of the environment, which leads to improved efficiency of equipment management, etc. For example, technical breaks to check the condition of the cargo, container, tank, and refrigerator parameters are minimized, as control and notification are automatic.
• Enhanced Safety. When working with hazardous environments or cargo, smart sensors, and sensors, in combination with IoT regulators, provide comprehensive control. This means that at the slightest sign of deviation from the norm, the system will independently calibrate the relevant equipment and eliminate the risks of emergency situations.

And these are just generalized advantages, so let's move on to the benefits of using smart sensors in the logistics segment.

Benefits of IoT in Logistics

Let me say right away: the use of IoT equipment in the logistics business is a profitable investment with excellent ROI. And here's why:

• Automation of processes. For example, controlling the microclimate in containers, transmitting current data to the control panel, and identifying duties persons and customers.
• Data Collection and Analysis. For example, current environmental indicators, cargo condition, traffic situation, vehicle and driver condition, etc.
• Predictive Maintenance. Automated risk calculation and instant response to any changes related to road conditions, cargo, vehicles, etc.

However, in addition to the advantages, IoT equipment also has disadvantages, which I will briefly discuss below.

Challenges and Considerations

In fact, the strengths of IoT devices end where the practical side of maintaining this type of equipment begins. In particular:

• Technical Challenges. In addition to the devices themselves, you also need a sophisticated system, well-established communications, and standardized data set formats, which can sometimes be a challenge.
• Security Concerns. Modern IoT equipment is rather weakly protected, which makes it a target for attackers who can potentially gain uncontrolled access to the rest of the system.
• Cost Implications. Since IoT equipment requires a high-quality infrastructure, its use can be costly, as it is necessary to create an appropriate system and communications.

However, despite the disadvantages, IoT in logistics is still a profitable investment. Especially if we consider the speed of development of such technologies and their potential.

The Future of Logistics with Smart Sensors and IoT

It is actually difficult to predict what the next generations of IoT devices will be like. However, I am convinced that with each subsequent iteration, they will become smarter, more autonomous, and more accurate.

Yet, time will figure out how these technologies will grow over time.

How do you feel about IoT in logistics?

Do you have any case studies of smart devices in business? Share your feedback and experience in the review section!