Examples of innovation in Transport & Material management
In an interview between Desmond van Kooten, commercial responsible at GPS-Buddy, and Richard Bordes, host of People Work Technology café, a look is taken at the progress of technology in the logistics sector. The people on the work floor, also known as the 'firstline worker', are central to this. During the conversation, various applications of GPS-Buddy are discussed, which not only increase efficiency for the firstline worker, but also contribute to compliance with regulations and safety.
Innovations in Temperature Monitoring
A clear example he cites is cold chain and describes how GPS-Buddy has automated temperature monitoring for customers such as Hocras or Huuskes, relieving drivers. This is crucial at a time when food safety is under strict regulation. Previously, drivers and employees had to manually read data and record temperatures, a process that was time-consuming and error-prone. Thanks to our (core) temperature management solution, companies can now report this easily and accurately, without manual intervention. By using alert, an operator can take quick action, preventing wastage.
“The goal for firstline workers, such as truck drivers, is primarily to take the worry out of the process,” Desmond said. “This innovation goes beyond surface temperatures; with CoreTfleet, we can even calculate the temperature in the core of products. This provides more certainty in complying with food safety standards, which is especially important for customers like Huuskes, which supplies food to vulnerable groups such as the elderly.”
Smart RFID Tracking for Water Networks and Construction
In addition to developments in temperature recording, Desmond also talks about the importance of RFID technology in asset tracking and water management. “During a trade show in Belgium, we were approached by a local water company looking for a solution for measuring water pressure in pipes. What followed was an innovative collaboration involving the development of a sensor that can measure vibrations in pipes without having to puncture the pipe. This type of application allows water companies to collect real-time data on water flows and pump operation.”
GPS-Buddy's RFID technology is also being used in the construction industry. On construction sites, tools can easily get lost or forgotten, leading to delays and inefficiencies. By using these smart tags, which operate without a SIM card and last eight years, companies can keep track of their valuable equipment and track hours of operation.
Collaboration and Future Developments
“What makes GPS-Buddy unique is our focus on collaboration and using our network for mutual reinforcement.” As Desmond explains, GPS-Buddy customers help each other by exchanging information. This is made possible by the mutual communication of the various tags, which work without interference or invasion of privacy.
The applications of GPS-Buddy go beyond just the logistics sector; think mail order companies to track containers and optimize projects, glass companies to easily locate glass bins, or monitoring consumption and effectiveness of machines and tools on site, are just some of the many new ideas emerging from our technology.