Solutions for Smart Industrial IoT

One of the most promising applications of IoT technology for the challenging needs of the construction sector is the use of on-board units (OBUs) in construction machinery. These specially designed and robust OBUs can be used to automate and optimize tracking, data collection, and processing. An OBU is a small, battery-powered device that can either be built into existing construction equipment or installed in new equipment. The product is designed to collect data from the equipment through a standardized interface and transmit it to the cloud. One of the biggest advantages of OBUs in construction equipment is the ability to automate data transmission, which can significantly reduce the time and effort required to collect and analyze machine data.

This can improve overall machine efficiency, reduce downtime and increase safety. For example, an on-board unit can record a construction vehicle's fuel consumption and notify the maintenance crew automatically when the vehicle needs to be refueled. OBUs for construction equipment typically feature a rugged, waterproof design that can withstand demanding outdoor conditions. OBUs usually have an IP67 rating, so they can survive up to 30 minutes in water up to a depth of one meter without damage. This makes them ideal for use in wet environments and for high-pressure cleaning. 
 

In addition to being waterproof, OBUs for construction machinery are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and vibrations. They typically have an operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C and are resistant to strong vibration as well as shocks.
To enable remote tracking of construction equipment, OBUs often include a GPS module for location tracking and an accelerometer for motion detection. This allows construction companies to monitor the location and movement of their equipment in real time, increasing security and reducing the risk of theft. Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) technology is now the first choice for long distance connectivity when accessing these IoT devices remotely in harsh environments.

The integration of IoT technology into construction machinery offers a sophisticated solution for automated data collection and increased efficiency of machines in the construction industry. Due to extensive experience in the implementation of software protocols (Atlantik Services) and the optimisation of RF antenna adaptations and sensor technology (Antenova/AKM), the ODM solutions enable an optimised time-to-market strategy. With their robust design, waterproofing and wide-ranging connectivity, these on-board units are well suited to meet the needs of the construction industry and support its digital transformation.
 

Despite these differences, metering companies are choosing to focus on a limited number of connectivity options, with NB-IoT and LTE-M leading the market for cellular metering. Connectivity decisions are increasingly based on cost, security, coverage, power consumption, and potential throughput of connectivity. Each of these factors can lead to the success or failure of rollouts and therefore must be carefully considered against one another to find the ideal solution. 
In terms of coverage, nearly complete nationwide coverage, capable of reaching meters in difficult locations such as underground basements or service rooms of large buildings, is required. To achieve this throughout the country, more than one connectivity solution may be required wherefore multiple versions of meters may be needed. This may be suboptimal, but necessary to ensure complete coverage.

Another limitation is battery life. With a useful life of two decades or more, utility companies need energy-efficient meters. The expense of battery replacement can ruin a utility's profitability. Therefore, low-power solutions with the capacity to still transmit the data needed by utilities and their partners are very appealing. Prior to Release 13 of 3GPP*, when PSM and eDRX capabilities did not exist for Cat-1 and above classifications, installations over 10 to 15 years were not possible. Now, innovative chipsets and modules enable the lowest power consumption a microcontroller unit (MCU) can achieve.
_{*3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is a worldwide cooperation of standardization bodies for standardization in mobile communications}