Schaeffler is now focusing on digital traceability in the logistics of large warehouse applications. The focus is on expanding the existing Smart Box system to include GPS-based tracking technology. The new function is being used as part of a proof of concept in the area of large-scale bearing applications for wind power with the aim of being able to track products more precisely and deploy resources more transparently along the supply chain.
"Thanks to GPS tracking, the Smart Box becomes an intelligent information carrier. The real-time transparency makes it possible to seamlessly monitor warehouses during transportation. This enables us to make logistics processes even more efficient, sustainable and safe," emphasizes Slawomir Maiczek, who is responsible for the project at Schaeffler's Bearings & Industrial Solutions division.
Reusable transport containers for large warehouses
Schaeffler introduced the Smart Box system back in 2021. The so-called Smart Boxes are modular reusable transport containers designed for shipping rolling bearings with a large outer diameter. They replace disposable boxes and support the resource cycle thanks to their reusability. The boxes are based on the dimensions of a Euro pallet and can be stacked. The standardized design enables simplified warehousing and reduces the complexity of packaging and return transport.
GPS tracking for optimized logistics
The addition of GPS trackers to the system has several advantages. The focus is on tracking the physical location of the boxes, particularly with regard to turnaround times, downtimes and return processes. The information obtained from the trackers enables data-supported control of delivery and return logistics.
In addition to determining their position, the trackers also record other physical parameters such as temperature, humidity and acceleration. This data provides information about environmental conditions and possible impacts during handling and transportation. From this, it is possible to derive how the product is handled along the supply chain.
A total of around 300 GPS trackers are already in use at Schaeffler. The focus is on the transportation of main bearing applications in the wind power sector. The asset tracking solution comes from the German provider SmartMakers. The GPS trackers enable precise positioning and regularly send data to an IoT.
The tracking system has been extensively tested and continuously optimized at Schaeffler for two years during ongoing operations. The combination of a modular packaging solution and IoT offers a scalable approach to process optimization in industrial goods transport.
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