Efficient air freight logistics with DyCoNet - Smart containers with IoT

The demands on air freight logistics are constantly increasing: goods must be transported precisely and safely worldwide, while legal requirements for storage and transportation must be met. The DyCoNet research project has developed an innovative solution - intelligent air freight containers (SmartULD) that use IoT technologies to enable more efficient control and monitoring.

Project goals and challenges

The aim of DyCoNet was to develop an energy self-sufficient air freight container with integrated sensors and an IoT connection that monitors the transport conditions in real time. In addition to position detection using GPS and temperature monitoring, opening conditions and damage were also detected. This data was transmitted via GSM/UMTS and integrated into an ad-hoc network to enable autonomous data networking without additional operational infrastructure.

Technological implementation and innovations

• IoT architecture for real-time data management: the sensors record temperature, humidity, GPS position and load status (using RFID). This information is aggregated and analyzed in a cloud-based platform.
• Ad-hoc networking of containers: Each container communicates independently with neighboring units and forms a decentralized network, ensuring uninterrupted data transmission.
• Energy self-sufficient use through energy harvesting: The system uses renewable energy sources such as solar power or kinetic energy from vibrations and temperature differences to enable long-term use without changing batteries.

Simulation and optimization

To ensure the efficiency of the system, an extensive simulation was carried out using real flight, weather and location data. This made it possible to precisely calculate the energy budget in order to optimally process the sensor data and ensure reliable transmission.

Applications and benefits for logistics

• Early detection of delays and transport damage thanks to real-time monitoring
• Optimization of the supply chain through networked containers and automated data analysis
• Increased safety and compliance with transportation regulations and environmental requirements
• Flexibility for various industries, from food to pharmaceutical logistics

Future prospects and transferability

The DyCoNet software developed is generically designed and can be used in various logistics areas. In combination with different hardware, it offers a wide range of applications for modern transportation chains.