Huawei And DHL Join Forces To Embrace IoT-Powered Supply Chains And Logistics

Huawei and Deutsche Post DHL have joined forces to create a range of supply chain systems that tap into the hardware and infrastructure of the so-called Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).

The two firms will work on projects that focus on the use of cellular-based IoT technology to connect a wider range of devices across long distances without requiring a load of power.

The overarching idea of such systems and connectivity is to enable greater visibility an data to be extracted from the logistical operations of companies using the systems, so that processes such as warehousing operations, freight transportation and ‘last-mile’ delivery can be tracked, optimised and improved.

Embracing the IIoT

The much lauded IIoT, an more enterprise and heavy industry take on the IoT, is arguably the foundation of the Industry 4.0, the name given to the current trend of growing automation and data exchange and use in the manufacturing world.

As such, it is no surprise to see companies with networking, sensor and data harvesting hardware enter the market or push deeper into the IIoT.

And Huawei is one such firm with its ‘Cloud-Pipe-Device’ strategy, which takes a three pronged approach to providing the server platform, networking and hardware systems for telecoms firms and other companies to get started with making use of connected sensors and IoT networks.

“Relying on Cloud-Pipe-Device Collaboration, Huawei builds an open, flexible, elastic, and secure platform, helping customers easily integrate and develop applications tailored to actual service scenarios.” said Yan Lida, president of Huawei Enterprise Business Group.

“This partnership opens up an opportunity to improve the efficiency, safety and customer service offered by global supply chains in previously-impossible ways, and defines how the Internet of Things will shape the fortunes of the logistics industry in the next few critical years of innovation.”

The memorandum of understanding between Huawei and DHL will allow the latter to make use of Huawei’s technology in a fashion that fits its supply chain. DHL is already a company that makes significant use of automation and connected technology to improve its operations, notably with its UK division which has a partnership with Fujitsu to make use of the technology giant’s Ubiquitousware wearable and connected tech portfolio.

The IIoT market is certainly one that technology firms should be paying attention to as it is estimated to be worth a hefty $1.9 trillion ($1.5 trillion) in the connected logistics market alone.

Ocado is one such company already pushing into this arena with its 4G connected robots used in its automated warehouses.

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