Remote monitoring of buoys in Port of Aalborg

Tracking of buoys at Port of Aalborg via IoT technology

For Aalborg-based IoTrace, Xtellio has developed an IoT solution that will ensure the operation of the port’s area in the sea. The solution is a part of IoTrace smart.PORT solution to Port of Aalborg, who wish to deliver and optimize on the green agenda.

Challenges such as lack of lights, detached buoys that either disappear or moves to an incorrect position are not only expensive for Port of Aalborg, it is also dangerous since the light in the buoys must direct the many ships through the Limfjord.

Safe and efficient work

As a solution to the problem, we have developed a robust and waterproof IoT device that informs if the buoy moves, gets sailed or runs out of power. The devices are installed in the buoys and are connected to the NB-IoT/LTE-M network which ensures the best possible coverage, easy setup and long battery life up to 10 years.

Through various sensors, such a position, vibration and voltage, the solution can alert when a buoy has detached and at the same time show the current position of the buoy using a GPS tracker. Through a voltage meter, the device also informs the operating staff at Port of Aalborg when the current level approaches battery replacement. This ensures that the light in the buoys stays on, without the staff manually having to keep an eye on this. This will also result in fewer sailings on the buoys in the Limfjord, and if it happens helps with e.g. claims.

The solution to several challenges

In addition to monitoring of voltage, vibration and position, the device can also inform about temperature, humidity and pressure which helps to provide essential data about the operation of the port area in the sea. The solution is also useful in other situations than just in the buoy as the device can collect and sent data from wherever it is relevant. Therefore, it is also relevant in rarely used machines as it can be ensured that they are functional when they are finally to be used.

Technical specification

The system includes:

- NB-IoT technology
- LTE-M technology
- Low-power short-range wireless technology
- Xenses
- Tracking Xentral
- Battery optimization