Ameliorating Compound Logistics Processes using Virtual Geo-Sensors

A virtual Geo-Sensor is a software module with associated geo coordinates which recognizes the physical presence of traceable mobile devices within a distinct interaction radius. At spatial proximity of an authorized device the Geo-Sensor automatically triggers electronically controlled actions (e.g., it opens gates, starts or stops engines, etc.) not distracting its users from their focused task by making them press buttons or glimpse at a display. This basic paradigm can be adopted for improving logistics processes inside premises, e.g., for supporting the unloading task of trucks from various suppliers. At every unloading site within a closed compound a virtual Geo-Sensor recognizes the arrival of trucks, detects congestion and automatically initiates re-routing procedures which are relayed to the drivers via a network of mobile devices carried within the trucks. This paper sketches the principles and the architecture of virtual Geo-Sensors and demonstrates their potentials in logistics fields in the frame of an experimental survey at the MAN truck manufacturing site in Steyr, Austria.