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Move over IoT, Here Comes IIoT
The Internet of Things (IoT) connects sensors and computing devices, collectively known as embedded devices, to the internet. Perhaps you’ve  heard of the Smart Grid concept that will connect users and suppliers of electricity to maximize electrical efficiency. The Nest thermostat is another common example. The next wave of IoT is IIoT, the Industrial Internet of Things.
Here are two big reasons why you, as a geospatial professional, should care about IIoT:
1) It’s going to be big. A recent report by the consulting group Accenture states—by its admittedly optimistic predictions—that the value created by the Industrial Internet of Things could reach $15 trillion dollars by 2030. You can read Accenture’s report here.
2) The collection, monitoring, and analyzing of geospatial data, both in terms of location and measurement, are a vital part of the IIoT.
How will the IIoT create $15 trillion in value in the next 15 years? Basically in three ways: 1) Increasing operational efficiency, 2) predictive maintenance of assets, and perhaps most interestingly, 3) through the creation of new digital products and services.
Accenture’s report is full of examples of these three aspects. However, I would like to share my idea of how the IIOT could roll out in an example that uses concepts that have already been shared in this newsletter.
Time: the very near future. Scene: a quarrying operation in the Midwest. A small shed (no larger than a doghouse for a large breed of canine) sits on the periphery of the quarry. The top of the structure contains a bank of solar panels and a small satellite disk providing access to the internet. Inside we find an electric autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) equipped with an array of sensors, including lidar for data collection and navigation, GNSS/IMU, as well as electro-optical sensors and an onboard computer. The structure also contains a wireless docking station for recharging the UGV and for uploading data to the internet.
Twice daily, before and after quarrying operations, the UGV makes it rounds autonomously surveying first the quarry’s output, in the form of volumetric data collection of its stockpiles and then the actual quarry pit itself. The first set of data provides inventory information, the second, daily productivity of the mine. At the end of its route, the UGV navigates back to its home where it uploads the data through its internet connection to the Geoweb for analysis by asset managers and begins charging for its next round of surveys.
All of this technology exists today in various forms. Put it all together and you have a new hybrid product-service that uses the IIoT to increase efficiency of the operation by connecting important location and volumetric data to the internet and to users who need the data. (If you decide to take this idea and create an innovative new product-service and offer it to the mining industry, I’d like a percentage please.) But seriously, the IIoT offers great opportunities for geospatial pros like you. Check it out!
Until next time,
 
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| NEWS |
DOT and FAA Propose New Rules for sUAS
The big news: a peek at what the future may hold for UAS in the near future. The good news (for many) is that the proposed rules will not mandate  a pilot’s license, but rather a less expensive “UAS Operator” certificate. More good news: it may create a sub-2 kilogram class of “micro-UAS” with possibly even less restrictions. The bad news is the Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) requirement which is problematic for many applications including pipeline and utility monitoring and mapping. However MAPPS is already working with the FAA on this issue; read the March issue of xyHt for an interview with John Palatiello, Executive Director of MAPPS who discusses this important issue. The other bad news is that none of these rules will become active until 2017 at the earliest. Check out the FAA’s PDF "Overview of Small UAS Notice of Rulemaking" here.
Trimble's Pocket-Sized R1 GNSS Receiver
The big news: The R1 GNSS receiver is a pocket-sized, rugged, standalone receiver that works with iOS, Android or Window mobile handhelds, smart phones and tablets using Bluetooth connectivity. What: Paired with a smart device, the receiver adds professional-grade Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) geo-location capabilities to transform consumer devices into high-accuracy mobile data collection systems. Learn more on Trimble’s website.
xyHt’s “Located” Section: Call for Contributors
Your Pangaea editor has taken on an additional role at xyHt: editor of its Located section. In this monthly feature, we publish interesting geospatial items in a brief format; just two sentences and an image. Topics include, but are not limited to, surveying, mapping, 3D scanning, 3D printing, apps and programs, gadgets, and technology. Basically if it’s interesting and geospatial related, it’s fodder for this section. It doesn’t have to be a new product; it can be something you just started using or just heard about, or it could even be an idea. It’s a great way to gain exposure for yourself and/or your company. Interested? Email me and I’ll send details.
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