M2M: The third industrial revolution
Example # 1: In the course of an increasing transition to renewables, many applications are taking shape in the energy industry. When there is a steady, strong wind, many local wind farms generate more electricity than is needed in the locality. The problem is that if too much electricity is fed into the grid, it threatens to collapse.
To prevent that from happening, lawmakers in a number of EU countries have imposed fines of up to several thousands of Euros on network operators.
The solution to the problem is quite simple: let M2M modules on the transformers in the substations measure constantly how much electricity is fed into the grids. If it is too much, the modules simply cut off the overproduction. As a result, the M2M solution is already saving a number of cities in Germany tens of thousands of euros per year.
M2M is not only worthwhile financially. M2M applications can also help to boost energy efficiency. So-called smart metering measures not only the consumer’s electricity consumption. Smart meters also perform control functions in the home.
They can switch the washing machine on when electricity is available at low cost, for example, while a refrigerator could switch off for a while when electricity is expensive. Smart meters also relay consumption data automatically to the power utility. The bill can then show when electricity consumption was high in the home or at the company and which devices are electricity guzzlers.
More efficient processes for service providers
Example # 2: Service providers can improve their processes by means of M2M. To maintain and service office copiers, for instance, service technicians today have to drive to the customer for a regular service appointment. That is often unnecessary – when the technician finds that the device is in perfect working order.
If, in contrast, all of the company’s copiers are connected by M2M to a central software program, they can send in a status report automatically. The service technician can then tell remotely at any time which copier is used how intensively. Once he knows that, he can decide when a service is required. Billing is made easier too. Copiers submit with their M2M status report the number of copies they have made.
From these reports the service technician can also tell his customer where there is unused potential at his company – such as a copier that is used seldom or not at all. Service will thereby both cost less and improve in quality.
Better healthcare for all
Example #3: M2M has a special role to play in the healthcare industry. Thanks to M2M more chronically sick people can continue to live at home for longer. Their state of health is checked remotely and automatically. Sensors in portable or implanted devices monitor bodily functions and report the patient’s location to a control center at the same time. If the readings are unsatisfactory, the system sounds the alarm and notifies the mobile carriers.
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