The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming the modern world by connecting devices, machines, and systems to the internet, enabling them to collect, share, and analyze data in real time. This connectivity allows organizations to gain unprecedented visibility and control over their assets, processes, and environments. Industrial automation, in turn, leverages technologies such as robotics, sensors, and smart control systems to automate repetitive or complex tasks, increasing productivity, ensuring quality, and reducing operational costs.

IoT and automation have a wide range of applications: from predictive maintenance of machinery, environmental monitoring, and energy management in industries, to smart classrooms and connected cities in society at large. In logistics, IoT enables real-time tracking and tracing of goods, while automation optimizes the movement and sorting of products. In education, connected devices can create adaptive learning environments and support safe, efficient school operations.

The global market for IoT and industrial automation is rapidly expanding, driven by the need for smarter, more resilient operations and the promise of significant cost and efficiency gains. These technologies are already reshaping traditional sectors, enabling the creation of digital ecosystems where data flows seamlessly to support decision-making and innovation.

At the Wernher von Braun Advanced Research Center, we work at the forefront of IoT and automation, delivering customized solutions tailored to the needs of partners in diverse sectors. Our core areas of expertise include:

• Industrial Machine Sensing: Implementing sensor networks for equipment monitoring, allowing for real-time assessment of machine health and reducing unplanned downtime and maintenance costs.

• Logistics Traceability: Developing solutions for end-to-end tracking of goods using IoT and real-time location systems (RTLS), both indoor and outdoor. RTLS technologies enable precise tracking of assets or products within factories, warehouses, or across outdoor environments, improving logistics efficiency and security.

• Robotics and Industrial Automation: Deploying robotics systems to automate industrial processes, from assembly lines to quality inspections, increasing speed and consistency.

• Environmental and Equipment Sensing: Integrating diverse sensors to monitor environmental conditions (such as temperature, humidity, air quality) and the operational status of different types of equipment, supporting safer and more efficient workplaces.

• Ultra-Low Power Chip Design: Developing innovative passive chip designs for IoT devices with extremely low energy consumption, enabling longer life and broader deployment.

• Automotive Telemetry and Digital Twins: Creating systems for real-time vehicle data collection and analysis (automotive telemetry), and implementing digital twins—virtual representations of physical systems—to simulate, monitor, and optimize operations continuously.

Our successful cases include integrated solutions for industrial machine monitoring, reducing unplanned downtime, and lowering maintenance costs; logistics projects leveraging IoT and RTLS technologies for precise asset tracking and supply chain traceability; as well as diverse sensing projects for both equipment and environments. In the automotive sector, we’ve implemented advanced telemetry solutions and digital twins to enhance vehicle fleet management and predictive maintenance.

IoT and automation are already driving profound changes across society, industries, and education. They enable more agile and intelligent factories, smarter logistics, environmentally aware buildings, and more adaptable learning environments in schools. These technologies empower organizations to innovate, increase competitiveness, and contribute to a smarter, more connected world.