A fully integrated connected solution can transform the way cooler fleets are managed. With the right IoT devices and connectivity, a connected ecosystem enables efficient asset management, minimizes downtime, and optimizes the commercial performance of your coolers. There are multiple ways to establish the right connectivity between your cooler fleet and IoT devices to gather actionable data. You can either rely on Bluetooth for on-site data collection or use cellular connectivity—each approach has its advantages. In this blog, we’ll explore how both solutions function within AoFrio’s IoT ecosystem to help you manage your cooler fleet more effectively.

Bluetooth for localized insights and efficiency

When your representative is in the field to gather data on your cooler fleet, with AoFrio’s Track app on their mobile, they can connect to the AoFrio IoT devices, SCS Controller and Monitor, and retrieve operational data through Bluetooth (the app works passively in the background and automatically updates data when the person is at location. It doesn’t need any manual action). This data is then sent to AoFrio Cloud through cellular connectivity. Using Bluetooth, customers can retrieve key insights without requiring an active network connection, making it a valuable tool in locations with limited cellular coverage. Key factors to consider when you are on Bluetooth-only connectivity:

• Lower cost: Bluetooth-enabled solutions are cost-effective since they don’t require a cellular-enabled device (hardware) or cellular data plan.
• On-site data collection: Through the Track App on their phone, field personnel can access cooler health and performance metrics when they visit a location. The app automatically connects to the AoFrio IoT devices to gather data.
• No connectivity issues: Bluetooth-only devices do not rely on a cellular network for data retrieval, thus making data collection seamless.

Since Bluetooth-only solutions do not provide continuous data uploads, the available information on each cooler is only as recent as the last visit an employee, with the Track app on their phone, has made to the retail location.

Always-on monitoring with cellular-enabled AoFrio Gateway

One could also use cellular connectivity through a cellular-enabled device to gather cooler data from AoFrio’s IoT devices. AoFrio® Gateway™ is a cellular-enabled device that functions as an IoT communications hub designed for beverage coolers. It integrates with IoT devices through Bluetooth and transfers data to the AoFrio Cloud, allowing you to locate and manage your assets remotely.

Key features of cellular connectivity

• Always-on monitoring: Coolers are continuously connected to the Cloud, ensuring up-to-date insights on performance, health, and usage. Every 24 hours, the SCS controller, through the Gateway, sends data to AoFrio Cloud.
• Real-time alerts: Receive instant alarms for refrigeration failures or temperature fluctuations, allowing for quick intervention and reduced downtime.
• Backup battery for location tracking: Even if external power is lost, the Gateway continues to send location updates for up to a month.
• Remote Asset Management (RAM): AoFrio’s Remote Asset Management (RAM) provides real-time insights and remote control over assets, reducing service costs, minimizing downtime, and improving efficiency. The key RAM features include:

• Remote Setpoint Temperature: Remote Setpoint Temperature Control enables users to adjust cooler temperatures remotely, optimizing energy use, preventing failures, and avoiding unnecessary site visits.
• Remote Disable: This feature (coming soon) enhances security, reduces service costs, and helps prevent asset misuse. By reducing unnecessary service calls and securing assets, this tool helps lower costs and streamline operations.
• Remote Defrost: AoFrio Gateway will shortly make Remote Defrost available. Remote Defrost will let fleet managers initiate and manage defrost cycles remotely, preventing ice buildup and optimizing cooling performance. Automated scheduling helps reduce energy use, lower maintenance costs, and extend equipment lifespan.

Cellular-enabled solutions require additional hardware (AoFrio Gateway) and an active cellular data plan. Also, real-time monitoring relies on cellular network availability, meaning performance could be impacted in areas with poor network coverage.

Maximizing efficiency with a mix of Bluetooth and Cellular Connectivity

The information above outlines the options available for operational data gathering from your coolers. One of the key advantages of AoFrio’s IoT Ecosystem is the flexibility to offer a mixed fleet approach. Customers can combine Bluetooth-only solutions for frequently visited locations and cellular-enabled Gateway solutions for remote and real-time asset management.

Both Bluetooth and cellular connectivity play vital roles in smart refrigeration management. While Bluetooth is a cost-effective option, cellular connectivity ensures real-time monitoring and rapid issue resolution. By combining these technologies for the fleet, customers can create a tailored solution that maximizes efficiency, minimizes downtime, and keeps coolers performing at their best.

With the availability of Bluetooth-only, cellular connectivity, or a combination of both for obtaining data from your coolers, AoFrio provides the flexibility to move at your own pace, ensuring your cooler fleet operates efficiently and cost-effectively.