In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing industries across the board, and the refrigeration sector is no exception.
ln 2017, AoFrio launched a connected electronic controller and software solution which unlocked a whole new world of business possibilities. We pioneered the introduction of IoT solutions for the commercial refrigeration industry, enabling customers to monitor their assets and harness the power of data. Let’s delve into what IoT means for the industry and explore the role AoFrio plays.
Understanding IoT in Refrigeration
In the commercial refrigeration industry, IoT technology plays a pivotal role by enabling real-time monitoring, data collection, and control over refrigeration units. These advancements result in significant improvements in operational efficiency, proactive maintenance, and energy management.
AoFrio’s IoT hardware—such as the AoFrio® SCS controllers and AoFrio® Monitors—are seamlessly integrated into refrigeration systems. These components continuously gather data on parameters like temperature, humidity, door openings, and power consumption. Subsequently, this data is transmitted by the AoFrio® Network Pro to our cloud platform for thorough processing and analysis.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of these IoT solutions hinges on the quality and reliability of the hardware components employed by AoFrio. Ensuring robust and dependable hardware is essential for achieving optimal results.
Energy & Sustainability
The Internet of Things (IoT) revolutionizes energy management within refrigeration systems by offering real-time monitoring, precise control, performance analysis, power consumption prediction, and remote capabilities. AoFrio’s robust IoT ecosystem optimizes various components, including variable-speed motors, compressors, expansion valves, and adjustable LEDs, all aimed at enhancing energy efficiency.
This ecosystem dynamically adapts to real-time changes, facilitates Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting, and convincingly demonstrates to storekeepers that maintaining the right temperature is inherently more energy efficient. Moreover, it tracks the age and condition of refrigeration units, promoting efficient asset utilization and circular practices.
In summary, IoT serves as a powerful tool for optimizing energy consumption, reducing the carbon footprint, supporting ESG strategies, enhancing brand value, minimizing food waste, and ensuring efficient asset utilization in refrigeration systems.
Service and Maintenance
In the world of refrigeration, traditional units often rely on reactive maintenance, resulting in unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. However, IoT devices offer a proactive approach by predicting potential issues before they escalate. By analyzing data trends, IoT systems can promptly alert maintenance teams about possible malfunctions, allowing timely interventions and minimizing downtime.
At AoFrio, we’ve harnessed the power of predictive modelling based on over eight years of data collected from 2.5 million connected coolers. This extensive dataset provides us with valuable insights into the patterns associated with cooler breakdowns or suboptimal operation. Armed with this knowledge, we can anticipate issues and take preventive measures.
Asset & Fleet Management
Accurate asset location tracking is the most obvious application of IoT to commercial refrigeration and is at the core of AoFrio’s offering. By precisely monitoring the whereabouts of assets—whether it’s refrigeration units, coolers, or other equipment—businesses can prevent loss and facilitate recovery. This proactive approach significantly reduces capital expenditure (capex) on new equipment.
Additionally, streamlined administration and simplified asset auditing processes result from the seamless integration of AoFrio’s asset management system. Deploying and setting up assets in the field becomes hassle-free, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Commercial Performance
At its core, IoT maximizes asset return on investment by optimizing asset use and placement. This involves right-sizing underperforming assets and strategically upsizing equipment to meet demand. By doing so, businesses achieve efficient utilization of resources and improved overall system performance.
Beyond asset optimization, AoFrio’s IoT ecosystem directly impacts storekeeper training and engagement. It optimizes cooler reload times, prevents cooler disconnection, and detects any purity or invasion issues. Additionally, it facilitates seamless communication of planograms, sales specials, and new programs—ensuring that storekeepers stay informed and efficient.
Connected refrigeration with AoFrio
AoFrio offers a comprehensive IoT ecosystem specifically designed for the commercial refrigeration industry. This ecosystem encompasses a wide array of components, ranging from sensors to cloud-based analytics, resulting in a fully integrated system.
However, the benefits of IoT extend far beyond simple asset tracking. Notably, there are clear outcomes in terms of energy efficiency, improved commercial performance, and streamlined service and maintenance. These advantages are readily achievable today, making AoFrio’s solution a powerful asset for businesses in the refrigeration sector.