Real-Time Cold Chain Mapping Allen Higgins University College Dublin, Ireland allen.higgins@ucd.ie Stefan Klein University of Münster, Germany klein@wi.uni-muenster.de Stefan Reidy arviem AG reidy@arviem.com Fred Barrett Allyn Technology Group Fred@FredBarrett.com Nils Johanning InnoTec DATA GmbH & Co. KG johanning@innotec-data.de ABSTRACT This paper presents an investigation of the application of autonomous telemetry sensors for real-time cold-chain mapping and shipment management of temperature sensitive product. New developments in electronic cold chain management pose challenges to organisations and how they engage in inter- organisational interactions. Advanced sensors and wireless monitoring enable the capture of multiple parameters such as temperature and location. A configuration designed to improve data management for real-time analysis of sensor data is presented. Keywords Keywords: cold chain, supply chain, autonomous sensors, inter- organizational systems, GPS, GSM, GPRS. 1. INTRODUCTION The rapid advance of telemetry technology is an innovation driver to the development of new systems for asset-tracking devices and services [1]. This is grounded in several supporting developments: expanding global coverage by GSM carrier networks delivering a common international communications infrastructure, high gain GPS antennas and improved position algorithms provide more reliable position data in built-up environments, improvements in battery life and power management techniques extend operating times, decreasing data transmission and carrier roaming charges improve the economic case. Real-time asset tracking and monitoring is gradually becoming both technologically and economically feasible. 2. REAL-TIME COLD-CHAIN MAPPING PILOT This pilot study investigated approaches to introducing real-time telemetry services to bulk pharmaceutical shipment systems between upstream and downstream processing facilities. In this case an add-on telemetry device was fitted to generic packages. The pilot project utilized GSM as it is the only extant RF communications network available at nearly all points in an international multi-modal shipment [2]. GSM networks are now ubiquitous in terrestrial locations (Table 1) and may even (in time) be provided in-flight on both passenger and cargo aircraft [3]. Table 1 RF Networks in 3PL Environment Manufacturers and Carriers are obliged to ensure the integrity of medicines and their ingredients in transit [4], this implies an overlap between good distribution practice and good manufacturing practice. Good storage and distribution practices are essential for managing and maintaining the package environment within a defined temperature range throughout a supply chain. However pharmaceutical manufacturers carry the ultimate responsibility for establishing and controlling product temperature. Manufacturers will therefore increasingly demand real-time oversight of and proactive input into status and actions in the shipping environment. 2.1 Hardware An autonomous GSM-GPS enabled cold chain temperature mapping prototype hardware was developed by InnoTec DATA GmbH & Co. KG (Bad Zwischenahn Germany). It consists of an asset tracking (AT) device with internal temperature sensor and an RF receiver for a wireless temperature sensor to access temperature readings distant from the device. The prototype AT temperature mapping device was adapted from an earlier design used to demonstrate the feasibility of multi-modal asset tracking for heavy air cargo and approved for use on Airbus A340-600. The electronics is housed in a fireproof containment to comply with aviation regulations for battery operated RF devices. External indicators provide status information for power, GPS fix, and GSM connectivity. Telecommunications connectivity is provided by a quad band GSM module (850/900/1800/1900MHz) configured for automated roaming to enable seamless international use. An AT