Background
Quick snow removal is vital for airport safety and operations. Airports face high-pressure situations during snow events, as no aircraft can land or take off until runways and taxiways are cleared. While snowfall is rare in some regions, airports must ensure rapid and efficient snow-clearing when it occurs. Controllers need precise information on runway conditions and clearing timelines to maintain safety and minimize disruptions.
Problem
Manual data collection slowed operations.
Before Sensei, snow-clearing teams had to manually track fuel levels, operating hours, and equipment usage through in-person checks or radio communication. This process was time-consuming and made it challenging to meet reporting requirements on environmental impact and machine usage.
Solution
Automated monitoring for better fleet readiness.
Advanced Monitoring and Connectivity:
Sensei’s telematics platform transforms snow-clearing operations by automating data collection and providing real-time access to critical machine metrics. Fleet Max, the OEM’s integrated system powered by Sensei, enables users to remotely access machine data, including engine hours, alarms, maintenance needs, and fuel consumption.
Fleet Overview at a Glance:
With pre-configured dashboards, operators get a complete overview of their fleet’s status, allowing for quick decision-making. The system tracks cumulative metrics and provides reports to help monitor fuel usage, maintenance schedules, and performance trends.
Precision Tracking and Mapping:
Using GPS and other positioning systems like GLONASS, Beidou, and Galileo, operators can pinpoint machine locations and monitor their activity on detailed maps. This ensures no area of the tarmac is missed during critical snow-clearing operations.
Seamless Remote Access and Integration:
Service technicians can access snow-clearing machines remotely through the CANlink mobile device, which integrates with the machines’ control systems. The Danfoss PLUS+1 Service Tool enhances this functionality, ensuring that machines are always ready for use.
User-Friendly Web-Based Platform:
The telematics solution is web-based, eliminating the need for local software installation and making it accessible from anywhere. This reduces the burden on IT teams and ensures continuous updates and connectivity.
Environmental and Operational Reporting:
The system simplifies compliance with environmental and operational reporting requirements by storing historical data on machine use, location, and maintenance.
Impact
Safer, more efficient snow-clearing operations.
Airports and OEMs have seen significant benefits:
- Increased Safety: Predictable runway clearing ensures passenger and airline safety.
- Operational Gains: 25% improvement in efficiency and reduced unplanned downtime.
- Cost Savings: 15% lower warranty claims and reduced fuel and chemical usage.
- Revenue Growth: OEMs increased sales by 5% with added services and reliable connectivity.
These improvements have enhanced sustainability while delivering better fleet performance and airport safety.
