SAFEGUARD

Second Generation Unit Load Device to improve the Security and Efficiency of the Aerospace Logistics Industry

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The SAFEGUARD project presents a new technology to improve the security and efficiency of air cargo through the research and development of a second generation Unit Load Device (ULD). With 1 million ULDs around the world worth over 900 million Euros, they are a crucial element of the global aviation industry. For example, in 2009, 80 million tonnes of air cargo was carried by the existing ULD fleet. However, 26 million tonnes of this cargo (33%) was transported on passenger aircraft and industry experts agree that air cargo is the weak link in the supply chain. Considering the potential security problems around the global air cargo supply chain, there is an urgent need to review and improve existing technological solutions. Over the last 20 years, incremental improvements have primarily focused on weight reduction, which has resulted in compromised security within the supply chain. The research and development of the SAFEGUARD technology will result in a step change improvement in the security of air cargo supply chain, in addition to large economic savings and logistics improvements for airlines. The proposed technology will overcome the existing security concerns in the supply chain, as well as reducing the ULD weight, minimising supply chain imbalances for ULD availability and the current high maintenance requirements. Following the research program, the new technology will enable our SME consortium partners to jointly commercialise a new product, with forecast revenues of 105 million Euros to 2020 and significant advancements in air cargo supply chain security.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

Unit load devices (ULDs) are special containers for aviation cargo, and generally arrive at the aircraft pre-loaded. While very successful and ubiquitous, they also represent the weakest link in aviation security.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

The EU-funded SAFEGUARD project aimed to develop an improved device. To begin, the eight-member research group reviewed existing technological solutions for improving aviation cargo security without increasing weight. Objectives included developing a prototype of a lightweight, hard-sided ULD having a stacking density greater than 4:1.

The project also planned to simulate a sealing system, based on electronic locking technology and including radio frequency identification (RFID). The two-year project concluded in September 2013.

After a phase of preparatory research, the project pursued three avenues of technical development. These were: design and optimisation of a folding polymer-reinforced ULD; development of a prototype electronic sealing system; and exploration of power harvesting.

The project pursued an advanced nesting concept, leading to patentable improvements to ULD design. The new concept yields a stacking ratio of 3:1, which addresses the global imbalance of ULD availability. The use of reinforced polymers reduces weight of the secure design while also reducing maintenance costs.

Team members also studied RFID systems, focusing on international legislation, approved products and transmission protocols. A comprehensive analysis of regulations and technical criteria resulted in the decision to adopt a multi-frequency approach. The multiple frequencies available for listening and response mean a design able to be used anywhere.

The project team also developed a handheld reader with integrated Wi-Fi and 3G connectivity. The device allows RFID tracking information to be exchanged and stored. The ID information interfaces with a project-developed on-board locking system, which includes a new 12C protocol integrated by project partners. The hand-held device uses an electronic Dallas iButton key for users not wishing to establish an RFID system. Power optimisation tests were performed to increase battery life.

The group also developed a passive energy-harvesting device, incorporating information tracking and security sealing applications. Developments include a low-power data logger that records the time of impacts. The information can be stored for long periods and interfaced to a computer.

SAFEGUARD helped to improve the technologies used to secure aviation cargo. The developments also mean considerable cost savings for airlines.