Advantech, as a global leader in IoT intelligent systems and edge computing, extends its expertise beyond smart manufacturing into smart cities through its iCity initiative. This comprehensive framework leverages IoT hardware, AI-driven analytics, 5G connectivity, wireless technologies, and cloud platforms like WISE-PaaS to enable urban digital transformation. By integrating edge devices, sensors, and data management tools, Advantech’s solutions address key urban challenges such as traffic congestion, environmental sustainability, public safety, and resource efficiency, fostering safer, greener, and more efficient cities. These offerings support the United Nations’ projections of 70% urban population by 2050, helping municipalities optimize infrastructure and enhance quality of life.
Core iCity Smart City Suite
Advantech’s iCity solutions form an end-to-end ecosystem that connects urban assets—from sensors and cameras to vehicles and buildings—for real-time data collection, analysis, and decision-making. Key components include:
- WISE-PaaS Cloud Platform: A scalable IoT platform for data aggregation, analytics, and visualization. It supports applications like environmental monitoring, traffic optimization, and energy management, enabling predictive insights and integration with third-party systems. For instance, it facilitates big data processing from diverse sources to generate actionable urban intelligence.
- Edge Computing and AI Hardware: Rugged devices such as the ARK series edge computers, AIMB industrial motherboards with GPU cards (e.g., EAI-3100 for NVIDIA integration), and MIC series AI computing units. These provide on-site processing for low-latency AI applications, including visual recognition via Intel OpenVINO Toolkit, reducing reliance on cloud bandwidth.
- Wireless and Networking Solutions: Industrial-grade equipment like EKI series Ethernet switches, BB-SL306 wireless routers, and 5G NR routers for seamless connectivity. LoRaWAN gateways and sensors enable long-range, low-power communication for remote monitoring, while Wi-Fi 6 and V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) support ultra-reliable urban networks.
- Solution Ready Packages (SRPs): Pre-integrated bundles for rapid deployment, such as AI surveillance kits and adaptive traffic control systems, combining hardware, software, and cybersecurity (e.g., IT/OT integration compliant with standards like ISA/IEC 62443).
Key Applications and Features
Advantech’s smart city solutions span multiple urban domains, incorporating AI, 5G, and edge intelligence to drive sustainability and efficiency:
- Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): Adaptive Traffic Control Systems (ATCS) use AI and V2X for dynamic signal adjustments based on real-time data from cameras and sensors, reducing congestion by up to 30% and improving safety. Solutions include roadside units for traffic monitoring, in-vehicle AI computing for ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), and public transport enhancements like bus arrival signage, crowd management kiosks (e.g., UTC-520 series), and EV charging optimization with energy metering. Highway management features AI-powered surveillance for incident detection (e.g., spills or violations), while railway solutions cover fare collection and rolling stock management.
- Public Safety and Security: AI-driven surveillance networks with smart cameras and edge AI platforms detect threats in real-time, such as traffic incidents, environmental hazards, or unauthorized access. In crowded venues like stadiums or schools, AI screening systems (e.g., using AIMB-286 motherboards) identify contraband efficiently, minimizing queues. Gas station monitoring uses AI for vehicle and driver detection to prevent abnormalities, addressing Japan’s declining infrastructure challenges. Overall, these integrate with 5G for low-latency alerts and cybersecurity to protect against urban threats.
- Environmental and Energy Management: IoT sensors (e.g., LoRaWAN for air quality and pollution) enable real-time monitoring, as seen in Beijing’s integrated system using SKY-6200 GPU servers for deep-learning analysis of air, traffic, and video data. Smart lighting systems adapt to weather and traffic patterns for energy savings, while building management optimizes HVAC, photovoltaics, and EV charging. Wireless ePaper solutions support ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals with low-power, solar-capable displays for sustainable signage in logistics and transportation, reducing emissions and paper use.
- Smart Infrastructure and Citizen Services: Parking management uses AI for space detection and guidance, integrated with 5G routers for citywide coverage. Digital signage and kiosks (e.g., 86-inch displays and rugged vehicle-mounted terminals) provide interactive services like policy information and passenger flow optimization. In Turkey, Advantech’s edge AI has been deployed in over 750 intersections for traffic monitoring in cities like Istanbul, enhancing safety and flow.
- Sustainability and ESG Integration: Solutions emphasize low-carbon operations, such as predictive maintenance for infrastructure to cut downtime and energy use. Wireless ePaper and LoRaWAN promote green initiatives by enabling efficient, eco-friendly urban communications and monitoring.
Design and Customization Services
Advantech offers Design and Manufacturing Services (DMS) tailored for smart cities:
- AIoT Customization: Bespoke edge AI appliances for urban applications, including topology consultancy for wireless networks.
- Rugged and Outdoor Solutions: IP67-rated devices for harsh environments, with features like wide temperature ranges (-40°C to 75°C) and zero-downtime reliability.
- Co-Creation Ecosystem: Through the Service-IoT (SIoT) World Partner Conference and Domain Focused System Integrator (DFSI) program, Advantech collaborates with partners (e.g., NVIDIA for AI series) to develop vertical solutions in transportation, healthcare, and more. This includes joint ventures for cloud integration and API sharing via WISE-PaaS.
Benefits and Success Stories
Advantech’s solutions deliver measurable outcomes, such as reduced commute times (12%-55% less congestion at intersections), enhanced safety through proactive hazard detection, and cost savings via energy-efficient systems (e.g., up to 30% downtime reduction in monitoring). In Beijing, the IoT platform enabled real-time urban insights, accelerating urbanization management. In Japan, AI optimized gas station networks amid population decline, while Turkey’s deployments improved traffic in major cities. Globally, these foster sustainable growth, with webinars in 2024 highlighting AI for security and 5G for connectivity. Advantech’s 40+ years of expertise ensures scalable, secure implementations, aligning with “Enabling an Intelligent Planet.”
For the latest details or customized deployments, visit Advantech’s official iCity page at https://www.advantech.com/en/solutions/icity.