Fraunhofer’s Blockchain Device Opens a New Chapter in Logistics

The Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (Fraunhofer IML) presents the “Blockchain Device,” a pioneering prototype for monitoring temperature-sensitive goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, or vaccines along global supply chains. It is the first device development from the European Blockchain Institute and a prototype of a series of blockchain-based developments made in NRW.

(Dortmund) – Experts expect the complete digitalization of large parts of logistics within the next three years. “The digitalization of process and supply chains, aided by artificial intelligence, will usher in a new era not only in logistics. Digital platforms will become the central hub of an upcoming Silicon Economy,” agree the institute directors of Fraunhofer IML, Prof. Michael Henke and Prof. Michael ten Hompel.

Fraunhofer IML in Dortmund Plays an Important Role

The European Blockchain Institute at Fraunhofer IML in Dortmund will play a crucial role in this development. “Here, the further development of the first prototype into a series of blockchain devices will take place. In the future, they will actively negotiate via smart contracts, trigger transactions, and book payments. This will make every action clearly identifiable and traceable through the blockchain network,” emphasizes Michael Henke.

5G-Compatible Communication Possible

The “Blockchain Device” is a completely new development, starting from the computer hardware to the software of the temperature sensor and the blockchain client. Only 9 mm high, it can be inserted like a plug-in card into a standard container. It features 5G-compatible communication, a high-resolution ePaper display (1440 x 1072 pixels), and a range of sensors (temperature, acceleration, position). The battery life exceeds 14 days in continuous operation and more than two years in low-power mode.

With this blockchain-capable IoT device, real-time data collection and autonomous real-time control of supply chains become a reality. By securely integrating physically and monetarily relevant processes into a blockchain-based ecosystem, horizontal and vertical networking is ensured. Position and sensor data document the seamless monitoring of the transport chain, including compliance with conditions. Additionally, the device is “IDS ready,” meaning it is prepared for implementation in the International Data Space.

From the Internet of Things to the Internet of Values

“We are pursuing the transition from the Internet of Things to the Internet of Values,” says Prof. Michael ten Hompel, managing director of Fraunhofer IML, who presented the “Blockchain Device” on the occasion of the award ceremony for the Innovation Prize of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia 2020 in the category of “Honorary Prize.” “With the help of blockchain technology, not only data but also real values will soon be negotiated and booked in a legally and process-secure manner. In the near future, it will be true in logistics: no blockchain – no business.”

Hardware of the “Blockchain Device”

• Processor: STM32MP1 with powerful dual A7 core for Linux operation + ultra-low-power Cortex M4 processor for years of runtime
• Linux operating system used for the blockchain, communicating with the M4 core via the inter-processor communication controller, which is responsible for capturing sensor data and user inputs. The Linux OS can thus be operated in a power-saving standby mode in many areas and is only activated during events.
• Optional Wi-Fi/Bluetooth interface (2.4 GHz)
• Communication via Cat-M1 + NB-IOT modem
• E-paper HD display with 1440 x 1072 pixels
• Operation with up to 8 buttons
• 1 GB RAM
• Battery with energy/charging management for multi-year operation
• External temperature & humidity sensor and internal temperature sensor. Modularly expandable with additional sensors
• Blockchain framework Tendermint (Open Source)

The project to establish the European Blockchain Institute in North Rhine-Westphalia is funded with around 7.6 million euros by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Innovation, Digitalization, and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia. It is closely linked to the “Silicon Economy” project, which is funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure.

www.iml.fraunhofer.de

Image: © Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (Fraunhofer IML)