Beer keg monitor
 Beer keg monitor key data
- Client: BinaryBeer in Australia
- Website: https://binarybeer.io
- IoT application: Real-time monitoring of beer kegs using NB-IoT sensors
- Wireless technology used: NB-IoT
- Frequency range: 700, 800, 900 MHz depending on the region
- Type of antennas: Specially developed flex PCB antenna for beer kegs
- Task: Development of an efficient NB-IoT sensor for metallic beer kegs
- Solution: Optimisation of antenna design through simulation and prototyping
- Special feature: Significant increase in range and reduction in energy consumption despite metallic environment
BinaryBeer faced the challenge of developing a reliable NB-IoT sensor for beer kegs. The metallic environment of the kegs made antenna design considerably difficult. Through the use of advanced simulation techniques, we were able to analyse the antenna behaviour in the metallic environment in detail. We discovered that the carrying handles on the upper keg rim caused unexpected resonances. This insight was crucial for optimisation. Based on the simulation results, we developed a prototype that put the theoretical findings into practice. The optimised antenna design took into account the specific characteristics of the beer keg and minimised negative effects of the metallic environment. The result exceeded expectations:
- The range of the sensor was significantly increased, enabling more reliable communication even in difficult environments.
- The energy consumption of the sensor could be significantly reduced, which extends battery life and reduces maintenance intervals.
This solution now enables BinaryBeer to precisely monitor beer keg inventory in real-time, optimising logistical processes and improving quality control.
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