SUPPLEMENT


A GUIDE TO AIRFREIGHT TECH TERMS


A


s the airfreight tech industry becomes increasingly complex, there is a growing number of terms being used. Not all ACW readers will be familiar with all the terms in contemporary use so here is a quick explainer of certain terms you might come across in your daily work.


Deeptech: Deep technology (also deep tech or DeepTech) or hard tech is a classification of organisation, or more typically startup company, with the expressed objective of providing technology solutions based on substantial scientific or engineering challenges.


Automated and digital booking systems: Electronic


Air Waybills (eAWBs): These replace paper-based


documentation, making the booking process digital, faster and more efficient. Online booking platforms: Allow customers to book shipments online, providing real-time pricing and availability.


Cargo Management Systems (CMS): These integrated platforms manage the entire lifecycle of air cargo shipments, from booking to delivery, including inventory management, scheduling and billing.


Internet of Things: The Internet of Things (IoT) describes devices with sensors, processing ability, software and other technologies that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet or other communications networks. The Internet of Things encompasses electronics, communication and computer science engineering.


Tracking and monitoring technologies: Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID): A wireless system comprised of two components: tags and readers. The reader is a device that has one or more antennas that emit radio waves and receive signals back from the RFID tag. It is commonly used for tracking shipments in real-time. Blockchain: A blockchain is a distributed ledger with growing lists of records (blocks) that are securely linked together via cryptographic hashes. Each block contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, a timestamp, and transaction data (generally represented as a Merkle tree, where data nodes are represented by leaves). Since each block contains information about the previous block, they effectively form a chain (compare linked list data structure), with each additional block linking to the ones before it. Consequently, blockchain transactions are irreversible in that, once they are recorded, the data in any given block cannot be altered retroactively without altering all subsequent blocks.


Automated handling systems: Robotics and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): Used in warehouses and cargo terminals to move and sort packages. AGVs are used for transporting cargo within warehouses and terminals. AGVs can move pallets and containers without human intervention, following predefined paths or using advanced navigation systems.


Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS): Enhance the efficiency of storing and retrieving cargo.


Security technologies: Ensuring the security of air cargo is critical. Technologies like advanced


screening systems, biometric access controls, and surveillance systems are used to protect against theft, tampering, and other security threats. Additionally, blockchain technology is being explored for secure and transparent documentation of cargo movements


Optimisation and planning software: Load planning software: Optimises the loading of cargo into aircraft, ensuring efficient use of space and weight distribution. Route optimisation algorithms: Improve delivery times and reduce fuel consumption.


Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning: Used for predictive maintenance of aircraft, optimising supply chain operations, and improving customer service through chatbots and automated responses.


Big data: Big data refers to extremely large and diverse collections of structured, unstructured, and semi-structured data that continues to grow exponentially over time. These datasets are so huge and complex in volume, velocity, and variety, that traditional data management systems cannot store, process, and analyse them.


Container loaders and unloaders: These machines automate the process of loading and unloading cargo containers from aircraft. They can handle heavy loads and ensure precise placement within the aircraft.


High-reach cargo loaders: Used for loading and unloading cargo from the upper decks of large aircraft, these loaders can lift containers and pallets to significant heights while maintaining stability and precision.


Cargo handling robots: Robots equipped with advanced sensors and AI can sort, move, and stack cargo with high efficiency. These robots are especially useful in automated warehouses and logistics centres.


Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS): These systems use cranes and conveyors to automatically store and retrieve cargo from high-density storage racks. ASRS are controlled by warehouse management software, optimising space and improving retrieval times.


Pallet dollies: Specialised trailers used to transport cargo pallets on the ground. These can be manually or automatically guided and are designed to fit seamlessly with cargo handling systems at airports.


11 “Robots equipped


with advanced sensors and AI can sort,


move, and stack cargo with high efficiency”


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