Murata and Internet Initiative Japan (IIJ) have launched a cross-border collaborative IoT data service founded on sensing and network technologies.

Called Co-DataBiz, it uses data analytics, business model knowledge and know-how developed by the two organisations through the Traffic Counter data service.

Commercially available, the platform enables one-stop provision of everything required to setup and operate a cross-border data collection and analysis business. Users of the service gain access to all systems and functions required to collect, analyse and act upon acquired data, including the sensor devices, the networks necessary for data collection, the cloud infrastructure for data use, and monitoring and operating systems at both the edge and the cloud.

Murata’s (www.murata.com) expertise in IoT devices is joined by IIJ’s (www.iij.ad.jp) cloud services, certified for privacy protection to Apec CBPR and European BCR approval. Security measures for data storage and use are ensured by Safous, IIJ’s network service providing integrated, zero-trust level-four security.

This robust and secure platform complies with all relevant local laws and regulations within south-east Asia, including aspects relating to cross-border use of acquired data. Users can also leverage Murata’s know-how and relationships with local service providers and governments to customise the collection, accumulation, analysis and visualisation of their operational data.

The platform is suited to applications such as: maintenance of roads and equipment in public transportation; traceability management of automobile and other mobile data; sensing of local workers in ports and industrial areas and improving the working environment; and soil, water, and production management in smart agriculture.

An early example of a project built on the Co-Databiz platform is the Tripod Works TRac cloud that enables centralised management of alcohol checker measurements in the cloud via a smartphone app. This also enables ID verification by transmitting photographs along with the result.

This service is being developed in response to commercial driving regulations, currently in Japan and soon to become legal requirements in Thailand. IIJ and Murata’s expertise should guarantee the security of this confidential information in accordance with local laws.

Nippon Koei and UrbanX Technologies are developing an AI that automatically detects road surface damage based on images obtained from smartphones and other cameras installed in vehicles, and displays maps and detailed road surface damage information on a management screen on the web. This helps local governments save labour costs, improve the efficiency of road inspections and repairs, and implement preventative maintenance programmes.