#Japan #Tokyo #Intercom #Cycle View #Cyclers Group

Cycle View: Innovating Recycling Through IoT

On May 1, 2023, Cyclers Group's Intercom launched 'Cycle View', an Internet of Things (IoT) service specifically designed for recycling facilities. This system is part of a broader initiative aimed at promoting a circular economy and creating a sustainable society. Since joining the Cyclers Group in July 2023, Intercom has focused on harnessing technology to address challenges in waste management operations.

The implementation of digital transformation (DX) in the recycling industry has been notably slow compared to other sectors, primarily due to the unpredictable nature of waste processing. Recent studies indicate that while over 90% of Japanese companies have initiated DX programs, the industrial waste sector lags significantly—only 7.3% of large companies and virtually none of small and medium-sized enterprises have adopted such initiatives. This highlights a crucial need for effective solutions to improve productivity and safety in recycling plants, utilizing advanced technologies like IoT and AI.

Understanding Cycle View

Cycle View serves as a visualization tool that automatically collects current values and displays them in real-time on a dashboard or alert system. This IoT service not only tracks current levels but also monitors temperature and humidity, transforming previously unmonitored site data into actionable insights. By making these hidden issues visible, Cycle View enables businesses to identify challenges and subsequently enhance their operational practices.

The system has been trialed at Higashikou Metallic Co., Ltd.'s Keihinjima factory, where it was integrated with the plant's crushing machines. Prior to Cycle View's implementation, there were significant variances in the volume and speed of waste input due to operator differences, which impacted the stability and workload of the machinery. With the introduction of Cycle View, current levels were accurately tracked, allowing for better visibility of operational conditions that contributed to standardizing operator tasks and improving overall productivity.

Addressing Challenges in Factory DX

Many companies face confusion regarding how to advance DX within their operations. A frequently cited barrier is the complexity of existing systems. In response, Intercom aims to simplify the onboarding process by providing an easy-to-use package that allows even non-technical staff to leverage Cycle View effectively.

Pricing Structure for Cycle View

• - Basic Package: Starting at ¥198,000, this includes:

- Visualization proposals for factory data
- AWS environment setup
- Dashboard development
Note: Price may vary based on the machines monitored and the types of data collected.

• - Running Costs: Starting at ¥30,000 per month for:

- AWS usage fees
- Communication costs

• - Optional Services: Additional estimates may apply for:

- Selection and installation of measurement devices
- Improvements to network infrastructure
- Integration with alert systems
- Development of smartphone connectivity options
- Research on alert lighting algorithms

Cycle View operates using Amazon Web Services (AWS), and the successful launch comes with a case study summarized by AWS itself, showcasing its effectiveness in providing real-time insights to recycling operations.

Company Overview

The Cyclers Group is committed to enhancing circular economic practices through innovative solutions. Founded in 2020, Cyclers aims to oversee and strategize for its affiliated companies. Intercom, with over three decades of experience in network design and software development, and Higashikou Metallic, a veteran in metal recycling and industrial waste management since 1902, form a robust foundation for this technology-driven initiative.

For additional details on Cycle View and how it can transform your recycling operations, visit Cycle View's official site.