Filter major Mann + Hummel has inaugurated a new Centre of Excellence for Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for intelligent filtration in Singapore. The facility will be an integral part of the company’s R&D strategy in the development and deployment of smart technologies in the filtration market.

With the new global IoT lab, Mann + Hummel now has one of the few IoT devices in Asia, focusing on R&D in the design of innovative air filter for motor vehicles and industrial and commercial applications.

"The facility in Singapore will be our new global centre of excellence for IoT solutions. Based on our knowledge about the filtration industry and the needs of our broad customer base, we will create optimised intelligent solutions with advanced sensors and forecasting capabilities," said Thomas Fischer, chairman of Mann + Hummel.

The decision by Mann + Hummel, in the digitisation of advanced CleanTech ( Clean technologies) to invest, especially on an industrial scale, comes at an opportune time when the region is struggling with the effects of air and water pollution. "The fact that the IoT Lab in Asia and especially in Singapore is established, will develop and implement these new technologies quickly leave," Fischer added.

Yeoh Keat Chuan, managing director of the Economic Development Board in Singapore, said: "In order to promote our advanced manufacturing technologies, we are investing heavily in the construction of industrial Internet of Things- solutions. The decision of Mann + Hummel to build its global IoT Lab in Singapore, so it fits well with our objective, the world's first "smart nation" to be. We are very confident that Mann + Hummel our IoT environment can establish an intensive and successful collaboration with numerous partners. "  

When developing intelligent filtration technology practical considerations come into play. Many countries around the world have adopted legislation to curb air and water pollution. In Singapore, the air pollution, for example, is not evenly distributed. In the months with high haze formation is an urgent need for greater cuts in the pollution. 

Intelligent air filter systems can automatically assign the required filtration performance the actual requirements and make adjustments by using a customised IoT platform. The ultimate goal is to optimise performance while reducing energy consumption and ensuring comfort.

The use of intelligent technology in automotive filters would have a positive effect on the health of millions of drivers worldwide. "We will build a business model where the customer comes first, and then select the appropriate IoT concepts with which we can make our end users innovative value proposition," said Nicolas Payen, head of the IoT Labs.