KU News Release

KU center helps Kansas City company safeguard inland port

LAWRENCE — The Information and Telecommunication Technology Center at the University of Kansas has partnered with KC SmartPort, a nonprofit economic development group, to assist in creating safer, more efficient supply chains.

The rise in Asian imports into North American markets has overwhelmed western U.S. ports. Alternative transportation routes are being explored. Capitalizing on this need, KC SmartPort is guiding the development of an inland port in the metropolitan Kansas City area. Goods would arrive at the Lazaro Cardenas port in Mexico and be loaded onto railcars headed to Kansas City. KU’s ITTC researchers plan to work on safeguarding and streamlining the “LC to KC Corridor.”

“Currently, asset tracking is often a disjointed and difficult process as information vacuums prevent the steady flow of information,” said Victor Frost, principal investigator on the project and ITTC director. “ITTC is developing technology that will provide accurate, real-time sensor data, which is an important aspect of the information clearinghouse.”

ITTC is charged with collecting and distributing sensor data. Sensors have the capability to monitor everything from the location and integrity of the freight to chemical leaks and train car temperature. Access to timely updates will enable early detection of possible anomalies. ITTC researchers are designing the system that will gather extensive, geographically diverse data and transmit measurements to an information clearinghouse.

“A collaborative effort with a strong research center, such as ITTC, will result in a better product for the logistics industry,” said Chris Gutierrez, president of KC SmartPort. He adds that the inland port would help ease congestion at traditional U.S. ports and increase economic activity in the Kansas City region.

The information clearinghouse will consolidate all relevant data, including real-time sensor reports, safety regulations and government records. The integration of such information will lead to greater efficiency throughout the supply chain.

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