The Role of Drones in Linking Industry 4.0 and ITS Ecosystems

The inevitable digitization of transport as a whole - the proliferation of interlinked intelligent transport systems (ITS) - has important, future-oriented challenges and opportunities. Based on the widely used info communication technologies and IoT sensors, a unique digital ITS ecosystem will be created to optimize modes of transport, improve cost efficiency, reduce environmental burden, improve road safety, and provide information, predictability and comfort for both society and individuals. The digitization of traffic and the collection of tracking systems require the creation of specific legal background and regulation. These human aspects and challenges are discussed within a virtual model framework. Companies introducing Industry 4.0 have to meet different criteria and expectations, requiring further development, refinement, or, in addition to other practical aspects, requiring a totally new technical development. Drivers and UAVs are likely to be able to provide a new logistics segment for Industry 4.0 companies, and they will be the forerunners of fully digitized transport, implementing the ITS ecosystem.