b'62 SMF BAGGAGE consequently shut down a few times, but SMF maintenance fixedPhase 1 began with low-impact upgrades, including network the problems.monitoring improvements, DeviceNet stabilization and addressing Coordinating the construction, installation and deploymentimmediate system faults like jam rates and communication issues. and testing of new hardware, software and work systems acrossIn Phase 2, crews replaced programmable logic controllers, field multiple vendors and stakeholders proved to be complex anddevices and variable frequency drives, with a focus on Ethernet time-consuming. Careful phasing and continuous communicationand IP integration. This phase also included testing in the between all parties were essential to reduce operational impacts,emulation environment and factory acceptance testing to ensure especially when airlines were relocated to allow upgrades atreadiness. New server infrastructure, including Dell ESX Hosts and ticket counters and in baggage makeup areas. Phasing ensuredCisco FirePOWER firewalls, were deployed in Phase 3. The team minimal operational downtime and allowed for integration betweenalso upgraded the human-machine interface and the SmartSort old and new systems during the transition, Martin notes. system to improve system control, tracking and reporting for technicians. Phase 4 finalized the implementation, with TSA ISAT testing, system validation and the crucial go-live moment.Budgeted at $15.5 million, the complex project was funded through SMFs capital improvement budget, an investment designed to reduce future maintenance costs, improve operational efficiency and support increased baggage volumes as well as future technologies. Doing all you can to future-proof the facilities to avoid problems is always a priority, Martin emphasizes. While value engineering is a good tool to keep budgets in line, it is essential that the bones of any system are given the greatest priority for funding. Martin also stresses the importance of investing in how a system communicates with itself, as well as developing and continuously maintaining an asset register or critical equipment replacement plan. Knowing when a server, PLC [programmable logic controller] or other vital part is scheduled to be replaced is essential in budgeting and programming for replacement or just plain reminding you to have it evaluated, he says. The airport has a 10-year agreement with Daifuku for ongoing upgrades and maintenance. As with all projects at the busy airport, communication proved to be key. Weekly construction update meetings and three-week lookaheads kept team members informed and aware throughout, says Martin. Additional focused sessions and hot washes with our approach,maintenance staff, airlines and leadership provided valuable feedback and planning for future actions and responses. unique. our results,All in all, the upgraded infrastructure and enhanced programming logic is expected unmatched. to significantly improve baggage handling operations, leading to fewer flight delays and less lost luggagekey elements of the FULL-SERVICE AVIATION CONSULTANTS . MEADHUNT.COM . EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL passenger experience.January | February 2025AirportImprovement.com'