System architecture for using location information for process optimization within a factory of things

Following paradigms like Ubiquitous Computing or the Internet of Things, modern factories are developing to intelligent environments in which wireless technology, sensor networks and mobile information access close the gap between the physical and the digital world. This article assumes that in such a versatile Factory of Things location information will play an important role for the transparent and efficient design of mobile and adaptive processes. Based upon a maintenance use case in the SmartFactoryKL it will be examined how location information can contribute to the optimization of maintenance processes. As research questions regarding the development of an appropriate system architecture, the definition of a consistent data representation for location information as well as mechanisms for its semantic interpretation are focused. Finally, the desired architecture is evaluated regarding its benefits, limitations and role as an enabler for a lean information management suitable to apply in future intelligent factories.