EMC and Vodafone have jointly invested €2 million in a new Internet of Things innovation platform in Co Cork.

The platform, which has been specifically designed for industrial Internet of Things (IoT) development, is spread across three data centres in Cork: EMC, Vodafone, and the Cork Internet eXchange.

Businesses will be able to use the platform to test solutions for the internet of things in manufacturing, fleet management, machinery, household appliances and even clothing.

For example, a company could use the platform to develop IoT solutions to be used in a hospital’s emergency department. The solutions might involve sensors in ambulances, which could provide real-time data, like precise location and patient vitals, providing the medical team adequate time to prepare and drive efficiencies to further improve the service.

Donagh Buckley, director of EMC Research Europe, said the platform will play a key national and international role enabling innovation, insights and business opportunities for industrial Internet of Things developments across a wide range of industries.

“We have created a state-of-the-art cloud and analytics platform for IoT services which will provide the technologies, processes and best practices that will enable reliable and trustworthy solutions for hyper-connected industries”.

Vodafone Ireland chief executive Anne O’Leary said the scale and scope of the project means the platform can be used simultaneously by companies in multiple fields including healthcare, transport, and financial services.

“IoT has the potential to transform business in Ireland and we are excited to be in a position to provide companies with access to start developing their own IoT services,” she added.