Stemco announced the next phase of RFID sensor-based BAT RF products that use automatic communication modes to collect and manage fleet information. The BAT RF scalable automated sensor system allows fleet managers to capture real-time truck and trailer information, enabling them to improve productivity, enhance safety and security and increase efficiency, the company says.
The BAT RF system incorporates sensors mounted to a vehicle which measure tire pressure, mileage and the asset’s identification. As vehicles enter a “wake-up” field, information is automatically communicated to a web-hosted application from each sensor, providing “at a glance” information on every piece of equipment in the fleet. An Internet based portal called WebBAT flags vehicles requiring attention so they can be dealt with immediately.
Fleet information can be monitored real-time or reviewed as needed from easy to read reports which highlight the problem areas. Because the data resides on the Internet, it is available to the right users in the right location from anywhere.
BAT RF is a scalable system. The sensors can be used alone in the simplest form or as a more complex business system depending on fleet size and customer needs. For example, the AirBAT tire pressure monitor provides warning lights on the wheel to indicate that a tire is under the fleet’s specified tire pressure limits. The person responsible for trip inspection can simply look for the flashing lights to determine what action if any, is needed.
When the sensor is used in conjunction with the entire BAT RF system, information is captured automatically and can be managed by anyone with access to the Internet. Tire gauges are no longer needed which eliminates inaccuracies and maintenance expense.
The TracBAT electronic hubodometer provides mileage collection and can be used to schedule maintenance by mileage activity rather than time. Each unit has a display for visual reading of the mileage. Since trailer usage varies widely from unit to unit, time based systems cause some equipment to be serviced even when not required. Other more heavily utilized equipment may go without proper attention. Additionally, fuel mileage calculations are automated and accurate. Leasing fleets can automatically collect mileage data for billing and contract management.
The asset ID sensor can be used in conjunction with gate control to heighten security measures and prevent unapproved access. Fleet managers will know that the right trailer is coupled with the right tractor and driver to avoid mistakes and delayed shipments, the company says.
Several communication modes are available for the capture of information.
· Fixed reader – positioned at the gate as vehicles enter and exit the yard or at a
maintenance facility or at the fuel island
· Asset tracking systems – a BAT RF interface module permits mobile data acquisition
through established asset tracking systems, currently available with SkyBitz.
· HandBAT – a manual reader used to capture sensor and fuel usage data.
All of these communication modes are interchangeable. Whatever the mode of
communication, data received from the sensors is downloaded and stored on the WebBAT
information manager in the fleet’s specific database.
Because the system is designed in a modular fashion, future BAT RF sensors can easily be added and integrated into the fleet operating environment continuing to take advantage of the fleet’s investment. BAT RF products allow fleets to capture information, manage the operation and take action to improve productivity, fuel efficiency and safety.