US fleet communications expert PeopleNet has unveiled a new trailer tracking system that requires no additional trailer hardware beyond the vehicle’s on-board computer. PeopleNet’s tethered trailer tracking solution was presented at the recent 2013 Truckload Carriers Association Annual Convention in Las Vegas, USA.
“Our tethered trailer tracking solution uses the existing Power Line Communication (PLC) cable for exchanging data between the trailer’s ABS (anti-lock brake system) and the PeopleNet system through the multi-bus adapter with a PLC chip,” said Rick Ochsendorf, Executive Vice President of Operations.
“This configuration provides the most cost-effective trailer tracking solution to reduce the cost of lost trailers; eliminating manual yard checks, managing trailer detention, and improving utilisation information for more efficient maintenance. In addition to being easy to use, there also is significant saving in installation and labor cost. Since a typical fleet has around a 2:1 trailer-to-tractor ratio, that can be tremendous.”
According to PeopleNet, once connected to the prime mover, the trailer’s serial number is sent to the system, which in turn creates location-based hook and drop events for the vehicle. Event information is stored, including the date/time, location, vehicle and trailer odometer readings.