Get Smart: Wireless Safety, Security and Traceability for Off-Highway Equipment
There is enormous potential for smart device-enabled access, such as Bluetooth and other wireless, integrated technologies in next generation off-highway equipment designs. However, timing, cost and acceptance ardde key factors that play into the integration of these new technologies into new vehicle designs. OEMs are naturally opting for lower cost solutions for the future, which is where Southco can provide value. The need for reduced wire routing and power consumption has led us to develop reliable, self-contained electronic locking systems that can withstand the off-highway environment. Our electronic mechanisms are designed with efficient gear motors for lower power draw and minimal wiring to simplify assembly and installation. These intelligent electronic locks also have the potential to be integrated with smart devices and wireless technologies, helping OEMs provide end-users with features they have come to expect.
As off-highway equipment design continues to evolve to meet new industry regulations and operator safety requirements, access hardware must also change to suit new design needs. In cab designs for example, OEMs are placing an increased emphasis on maximizing operator visibility. Many new cabs are being designed with a larger surface area of glass or glass-like material, which means access hardware systems must be designed with a smaller footprint in order to fit on smaller frames and not inhibit operator visibility. The shape of the cab is changing as well. Newer entry doors may not always open at a 90 degree angle, which presents challenges in how access hardware is positioned on door and frame. As equipment design moves forward, it is important for OEMs to seek out a design partner early in the process that has the engineering experience to troubleshoot and develop solutions to meet challenging design requirements.
The cost alone of cutting-edge technology stored in cabs and on vehicles today presents a strong case for advanced security systems beyond traditional lock-and-key mechanisms. Advancements in GPS capabilities have allowed vehicles to become smarter, providing the operator with more knowledge of what the machine should be doing to harvest more, or dig to a specific depth. This same technology has the ability to be networked into security systems through the integration of electronic access solutions. Electronic locks and latches can provide a digital audit trail that gives the end user a complete picture of equipment access. As a result, stolen equipment can be tracked anywhere, routine engine maintenance can be recorded and the site supervisor no longer needs to physically check each cab to make sure it is locked before leaving the job site. As technology moves forward, this information will more readily accessible via personal devices.
Over the next 10 years, continued technological advancement of materials and manufacturing processes will lead to the development of equipment with more intelligent features and systems. Equipment will become lighter, and the latches and hinges used in off-highway applications today will get smaller. The integration of electromechanical access into engineered access hardware is already paving the way to better convenience and control for operators and end users. When tied into smart technologies, electronic locking solutions offer endless possibilities for enhanced safety, security and traceability in future designs.
