Orbcomm Highlights Truck, Trailer Telematics Enhancements at TCA

Orbcomm said its latest round of telematics enhancements is focused on meeting the industry’s evolving demands on truckload carriers to ensure electronic logging device (ELD) compliance, improve driver safety and productivity, as well as maximize cargo visibility into load status and integrity.

During the Truckload Carriers Association annual conference, Orbcomm announced several new developments for its trailer tracking solution:

• A new camera cargo sensor for dry freight trailers and intermodal containers. Using machine learning applications, the sensor uses image recognition to monitor loaded and unloaded status, load condition and cleanout verification along with events triggered by motion such as door openings and closings. The new camera cargo sensor can be used with single or dual camera systems in trailer and container sides, roofs and doors (inside and outside). It's powered by a solar module with the option of an external power connection for recharging.
• New Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) sensors have been added to its trailer tracking solution to help gather additional smart data from assets moving along the supply chain, such as temperature and humidity data monitoring for sensitive cargo, trailer ID information to ensure tractors and trailers are paired correctly, and alerts when a sensor detects rapid fuel loss due to a mechanical failure or theft.
• Dual-mode satellite back-up for trailer tracking helps keep drivers connected in unreliable conditions and remote geographies.

Orbcomm’s truck management solution will soon feature an in-cab camera, the company added. It said this system will allow for near real-time visibility into incidents to streamline the accident reconstruction process and address high-risk driving behavior. 

ELD updates

Orbcomm said its in-cab devices have received third-party certification to meet the highest possible standards of ELD compliance. The company has started the third-party certification process to meet the Canadian ELD mandate requirements, which will be effective in June 2021.

In addition, Orbcomm’s ELD solution for trucks and vehicles is now powered by a ruggedized mobile device from Samsung to create a productivity hub and driver ecosystem. By locating internal and third-party productivity and efficiency apps together on a Samsung device, fleets can connect drivers, schedules, assets, back office and customers, all on one in-cab screen.