Qualcomm Inc. has added new applications for its OmniVision mobile computing platform, and a terrestrial option for fleets - or portions of fleets - that do not require ubiquitous coverage. The system upgrade is a software
and over-the-air firmware update resulting in new applications and additions, including Critical Event Reporting, Maptuit's NaviGo, and Vehicle Maintenance for improved logistical planning and operational performance.
"These new innovations to the OmniVision system continue our quest of delivering valuable solutions to help the transportation industry improve safety, increase productivity and lower operational costs," said Norm Ellis, vice president and general manager of transportation and logistics for Qualcomm Enterprise Services, formerly known as Qualcomm Wireless Business Solutions. "We have a solution to fit all sizes of fleets, both large and small, and the new terrestrial option allows smaller companies to have the benefits and features of the OmniVision platform at a much lower cost."
The new terrestrial option includes a data modem and antenna for CDMA communication and terrestrial communication plus satellite GPS positioning. Qualcomm's Critical Event Reporting (CER) application records, retrieves and analyzes truck and driver performance information in order to reconstruct and review critical events, such as hard braking or onboard sensor events. An innovative and proactive tool, CER can help identify trends of risky driving behavior so fleet managers can implement targeted measures to improve driver behavior, enhance productivity and help lessen the risk of accidents. CER data is automatically sent over-the-air immediately following an event.
Maptuit's NaviGo is a real-time, hybrid (a combination of onboard and server-based technologies), in-cab navigation application that provides drivers and transportation companies with interactive maps for increased routing efficiency and improved driver satisfaction. Maptuit's technology and its community of more than 80,000 drivers continue to enhance and update the road network.
Vehicle Maintenance is an application that gives fleet managers a view into the mechanics of their fleet's truck engines. Engine fault codes are used to determine how each engine is running and troubleshoot if something goes wrong. Driver e-mail, another added feature to the OmniVision platform, allows drivers to receive messages from designated family and friends. The designated contacts send emails via a dedicated URL page and "Jill," the voice of the OmniVision platform, broadcasts the messages over the air so drivers can concentrate on driving. Content delivery is a feature that allows transportation companies to send audio files with important messages over the air to a specific driver or to their entire fleet of drivers. These added features further help to improve driver safety, satisfaction and productivity.
The OmniVision mobile computing platform is an integrated system consisting of hardware, software and network infrastructure, enabling delivery of two-way data communications and value-added services to enterprises in a mobile environment. Specifically designed for the transportation and logistics industry, the OmniVision system incorporates industry-specific capabilities and features into that framework, including a growing number of value-added services. Advanced text-to-speech capability improves driver safety and productivity by allowing drivers to listen to and replay messages, eliminating the need to pull over and stop the vehicle to read a text message. The platform also features an integrated, color touch-screen and a remote control device, providing drivers quick access to critical information.