NEWS |
7 September, 2008 |
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Low-key report calls for more truck-specific satnav
 All UK satellite navigation systems could one day be subject to the same regulatory regime as current 'dynamic' systems (those gathering roadside and similar information about traffic conditions). This is possibly the most controversial idea to emerge from an otherwise low-key Department for Transport report on a satnav consultation process conducted during the past year. The rationale for the idea, which is merely on the agenda for possible consideration, is that it would put so-called 'static' satnav and dynamic satnav systems on an even footing. In the short report, the DfT mentions various other ideas for consideration, including a code of practice on design, routing and safe use of satnav systems.
Skyhook launches Wi-Fi based location system in Europe
Skyhook Wireless, a new form of tracking and location-finding infrastructure, has been given a European launch, promising the possibility of more precise location of people and assets, especially indoors and in dense urban environments. Skyhook makes use of conventional GPS signals to do its tracking, but augments these by two other technologies. One involves detecting mobile phone masts, and the other is its real speciality – the Wi-Fi Positioning System. In essence, this allows Wi-Fi enabled mobile devices to find their location by detecting Wi-Fi networks their immediate vicinity. They don't need to log on to these networks or interact with them. They just use them to work out their location.
Asda extends tracking benefits to home delivery fleet
 Asda Home Shopping is fitting a telematics-based fleet management system in all 800 of its home delivery vehicles. It has chosen Isotrak as its primary supplier, and is adopting its Active Transport Management System, which combines satellite tracking and what is termed 'multifaceted' telematics data capture with advanced transport management. The development follows a decision last year by the company to fit the Isotrak system in its trunking fleet. That project that was expected to involve up to 1,000 vehicles and 1,400 trailers, and included integration with the GTS routing, scheduling and resource allocation system from Manhattan Associates. (See m.logistics, issue 30 – available online at www.mlogmag.com.) Asda says the most immediate benefit for the home delivery fleet will be a reduction in fuel consumption – achieved mainly though minimising deviations from plan. The company says this alone could make a sufficient business case for adopting ATMS.
Satnav in your rear-view mirror
 A dynamic satnav map inset into the corner of your rear-view mirror – that's the intriguing new slant on satnav being offered by u-blox, a leading Swiss-based GPS specialist. The company has been working on the concept with two partners, Paragon, a leading German automotive electronic supplier (and nothing to do with the UK-based Paragon routing and scheduling specialist), and Magna Donnelly, a worldwide automotive systems and specialist. The MirrorPilot Navigator is a fully functional GPS navigation system, including GPS receiver, antenna and speaker – and it's all built into a self-dimming rear-view mirror, which replaces the vehicle's standard rear-view mirror. The GPS module is u-blox's own LEA-4S GPS module, featuring its SuperSense weak signal tracking functionality.
Recognition for m.logistics
m.logistics has been honoured in this year's UKWA awards scheme. Co-founder and editorial director Peter Rowlands, who acts as news editor, was named trade journalist of the year. He is also editor of our sister-publication, Fulfilment & e.logistics. UKWA is the United Kingdom Warehousing Association, and its membership includes many logistics and fulfilment companies who feature in m.logistics from time to time. The other prize winners include Michael Brannigan and Son (best new member), CEVA Logistics (technology and innovation), the Bibby Academy (training award), and Simarco International (team of the year). John Tombs of iForce was the warehouse person of the year, and Andrew Malcolm, chief executive of the Malcolm Group, was presented with the chairman's award. |