Feb-March 2003

More precise real-time vehicle tracking, geofencing by means of "watch boxes", a new Windows Explorer-like desktop interface, and new routing and scheduling capabilities are among the highlights of the new version 6.5 of the market-leading VMI vehicle management system from Minorplanet Systems.

Announced last summer, the latest version has since seen installation into the fleets of early users, and went into its final release after the last m.logistics closed for press.

Telematics are brought much more to the fore in this version. Although still promoted first and foremost as a fleet management system, VMI (Vehicle Management Information) now puts more accent than in the past on communications, vehicle tracking and remote monitoring.

At its heart is an updated on-board unit or DCU (Data Collection Unit). This is being positioned as a "gateway" for communication not just with the vehicle's operating base, but also via the Internet with the wider world, and has capability for both SMS and GSM data transmission. These capabilities are harnessed in what is termed V-mail (messaging between desktop unit and an in-cab display).

 

Live vehicle tracking at user-defined intervals is now possible, and is packaged under the branding Livetrak and Rapidtrak. The desktop monitoring software can also display "snail trail" tracks showing the route a vehicle took.

The system can now incorporate watch boxes, or geofenced areas. When vehicles cross pre-defined boundaries, an alert or alarm is triggered automatically. A special version of this system called VMI Anywhere is also available, allowing users to set up such the system easily to reflect areas such as London's congestion charging zone.

VMI is now encroaching steadily into the operational arena, for instance by allowing users to set up delivery points in the system. There is also a module called VMI-Route Planner, which can produce optimised routes to given destinations.

Taking this capability a step forward, it can now include a module called VMI-Scheduler, developed from the range of DISTOS, a Spanish software house acquired by Minorplanet. This system, which is being presented as "a marriage of telematics and logistics", allows the traffic office to calculate optimal delivery schedules and even transmit them directly to vehicles in the field. Users can later check real-life performance against plan.

To allow drivers to interact flexibly with the system, Minorplanet can provide various interface options including an LCD display and QWERTY keyboard, or a Handspring PDA.

Other advances in the latest version include 50 pre-determined management reports, and the ability for users to define their own reports, using the well-established Crystal Reports system.

Most Minorplanet systems go into fleets of under 25 vehicles, but the company also claims some major users including Boots and P&O. It says there are now 70,000 vehicles equipped with its system in Britain, and 140,000 worldwide.