PeopleNet Rolls Out Geofencing

Wireless communications provider PeopleNet Communications unveiled its PACOS automated driver messaging and exception-based dispatcher reporting system, designed to free drivers from having to physically enter information about their trip into an onboard computer so it can be relayed to dispatch.

Instead, PACOS — PeopleNet Automated Circle of Service — automatically downloads a manifest created by the dispatcher to a computer on the vehicle, and then uses a combination of cellular communications and global positioning system technologies to collect information about the vehicle’s progress as it moves along its route. The system compares the vehicle’s actual location against the manifest and can send a message to the dispatcher — or anyone else in the supply chain — if the truck varies from the prescribed route, is not on schedule, or even if the truck is excessively speeding. It can also provide more routine alerts, such as when the vehicle is about to arrive at its destination.

The chief benefit, PeopleNet notes, is that the entire process requires little to no involvement from the driver.

PeopleNet says an exception-based system is more efficient and cost-effective than providing regular, often hourly, updates on the location of each truck in a fleet, which tends to generate more information than the dispatcher will likely ever use.

Both automated messaging and exception-based reporting are available to PeopleNet customers at no charge through over-the-air programming (OTAP), beginning with a beta launch last month. OTAP, exclusive to PeopleNet, allows trucks to be updated with new features wirelessly, without having to pull them off the road.