Terion announces new cargo sensor

Terion, a provider of asset monitoring systems, has announced availability of its new Cargo Sensor, a device that works with its FleetView(tm) trailer monitoring system to detect the presence of cargo in trailers. FleetView users can now tell without conducting physical inspections when a trailer is empty and available for assignment.

The new product, a single component installed in the front wall of the trailer, uses ultrasonic high-frequency sound waves to determine an empty or not-empty environment and delivers the tracking data directly to FleetView customers.

“We developed the Cargo Sensor because our customers have been asking for the capability to improve dispatch efficiency and document trailer detention,” said Ed Mushill, Terion’s director of sales and marketing. “We worked closely with customers such as J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. to develop a single device with a high degree of accuracy over diverse environmental conditions.”

Mark Palmer, director of trailer operations at J.B. Hunt said, “We expect to realize considerable savings each year utilizing the features of this product. The ability to manage our trailer pools from a remote location with timely, accurate load/empty information will increase efficiency and add dollars to the bottom line. J.B. Hunt also expects to reduce costs by significantly decreasing trailer-to-tractor ratios.”

The Cargo Sensor can record the precise time when a load is emptied. With this feature carriers can electronically verify claims for detention and storage charges. “In the event of a theft,” said Mr. Mushill, “the FleetView trailer-monitoring system used with the optional Cargo Sensor can automatically record the time and location when a trailer is unloaded.” This information, sent directly to the dispatcher’s FleetView screen, can potentially expedite law enforcement officials’ efforts to recover a stolen trailer and its cargo.

The Cargo Sensor is adaptable to different trailer lengths and different interior surfaces such as plywood or metal plates, and is also virtually maintenance free. “Customers don’t have to spend valuable time checking settings or making physical adjustments,” said Mr. Mushill.” And all the work of detection and reporting is done over the same reliable cellular network that FleetView uses.” The unit can automatically notify a dispatcher that a trailer has been loaded or unloaded.

FleetView supplies fleet management information through the Internet from its patented innovative hardware and software design. The design integrates GPS and cellular technology for comprehensive coverage throughout the United States and Canada. The system is concealed to provide a covert installation. It communicates real-time trailer location and event status when the trailer is tethered to or untethered from a tractor, including an accurate determination of loading and unloading events with FleetView’s Cargo Sensor.

The system supports over-the-air software downloads for device settings and software upgrades. Terion’s FleetView operates in a standard browser environment on standard PC hardware.