By signaling trailer issues as they happen, PULSE enhances the safety of driver and cargo, and helps avoid road incidents, CSA violations, and costly fines, a Peterson official said. (Courtesy: PETERSON)
GRANDVIEW, Mo. — Back in 2007, GE Global Research Center engineers told members of the trucking media that the next wave of technology would build on people communicating with their devices to devices talking to one-another, and to “smart” roads and bridges.
Truck technology has borne that out, and Peterson thinks it’s time that fleet trailers got as smart as today’s high-tech trucks, and has introduced its patented PetersonPULSE intelligent trailer system.
PULSE is the unique trailer solution that brings CAN-Bus technology and telematic capability to trailers, according to Cory Adams, director of engineering.
Engineered specifically for fleet trailers, PULSE not only controls and detects real-time status of vital trailer systems –– lights, ABS brakes, tire pressure, cargo temperature, and more –– but also alerts drivers and fleet managers via Bluetooth and cellular communications.
“PULSE brings trailers up-to-speed with today’s smartest trucks,” Adams said. “By signaling trailer issues as they happen, PULSE enhances the safety of driver and cargo, and helps avoid road incidents, CSA violations, and costly fines.”
Peterson developed PULSE in partnership with industry leaders in TPMS/ABS and telematic technology.
The system features Peterson’s LumenX LED lighting package and the harness-building expertise of the company’s Maxi-Seal division.
PetersonPULSE is engineered to CAN-Bus specifications, with high-speed, twisted-pair communication wires and sensors installed throughout the trailer. All components are fully sealed, vibration tested, and built for long life, Peterson officials said.
Compared to the heavy, multi-wire cabling of traditional harnesses, PULSE twisted-pair cabling is lighter weight, flexible, and installation friendly.
The PULSE cabling links front and rear control modules, system sensors, and communication components — just like computers in a network.
“It’s like an information super highway,” Adams said. “Whether a trailer is parked or under way, PULSE enables real-time monitoring of all trailer systems — anytime, anywhere. There’s even a backup battery to power the system, whether or not the trailer is connected to the tractor.”
With a mobile device, a driver can do pre-trip walk-around inspections to check for issues with any trailer system — a “Know Before You Go” safeguard. On the road, PULSE’s trailer intelligence detects any issues and sends alerts via Bluetooth to the driver’s smart phone or tablet. Alerts can also be sent to fleet managers via a cellular network.
“PetersonPULSE makes fleet trailers as smart — and safe — as today’s new trucks,” said Steve Meagher, Peterson vice president-sales. “It’s intelligence that allows fleets to truly manage and protect their equipment and the cargo it carries. …”
The Trucker News Staff produces engaging content for not only TheTrucker.com, but also The Trucker Newspaper, which has been serving the trucking industry for more than 30 years. With a focus on drivers, the Trucker News Staff aims to provide relevant, objective content pertaining to the trucking segment of the transportation industry. The Trucker News Staff is based in Little Rock, Arkansas.
