Wireless service provider PeopleNet Communications Corp. has developed new software that automates load status and route inputs for circle-of-service type dispatch operations.
Freeing drivers from inputting data, PeopleNet Automated Circle of Service (PACOS) automatically downloads a trip manifest created by dispatch to the vehicle's PeopleNet onboard unit and then monitors the truck's progress, alerting dispatch if the vehicle departs from its planned route or encounters delays. Using geocoded route information, it also recognizes when a vehicle reaches and leaves a delivery point, automatically updating records to show load status. Commercial availability for PACOS is expected in January.
Speaking during the American Trucking Assns.' conference, PeopleNet general manager Dave Ladner also announced new wireless signature capture and bar code scanning capabilities for the company's fleet management system. The two new software features run on the company's existing Palm OS hand-held device.
