Blue Tree Systems Inc, a provider of reefer monitoring, trailer tracking, and in-cab fleet management systems, has completed implementation of new software updates to its HOS Advisor tool to reflect new driver hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, which came into effect July 1.
Developed by Blue Tree, HOS Advisor keeps drivers informed of “Drive Time Remaining” at all times and advises drivers at the touch of a button of options available to best use their available hours to maximize driving time. HOS Advisor presents options to the driver based on their current HOS status and saves the driver the hassle of performing complex and time-consuming calculations.
The tool works by first providing drivers with a “current status.” For example: “You have 0 hours and 15 minutes of driving time left,” which is then followed by a number of appropriate options on how to proceed to maximize drive time.
HOS Advisor provides dispatchers the same real time information available to the driver in the cab. This shared view means that dispatchers and drivers can discuss options being presented by HOS Advisor and agree on how best to proceed.
This tool is available at all times. As soon as a driver logs onto the system, the previous seven days of logs are automatically downloaded to the truck and a summary of the driver’s current drive time and remaining time available is presented. The system displays driver hours as a graph or a table. In graph format the data presentation is designed to resemble that of the paper logbook to ease the transition to electronic logs. The tool also can advise on split logs for team drivers.
“Being able to instantly see a list of scenarios advising ‘if you select duty state ‘X’ for duration ‘Y’ then ‘Z’ will happen’ really helps drivers decide how to best use their hours,” said Charlie Cahill, chief executive officer of Blue Tree. “Essentially, it’s like having an HOS expert riding in the passenger seat helping you make the appropriate decisions to best optimize your working day.”
For more information, visit www.bluetreesystems.com.
