The system architecture is quite simple. The on-board devices, also called probes, communicate with the main server over the GPRS/UMTS network.

Probes are able to buffer the data in case the Internet connection or the server is down, so that no information is lost.

The server receives the data and communicates with the devices. The data is encoded so that the bandwidth usage is reduced to the minimum; the communication protocol also implements error detection algorithms, so that corrupted data is re-trasmitted.

The operators can access the data, perform analysis and administrate the system using a browser on their workstations or PCs.

The global architecture is designed to work with high numbers of devices (vehicles), organized in fleets or projects. For each fleet is possible to execute custom analysis algorithms, leveraging the presence of dedicated software for data visualization.

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The On-Board Device

The device mounted on vehicles is very compact, robust and light. The enclosure is made in ABS, and contains all the needed electronics.

The probe features a powerful GPRS/UMTS antenna, so that the box can be placed anywhere in the vehicle.

The device can optionally connect to a standard GPS receiver, that must be obviously placed near the windshield, increasing the number of satellites used for the positioning and therefore improving its accuracy.

The external enclosure presents a slot for attaching a standard OBD cable (2 Kline + CAN).

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Mounting the Device in a Common Vehicle

Mounting the probe is very simple. As you can see in the pictures below, it is sufficient to connect the OBD cable to the proper socket in the vehicle, usually placed in the lower part of the dashboard, on the driver's side.

Then, the device must be placed in a compartment so that it does not move. If a GPS receiver is used, it must be placed on the higher part of the dashboard, ideally just under the windshield.

Mounting the Device, step 1

Mounting the Device, step 2