Toyota Material Handling has pioneered PIN-code activation on trucks for many years, to increase safety by restricting use of trucks to authorised drivers. This is now extended by allowing integration into existing card access systems.

Later this year, the Toyota I_Site concept will also offer remote fleet monitoring via a mobile app. Most large operations today have adopted card access systems within their operations to maintain security and restrict access. Each staff member has a unique identity card that also determines where he or she is able to go within the premises.
  
Toyota Material Handling has now developed a Smart Access control system for its forklift trucks, using exactly the same technologies. A single ID card will provide access control for buildings and also equipment using a multi-technology* card reader installed on the vehicle, making life easier for the driver and also simplifying management control procedures. The Smart Access option is part of the Toyota I_Site concept.

Another new development for Toyota I_Site recognises that keeping an eye on fork truck operations is often a challenge for logistics operation managers. A new mobile app addresses this challenge.

The company’s Toyota I_Site concept has already established a reputation for providing the most comprehensive monitoring and control solutions for forklift users.

Using on-board telematics systems, and transmitting data via GPRS/3G networks, Toyota I_Site allows managers to measure all aspects of truck and driver activity, including running time, battery management and shocks. Likewise data can be uploaded to trucks via the same process, updating driver authorisations, updating on-board software and re-setting trucks if they have been shut down as a result of shock sensing.

All functions available are normally accessed via a web portal, but the most vital functions are now also via the new mobile app. Designed to work with iPhone technologies, the app means that a manager can monitor activities while on-the-move. It will alert if, for example, a truck fails a pre-operational check, which is one of the modules available as part of the Toyota I_Site concept.

Alerts will also be raised if an impact is detected via an on-board shock sensor, and if the truck needs to be reactivated as a consequence of automatic shutdown this too can be implemented via the mobile app. Vital truck activity data is also accessible, as well as driver authority levels.

“The Toyota I_Site concept has been developed over many years to give managers of forklift truck fleets as much control as possible, as well as information to manage utilisation and operating costs,” explains Hans Larsson, Director Logistics Solutions and Development. “The overall goal is to increase safety and improve operational efficiency. But taking into account the flexibility that managers need today, developing this mobile app has been a very logical step.”

The new mobile app from Toyota is the first system of its type to be introduced in the material handling industry.

The Toyota I_Site new features - Mobile app and Smart Access - will be one of the many new products, solutions and technologies that Toyota Material Handling will be presenting during CeMAT 2014 (19th-23rd May). Come and be surprised in Hanover at Pavilion 32!