Vehicle Disabling Systems

Description

Remote vehicle disabling systems typically rely on a wireless communication system to provide their basic functionality. They can be integrated with panic buttons and on-board computers requiring user identification and/or password log-ins. For non-remote systems, a keypad or key-fob may be utilized as a part of these systems for arming, disarming, and controlling the security system at the asset itself. Non-remote manual systems can also involve the use of in-cab shut-off devices to other vehicle systems, such as electronic ignitions and air brakes.

Remote Vehicle Disabling Systems

Remote vehicle disabling systems provide authorized users at remote locations the ability to prevent an engine from starting, prevent movement of a vehicle, and to stop or slow an operating vehicle. Remote disabling allows a dispatcher or other authorized personnel to gradually decelerate a vehicle by downshifting, limiting the throttle capability, or bleeding air from the braking system from a remote location. Some of these systems provide advance notification to the driver that the vehicle disabling is about to occur. After stopping a vehicle, some systems will lock the vehicle’s brakes or will not allow the vehicle’s engine to be restarted within a certain timeframe.

Remote disabling systems can also be integrated into a remote panic and emergency notification system. In an emergency, a driver can send an emergency alert by pressing a panic button on the dashboard, or by using a key-fob panic button if the driver is within close proximity of the truck. Then, the carrier or other approved organization can be remotely alerted to allow a dispatcher or other authorized personnel to evaluate the situation, communicate with the driver, and/or potentially disable the vehicle.

Non-Remote Vehicle Disabling Systems

Non-remote vehicle disabling systems provide authorized users the ability to restrict or prevent vehicle operation in three ways: through the use of wireless technology when they are near the vehicle; through on-board actions by the driver/operator; or through a combination of both. Non-remote vehicle disabling systems include driver identification authentication technologies, tamper detection alerts, brake locks, and emergency notification panic buttons for disabling the truck in case of an emergency or other event.

A single sign-on module is utilized for driver authentication in order to initiate the operation of a vehicle. The driver uses passwords, pin numbers, or biometrics to start the vehicle and to access other on-board wireless communications applications. All activities related to the use of the vehicle are associated with the driver signed-in at the time. This information can be used for dispatch, driver performance, and driver log purposes.

Several different types of technologies can be used to non-remotely disable a vehicle. Panic buttons carried by the driver or within reach of the driver inside the vehicle can be activated to disable a vehicle or send out an emergency notification. Electronic ignition systems allow the driver to automatically activate the system when the key is removed from the ignition and reactivate the system when the key is replaced into the ignition. A relatively low-cost means of vehicle disabling is the utilization of a brake lock device to prevent the movement of the vehicle. A brake lock device shuts down the air line from the tractor to the air brakes in the tractor (and if hooked up, to the trailer). Release of the brake lock system is the only way to move the vehicle.

Application

Important components of vehicle disabling systems are hardware mechanisms that restrict vehicle use. Some are on-board computer technologies that identify the driver to allow authorized use while preventing unauthorized use. Others utilize mobile communication technologies that allow a remote dispatcher or other operator to communicate with the driver and/or the vehicle, and if necessary, activate the vehicle disabling system.

Driver authentication is a vital part of many vehicle disabling systems. Intelligent on-board computers can be utilized for driver identification through global login access where a driver enters login information into a cab-based interface. Similar to a username and password on a computer system, global login is an authentication feature of some wireless communications systems. Through the use of a driver login process, the login information (user ID and password) entered into the truck-based interface by the driver is verified by preset procedures both locally on the vehicle and over the air using the wireless communication system. If this verification fails, various configurable alerts and resulting actions can be triggered up to and including vehicle disabling with the aid of an on-board computer.

Other authentication technologies utilized in several vehicle disabling systems range from PIN number entry to biometric-based systems. The most common biometric-based technologies for vehicle disabling utilize driver fingerprints. If the driver’s fingerprint matches the fingerprint information on a biometric smart card carried by the driver, then the driver is verified and able to start the vehicle. If a match is not made, the vehicle cannot be started and the fleet dispatcher is typically notified of the failed attempt.

Vehicle disabling systems can be integrated with many on-board wireless communications systems that include other features, such as door sensors, cargo sensors, temperature sensors, electronic cargo seals, and trailer connection and disconnection systems. For example, if an on-board computer system detects a loss of signal from the communication network or tampering of electronic cargo seals, a pre-determined vehicle disabling protocol can be initiated.

Additional monitoring processes using on-board sensors that detect changes in load volume, door status, exposure to radiation, or temperature can a generate security alert notification that will trigger a vehicle disabling protocol. In vehicles that monitor trailer information, a vehicle disabling protocol can be prompted when a trailer has been disconnected from its assigned tractor or when a trailer door lock system has been violated.

Vehicle disabling protocols can also be activated by critical changes in the status of important vehicle systems. Since on-board computers monitor processes such as coolant temperature and engine oil pressure, a message can be sent to the driver and dispatcher about these conditions alerting them that systems are at unsafe levels. Then, a vehicle can be prevented from starting if unsafe system parameters are discovered prior to vehicle usage. Carriers with refrigerated units (reefers) are significant users of this feature.

Vehicle disabling can be utilized by authorized personnel with a wireless communication system's geo-fencing feature. Dispatchers or fleet operators can create a geo-fence or defined electronic boundary made up of geo-coded points for particular vehicles or routes. If a vehicle enters a restricted geo-fenced area, or exits the defined areas, the dispatcher or fleet operator can be alerted to take necessary actions to secure the vehicle. Currently, no systems have the capability of engaging automatic vehicle disablement for geo-fence violations.

Operations and Benefits

Depending on the actual vehicle disabling technologies utilized, fleet operators can have additional connectivity and communication with their drivers and vehicles compared with fleets not utilizing such technologies. When vehicle disabling systems are integrated with on-board communications and tracking systems, fleet managers can actively monitor security parameters, vehicle routes, performance, maintenance, and fuel usage—whether the vehicles are running locally or on a long-haul. These monitoring capabilities provide operational efficiency benefits for fleet management optimization by providing information about vehicle operation from origin to destination.

Vehicle disabling systems can improve secure operations of carriers who haul high-value or high-risk cargo, such as hazardous materials. Access can be limited to authorized drivers by dispatchers or fleet managers who can manage driver authentication codes and truck identifications, change codes over the air, and disable the vehicle, if necessary. To help prevent theft, a valid driver authentication code can be required before a vehicle can be started or moved. Also, if there is tampering with any integrated security device or fleet management system, the vehicle can be placed in a secure state and an alert can be sent over the air to the carrier. Carriers can also change driver authentication codes and secure a vehicle if a driver suddenly leaves the company, but still has access to the vehicle. The capability to disable the vehicle over the air is also available if dispatchers become aware of a stolen or hijacked vehicle. Even if a truck is moving, the vehicle's speed can be gradually reduced to allow the vehicle to be brought to a safe and controlled stop.

Technologies, such as ignition locks and brake locks can also be used to minimize vehicle theft by prohibiting vehicle movement. These security devices are permanently installed in the vehicle, and they must be utilized in order to operate the vehicle.

Cost

The cost of vehicle disabling systems depends upon the type of system installed (i.e., a simple on-board system versus a multi-functional system), the number of systems purchased, and the type of installation required.

The costs for less complex on-board systems (such as an ignition lock or brake lock) range from under $100 to over $300 per unit, plus installation costs. Installation for these units could be done by a local technician.

The costs for basic, non-wireless driver authentication systems utilizing keypad entry range from approximately $500 to $700 per vehicle, plus installation costs. Installation for some of these units could be completed by a local technician.

The costs for systems integrated with on-board wireless communications and multi-functional features range from approximately $2,000 to over $3,000 per vehicle, plus installation costs. Installation for some of these systems can be completed by a trained technician who is familiar with the technology. However, for technical and/or security reasons, some systems require manufacturer installation only.

In addition to installation costs, some vehicle disabling systems (especially remote monitoring systems) may also require a monthly fee for maintenance and monitoring.

Vendors

Systems Providing Remote Disabling

Systems Providing Non-Remote Disabling

Disclaimer

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