Category: Knowledge Centre

The Automotive Industry Standard Committee (AISC), along with the Ministry of Road Transportation and Highways (MoRTH), has come up with AIS, or Automotive Industry Standard. These are a set of guidelines that ensure road safety, while structuring an intelligent transport system at the same time.  AIS 140 is aimed at developing better control over transport infrastructure in India. Every commercial vehicle in the country has to be equipped with an AIS 140 compliant GPS tracking device with support for an emergency button accessible by the passengers and driver, along with a robust GPS tracking software to forward a real-time vehicle’s location and other vehicle performance data to proper authorities.

AIS 140 GPS specifications

• Tracking ability using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) – location should be transmitted in real-time. It should also include support for GAGAN, the Indian Satellite Based Augmentation System.
• A panic button is a must – it should be easily accessible so that authorities are alerted quickly as and when required.
• Two different IP addresses – one set of data (PVT data) should be transferred to the first IP address for regulatory purposes, while the second IP address is exclusively for the emergency request system.
• GPS device to support 4 digital, 2 analog and 1 serial communication (RS232) for interfacing external systems or peripherals ( for instance, the panic button – SOS buzzer).
• An internal battery has a backup of minimum 4 hours, taking into account location update frequency at 60 seconds.
• It should be able to transmit position, velocity and time (PVT) data to the back-end control room using the GSM/GPRS network.
• The device has to come with an embedded SIM.
• If there is GPRS failure, a configurable backup SMS feature needs to be present, along with the ability to receive firmware updates over the air.
• Lastly, the AIS GPS device should be totally tamper-proof, so no one can disable it. The device has to be resistant to dust, temperature and water splashes too.

Which industries benefit from installing AIS 140 devices?

Commercial fleet owners

Be it trucks, buses, taxis, or logistics companies, all organizations that own and manage fleets of commercial vehicles, can benefit from these GPS trackers. They help in monitoring vehicle movements, optimizing routes, and ensuring compliance with government regulations.

Transportation and logistics companies

Businesses involved in transportation and logistics are extremely dependant on AIS 140 GPS trackers to keep tabs on cargo, ensure on-time deliveries, and maintain vehicle safety and compliance.

Government agencies

Government bodies responsible for supervising transportation systems, road safety, and compliance often mandate these trackers to ensure the safety and regulation of commercial vehicles.

Educational institutions

They use fleets of buses for student transportation – these trackers ensure that students are safe, while continuously monitoring bus routes and tracking location of vehicles in real-time.

Emergency services

First responders such as the police, ambulance, and fire departments use these trackers in their vehicles to take action quickly during emergencies and optimize response times.

Construction and infrastructure companies

Companies involved in construction and infrastructure projects use these trackers to monitor the location and usage of heavy equipment and vehicles on job sites.

Private vehicle owners

An AIS 140 device isn’t mandatory for private vehicles, but individuals may choose to install GPS trackers for added security, tracking, and anti-theft measures.

AIS 140 FAQs

What sectors must have AIS 140 devices?

As per the mandate issued by the Government of India, the following must adopt an AIS 140 GPS tracking device:

• State Road Transport Corporations
• Domestic and Interstate Private Bus Operators
• Ambulances and Emergency Response Vehicles
• Cars, Bus and Taxi Fleet Owners
• Rent-a-Car Services
• Taxi Ride Hailing Services

How is AIS 140 beneficial for transport systems in India?

Compliance with AIS 140 standards can ensure passenger safety, while allowing authorities to respond quickly to incidents. It improves public transport operations via real-time tracking, monitors performance metrics for vehicles, and keeps tabs on drivers to ensure they are indulging in safe driving and following road safety rules. The geo-fencing feature allows creation of virtual boundaries, and alerts are instantly triggered if vehicles enter or exit pre-defined areas. It ensures that drivers aren’t deviating from their routes or running personal errands on duty. Yet another benefit is that the data recorded by these AIS 140 devices can offer insights into vehicle operations, including routes, idle time, fuel consumption, running kilometers and overall performance.

Why is such a mandate required?

A couple of unfortunate incidents that compromised the safety of occupants in public transport vehicles have prompted the Government of India to rigorously enforce AIS 140 standards.

What are the major challenges of vehicles being declared AIS 140 compliant?

• There are two wireless technologies (GNSS and GSM/GPRS) and their antennas, involved here, so due caution has to be exercised during the installation of devices in vehicles. In the case of GNSS, the installation is even more important, as compared to GSM, since the signal strength of GNSS is weaker. It should be ensured that the device is installed at a place with proper visibility and minimal obstructions. There shouldn’t be any metallic surfaces in surrounding areas as they might interfere with the performance of the antennas and also have a significant impact on the location accuracy.
• The device has to be connected to the vehicle battery directly or via ignition, so the routing of wiring is integral in minimizing accidental damage to harness and electro-magnetic interference.

What is the penalty for non-compliance?

Penalties usually vary from state to state. Offenders might have to shell out hefty sums, or face suspension of the vehicle registration. In extreme cases their vehicle permit could be cancelled.

To put it in a nutshell, AIS 140 standards are formulated and implemented mainly to ensure the safety of people travelling in public transportation systems. Features such as GPS tracking, panic buttons and real time monitoring allows concerned authorities to respond quickly to emergency situations and ensure safe and reliable public transportation.

The Indian government is making great strides to integrate elements of globally recognized Intelligent sportation Systems (ITS) standards, in the transportation industry. One of its endeavors is the AIS (The Automotive Indian Standard) 140, which optimizes transportation infrastructure, while boosting quality, efficiency, safety, and comfort.

What is the AIS 140 regulation?

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has developed the AIS 140 a collection of regulations, for public transit systems in India. The objective is to increase road safety and create an intelligent transportation system. Efficiency is a major cause for concern in the country’s transportation sector, but thanks to AIS 140, we are finally taking a step in the right direction, In line with the components covered by the ITS such as road traffic management and mitigation, public transportation management, and crisis management, AIS 140 mandates use of, vehicle tracking systems for public transportation and video surveillance and panic buttons in commercial vehicles

Why is AIS 140 certification compulsory in India?

Public transport is used for various reasons – traveling, commuting, transit of goods, etc. In fact, transportation is one of the fastest-growing economic resources of India, but it is still lacking when it comes to security measures for public safety. Thefts, sexual harassment, and damage to fleet property are only some of the issues plaguing this sector. The sad part is many of these incidents could have been prevented with timely intervention and assistance.

Nowadays, you often hear of trucks carrying hazardous chemicals or costly medicines meeting with an accident on a secluded highway. By the time help is dispatched, it is usually too late. Lives are lost, and there are financial losses as well. Moreover, if a critical patient doesn’t get the right medicine on time, the delay could be fatal!

Meanwhile, the “Smart City” initiative is gathering steam, but the number of vehicles on the road is also going up, which means constant traffic. When there is massive traffic congestion each day, it becomes tough for commuters, drivers, traffic police and others to navigate the roads.

Since AIS 140 is designed for vehicle tracking systems, camera surveillance systems, and emergency request buttons, it takes care of the safety aspect to a great deal. Furthermore, it will revolutionize mobility and ease the movement of vehicles in and around the city.

Commercial vehicles to follow the AIS 140 mandate for several reasons take a look

Round-the-clock monitoring

While a typical GPS device can only broadcast a vehicle’s location to one server, an AIS 140 GPS device can send the location to three servers at the same time. When vehicles conform to the AIS 140, it provides GPS device manufacturers with vital data. This information ensures that operators can administer timely service, while extracting stellar performance.

Track driving behavior

With road accidents going up in an alarming manner, it is imperative to have safety protocols in place. The AIS 140 mandate gives access to vehicle data such as speed, distance travelled and other aspects, so the driver can be easily traced if there are instances of reckless driving.

Bettering route optimization efficiency

It is the era of smart and digitized delivery route optimization. The AIS 140 enabled device maps out the best route for a particular vehicle depending upon locations, stops, and checkpoints. The goal is to find the most efficient and cost-effective route, on the basis of the time taken to travel between two points. Drivers will know where there is heavy traffic, and can re-route the vehicle if required. This aspect is useful for reducing fuel consumption as well.

The ARAI has stated that commercial vehicles without an AIS 140- authorized GPS gadget and emergency buttons, will have to pay hefty fines and could lead to disqualification of their transportation permit as well. Such vehicles include commercial car and bus fleets, employee transport vehicles, public transport systems, emergency vehicles, and school buses

What are the requirements for AIS 140 to be implemented?

According to the AIS 140 directives, a system for emergency response should be set up in such a manner that it can effortlessly communicate with government control centers. States should set up control centers of their own, or improve the ones they have with the ability to manage .responses when alarms are triggered.

To put it in a nutshell, the following conditions be met:

• The control center should have an appropriate establishment for the registration of devices and vehicles.
• Configurations of vehicles to must be verified as per the state’s recommendations.
• The system must be appropriately positioned to manage emergency alerts.
• Devices with AIS 140 certification should be subjected to routine inspections to ensure they are functioning as they should.

How will AIS 140 benefit fleet services?

Here are some advantages of AIS 140 certified devices that will enhance safer and efficient fleet management:

Birds eye view of the entire operation

With the aid of an AIS 140 GPS tracker, you get access to detailed reports about the operations in the fleet. It not only helps to stay updated regarding fleet operations, but you can get the vehicles serviced in a timely manner. Regular maintenance checks reduce hefty expenses incurred due to repairs or replacement of components.

Smart management

Thanks to the AIS 140 certification, your fleet becomes “smarter”. The device installed in the vehicles obtains information through several satellite systems and enables secure data transfer to the control centers. These devices allow the access of minimum two IP addresses, as one of them will be under government monitoring and emergency purpose. The channel of information involves the vendor, customer, and government centre.

Minimize fuel expenses

Did you know that fuel makes up about 45% of the total expenses involved in fleet operations? Thanks to an AIS 140 compliant fleet management system, fleet owners can reduce fuel expenses by 10% to 20%, with efficient route optimization.

Ensuring safety and security

As mentioned, AIS 140 certification ensures total safety of the vehicle and passengers, as it allows constant monitoring of driving behavior. Any attempt of reckless or careless driving, will immediately send an alert to the concerned authorities, thus avoiding any mishaps on the road.

Real-time tracking

The upgraded tracking feature allows monitoring and finding accurate locations and movement of vehicles in real-time. Moreover, due to the geo-fencing feature, you are alerted if the vehicle crosses a virtual boundary – you can always keep track of any vehicle in your fleet

Fast response during emergencies

All AIS 140 devices are integrated with GPS tracking, along with a panic button. So, if there is an accident or sudden breakdown, pressing the button puts the driver directly in touch with emergency services like ambulance, law enforcement or fire stations, and transmits accurate location to them. Thus, they can administer aid swiftly.

How does fleet management software come into the equation?

leet management software helps managers target functioning of their fleet and then work on eliminating issues they might encounter.Data plays an important role in this aspect. Using Anstel’s fleet management software, business can plan more efficient fleet operations, while helping to adapt to the AIS 140 regulations. Here goes:

Compatibility

The fleet management software is compatible with a large range of protocols. Even if there is a change in the type of GPS tracker you select, the software will not need any tweaks. The panic button can be integrated without hassle.

Personalized alerts

You can set alerts depending upon the type of emergency. For instance, you might want to set a specific alert in case of fire and another one if there is a breakdown. Alerts allow managers to take prompt action.

Access to actionable data

It not possible to optimize fleet operations without knowing where you are going wrong and which areas need improvements. You get a detailed history of the vehicle from the software (a 90-day requirement is mandatory). The data helps fleet managers to assess their shortcomings and develop suitable solutions to address problems.

AIS 140 standards will play an important role in bringing about the much-required change in the transport industry. Addressing concerns like driver fatigue or drunk driving due to lengthier routes or stops can be made more convenient as essential data from every trip is compiled for analysis. There are other benefits involved, too, such as monitoring fuel consumption and identifying areas where efficiency can directly improve, leading to cost savings.

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has created the Automotive Industry Standard 140 (AIS standard) for public transit systems in India. It is a collection of regulations to develop an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS). There was a need for boosting efficiency on India’s transportation sector for a long time, which is why the ITS has been created. With the increasing number of vehicles on the roads every day, stringent regulations by the government to address crisis and enforce safety standards, is a must-have.

The sole objective of AIS 140 is to optimize and secure the transport system in India by taking care of efficacy, value, safety, and security. It is gradually being implemented all over the country. An AIS 140 GPS tracking device comes with emergency buttons, location tracking, and video surveillance features, for all public transportation and commercial vehicles. The AIS 140 GPS tracker price varies depending upon device specifications and which vendor you choose to purchase from

Vehicles that can use the AIS 140 are:

• Emergency vehicles 
• Taxi and bus services
• School buses
• Public transport systems
• Employee transport

An AIS 140 device will have the following features:

Tracking

The live location of the vehicle is transmitted to servers in real-time. The vehicle’s route can be monitored, so if there are any delays or diversions, an alert is instantly triggered. You can monitor all assets on a single interface, giving you a bird’s eye view of the entire operation. Moreover, if you wish to access the 24-hour history of each vehicle, its start and stop times, and even driving summary, you can easily do so.

Geo-fencing

Yet another useful tracking feature, geo-fencing lets you create boundaries for all assets. If a vehicle enters or exits from the designated area, you will be notified right away, and can take action accordingly.

Panic button

With crimes going up at an alarming rate in the country, it is imperative for law enforcement to reach the scene as soon as possible to provide assistance. Thefts, robberies, sexual assaults, etc. can be minimized and prevented if authorities can intervene on time. That is why a panic button that is easily accessible has to be integrated into the design. Pressing it will send an SOS in the form of location information to a pre-configured IP address. This location can be tracked by GPS satellites, so authorities can quickly reach the area.

Embedded SIM

The devices operate with an embedded SIM as a backup option if there are issues with connectivity. Panic buttons will work even if there is a problem with satellite signals, as the alert is sent via SMS.

Fuel expenses

The cost of fuel is going up and up, so it is imperative to cut down on idle time and optimize routes. With the help of an AIS 140 device, vehicle owners can plan and schedule trips properly by mapping out a cost-effective route that is the shortest as well. It will help to save a lot of money in the long run.

Driver behavior

A common cause of concern is drivers braking harshly, accelerating rapidly, making sharp turns, and over-speeding. But now you can monitor driving behavior at a glance by peeking at the dashboard. For instance, it sends an alert if the speed goes beyond a limit or there are a lot of sharp turns. Drivers are likely to be more responsible if they are aware of being watched.

Detailed driving history

As per regulations, the devices have to store a vehicle’s 90-day driving history in the AIS 140g GPS tracking system system, which can be downloaded and extracted. This data can be used to manage and rectify driving behavior.

Tamper alert

What happens if someone tries to remove the device from the vehicle? Rest assured they won’t succeed as a warning pops up on the dashboard if the gadget is being tampered with.

AIS enabled vehicle tracking is mandatory in India

The AIS 140 standard is a set of guidelines that are aimed at creating an intelligent transportation system, and increasing road safety at the same time. If commercial and public transport vehicles are found without an AIS 140 certificate, their transport permit can be revoked, and they might have to pay hefty fines too.

AIS 140 enabled tracking is mandatory in India for these reasons:

• Using these devices, important data is sent to the server that can be used for monitoring driver behavior. The vehicle can be tracked down in the event of incidents due to rash or drunk driving.
• Route tracking and optimized journeys can improve public transportation and help cut down fuel costs.
• Vehicle performance can be monitored too. Data pertaining to speed, fuel usage, engine performance, air pressure etc, is collected, and can be shared with the driver and fleet operators. Thus, timely repairs, servicing, and inspections can be scheduled.
• Most importantly, the AIS 140 standard makes public transport safer for all passengers. 

What is AIS 140 GPS device?

An AIS 140 GPS tracking device is a reliable gadget as per the mandatory standardization by the ARAI, in order to comply with Intelligent Transport Systems. It comes equipped with GPS tracking, seamless connectivity, SOS buttons, dust and weather-proof, etc. Once the device is installed into a vehicle, its movements can be monitored, while the location is transmitted to a server in real-time. When required, alerts and notifications pop-up on the dashboard, so action can be taken accordingly. The AIS 140 GPS tracker significantly improves safety and efficiency.

Does AIS have built-in GPS?

AIS operates by taking the movements and position of the GPS system that is built into its unit. This information is regularly transmitted to servers. 

How does AIS 140 work?

AIS 140 works by transmitting location, time, and other data to backend control servers via a GSM/GPRS network. It sends data to two different IP addresses, and an extra IP address, which is the emergency response system. That is why, panic buttons are mandatory. Any device with a AIS 140 specification should also have a power backup of at least four hours, and be compliant with hardware and software configuration standards as issued by the government.

Does AIS need Internet?

As per hardware requirements, AIS 140 devices have to use satellite modems with GSM/GPRS connectivity. An embedded SIM is also integrated so that alerts can be sent in the form of an SMS if there is no internet connectivity.

How does GPS work with AIS?

Regardless of the AIS 140 enabled device chosen, the software won’t require modification. It expertly uses GPS technology to zero in on a vehicle’s location, which is then transmitted to the servers

Is AIS 140 GPS and standard GPS the same?

A standard GPS is able to send the location of your vehicle to a single server at a time. But when devices have AIS 140 specification, it can send the location of a vehicle to three servers simultaneously the vehicle fleet owner’s server, emergency server used by law enforcement, and the government’s control centre. AIS enabled vehicle tracking monitors performance and maintenance as opposed to GPS devices that track only location.

Nowadays, the general belief among many companies with logistics operations is that shifting to sustainable solutions is an expensive move. They consider logistics processes as mere costs that ultimately don’t generate any value for the company and its customers. Therefore, they compress these costs as much as possible, selecting solutions based on the lowest price, trying to limit the consumers’ visibility on these elements. But that is assuredly not so, because organizations can still comply with sustainability guidelines and advanced planning tools and maintain a high profit margin.

Ways to achieve sustainability in Connected Logistics

Supply chain sustainability helps to save money, build strong business relationships, and benefits the environment too. Here are the three elements of supply chain sustainability you have to consider:

Social

It involves principles, ethics, morals and philanthropic expectations of the society from a business. When you consider “people” in the supply chain, it not only means company employees, but even vendors, customers, local communities, and society as a whole. To enhance social sustainability, companies have to come up with measurable goals to maximize their positive social impact. 

Driver safety

Anstel’s Connected Logistics solutions help to manage assets, gain better control of fleet operations, boost efficiency, and  keep tabs on real-time location of vehicles and drivers at all times. Combined with a driver monitoring system, which allows extensive in-cabin monitoring, it is possible to optimize both vehicle and workforce performance. Both devices automatically record daily driving behavioral data, so fleet managers get a clearer overview of their performance. With the aid of alerts, reports, and driver scorecard analytics, managers stay informed of unsafe driving, negligence, driver fatigue, and other problematic behavioral patterns. Alerts are sent to drivers so they can self-correct their driving immediately to prevent incidents on the road.

Pedestrian safety

Thanks to in-depth data being collected from a fleet monitoring system, managers can identify areas of improvement and take action accordingly. Small distractions on the road could lead to fatal accidents, so it is important to enforce safe driving practices. Apart from rectifying driving behavior issues, managers can protect employees, while ensuring safety of other drivers and pedestrians on the road. Training modules can be developed for grooming employees into conscious and responsible drivers.

Reduce theft

Cargo theft is a huge problem these days, which leads to millions of dollars in losses! Fleet management software and telematics are excellent tools to zero in on the fleet’s real-time location and get regular updates. With smart IoT enabled GPS tracking devices and sensors in place, fleet managers can keep track of their shipments to prevent theft.  In case there is any deviation from the planned route, the update is shared with the concerned person in real-time. The geo-fencing feature triggers alarms if vehicles travel outside designated zones.

Environmental

It involves protecting the environment from potential harm caused due to supply chain activities like production, storage, packaging, transportation and other minute operations. The more complex a supply chain, the tougher it is, to achieve true sustainability.

Digitization

It is the era of technology and digitization. All analog supply chain processes are being gradually transformed into digital ones. It is being achieved by establishing dedicated master data that aggregates information from across your entire supply chain, along with information from external sources. Going paperless is a huge part of this trend, as it not only convenient, but also results in making less of a harmful impact on the environment. For instance, technologies like Electronic Data Interchanges (EDIs) can help your procurement team go paperless—Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms help make the procurement function more efficient and reduce waste in the supply chain. Connected Fleet and Logistics solutions collect, process, and record data, so fleet managers can access it anytime. No longer do they have to write down details on paper or keep them in filing cabinets! It helps to save the environment while lowering operational costs.

Optimizing processes

Asset management directly impacts the viability of your supply chain. Ultimately, how you keep track of maintenance issues and the ways in which you interpret trends and data have real consequences. Review fuel cost trends, source products and raw materials from locations that are near your customers to minimize transportation costs, and schedule jobs so drivers can focus on the same geographical areas. Drivers should submit post-trip inspection reports so you don’t fall behind on maintenance. A regular maintenance schedule has to be adhered to as well. Route optimization is yet another way to make the supply chain more efficient. Mapping out a cost-effective route not only help drivers complete deliveries faster, but minimizes fuel consumption too.

The incremental costs of losses from damage, wasted time and rework often surprise business owners. For example, on its own, a broken pallet or a defective component might not seem like much. Left unattended, however, such waste can easily run into an exorbitant annual expense that could be eliminated from the balance sheet. Create a list of all the moving parts of your inbound and outbound logistics, highlighting those in particular that you know are high-cost areas. Prioritize those items and any others where performance seems to be below expectations.

Green driving and fuel efficiency

While it is necessary for drivers to follow good driving habits to ensure safety, it is also required for eco driving purposes. Drivers can improve gas mileage and emit fewer greenhouse gases by simply avoiding hard accelerations and slamming on the brakes. Reducing idle time can greatly improve fuel efficiency. Another way to consume less fuel is to ensure that drivers stick to planned routes without any deviations. Keeping up with regular vehicle maintenance is also a must, as a well-maintained vehicle is fuel efficient and offers longer life. Most importantly, it minimizes breakdowns that could otherwise delay shipments, spoil the overall schedule, increase fuel consumption, and so on.

Reduce returns

It is time to improve and perfect the Last Mile aspect of businesses, by ensuring timely delivery and receipt of goods. What happens when the recipient isn’t present to sign for the package? The shipment is returned to the warehouse, and delivery has to be attempted again the next day. It results in excessive fuel consumption, which means a negative footprint on the environment. It has to be verified (prior to deliveries being attempted) if the recipient is actually present to sign for the shipment, so that delivery failure is reduced and returns are minimized.

Financial or Economic

Last but not least, is profit! Supply chain sustainability is about helping the people your organization touches and the planet on which we live. However, it is also about positioning your organization to be sustainably profitable.

Recycle

A sustainable supply chain uses products that are built to have a light environmental footprint, last longer and be easily disassembled and remade or transformed for reuse. It helps to reduce costs in the long run, as efforts are focused on efficiency and reduction of waste.

Minimize costs

IoT enabled devices and sensors keep monitoring the vehicle, and when a critical event occurs, details are sent immediately for preventive analysis. Driver behavior is monitored as well, so crashes can be prevented, which reduces costs associated with repair and maintenance due to accidents, while preventing injuries and fatalities. The Autonautics platform allows predictive and prescriptive maintenance, which is a more practical approach as opposed to scheduled inspection procedures that are expensive. The moment a problem is detected, the vehicle is sent for repairs, taking care of the issue right away. Moreover, drivers should be instructed to stick to planned routes, while minimizing idle time, in order to reduce fuel consumption, which in turn helps to control costs.

The supply chain is continuously generating data in real-time. Using this information you can streamline ordering processes and manage inventory, which saves a lot of expenses upfront. For instance, you know exactly which product is in stock and what has to be ordered. Thus, you can keep up with customer demand, ensure there is no wastage, and minimize carrying fees too. Implement a just-in-time system of inventory management, so you order and receive inventory as and when it is needed, rather than having to store lots of unused stock.

Ensure on-time deliveries

Route optimization plays an integral role when it comes to logistics. It is imperative to use the data being generated to optimize routes while dispatching jobs to drives. Tracking data of delivery times from pickup to drop-off at the end location lets businesses find out where inefficiencies lie, in order to better plan their routes going forward. The longer the distance between drops, the higher is the cost of delivery, along with wastage of time and effort. By optimizing routes, you ensure timely delivery and reduce fuel consumption too. The more jobs your drivers complete within designated time frames, the lesser is your revenue leakage. Timely deliveries mean client satisfaction and repeat business, instead of disgruntled customers leaving poor reviews and switching over to the competition.

A core tenet of a sustainable supply chain is that socially responsible business practices aren’t just good for the planet and the people who live here, but it can bring concrete benefits for the business too. By creating a sustainable supply chain using Connected Logistics, businesses can implement more impactful and positive changes on their environmental footprint, reduce costs, and improve reputation at the same time.

The insurance market is undergoing rapid developments, which is why, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has granted permission to general insurers to introduce sophisticated add-ons such as Pay As You Drive, Pay How You Drive and Floater Policy. They are to be issued to the same individual owner for two-wheelers and private cars as add-ons in a motor insurance policy.

Usage-based premiums make it convenient

The newly introduced add-ons are being offered with the base Motor Own Damage (OD) policy as optional riders. They can be selected by the policyholder based on the coverage they seek. Thus, customers get a chance to manage insurance policies of multiple vehicles owned by them, with affordable premiums.  These are telematics-based auto insurance plans, where the premium is determined the vehicles’ usage and how they are being driven. The IRDAI has been working to help the industry adapt to the times in its ongoing effort to safeguard policyholder interests and boost insurance penetration in India. Motor insurance is constantly evolving, and with the advent of technology, there is much pressure on the insurance fraternity to rise up to the challenging demands.

How does it work?

Pay As Your Drive

This add-on lets customers pay a premium based on vehicle usage. Vehicles that spend more time on the road could attract a higher premium as compared to the ones used less. It will be beneficial for car owners that commute by public transport to work and only use their personal vehicles during weekends. It is simple – the less you drive, the less you pay!

Pay How You Drive

This policy depends entirely on the driving behaviour. Vehicles that attract hefty fines or are involved in more accidents have to pay a higher premium. The data is accessed via the telematics system in the vehicle, and the owner is billed accordingly. If a buyer drives their vehicle in a rash, erratic, or aggressive manner, they would have to pay a higher premium since the risk associated would be greater.

Floater Policy

It allows vehicle owners to get a single blanket policy that covers several vehicles, which includes two-wheelers, rather than buying separate policies. So for those who have a car and two-wheeler at home, it is clearly a win-win!

Auto insurance companies are pleased about the development

Auto insurance companies have welcomed this move by IRDAI as it will eventually do away with the “standard premium for all” practice. Thanks to the new add-ons permit, the OD policy can be tailored as per a customer’s driving behaviour, general upkeep, mileage, and vehicle usage patterns, to offer the best features as per requirements.

The introduction of “Pay as you Drive" and "Pay How You Drive" covers, will nudge customers towards a utility-based “Pay as you Use" model, lending greater flexibility and convenience in customer choice. As of now, there is price equity due to lack of user behaviour based pricing of insurance premiums, which is all set to change. It becomes cost-effective for low usage customers, especially those who drive less than 10,000 kilometres. Some auto insurance companies in India are even offering a discount on premiums for vehicles already installed with telematics and anti-theft devices.

How does Anstel’s Autonautics platform benefit auto insurance companies, along with fleet owners and individual car owners, in accordance to the change in policy?

Auto insurance companies

Anstel’s Autonautics platform can help auto insurance companies offer customized premiums to customers based on their driving behavior. It offers a clear insight into driving patterns such as speed, braking, sharp turns, etc. and tendency to get into accidents. Using this data, insurers can reward responsible drivers by lowering premiums and giving additional benefits. The platform lets insurance companies analyze the risk profile of a driver, while tailoring both offline and online car insurance policies with an appropriate pricing model specific to the customer. Insurers can even use the real-time data analysis to investigate claims.

Fleets and personal vehicle owners

As mentioned, the Autonautics platform helps to monitor driver behavior, which prompts safe driving practices on the road, such as sticking to speed limits, not making sharp turns, refraining from driving erratically, and so on. Good driving behavior mean less fuel consumption, with reduced wear and tear of vehicle parts that minimizes repair costs. The platform reduces the cost of business with inspection based on data rather than physical inspection. If you adhere to safe driving habits on the road, you are likely to pay a lower premium, while getting value-added services at the same time.

As we adjust to living with Covid-19, lifestyles have been drastically impacted. Many people don’t drive regularly, but still have to pay the same annual premium based on the make and model of their vehicle. With the right kind of data, the insurance company can offer new, improved, and beneficial need-based insurance policies to specific car owners. Successful implementation of these policies means growth in profits for the insurer and extensive insurance and satisfaction for the policyholder. It is a win-win for both parties!

The food industry has made several technological advancements to grow and evolve. Yet the problem of food wastage continues to persist. It not only happens at the consumer level but during the production and transportation stages too.

How is food wasted?

As food moves along the supply chain, its quality degrades to a large extent that these products become unsuitable for consumption. The amount of time for spoilage differs for every item. Quality could deteriorate at a swift rate due to environmental factors such as high temperature and humidity. It leads to wastage of food items and huge losses for all stakeholders. Did you know that according to the United Nations, 17% of the total global food production is wasted every year?

How can IoT prevent food wastage?

To prevent wastage of food, it is necessary to monitor the goods 24x7. Human-based monitoring is not only tedious but susceptible to errors as well. This is where Internet of Things (IoT) plays a crucial role. It only strengthens the food supply chain and makes it well-structured, but also minimizes food wastage and boosts safety. IoT sensors act as precise indicators by capturing data during transit, to keep tabs on aspects that affect food quality, in real-time.

Using IoT devices, manufacturers can identify the exact point in the supply chain where food wastage occurs. It is done by collecting and evaluating data in real-time. This data offers a clear insight that helps stakeholders make smart operational decisions. 

Supply chain traceability

A lot of food gets wasted during the manufacturing process, as food undergoes several production stages, involving heavy equipment and machinery. Wastage occurs during handling and storage too. IoT can reduce food waste by using numerous sensors spread across factories. They compile important data about food production, so the causes of wastage can be easily identified. Data such as the expiry date of various products, how much stock is left, products that are overstocked, etc. can be collected. IoT sensors also identify and categorize products based on how fast they spoil, so distribution can be carried out accordingly.

Improved logistics

With the help of GPS systems and RFID transmitters, food products can be stored more effectively. RFID chips ensure visibility into the food supply chain while helping to automate delivery and shipping processes. These transmitters monitor and control temperature, which is why companies are now integrating RFID chips. It means no food spoilage, with retailers getting timely deliveries.

Quality control

IoT sensors can efficiently control food quality and improve food safety. For instance, perishable food items are transported in refrigerated vehicles. IoT sensors constantly monitor the temperature of the vehicles, and if there is any fluctuation, a real-time alert is sent to the concerned person immediately. Real-time data enables quick decisions that save time and money, without compromising the health of consumers. Thus, smart refrigerators and transportation containers, help to maintain the consistency of food product quality. 

To sum up, IoT-based smart sensors can detect temperature changes during manufacturing, storage, and transportation and send alerts. Anstel offers a combination of sensors that keep tabs on freezers and coolers round the clock and sends out an early warning when temperatures aren’t within range. Thus, they prevent food wastage and save thousands of dollars worth of items.

Keywords

• Connected Logistics in Jewelry Industry
• IoT in Jewelry Industry
• Iot solutions and jewellery tracking software
• Jewellry tracking iot solutions software
• Jewellery tracking iot software

Role of Connected Logistics and IoT in the Jewelry Industry

The jewelry industry has undergone a lot of disruptive innovation due to advancements in technology. It has suffered significant losses in the Covid-19 pandemic, but now that economy is slowly bouncing back, this sector has gradually started to align itself to the world’s rapid growth and consumerism. The adoption of IoT (Internet of Things), including Connected Logistics, can now provide actionable insights and enable more informed decision-making.

Let us take a look at how Connected Logistics and IoT are transforming the jewelry industry:

Optimizing inventory

Jewelers have to maintain a high-value inventory when it comes to their accessories and pieces. Materials being out of stock, or being excessively in stock, doesn’t look good! Reordering can be complex to manage as any delay in restocking can lead to revenue leakage. It is imperative to integrate analytics into the in-store sales system, so a real-time inventory status can be obtained along with other valuable indicators. Thus, retailers can transfer slow-moving items between stores and optimize stock levels in showrooms depending upon current trends and demand.

Predictive maintenance

Thanks to IoT-driven data analytics, predictive maintenance solutions can help avoid manufacturing equipment failures and exorbitant maintenance costs. It can also help to minimize staffing by automation of the assembly line, boost the efficiency of production, decrease costs and increase overall revenue.

SMART wearables

With the advent of digitization, consumers now want jewelry that goes beyond aesthetics. People want a combination of fashion and IoT, which has led to SMART (self-monitoring and reporting technology) products. These are available in the form of wearable jewelry pieces that perform a wide range of functions such as making phone calls, keeping a check on stress levels, and even monitoring sleep patterns.

Sales analysis and outlet performance

A complete sales analytics and expense report from the data collected can help analyze sales and expenses, based on location, product type, and other parameters. From a centralized sales analytics dashboard, one can monitor and measure sales performance by product categories, groups, showrooms, regions, and sales personnel. Business managers can identify bottlenecks and sales laggers, detect root causes, and implement suitable solutions.  Businesses with several outlets can leverage the power of advanced analytics to process data and get useful insights on performances at different outlets, areas that need improvement etc. Management reports can be generated from the data visualization dashboards and new approaches implemented by the management based on these insights.

Security

Thanks to Connected Logistics and IoT-enabled sensors, expensive jewelry can be monitored and tracked 24×7. Business managers can keep an eye on their precious cargo while it is being transported, while an alert is immediately sent to them in case of possible damage and theft. Even if there is a road mishap or accident, assistance can be dispatched quickly, in order to minimize losses to the business.

Connected Logistics will continue to revolutionize the jewelry industry in the years to come, especially with the advent of blockchain to enhance stock traceability in the supply chain, while ensuring the merchandize stays safe till it arrives at the destination.

Connected Logistics in the surgical industry needs to be resilient and agile to react quickly to whatever issues come up. It could be unexpected time delays, inaccurate deliveries, or equipment malfunctions. Such crises are always logistical nightmares within the healthcare industry. It could result in problems such as scheduling issues, reputational damage, erosion of patient confidence and extra costs.

How can Connected Logistics be of help?

To resolve such logistical issues, the surgical industry has embraced the concept of robust supply chain management, which involves extensive application of advanced robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), and the next generation of big data analytics. It is also known as Supply Chain 4.0 (term coined by McKinsey and Company).

• As mentioned, this approach depends heavily on disruptive technologies, such as IoT, big data, and AI (Artificial Intelligence) analytics to improve efficiency, visibility, and accountability across the entire supply chain. It makes widespread use of data loggers and sensors to collect and monitor critical data throughout the supply chain for healthcare logistics managers. After combining with remote monitoring and intelligent analytics, the system allows pharmaceutical and healthcare organizations to automate and analyze many aspects of delivery and storage.
• Connected Logistics basically “connects” all parts of healthcare logistics. Thus, the surgical industry can leverage intelligent analytics to predict demand trends and adjust their orders accordingly. For instance, a pharmacy uses predictive analytics in its supply chain to ensure they don’t run out of medicines.  When its inventory is close to getting depleted, the system can send an automatic order notification to the pharmaceutical supplier to replenish the stock.
• Yet another aspect where Connected Logistics offers immense benefit is quality control and risk management, which is all the more essential when it comes to pharmaceutical environmental monitoring.  There are many environmental variables involved in drugs and vaccines like temperature and humidity. Thus, it creates a need to continuously monitor these conditions and protect the quality and efficacy of the products. For example, vaccine manufacturers and distributors can use IoT-enabled devices to automate temperature monitoring of goods. They can effectively trace, monitor, and control vaccine temperatures throughout the cold chain (to a certain extent), from the production line to where the dose is readied for administration.  It reduces vaccine wastage, eliminates manual processes, and improves logistics efficiency.
• Connected Logistics also helps detect deviations, failures, and other issues in the supply chain, in real-time.  For instance, remote monitoring of healthcare cold chain logistics can help detect even the slightest fluctuations in temperature conditions, alerting the supply staff to take preventive measures.

How can Connected Logistics help the surgical industry?

The surgical industry revolves around managing assets, while optimizing costs without compromising the health of a patient.

Pharmacy

The main objective of a hospital is to provide proper health care to patients. That is why, a consistent supply of high quality medicines are required in the pharmacy. This is where Connected Logistics plays a crucial role – it ensures timely availability of medicines at the lowest possible purchasing cost. When it comes to the supply chain, it requires various suppliers, vendor agreements, floating of tenders, rounds of negotiations, and freezing on processes of product delivery (some medicines have to be transported at regulated temperatures only).

Store keepers managing the supply chain in today’s hospitals are unaware about management principles. At times, medicines end up in high demand and low availability or vice-versa. It enhances risk of expiry of medicines in the pharmacy. Since it is tough to determine exact demand for medicines, it is necessary to capture precise data on medicine consumption. It gives a clear insight about the trends. As mentioned above, keeping tabs on the data, ensures that the stock is replenished whenever supply runs low.

Patient Safety

Did you know that thousands of patients die every year due to poor safety cultures and preventable medical mistakes?  Connected Logistics in the surgical industry is necessary for maintaining the flow of business, without compromising on the valuabl

t Hospitals have to link patient safety and all other processes in correct format, such as managing expired medicines by automating the medicine/product tracking and identifying. This ensures that staff and patients are confident about the mode of treatment. All time-consuming supply chain processes can be streamlined to reduce time used to track down critical drugs and medicines, prevent human errors, and eliminate redundant processes. Data should be captured using IoT and Connected Logistics to ensure there is no margin for mistakes. All processes should follow supply chain transparency to gain patient satisfaction and considering human life the most important.

Blood Bank

The goal of hospitals is to dynamically manage and monitor the blood supply chain. According to research, supply of donor blood is irregular, so the following aspects should be taken care of:

• Locations selected for blood collections, depending on the transfusion services commodity required, should be stored.
• Number of regional blood banks has to be on record.
• Supply and demand should be coordinated systematically to meet the purpose.
• Transportation of blood on demand sans any delays.
• Delivery system to be closely connected to meet the run time requirement.
• Blood banks should be open 24x7 for any emergencies in the hospital or nearby hospitals.

Connected Logistics improves customer experience

The surgical industry of today, is customer-driven, so patient satisfaction is a top priority. As disruptive technologies and inter-connected devices compile relevant data and insights, healthcare organizations can apply this information to streamline their logistic needs and enhance customer experience.

Increased logistical operational efficiency will only result from IoT devices streaming data that can be accessed and analyzed in real-time. It reduces disruptions, improves communication, and ensures better-managed logistics. IoT is a game-changer for healthcare organizations to maintain logistics best practices and redefine demand and supply, thus allowing them to better respond to evolving needs.

Connected Logistics in the surgical industry offers a myriad of benefits such as automated collection and organization of data, real-time and customized alerts to detect and prevent anomalies in the supply chain, and much more. By leveraging this technology at all the monitoring points, the surgical industry can conveniently transition from reactive to proactive logistics monitoring.

Did you know some vehicles idle for almost 3 to 4 hours a day? Can you imagine how much that can cost your fleet? Vehicle idling is an issue every fleet manager has to face, but thanks to telematics data from Anstel’s Connected Fleet solutions, it is possible to regulate this issue and bring down those expenses.

Why is idle time so high?

Before you know how to reduce idle time, you need to know why it exists in the first place. Each fleet is different from the other. For instance, long haul fleet drivers usually have higher idle times than those running a local route. Typical reasons for high idle time are:

• Loading and unloading
• Traffic
• Toll booths
• Document processing
• Stopped to use a phone
• Warming up vehicle’s engine or cab
• Rest stops

Of course, you have to keep in mind that there are times when avoiding idling isn’t possible, such as at stoplights or stop signs.

How much does it cost you?

As mentioned, a large number of fleet vehicles spend at least 3 hours idling each day. But the idle time could go up to 8 hours per day as well! Excessive idling costs fleet companies almost $12,000 per truck annually. You lose a percentage point of fuel economy for every 10% of idle time. Here are the costs:

Additional maintenance expenses

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, excessive idling means more maintenance costs. These expenses go up by approximately $2,000 per vehicle per year. Idling causes twice the damage to internal components as compared to turning the engine off and on. Moreover, idling reduces the time needed between oil changes. More frequent maintenance also increases vehicle downtime, which has its own impact.

Running costs

For a commercial truck, the estimated fuel cost is around $70,000 annually, but idling wastes around 8% of those funds. The more vehicles you have in your fleet, the more you waste.

Environmental & health costs

Carbon dioxide generated due to the transportation industry account for more than one-third of total emissions. Increased idling diminishes air quality for drivers and the community. While eliminating emissions altogether isn’t possible, idle time can surely be reduced.

How to reduce idle time?

There are numerous actions you can take to reduce vehicle idle time and associated costs via Anstel’s Connected Fleet solutions. Take a look:

Monitoring driver behavior

Connected Fleet solutions record a lot of data about your vehicle, including how it is being handled by drivers. This includes braking, speeding, cornering, aggressive maneuvers, idling, and much more. Reckless or aggressive driving causes wear and tear to components much faster, thus increasing costs. This type of behavior, especially speeding, can boost fleet risk. If that isn’t bad enough, they also raise fuel costs and impact insurance premiums. Telematics data provides a detailed insight into the driver’s behavior. This information can be used to develop training modules, so they follow road safety rules on the road. For general fleet idling, this information helps you gauge how long your fleet idles and where.

Tracking idle time

Connected Fleet solutions let you set real-time alerts for driver behavior. In most cases, fleet managers use it to warn drivers if they are speeding. But alerts can just as easily work to stop idling. Telematics devices monitor engine diagnostics and have the ability to track idling time. If a vehicle idles for too long, real-timealerts can be customized and sent to the driver and manager, for stopping the engine.

Idle time reports

Using telematics, you can see how long a vehicle has idled, along with its location. Use these reports to understand where you can cut down on idling. It could mean getting an auxiliary unit for your vehicles. Alternatively, you might consider enforcing rules such as having drivers turn off the engine after few minutes of idling. Afterwards, you can use telematics data to ensure that drivers are following these rules.

Optimizing routes

Heavy traffic and congested roads are a huge problem for fleets. Connected Fleet solutions use sophisticated algorithms to map out every possible route to a destination, and then optimize them to create the most cost-effective route. Variables such as traffic, accidents, construction, and other disruptions, are factored in during route optimization. The route can be adjusted before or even during the trip. Less traffic means less idling too!

Geofencing

Geofencing is when you create a perimeter within which vehicles operate – you get an alert if they move in or out. Set a geofence around particular idling hot spots, and set real-time alerts, so you know exactly when vehicles enter and how they stay there.

Using Anstel’s Connected Fleet solutions, it is possible to prevent and reduce idle time, by providing feedback and real-time alerts. Thus, you save quite a bit of money in the long run, while profitability isn’t impacted.