Evolving traditional telematics to comprehensive IoT capabilities
JLG Industries, Inc. a global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, continues to drive innovation in fleet connectivity with the introduction of three new features to its ClearSky Smart Fleet™ IoT (Internet of Things) platform. The latest enhancements, including the Digital Analyzer Reader, Automatic Site Networks and Elevation-Based Localization, redefine how fleet managers monitor, manage and maintain their equipment.
“This is about transforming telematics from a physical world to a digital one,” explained Ara Eckel, JLG’s Director of Product Management for Connected Solutions. “With JLG® ClearSky Smart Fleet, we’re not just helping our customers manage their equipment from a dot on a map; we’ve created an interactive platform that provides them with real-time, actionable insights that enhance their operational efficiency.”
Digital Analyzer Reader: Revolutionizing Machine Diagnostics
According to Eckel, JLG is modernizing traditional diagnostic tools with ClearSky Smart Fleet’s Digital Analyzer Reader. Historically, handheld analyzers with cumbersome cords were necessary for machine diagnostics, parameter adjustments and recoding. With this new feature, technicians can now use their mobile devices to retrieve machine data effortlessly.
Key benefits of the Digital Analyzer Reader include:
- Wireless Accessibility: Eliminates the need for handheld analyzer units and physical connections
- Enhanced Data Visualization: Displays more data on a mobile screen compared to the limited, two-line displays of traditional analyzers
- Improved Information Sharing: Allows users to generate and share one-page machine summaries, including setup parameters, fault logs and diagnostics
- Global Usability: Enables easy translation of data in user’s preferred language
- Instant Updates: Ensures JLG can push new features and improvements seamlessly
Automatic Site Networks: Seamless Fleet Connectivity
Addressing the challenges of traditional geofencing, JLG introduces Automatic Site Networks, a breakthrough in fleet tracking and connectivity.
By leveraging Bluetooth mesh technology, this feature enables:
- Automated Machine Integration: Equipment automatically connects when it arrives on-site
- Continuous Location Tracking: Provides real-time visualization of equipment movement
- Proximity-Based Alerts: Notifies users when machines enter or leave a site
- Reliable Connectivity in Challenging Environments: Operates without GPS or cellular signals, making it ideal for underground or remote job sites
- Scalability for All Fleet Sizes: Adapts seamlessly to small and large-scale operations
COMING SOON! Elevation-Based Localization: A New Dimension in Equipment Tracking
An anticipated advancement soon to be available in JLG’s ClearSky Smart Fleet IoT platform is Elevation-Based Localization, designed to solve equipment location challenges in multi-story job sites.
Utilizing barometric pressure sensors embedded in ClearSky Smart Fleet beacons, this feature allows users to:
- Identify Equipment by Elevation: Pinpoint whether a machine is above or below the user
- Enhance Efficiency in Inventory Management: Prevents unnecessary trips searching for equipment in multi-level buildings
- Simplify Service Calls: Helps technicians locate machines accurately, saving time and effort
- Enable Over-the-Air Activation: All ClearSky Smart Fleet beacons will receive this update without the need for retrofits
“JLG’s ClearSky Smart Fleet is the industry’s first two-way fleet management and communication platform, elevating connectivity into true interactivity,” says Eckel. “With these latest feature additions, ClearSky Smart Fleet continues to evolve traditional telematics into IoT-driven fleet management, ensuring users have the most advanced tools to optimize operations, enhance productivity and reduce downtime.”
