Bracke Systems Tracks Snowcats with AirLink Gateways

Bracke Systems AB of Östersund, Sweden provides Global Positioning System (GPS) / Geographic Information System (GIS) management solutions that increase the performance and efficiency of fleet vehicles in the field. Bracke Systems’ software applications service forestry, ski resorts, municipalities and transport/logistics companies, as well as the defense and agriculture industries.

Challenges

Bracke Systems’ Fleet Management Platform (FMP) is a solid software platform that integrates all necessary information into a digital map viewable on an in-vehicle computer or hand-held device with built-in GPS. Fleet operators use the platform to track and manage their field vehicles using real-time data to more efficiently dispatch vehicles or provide service based on location and availability.

“Our customers operate in industries where communication and production scheduling are top priorities,” explained Per Persson, at Bracke Systems. “Our solutions ensure that our customers are able to optimize utilization of their vehicle fleet, thus simplifying the entire logistics chain – from planning, through production, to reporting.”

Originally using just a 3G USB stick for connectivity and security, Bracke Systems was disappointed with the wireless broadband adaptor’s performance, which is not suited for industrial applications. To find a more effective solution, Bracke turned to the AirLink™ Raven XE intelligent communications gateway from Sierra Wireless.

Solution

The Raven XE allows remote data collection, and its compact form factor enables integration within existing infrastructure and enclosures. The rugged design of the Raven XE, as well as the wide temperature ranges in which it can operate, ensures the gateway is strong enough to perform in the harsh field environments where industrial vehicles regularly operate.

“We mounted the device in a groomer on an alpine resort, where the environment and distance can provide challenges, but the AirLink Raven XE does the work more than well.” Explained Persson.

The Sierra Wireless AirLink Raven XE intelligent communications gateway has provided Bracke Systems with the following benefits:

• Reliable connectivity – ALEOS intelligence provides “always-on” and “always-aware” connectivity required for critical mobile data applications.
• Rugged form factor – The rugged design and broad temperature range of the Raven XE enables high performance in the harshest of environmental conditions.
• Quick activation –The Raven XE intelligent gateways are ready for deployment with out-of-the-box configuration and management tools -- no AT commands or programming language to learn.