Hitachi launches new telematics system

(Image: Hitachi)

Hitachi Construction Machinery UK (HCM UK) has launched a new telematics system specifically designed for fleets of mixed construction equipment.   

The new CTFleet Link system allows users to monitor the performance and location of both their Hitachi equipment and their equipment from other manufacturers, via a live online portal.

“Users can have visibility of all their plant and equipment in one place with one log in,” said HCM UK. “The CTFleet Link telematics system utilises both the Hitachi Application Programming Interface, (API) from Global E Service and a bespoke API developed by HCMUK which allows almost real time data collection.”

Stephen Creaser, Director of Product Support at HCM UK, said, “CTFleet Link is unique in the industry due to the high frequency of its reporting, and its ability to show both ISO15143-3 operational data – such as idling time and fuel usage.”

In addition to geofencing capabilities, a key feature of CTFleet Link is its ability to handle safety data from Xwatch Safety Solutions systems.

Based in Wales, Xwatch is a developer of safety technologies for the construction sector. The company’s Xwatch devices, which are fitted to construction equipment machines, monitor machine height and slew movement, and are designed to accurately restrict movement using ‘feather touch’ proportional hydraulic control.

When paired with a machine’s Xwatch Safety Solution system device, the CTFleet Link gives users access the device’s data through the online portal. 

Dan Leaney, Xwatch Director of Sales and Operations commented on the collaboration, he said, “Xwatch were very proud to be part of the development of the mixed fleet platform that enables Hitachi to offer a system that is unique to the marketplace, that not only reads the machine data, but reads the Xwatch solution for safety.”

Speaking about future developments for the CTFleet Link system, Creaser said, “Future developments will include, monitoring safety data, such as seatbelt and proximity alarms, safety cameras and data from 3D machine control systems.”

Looking to the future, HCM UK is also developing a number of added features for its CTFleet Link system. 

Creaser said, “Future developments will include, monitoring safety data, such as seatbelt and proximity alarms, safety cameras and data from 3D machine control systems.”

The equipment manufacturer is also in the process of developing a daily walkaround inspection app for machine operators. 

The app will enable machine operators to carry out their daily checks using their smartphone, and to generate a daily pre work report. “Once complete the electronic report is submitted to the office enabling any safety related defects to be immediately highlighted and actioned accordingly.