Eyes front with KIIFIS
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by Brian Weatherley
• Commercial Motor has had an exclusive preview of Mannesman Kienzle's revolutionary Integrated Driver Information System (KIIFIS).
The technology is designed to warn the driver of any problems, while leaving him free to concentrate on the road ahead.
The main binnacle contains a "primary information field" comprising a tachograph and rev counter, large red and yellow warning lights and a strip liquid crystal display. A separate small colour monitor provides fiirther information selected by the driver by buttons built into the steering wheel.
The driver is alerted to mechanical problems by the LCD and warning lights: red, with a buzzer, tells him to take immediate action; yellow means action is needed but not immediately.
Red warnings include engine overheating, loss of oil pressure or an unlatched door. A typical yellow warning would be temperature changes in a reefer compartment.
When a red light is triggered the driver confirms that he's seen it via the steering wheel key pad. The LCD identifies the fault and the driver should stop the truck to investigate further using the monitor which provides more specific information.
If the driver ignores a red warning details can be logged on a micro-processor or sent back to base via a satellite link.
KlIFIS can also relay messages to the driver through the Mannesman Kienzle Fleet Management System.