Issue link: https://te.mouser.com/i/1472772
6 CONNECTED LIFE Connected Trucks and Off-Highway Vehicles: Overcoming Rigors of Harsh Environments The connectivity that's become ubiquitous in passenger vehicles has come to industrial and commercial transportation — technology like GPS and entertainment systems, as well as safety features such as rear-view cameras. There's a difference, however: the harsh environments under which industrial vehicles operate call for far more rugged connected systems. Sensors, connectors and relays must withstand dirt, moisture, salt and vibration endemic to industrial sites and long-haul operation. At the same time, there is demand for high reliability, as well as systems that can improve efficiency and safety, in order to address these concerns: • Environment. Like passenger cars, commercial vehicles are subject to increasingly stringent emission controls. To meet emissions standards, manufacturers seek ways to improve fuel efficiency, using connected systems that help reduce exhaust toxicity, provide more precise fuel metering, and manage engine performance. • Safety. Rear-view cameras have become commonplace on semi-trucks, construction equipment, tractors, and snow plows to reduce accident risk — thereby increasing demand by manufacturers for infotainment connectors and harsh environment power and signal connectors. In addition, trucks are equipped with smart card readers that can record driving times for a commercial vehicle operator as a way to reduce fatigue-related accidents. • Productivity. Farm vehicles equipped with GPS systems can increase crop yields and reduce waste involved in tasks such as fertilizing crops — for example, measuring a field to determine the most efficient driving path, and accurately assessing the amount of chemicals or pesticides needed. • Uptime. By preventing connectivity failures in commercial vehicles, manufacturers can protect the value of time- sensitive construction or agricultural projects — like pouring foundations, or harvesting crops when weather is optimal. Manufacturers of industrial and commercial vehicles need to work closely with suppliers of sensor and connector solutions in order to find the precise connectivity products for tasks and project environments. In many cases, these connectivity solutions must be developed from the ground up, tapping into engineering knowledge of materials and technologies that can meet durability requirements. Trucks and Off-Highway Vehicles: When EVERY CONNECTION COUNTS TE's portfolio of rugged sensors, terminals, connectors, relays, and hybrid and electric mobility solutions withstand the rigors of the road and water — helping them operate smarter, safer, greener, and more connected. TE collab- orates with engineers to redefine what's possible using intelligent, efficient and high-performing products and solutions proven in harsh environments. Some TE solutions include the new smart card reader, AEF connector, and the SmartSeal connector. Visit te.com/connected-harsh-environment to learn more.