159 / 188
157
ubiquitous computing or pervasive computing. With the recent developments in wireless
communication and portable computing devices, there is a shift in the interpretation
of the term telematics towards applications based on wireless communication. In
addition, it is often presumed that at least one computing device is involved which is
not a conventional computer or laptop.
The field of telematics can include telecommunications, wireless communications,
electrical engineering, computer science, vehicular technologies and road transportation.
Using communications-enabled devices, telematics can store, send and receive information
that helps control remote objects, specifically in moving vehicles using navigation systems.
The integration of Global Positioning System (GPS) technology into mobile devices and
computers enables telematics to mark the location and communicate with a wide range
of vehicles.
In commercial usage, telematics is usually synonymous with vehicle telematics.
The automotive industry uses telematics to describe onboard communications services
and applications used in cars, trucks, buses and other vehicles using GPS receivers
and telematics devices installed in each vehicle. Fleet telematics refers to the use of
telematics to manage and monitor commercial vehicle operations, locations and status.
Fleet telematics systems enable the exchange of information between a central location
and individual vehicles in the fleet, which can include trucks, ambulances, municipal
vehicles, school buses and others. GPS tracking and other wireless communications
serve as the medium for transmitting information to and from a vehicle’s computerised
systems. This enables services such as GPS navigation, roadside assistance, remote
diagnostics and fleet management. General Motors Corp. first popularised automotive
telematics with its OnStar system.
In terms of its origin, telematics broadly refers to the convergence of tele-
communications and information processing. While telematics is primarily used in in
the automotive industry, other industries have developed uses for telematics as well.
Using communications-enabled devices, telematics can store, send and receive
information that helps control remote objects, specifically in moving vehicles using
navigation systems.
In addition to GPS,Wi-Fi andmobile data networks - whether 3G, 4G or upcoming
5G
−
may be used to facilitate communication between the vehicle and application or
service. Faster wireless networks enable more advanced onboard services, such as vehicle
firmware updates - a task that may have previously required a visit to a car dealership -
multiuser Wi-Fi hotspots and streaming video for passengers.
Combining telematics systems with sensors has opened up additional opportunities
in the automotive industry and beyond - allowing a shipping company to analyse how
much time its trucks spend idling, or enabling car insurance companies to offer lower
premiums to customers who prove to be safe drivers. Telematics has also supported new
industries, such as car-sharing, with companies using onboard, network-based services
to allow usage-based pricing and self-service reservations.
Beyond automotive applications, telematics applications are being developed in
other industries to do things like monitor water and air pollution, provide medical and
healthcare information and enable distance learning.