Truck Topics
Cab Gadgets For a Pro
In previous cab gadget-related articles, we've looked at cab entertainment, routing/mapping software and laptop technology. This time around, we check out actual cab tools - devices that help the driver perform his job more effectively and safely (and, in the case of the Pett product listed below, more comfortably.)
Vehicle Back-Up System
Replace that co-driver saying "c'mon back"
Vizualogic’s HindSight C-1000 Vehicle Back-Up System comes with a VersaMount high-resolution color camera that mounts on the license plate frame of the truck or trailer. The manufacturer says that its stealth-mounted camera won’t be knocked off or stolen, features low-light capability and can be adjusted to attain a wide range of vision.
The camera automatically turns on when the vehicle is in reverse and a 3.5" full-color TFT reverse image monitor in-cab monitor provides a full rear image.
Vizualogic
www.vizualogic.com
(800) 624-7960
The CarGo Desk
Another day at the office
The CarGo Desk is the mobile vehicle organizer for drivers who use their truck cab as an office. It provides an efficient way to organize and access laptops, business documents and additional items. The CarGo Desk is totally modular - you create the mobile desk you want.
It has a non-skid surface that provides an area for doing paperwork. Additional features include a compartment for hanging files and two attachment points that can mount devices such as a GPS device or printer. It can also be ordered with accessories such as a laptop lock-down device, CarGo Guard security system, retractable handle and wheels, etc.
Bright Ideal Group
www.cargodesk.biz
(866) 573-7065
Night Vision Camera
See what you're missing
The PathFindIR is a nighttime camera that reduces collision risks by detecting subtle differences in temperature, which the driver views from the in-cab display. It allows drivers to see more than five times farther than with headlights.
PathFindIR includes the same advanced technology developed for the military and law enforcement agencies. PathFindIR’s camera component is fixed to the grill of the vehicle, while a flip-down monitor is located on the dash. With video image quality, PathFindIR lets drivers detect potential hazards through smoke, fog, rain, snow, and in total darkness.
The camera body weighs only 4 ounces, making the PathFindIR easy to fit in a vehicle regardless of potential space, weight, or power limitations.
If you have questions about ThermoVision PathFindIR for commercial vehicles, contact Greg Hall at [email protected].
FLIR Systems
www.flir.com
(800) 727-3547
The Sav-A-Life Doze Alert
"Anti-nod off" device
According to the experts, about one-half of America's adult drivers – 51 percent or approximately 100 million people -- are on the roads feeling sleepy while they drive.
Nearly two in 10 drivers -- 17 percent or approximately 14 million people -- say they have actually fallen asleep at the wheel in the past year.
The Sav-A-Life Doze Alert is a device that will warn you that you are dozing off at the wheel, one of the sure signs of fatigue. The unit slips behind either ear with or without glasses.
When your head tilts forward, as it would when you nod off, the Doze Alert emits a buzzing sound, which will cause you to raise your head back to the safe driving position. The device is lightweight and battery operated- the battery is included.
Sav-A-Life
www.dozealert.com
(800) 654-3337
Monitor Wall Mounts
No more sore necks from watching a poorly-placed TV
McNaughton’s Master Mounts are wall mounts for flat screen televisions and computer monitors. Available in four styles – fixed, single pivot, double and triple – the mounts are available with locking to reduce jiggling and friction, some models will mount up to a 60" screen.
McNaughton
www.mcnaughtoninc.com
(800) 423-5487
Portable Waste Bag System
Your own personal, portable throne
The Pett dry portable toilet system includes a durable, foldable toilet that weighs only 7 pounds. It stands as high as a standard toilet and can fold to 5x14x19 inches. It uses dry, degradable bags containing a powder that can turn waste from liquid to solid.
None of the emptying or clean out tasks required by chemical toilets. With the disposable bags, each person cleans up after him/herself. (Bags can be used more than once - powder will gel 60oz. Each kit comes with a waste collection bag, a zip-close bag, toilet paper and an antiseptic wipe.
Phillips Environmental Products
www.thepett.com
(877) 520-0999
StowAway armrests
No more tight squeeze
Sears Seating, a division of Sears Manufacturing Co., has added StowAway armrests as an option to its line of Atlas seats. The new armrests open more space to maneuver between the seats by lifting and folding the arms behind the back of the seat.
According to research conducted by Anthrotech, Inc. for Sears Seating, fewer than half of the truckers who try can pass between standard truck seats even if they turn sideways. But with the Atlas seat equipped with StowAway armrests, 100 percent can pass through, and 87 percent can pass without turning sideways. The new Atlas seats also are wider and deeper, resulting in more comfort for the driver and passengers of the truck, says the company.
Features
- Instantly widen passageways by folding conveniently out of the way behind the seat.
- Gain up to 7 inches more space than competitors’ seats.
- Seats are 2 inches wider for greater comfort.
- Armrests are wider and longer then standard armrests.
Sears Manufacturing Company
www.searsseating.com
Talking Road Whiz
How far is the next rest room?
Ultradata Systems’ Talking Road Whiz is a pocket-sized, battery-powered device that provides distance, directions and driving time to over 80,000 services located near interstate highways.
The Whiz allows travelers to look for specific brands of gas, restaurants, hotels, shopping, camping and more.
Ultradata Systems
www.ultradatasystems.com
(800) 274-0971