Detroit Diesel Introduces New Infrared Information System
17 March 2000
Detroit Diesel Introduces New Infrared Information System
DETROIT, March 17 During the Mid American Trucking Show,
Detroit Diesel Corporation (DDC) will introduce its new Infrared
Information System, IRIS(TM). IRIS uses infrared light to transmit data to
and from vehicles and personal computers, eliminating the need for direct
hook-up via cables.
All data which can currently be transmitted via cable, can now be sent
using IRIS. This includes downloading of all information in the Electronic
Control Module (ECM), engine diagnosis, ProDriver(R) Reports and complete
engine reprogramming. IRIS is easy, reliable, fast and inexpensive. IRIS
eliminates the need for the driver to exit the vehicle, locate a cable and
plug it into the vehicle. This is of particular value in inclement weather.
IRIS consists of infrared transmitters and receivers (transceivers) which
are the same size as a marker light. One transceiver is mounted on the
vehicle. Another is mounted wherever the fleet chooses to download or upload
data; the entrance to the shop or the fuel island for example.
All the driver has to do is to position the tractor in proximity to the
fuel island or shop entrance. Precise alignment is not required. An
indicator light on the dashboard shows the driver when IRIS is connected.
Downloading / uploading takes place at the same high speed as if using a
cable. Typical download time is less than two minutes. IRIS is easy to use
and encourages the regular extraction of information for analysis by the
vehicle owner or fleet manager.
Since Detroit Diesel Electronic Controls (DDEC(R)) contains a wealth of
information which can be used by the manager involved, IRIS can significantly
reduce a fleet's overall fuel consumption. IRIS can quickly download
information from DDC's ProDriver system, easily identifying the driver and the
driving habits that produce the best fuel economy. This information can then
be shared with other drivers, enabling them to quickly adapt their driving
style for maximum fuel economy.
IRIS will also be able to download information from DDC's Maintenance
Alert System, avoiding unnecessary vehicle downtime to check fluid levels and
the condition of filters.
IRIS can download information from DDEC(R) Reports about vehicle speeds,
loads, hard brake incidents and vehicle usage, making it easy to pinpoint
areas of potential improvement. In addition, IRIS can reprogram vehicle
speeds, cruise control settings and the parameters of the DDC Fuel Economy
Incentive feature. Fleet operators can easily vary these settings until fuel
economy is maximized.
IRIS can also be used to extract data from other vehicle systems such as
HVAC (heating ventilation and air conditioning systems), ABS, and automated
transmissions. IRIS can be OEM installed or retrofitted to existing vehicles.
The patented IRIS System is available only from DDC.
Detroit Diesel Corporation is engaged in the design, manufacture, sale and
service of heavy-duty diesel and alternative fuel engines, automotive diesel
engines and engine-related products. The company offers a complete line of
diesel engines from 22 to 10,000 horsepower for the on-highway, off-road and
automotive markets. Detroit Diesel services these markets directly and
through a worldwide network of more than 2,800 authorized distributor and
dealer locations. DDC is a QS-9000 certified company.
Detroit Diesel's major shareholder is Penske Corporation, a closely-held
diversified transportation services company whose operations include Penske
Truck Leasing Company, Diesel Technology Company, Penske Automotive Group,
Inc., Penske Auto Centers, Inc., and Penske Capital Partners, L.L.C. Penske
Corporation and its subsidiaries manage business with annual revenues
exceeding $10 billion and employ more than 33,000 people around the world.
Detroit Diesel's World Wide Web address is http://www.detroitdiesel.com