Connected Cars Are In Our Future
With cloud computing and social media being foremost in the mindspace of innovators and consumers alike, it's not really a surprise that the next frontier to be conquered is in the realm of automobiles. And if the way the aforementioned technologies have been received is any indication, connective technologies in cars will be a major hit. Already, major manufacturers like Mercedes, BMW, Audi and Ford have announced plans to develop technologies for the connected car. Even now, luxury carmakers like Mercedes are offering mobile Internet options as part of the car accessories available on some of their models. But this type of connectivity pales in comparison to what the engineering teams involved in these technologies have in mind. In field trials which commenced recently, Mercedes and other European carmakers have fielded 120 cars that are equipped with so-called vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technologies. V2V technologies will initially be used for safety applications like avoiding accidents while the V2I network will help avoid road obstacles and traffic jams. Taken together, these technologies are called (for now at least) V2X.
In Europe, other participants of the study include Opel, Audi and Volkswagen. OEM suppliers such as Bosch and Continental are also joining the study in conjunction with Deutsche Telekom and more than a few research organizations. For the V2V part of the study, the various vehicles will be equipped with Wi-Fi like radio devices that have a range of 300 yards. But the Euro study pales in comparison to the NHTSA-led study in terms of number of vehicles deployed. Using 3,000 vehicles equipped with Wi-Fi equipment, radar and high-resolution cameras, the NHTSA wants to find out how drivers and devices alike will interact in such a connected environment. Where the Europeans' aim is to improve the experience of driving and riding in a vehicle, it is the NHTSA's primary aim to use the technology to reduce accidents. Based on preliminary studies, the NHTSA believes that V2V technology can positively influence the outcome of up to 80% of crashes that occur annually in the U.S. A major challenge in developing connected cars and apps is how to improve the driving and riding experience while in no way impinging on the safety of the driving public. Imagine the backlash and possible draconian regulations if cars start crashing into each other due to distracted driving. Or, after having spent thousands of dollars in options, you find out that the system doesn't work. But what is clear is that sooner or later, connected cars will be as ubiquitous as cellphones now are and its impact would likely be a good thing.
Each of these goods will demand a different type of storage unit in terms of space provided, size of the units and specific features like cushioning, locking mechanism, lighting and space. Discuss your needs with a professional fabricator to ensure that the system installed fits the uses of your van and meets your expectations. Use of the van: there are vans used exclusively to transport accessories. Others are for multiple uses which could include transport for technicians. Uses will determine the type of work van storage units installed. It also determines whether the units are permanent or removable. Space available for the units: do you want to install the units on the entire van or only a part of it? You should also consider whether the units are being built inside or outside. Only a few items that would not be damaged by exposure to the sun or rain can be carried outside. They include ladders and some plumbing accessories. Others need to be fastened inside to avoid exposure to heat or water.
These are considerations that professional fabricators will make when designing your storage system. Budget: how much money are you willing to spend in the storage units? Some units are expensive depending on the materials used and the features to be included in your units. Transport of accessories like metallic tools might not require special considerations compared to glass panes. These special needs will affect your budget. Each van owner needs to make an independent and evaluated decision on the storage unit to install. There are numerous options depending on personal preference and the features you need from your unit. Here are some of the space saving work van storage ideas to enhance space on your van. This provides an excellent way to separate tools or different types of cargo and leave the main bed on the van clear. It helps you separate the small and large tools and will give you an easy time when retrieving them.
The shelves can be locked or open depending on cargo on transit. Ensure that your vehicle maneuvers will not send the cargo tumbling. Storage bins are similar to drawers but require a frame. Each bin is built of a different size depending on the items to be carried. This option is perfect when carrying small-sized goods or accessories. It makes it easier to retrieve the cargo and even transport it to the point of use. For instance, a technician can store nails and clips in bins and quickly run with them to the point where they are needed. The Ladder rack is installed on top of vehicles. They are used for holding ladders and accessories like pipes, instead of storing them inside the van and occupying space that can be used for other tools more conveniently. Racks make it easier to retrieve these tools and thus reduce your deployment time.
