How Wi-Fi Data Transmission is Unlocking Critical OTMR Information to Improve Rail Fleet Management

PRLog (Press Release) – Sep 30, 2009 – Rail safety specialist, Rowe Hankins, has introduced the first Wi-Fi enabled on-train monitoring and recording unit (OTMR) on the UK rail network.  The Teloc unit from HaslerRail has been installed by Rowe Hankins on a Porterbrook Turbostar operated by London Midland as part of a long term trial.
The trial started in June and is expected to run for at least six months.  Steve Stone, technical director at Rowe Hankins, commented, “The main purpose of the OTMR remains as an evidential recorder for judicial purposes but data transmission by Wi-Fi is a considerable advance in making this high value data more useful in strategic management.”
Traditionally data is downloaded from the OTMR via a ruggedized laptop for later transfer to a desktop where software permits event analysis and interpretation.  The new Wi-Fi enabled Teloc removes the need for physical download and therefore all the complications and possible dangers of porting data between devices.  It offers automated data transfer which is quicker and more robust, with higher levels of data access and security.  This is expected to provide safety and efficiency improvements by enabling more timely maintenance and management action.
The new Teloc unit is linked to a WiFi bridge for data transmission.  Data download is still possible via laptop or via a USB memory stick, but the unit has both GPRS and WiFi antennas for main download.  This gives flexibility and the additional back-up for data transfer if one system is unavailable.  Systems monitored include brakes, speed, door operation, signals response and GPS position.  All data packages are tagged with vehicle identity.  
Via the data-bridge, data packets are transmitted in units of 128 Kbyte to the HaslerRail data centre.  This high integrity server farm has the highest levels of back-up, firewall and UPS protection.  Secure access to the data is allowed only to authorised organisations – London Midland and Porterbrook – who are equipped with HaslerRail software for data analysis and interpretation.
Speaking for Porterbrook, Alf Shepherd, the Turbostar fleet engineer explained, “With the phasing out of RS232 interfaces the recovery of data from older OTMR’s and other devices was becoming a problem.  Physical download by the train operator also limited my access to data, but with the new system I can readily call up data from the data centre.  This makes it easier for me to appreciate factors such as the mileage and wear and tear on the asset so that programmed inspection, service or refurbishment of key systems can be properly scheduled with the operator.”  
   
More Information
Tim Allard, Tel. +44 (0)161 765 3000 Fax. +44 (0)161 763 1421
E-mail: sales@rowehankins.com Web: www.rowehankins.com
Rowe Hankins Ltd, Power House, Parker Street, Bury, Lancashire, BL9 0RJ, UK
High resolution images are on the web at www.ainsmag.co.uk/rh109/4713rh1a-otmr-wifi.htm

# # #

Working with rolling stock builders, train operating companies, track owners and infrastructure contractors, Rowe Hankins provides innovative on-train and trackside electro-mechanical equipment for safer and more efficient operations.
The Rowe Hankins’ pioneering intelligent wheel flange lubrication system – iWFL – saves energy, reduces wheel and track wear, increases track and rolling stock uptime and minimises noise and environmental impact. Their Hall-effect speed sensing devices provide accurate measurement of speed and distance and roll back protection, with high reliability and minimal maintenance. Earth leakage detection systems warn of failing insulation so that timely replacement can be made.

Anti-Piracy Training for Global Merchant Vessel Protection

PRLog (Press Release) – Sep 29, 2009 – MATS College of Technology, ISSG Holdings and Evolutionary Security Management are pleased to announce that they have reached a significant milestone in their efforts to support the seafarer community’s anti-piracy efforts through specialized practical anti-piracy training. The product of several months’ research and development, this training will provide seafarers with training that is specifically designed to meet this rising global challenge.
MATS College of Technology, a leading maritime training institution in the Philippines, has nearly forty years of history in training seafarers for the global maritime industry and is located within the city of Davao. Graduates from MATS College of Technology have often been found amongst the top graduates within the region.
ISSG Holdings, a specialized provider of ship security and high-risk transits, provides operational support and knowledge that will ensure that the training candidates receive encompasses the latest understanding of the operational environment. This is further refined through ISSG Holdings commitment to ensuring that the shipping industry receives both relevant and reliable ship security services, maintaining constant lines of communication with shipping companies, manning agencies and other supporting elements.
Evolutionary Security Management, a recognized training institution for maritime security based in Ontario, Canada, has been a leading research organization within the Transportation Security community with strong ties to first responder, professional security and asset protection associations. These include taking on leadership roles within those communities. The lines of communication into these professional associations ensure that the training provided to candidates aligns with best practices and sound security doctrine.
Located in Davao City, this course is easily accessible to the maritime and seafarer communities, taking into account the need for a cost-effective solution within the maritime industry. The vast majority of seafarers being drawn from this community mean that shipping companies and manning agencies are not burdened with the high travel and accommodation costs that are often encountered when attempting to coordinate specialized training in certain other parts of the globe. Concurrently, shipping companies and manning agencies have the option of having full crews undergo the training together, a practice that reinforces the crew’s ability to respond cohesively. Direct flights from Singapore, a major transportation hub, ensure that this training can be accessible across the global community.
By blending theoretical (classroom) and practical (on board vessel) training that culminates in a live practical exercise on board a vessel, this training is unique in its preparation of seafarers for real-world events. By building this capacity, this is the first course that balances the history and traditions of the professional merchant mariner with leading edge security practices and theory in a way that will have significant and cumulative benefits across the maritime industry.
The first full training course is currently slated for mid-November 2009. Details will soon be posted on the ISSG Holdings, Ltd. web site.

# # #

ISSG Holdings, LTD. is an international business company providing teams for anti piracy operations in the merchant shipping industry. Our company believes in vessel defense without the use of firearms.

DGL "Wow’s" Client with IES Technology

PRLog (Press Release) – Sep 28, 2009 – When Linda Snyder, President of freight forwarding company Diversified Global Logistics (DGL), purchased the Memphis branch of Forward Logistics Group in 2007, she quickly realized the challenges presented by a name change, "All our customers knew us as Forward Logistics Group. We had to let them know from their standpoint that was just a name change. Everyone was a little skittish at first, and we knew we had a few hurdles. The level of service we needed to provide really had to ‘wow’ them.”
“We knew we were up for a challenge,” adds Bernie Snyder, Vice President at DGL, “One of our foremost specialties is Aircraft on Ground (AOG) shipments.  Even with the name change, we still needed to ensure that we remained one of the premiere forwarders who could handle these complex, high-stake shipments. We needed to be more than just simply capable-- we needed to be the vendor of choice for AOG shipments.”
“I think it might be best to explain this as a narrative, just as we experienced  it. Our German agent had an MD10  aircraft grounded at Frankfurt needing major repairs to one of its Rolls-Royce engines,” narrates Bernie Snyder, “Aircraft on Ground shipments are always ‘hot’, but this shipment was ‘on fire’.  The engines could only be repaired at the Rolls-Royce RR-Tay facility outside of Dallas. Of course if a plane is not in the air, it’s not making money. However in this case, there was a larger issue and more at stake than just the potential for short-term loss.”
“Our customer was building a relationship with a new account and was concerned about of the potential loss of goodwill and trust. This type of loss is unquantifiable and intangible, but absolutely vital in the long-term. The grounded aircraft was literally ‘eating up’ more than just the revenue for the situation at hand. There was also the larger risk of losing future revenue, making this a make or break situation. The aircraft was losing millions of dollars in lost revenue when taking into consideration the cascading effect it had on the entire operation.”
“We orchestrate everything to ensure the process goes smoothly,” explains Customs Broker Ron Davis. Ron is a considered by many in the company to work ‘in the trenches’ on the front-line of day-to-day operations, “If you think about it, AOG by its nature is a ‘hiccup’ in the system where something is broken.  The trick is how to create order out of a situation which is inherently chaotic. We’re not the ones fixing the aircraft or installing the part, but we’re the ones who ensure that everything is on-hand and on-time. In a sense, we’re like a surgical team ensuring that the surgeon has all the tools on hand.  We anticipate questions like what if the shipment is too large to transport on a particular flatbed? What if they didn’t send an air-ride vehicle? What if you don’t have the permits you need. We choreograph the right vendors with the right equipment. There are a lot of details that have to mesh perfectly to ensure that the process runs smoothly.”
“In this case, right at wheels-up, we already had all the AMS information on hand,” switching back to Bernie Snyder, “IES’s integrated products allowed the freight to be pre-cleared well before arrival. Ron was already speaking to the flatbed dispatcher before the flight even landed. The Rolls Royce engine was shortly placed on the correct type of flatbed, and was quickly on its way to the RR-Tay3 repair facility outside of Dallas.”
Linda Snyder then comments from a higher-level perspective, “There are forwarders who can handle a hot shipment correctly some of the time. What makes a world class forwarder is repeated success and consistency. The Rolls Royce engine shipment is not the sort of situation where you want to try out a new forwarder. You head straight to your most trusted and skilled forwarder. In all honesty, we would not be able to compete at the level we are right now without IES technology.  When a client is in a mission-critical situation, more and more DGL has been the vendor of choice due to our accelerated technology. The client can see where the shipment is at every step along the way with the DGL tracking system.  This is the IES Web Tracking system, but the product is branded as DGL, putting our face on the product and bringing us up a notch in our level of service offerings.”
Linda Snyder says the company is now looking at expansions in Kansas City, Nashville or St. Louis. She explains, “We could not have reached this point without IES.  In the end,” Linda Snyder concludes, “the name change to DGL has shown that we are truly a new and stronger company. IES technology has helped DGL step up to the forefront as a trusted business partner, ensuring both DGL and our clients long term success.”
About Diversified Global Logistics Inc
Diversified Global Logistics (DGL), formerly Forward Logistics Group-Memphis, is an international and domestic freight forwarder and customs broker located in Memphis, Tennessee, providing tailor- made global services including domestic and worldwide air and ocean transportation, customs clearance, documentation preparation, 3rd party logistics services, supply chain management, warehousing, distribution and fulfillment solutions. The DGL Aircraft on Ground (AOG) team delivers proven solutions to each individual situation. The company provides globally integrated logistics solutions in an environment of trust and reliability. Please visit http://www.dglintl.com for more information or contact Bernie Snyder at +1.877.521.5390.
About IES, Ltd.
With offices in the US and Hong Kong, IES, Ltd. is one of the largest transportation software companies in North America. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the IES suite of import and export solutions serves freight forwarders, NVOCC’s, Customs brokers and other transportation intermediaries. IES’s product offerings adjust to the changes and complexities inherent when doing business in the global arena. As a result, the suite of IES solutions are among the most customizable and adaptable in the industry. Please visit http://www.iesltd.com for more information or contact Jason Kohler at sales@iesltd.com or +1-201-639-5000.

# # #

In operation for 20 years and with offices in the US and Hong Kong, IES is one of the largest software transportation companies in North America. IES software serves freight forwarders, NVOCCs, Customs house brokers and many more.

Kansas Dealer presents the 2010 Ford Shelby GT500

PRLog (Press Release) – Sep 28, 2009 – Kansas new car shoppers now have an additional reason to shop at Midway Motors in McPherson Kansas. The all new 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 is now available.  The new 2010 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 delivers the most power and refinement ever for a Ford SVT-tuned performance Mustang – and a few surprises, too.
More horsepower, more refinement, more functionality
The combination of added horsepower, refinement and functionality makes the 2010 Shelby GT500 a unique high-performance car for Kansas Ford enthusiasts. It delivers more horsepower and more torque than the outgoing model, thanks in part to advancements pioneered on the GT500KR.
The 2010 Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-liter dual overhead cam V-8 engine that produces 540 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 510 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,500 rpm. The redline is 6,250 rpm. The car’s aluminum power dome hood not only adds to the Shelby’s appearance, it helps cool the engine through a hood extractor.
The Shelby’s open-element air induction system features a conical air filter instead of a flat-panel closed system to reduce air restriction.
The 2010 Shelby GT500 offers Kansas customers improved straight-line acceleration, plus fuel savings when cruising on highway I-70 in the top gears. Gears 1-4 remain the same, but fifth gear changes from .80 to .74 while sixth gear goes from .63 to .50, meaning that the 2010 Shelby GT500 will turn lower engine RPMs in those gears and deliver improved fuel efficiency. The new final drive ratio, moving from 3.31 to 3.55, enables the improved acceleration in lower gears while complementing the revised fifth and sixth gear ratios.
The Shelby’s distinct sounds will be apparent as always, though with new refinements, thanks to the work of the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) team. A patented resonator placed between the air filter and engine throttle body helps keep unwanted noise in check.
2010 Shelby GT500 in Action
The Shelby is the most robust design and distinctive model of the new Mustang lineup.  Racing stripes are now available for the first time on the convertible model of the 2010 Shelby GT500.
Rounding out the Shelby’s exterior modifications are the unique signature coiled Cobra badges on the front grille and front fenders, a more aggressive front splitter and lower-drag rear spoiler, which added to improved aerodynamic features. The spoiler is raked back aggressively to minimize drag, while an integrated Gurney Flap provides the downforce.
Shelby GT500 Mustang for sale at Midway Motors
Midway Motors in Central Kansas is your source for a new or used Ford Mustang. Consumers from Wichita, Salina and Hutchinson are frequent shoppers at Midway Motors’ convenient location on East Kansas Avenue (US-56) in McPherson.
Visit http://www.midwaymotors.com to view the 2010 Shelby GT500 and check out their huge selection of new and used cars, trucks and SUVs while you’re there.  For more information on the new 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 or to schedule a test drive, feel free to give us a call at (800) 362-2306.

# # #

Midway Motors is one of the largest retailers of new and used cars, suvs, trucks, utility trucks and cargo vans in Central Kansas. Midway Motors provides a 3 Year / 100,000 Mile Used Car Warranty. Check us out at www.midwaymotors.com.

Neil D.Hayes announces book on G.M. Dealer Closings and inside look at the "Wind Down".

PRLog (Press Release) – Sep 27, 2009 – "WIND DOWN " A photographic and video documentary of  what appears the effects of the "Wind Down" agreement  at a G.M. Dealership. Because the "Wind Down" agreement has a confidentiality clause, the ownership has never stated indeed that was what was happening.
However Hayes chronicle no new G.M. cars being delivered, the desperate search for low mileage cars to replace new inventory. His photos show how the lot empties out and finally there is just an empty showroom and a lot with no cars.The human toll and the long tern effects and damage of the way G.M. has approached this situation are evidenced by the human side of the decisions reached in the Boardrooms of G.M

# # #

· Coordinated product launch of Delorean automobile into Northern California.
Determined proper marketing approach to roll out specialized minority sales campaign.
Developed and appeared on A.S.T.N program of selling to women and
minorities. Television and media spokesperson for Lexus of Serramonte.
Produced, directed and hosted autoscape Ford and Chrysler television program.
Introduced online retailing February, 1996 with www.autozcape.com .
First to introduce online partnerships with Digital Cities/AOL, Microsoft/ Sidewalk

TITANIC 100th Anniversary Celebrations - Belfast

PRLog (Press Release) – Sep 26, 2009 – White Star Momentos want your help....  Calling all Titanic Fans young and young at heart ! Please visit the site at www.whitestarmomentos.co.uk and send us your ideas on best to mark the 100th Anniversary of the Launch of RMS Titanic. On 31st May 1911 Titanic slipped into the waters of Belfast Lough. We at White Star Momentos are planning to produce a number of anniversary items for sale and want to be ready in time for 2011.
The anniversary itself also needs to be marked accordingly, send us yours ideas, concerts, themed ball, gathering at the Titanic Dock and Pumphouse, Enthusiasts meetings, whatever your idea is we want to hear about it...
The Titanic voice is as loud now as ever so lets hear it, we believe its the true fans who should be heard and by using this opportunity White Star Momentos will be contacting the appropriate authorites with your suggestions and proposals.
Also should you wish to suggest a product be produced for the 100th Anniversary please let us know.
Email us at:  whitestarmomentos.co.uk
Visit the site: www.whitestarmomentos.co.uk

Volkswagen Passat Wins Used Car of the Year

PRLog (Press Release) – Sep 25, 2009 – Volkswagen has been honored with two class victories and the Volkswagen Passat has been named overall Used Car of the Year by "What Car?" magazine.
The "What Car?" Used Car of the Year judging panel was comprised of experts from all areas of the automotive industry including car dealerships, auction houses, and experts from "What Car?" magazine.
The 2005 five door Volkswagen Golf GTI won in the highly competitive Sports Car category, while the 2006 Volkswagen Passat 1.9-litre TDI S won in the Family Car category as well as the overall title of Used Car of the Year.
The Volkswagen Passat impressed the judges with its combination of value for money, reliability, driver involvement, high levels of comfort, and safety features.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI was considered to be all things to all the judges; blending the practicality of a five seat hatchback with performance from the 2.0-litre 200 PS engine and high levels of equipment.
In addition to these category victories, a further six Volkswagen models were also listed in their respective categories. The Polo BlueMotion 1.4-litre TDI (Green Car), Golf 1.6-litre FSI (Small Family Car), Touran 1.9-litre TDI SE (MPV), Passat Estate 1.9-litre TDI S (Estate), VW Touareg 2.5-litre TDI (SUV) and Phaeton 3.2-litre V6 (Executive) were all placed in the top five.
It’s not only the products which make Volkswagen a good used buy. Volkswagen also offers the Approved Used Program, which allows customers to buy with complete peace of mind. All cars are sold with a multipoint check, history checks, up to 12 month’s warranty and breakdown assistance, and a 30 day exchange plan.

# # #

We are Bernardsville VW, your NJ Volkswagen dealer, bordering Morris and Somerset Counties. Visit us at http://blog.vw-nj.com or http://www.bernardsvillevw.com