Four companies have come together to develop a smart, connected trailer tarpaulin aimed at foiling cargo theft.
Technology firm ZF, coated textile manufacturer Sioen Industries and security specialist Securitas have joined forces with side curtain manufacturer Roland International to create the Intrudor Detection system.
The system has been launched as cargo theft continues to rise with 1,528 HGV and cargo crime related offences, worth around £26.4m, reported in the UK in the first quarter of 2021, according to the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS). The majority of these thefts are from curtainsiders, according to NaVCIS.
The system uses a smart, multi-layered tarpaulin with embedded conductivity. If the tarpaulin is tampered with an alarm goes off automatically to both the driver and a designated colleague in the company. The Securitas alarm centre, which operates around the clock, is also notified enabling security patrols or the police to be alerted.
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The system can be applied to doors, sides and roofs offering 360-degree trailer security. It is compatible with reefers, plywood boxes, containers and curtainsider trailers and can be applied to new and existing trailers.
Sean Spelman, product and technology head at Roland International parent company Cargo Control Company, said: “By combining our leading side curtain technology with the product knowledge of Sioen, the digital advanced solutions from ZF and 24/7 support by Securitas, we are able to deliver a unique solution for trailer security. Even more, it addresses one of the biggest challenges in the transport sector.”
Frederik Vroman, Sioen sales and business development manager, added: "I am delighted that we worked together with our partners to develop this innovative solution to help fleet owners increase the security of their cargo. Sioen has been working on securing trailers from cargo theft for more than 15 years. This is a milestone for us."
