Truckfile voice control boosts workshop productivity
Workshop management specialist Truckfile has adapted technology used in the aviation sector to create a new speech-controlled recording system suitable for use in commercial vehicle workshops.
The Truckfile Voice system allows technicians to provide records of inspections and repairs using spoken commands, thanks to a headset incorporating a microphone. Users need simply report what they see as the job proceeds, and the equipment logs their responses, saving details and updating records automatically.
The system is claimed to speed up the process by 20 per cent on average, meaning that if the operative could previously complete four inspections in a shift, they could now potentially manage five in the same period.
To complete the inspection process, the technician follows a series of audible prompts delivered through the headset, in order to check off each item, reporting to the system as each receives a pass or a fail.
A smartphone-sized hendheld device can also be used to take and attach photographs, should any defects require visual documentation.
Truckfile managing director Paul Clarke said the system was a major step forward in boosting workshop efficiency and profitability.
“The voice-directed system is based on equipment and software developed in conjunction with BEC (Systems Integration), a leading supplier of automated warehouse management and shop floor data capture solutions, and is well proven in operation,” he explained.
“It’s extremely intuitive and easy to use, for new or experienced staff. As well as speeding up the inspection process very significantly, it also offers highly accurate and consistent recording, ensuring strict adherence to compliance standards and supported by real-time analytics and dashboards.
“It’s such a simple piece of equipment to use but the potential for speeding up the throughput of vehicles is profound. Voice is set to become the most useful tool in the workshop.”
Voice is now available to order for new customers, or for established Truckfile users to add on to systems already in use.
Truckfile – which was created by Redditch, Worcestershire-based Magic Internet Technologies – stores more than 200,000 individual vehicle records for more than 24,000 users.
Customers can access the system from any internet-connected device, with no need for additional investment in servers or extra hardware. All documents are available around the clock and are securely protected against loss or damage.
