TIER has announced that it will pilot its latest Internet of Things (IoT) module, ‘Parrot’ on 60 e-scooters in London.
The ‘Parrot’ IoT module features upgraded hardware, including sensors and 4G connectivity that allows TIER to improve positioning and parking accuracy.
In addition, the module’s software can conduct data analysis without relying on a cloud connection. This allows the system to respond more quickly to data from the on-board sensors and to simultaneously analyse inputs from multiple sensors.
This installation enables the e-scooters to alert TIER in advance when they require maintenance, while also improving the capability of recognising and reducing unsafe riding.
Eryk Sokolowski, Head of Vehicle and IOT Programmes, TIER, said:Our number one goal was to improve the safety and overall rider experience of our e-scooters through increased positioning and parking accuracy. The team has managed to significantly improve this utilising cutting edge hardware, reducing vehicle reaction times to geo-fenced zones and enabling a much smoother parking experience for the user.
Additionally, introducing edge processing to this platform means that vast amounts of information and data can be analysed locally on the vehicles rather than being sent to the cloud. This is an incredibly powerful tool that will allow us to figure out whether an e-scooter has a puncture and get it fixed, or use this data to tackle drunk riding by analysing rider behaviour, all while giving us the flexibility to meet changing market and regulatory needs.
Following the launch of the initial pilot in London, further trials will take place in Norway and France in the coming months.
The trials will collect data from across Europe to finalise the Parrot module, which will be fully implemented in 2023.
