Connected Devices & IoT
Vehicle and Work Machine Display: CAN, GPS and LTE Architecture
Technical prototype approach that combines mission, location, fuel, operating hours and maintenance data in the fleet cloud with a durable vehicle display.
Short answer
From operator screen to fleet platform
The forklift, agricultural vehicle and construction equipment screen provides the operator with task, route, fuel, working hours, warning and maintenance information. The same device carries telemetry to the fleet center, making usage, idling, malfunctions and service planning visible. The prototype can be prepared with CAN and GPS simulator without the real vehicle; the goal is to verify screen, edge recording and cloud streaming together.
CAN data layer and security boundary
Vehicle data can be received via CAN or J1939. The adapter translates PGN or manufacturer messages into common signals such as engine_speed, fuel_level, coolant_temperature, hours and diagnostic_code. The first version should be designed as read-only as possible. If commands are to be sent to the vehicle, the messages allowed are limited by security conditions such as speed and operating status; critical control functions are not left to the HMI application.
GPS, LTE and offline edge recording
GNSS generates position, speed, and direction; LTE connectivity moves tasks and telemetry to the cloud. In construction site and field environments where the connection is weak, the device records a time-stamped event in the local database. Map and mission data are cached, and when the connection returns, compressed packets are sent in sequence number. Location collection frequency should be balanced with business need and privacy policy.
Operator experience and maintenance screens
The main screen should only show the information needed while driving; Complex reports must be opened while the vehicle is stationary. Task list, route, shift start, checklist and fault notification are designed with large touch targets. The maintenance screen shows operating hours, upcoming service and active error codes. Sunlight, vibration, glove and night mode are included in field usability testing.
Working demo scenario
A demo can be set up with a rugged tablet or Android panel, USB-CAN adapter or software simulator and fleet web panel. The vehicle receives the mission, moves through the map, runs low on fuel and approaches the maintenance threshold. When a CAN error code is generated, a safe warning appears on the screen and a service record is created on the panel. When LTE goes down, route and telemetry continue locally; after reconnection, missing data is transferred.
Cybersecurity and authentication
Devices must use unique certificate, secure boot, and signed OTA. The vehicle network and internet connection must be separated on the gateway; remote access should be off by default. CAN bus-off, fake GPS, clock drift, disk full and long-term vibration scenarios are tested. Features affecting functional safety should be separately addressed through the vehicle manufacturer's risk analysis and relevant standard processes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a real work machine for demo?
No. By simulating CAN, GPS and error codes, the display and most of the fleet platform can be verified on the desktop.
Should commands be sent to the vehicle from the screen?
In the first prototype, the read-only approach is more secure. If command is required, manufacturer approval, clear permission list and operating status checks are essential.