Communications Tablet

Microlise is a European leader in vehicle tracking, telematics, journey management and proof of delivery systems. Their customers include some of the most recognisable FMCG, delivery and grocery businesses in the UK.

Microlise invests a significant proportion of it’s revenues each year in research and development, employing a dedicated development team which continually works on new features and modules to meet the ever changing needs of the market, their customers and their fleets.

Optima have along standing relationship with Microlise, having assisted in the development a number of their market leading systems.

For the DCM6 ruggedised tablet project, Optima developed a range of initial sketches and CAD concepts examining the best materials, processes and technologies. From these a decision was formed to utilise Thermoplastic Elastomer materials (TPE) with integral rigid elements to form a protective ‘boot’ for the device. It was proposed that the device would incorporate fully integrated power and contact elements.
This allowed for the tablet to be removable, but also securely mounted in the vehicle utilising an innovative magnetic docking and power delivery backplate system.

The device was intended to offer a wide range of customisable features including driver ID, text and voice communications, trip- sheet, integrated satellite navigation, task management and unique driving style coaching and debrief functionality.

In conjunction with Microlise’s specialist in-house team, Optima developed this complex product through a variety of iterations to the level of tool ready CAD. Optima’s involvement extended to the sourcing of a range of component parts and prototypes to ensure the product coped with the rigours of daily usage in the demanding delivery and logistics market.