Location Based Locks with American West Lock Company
American West Lock Company (AWLC) manufactures and services a variety of locks, safes, and mobile security solutions. After 47 years in the industry, they realized the high potential for connected things in their vertical.
High-value freight clients for AWLC were asking for an extra layer of security in their business. Most of AWLC's partner shipping companies rely on standard-size cargo vans and lower-wage drivers to deliver items in medium to very small sizes. For example, high value shippers might move a few very precious stones or museum pieces. They didn't have a product that could secure individual shipments until arrival at the ultimate destination, and mishandling cargo is a mistake too costly to risk.
Starling IoT partnered with American West to design and implement a location aware lock mechanism with a two factor fail-safe. Each lock contains a wifi module, GPS module, and fingerprint reader. They also each have a dual combination and key manual lock.
Inside the vans, a GPS repeater ensures the antenna on the front of the lock receives a strong signal. Using the wifi module, each lock can be individually programmed with a final destination and fingerprints. At the destination, and not before, the driver's fingerprint will open the lock.
The lock can also be opened with both the key and secret combination in case of electronics malfunction or other unforeseen circumstance. In practice, the combination is kept safely at the shipping company headquarters while the driver holds the keys to locks in her van.
American West Lock Company's new lock technology has allowed specialty shipping companies to operate more securely than ever before, especially when combined with highly affordable fleet tracking. Customer reviews highlight the increased client satisfaction and peace of mind. Meanwhile, each company enjoys a vastly lower risk of loss claims and a compelling sales point.
Your company might not deal with secure shipping, but you should be interested in what we can do for you! From asset tracking to automated operations, Starling IoT is your ally in a brave new technological world. Get in touch and see how we fit!
