The Challenge
To create a bespoke hardware solution for an unattended commentary system to be used inside the vehicles during test drives and promotional events.
CogApp, a market application specialist, had created software for Land Rover that would trigger audio tracks according to GPS coordinates on a planned route. They now needed a hardware solution to host it that would:
- Easily be built into the vehicle
- Run on battery for 5 minutes before engine start
- Withstand a high vibration environment
- Be simple to update in the field by non-IT personnel
The Solution
A custom-build solution was created for Land Rover which incorporated:
- Solid State PC, no moving part
- Power efficient fan-less processor
- GPS receiver with locking connector
- CF card was mounted internally but could be removed/inserted without removing the lid of the unit
- Wide input DC Power Supply
- Windows Embedded operating system
The Benefits
The in-vehicle solution stood up to the test and accomplished significant design objectives important to enhancing the customer experience during test drive:
- Minimised potential for hardware failure with solid state design
- Small form factor stows conveniently into vehicle with minimal interior disruption
- Solid state components overcome heavy vibration the result of off-road routes
- Locking connectors keep appliance operational at all time
