SMARTRUCK I

Back in 2000, vehicle infotainment systems with integrated GPS, video displays, and gaming systems were beginning to make their first appearance in commercial markets. Our first SmarTruck vehicle prototype was built on a Ford F-350 chassis, with NIJ Level IIIA armoring and integrated touchscreen displays for control of the countermeasure defensive systems. It was produced in conjunction with MSX International, a vehicle upfitter in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

Intended to function as an armored VIP transport/extraction mission security vehicle, the SmarTruck I was loaded with non-lethal countermeasures, fingerprint authentication, and early situational awareness technologies. Occupants of the vehicle were protected by a full armored cab, including armored glass, and a set of James Bond gadgetry intended to allow the vehicle to repel crowds and escape pursuing vehicles with an assortment of enhancements. These defensive countermeasures included deterrants such as high voltage door handles, smoke screen and road tack dispensers, blinding lights and pepper spray nozzles.  SmarTruck I also featured a retractable infrared night vision camera, and set of visible light perimeter cameras, and a fully retractable simulated weapons platform. Activated from fully integrated touchscreen displays, each of these technologies could be accessed from one of three positions within the vehicle. SmarTruck I showcased the feasibility of a common operator interface to control all onboard systems.

MSX International performed all of the fiberglass bodywork and the creation of the mounting surfaces for all SmarTruck's onboard systems.  I was hired to create the systems that would make SmarTruck "smart".  I specified the onboard hardware we would use, installed and wired all of the added systems, and programed main controller along with the user interface touchscreens.  With only two months to setup a complete vehicle system, I drew from my experience on the plant floor and setup SmarTruck like it was a piece of automation.  I grabbed common HMI interfaces, networked them to a controller and setup a system to activate each of the onboard devices.

SmarTruck I appeared at the International Detroit Auto Show, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) World Congress and several other military and civilian shows. I accompanied the vehicle to most of these demonstrations to talk about the prototype, address questions, and to be on hand if any issues arose.