Weighbridges play a vital role in a variety of industries from agriculture to mining, logistics to waste management and many businesses would simply not be able to function without this measurement and data collection equipment.

However, in tough economic environments where many organisations feel real bottom-line pressure, there should always be scope to purchase systems and services that enable them to reduce costs, simplify workflow and improve efficiencies – and that applies to the way their weighbridges operate too.

A driver control station (DCS) on a weighbridge is a convenient and effective way of streamlining weighing processes, as it allows the driver to interact directly with the weighbridge management software, generally without having to move from their seat.

With many traditional weighbridges, drivers have to exit their vehicles and walk across to an office to exchange information. However, an unmanned driver control station situated close to the weighbridge enables the driver to simply responds to on-screen prompts and messages to generate and record weighing transactions and statistical data. A DCS reduces labour costs and increases efficiencies and operational effectiveness.

The technology is easy to use and drivers don’t require a high level of computer literacy to interact with the software. Depending on individual needs, driver control stations can be manufactured in a variety of different hardware options, either with an alpha-numeric keyboard or a touch-screen for drivers to input information. Manufacturers can also customise the driver control stations and design the software package to suit the unique requirements of any particular site, ranging from basic electronic identification stations through to complex, sophisticated ticketing ones. What’s more, stations can be fitted with additional accessories such as security cameras, electronic identification systems and intercoms to further optimise the operation.

Another advantage of a driver control station is that driver activity can be monitored remotely – eliminating the need for on-site personnel and supervisors. Multi-layered quality control systems and built-in security controls mean that the accuracy, reliability and performance of the system aren’t compromised in any way. Furthermore, because there’s no need for on-site personnel, the weighbridge can work 24/7 – significantly increasing its operating hours and boosting productivity.

In summary, the main advantages that a driver control station at a weighbridge provides include:

  • Cost savings
  • Streamlined site operation and workflow
  • Faster, more efficient vehicle weighing
  • Better on-site traffic management
  • Extended working period of weighbridge to 24/7 capability if necessary
  • Faster vehicle turnaround
  • Reduced dependence on labour
  • Enhanced health and safety because drivers don’t exit their vehicles
  • Ease of use without the need for high level of computer literacy
  • Seamless integration with customisable software

If you think your weighbridge operation could benefit from a driver control station, then you should call AccuWeigh, Australia’s largest supplier of weighing and product inspection equipment. We have a reputation for supplying high quality and reliable driver control stations, weighbridges and customised software products suitable for a diversity of industries – and with eight branches throughout Australia, our national expertise is always close at hand. Contact us today and put our heavyweight experience and expertise to the test.