Estonian-based Comodule are known for making wireless chips that fit in small electric fleet vehicles like hire e-scooters as well as supplying them to e-bike manufacturers. They have just launched Guardian which they describe as 'an entry-level IoT (Internet of Things) system that fits all e-bikes and focuses on vehicle security.'
Security in mind
Guardian is being touted as an effective anti-theft deterrent and even a potential e-bike recovery solution. It enables features such as e-bike locating and movement alerts on the rider's phone. Comudule give more detail on how this might work, emphasising its 'latent' stealth characteristics:
"In case of theft, the precise GPS positioning makes it possible to locate a missing bike on a map and recover it. As the module is always connected to cellular networks (4G Cat-M1 with 2G fallback), the location of the vehicle can be tracked with low latency. Comodule’s IoT has global coverage and proven 99.8% uptime."
The Guardian module has a backup battery so it can run independently of the e-bike battery and in effect remains on virtually all the time. Other functions include monitoring the battery's state of charge and route data provision.
The Guardian is Comodule’s smallest IoT device to date. Commodule say the IoT module can be hidden under a motor drive cover or in a bike frame 'enclosure', preventing malicious removal.
OEM only
If you want to buy one to retrofit to your e-bike you'll be disappointed, as Comodule is an 'OEM' (original equipment manufacturer) - in other words they only make products that other manufacturers use when building their own e-scooters and e-bikes. Well-known motor manufacturers listed on Comodue's website include Fazua and Brose whilst e-bikes from the likes of Gazelle and Ampler are also mentioned.
Comodule say Guardian is compatible with all well-known e-bike systems and that the IoT allows manufacturers to send over-the-air updates to the module’s firmware to add new features and keep it up to date. The riders can use the app to inform the bike brand about any problems with the vehicle, making troubleshooting a lot more effective.
Comudule stress the marketing potential of the Guardian for manufacturers too as, "bike brands can engage with customers and build communities by sending messages via the Manufacturer Platform. New product launches, brand events, maintenance notifications - the message gets delivered straight to the riders’ app."
The modules are designed and manufactured in Comodule’s own factory in Tallinn, Estonia with the hardware made from 'robust and long-lasting, high-quality materials.' Mass production of the Guardian is estimated to start in the first quarter of 2023.
