In an industry where maximising every load is crucial, balancing compliance and efficiency can be a daily challenge.
Operators need to make the most of payload capacity without risking overload fines or compromising safety. That’s where Knorr-Bremse’s iMass Smart On-Board Mass system – OBM – is making a real difference: delivering highly accurate, real-time load data straight to the cab.
iMass Smart On-Board Mass (OBM) has been helping drivers and fleet operators improve compliance and efficiency for years. The award-winning system provides highly accurate vehicle and combination mass data in real time, allowing operators to maximise payload, reduce trips, and enhance safety on Australian roads.
At its core, iMass is designed to give operators clarity and confidence. With its user-friendly in-cab Driver Interface Unit (DIU), operators can instantly check axle group and total combination mass, detect trailer lift axle status, and identify errors or warnings for each axle group.
“From the driver’s seat, it’s about having a clear picture of what’s happening across the combination,” explained Andrea Limmer, Product and Marketing Manager at Knorr-Bremse. “The DIU shows mass data in real time, and it’s a powerful tool for both compliance and operational efficiency.”
Combination Mass shown on the iMass Driver Interface Unit. Image: Knorr-BremseSeamless integration, smarter fleets
iMass can be easily retrofitted and is fully integrated with Knorr-Bremse’s Trailer Electronic Braking System – TEBS. After an initial calibration, the system leverages the existing truck/trailer CAN network, by simply connecting the existing EBS socket between truck and trailer. iMass then automatically detects trailer VINs and mass data through this connection, without the need for extra cabling.
That simplicity translates to real-world flexibility. Whether it’s a European combination, a North American setup, or a seven-trailer road train, iMass works seamlessly across fleets with existing Knorr-Bremse TEBS. It’s a smart upgrade for operators who want a reliable OBM solution without having to modify their trailers.
“Operators don’t want added complexity. They want solutions that fit into the vehicles they already run,” said Darren Hillson, Technical Sales and Business Development Manager at Knorr-Bremse. “iMass is hardwired, robust, and designed to be reliable over the long haul.”
Beyond compliance
Importantly, iMass is Transport Certification Australia (TCA) Smart OBM Category B approved. This means operators can meet the strict requirements for High Productivity Freight Vehicle (HPFV) schemes and various local permits. At the same time, the system’s ability to share data with compatible telematics providers, adds another layer of value, giving fleet managers visibility over loads across their operations.
“Accuracy is critical – but so is communication,” noted Andrea. “With iMass, the driver can see exactly what’s happening in the cab, and fleet managers can tap into the same data through telematics.”
Confidence in every journey
From reducing the risk of costly overload fines to improving road safety, iMass delivers more than just numbers on a screen. It’s about empowering operators with the information they need – when they need it – to run leaner, safer, and more profitable.
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