Rivigo gets US patent for unique driver relay system

Indian tech-enabled logistics start-up Rivigo announced that it has been granted patent rights by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for its unique driver relay model that uses algorithms to determine availability of drivers for trucks, enabling drivers to return home each day.

The patented system uses intelligent driver allocation system through algorithms developed by Rivigo to pick the right driver for a duty, based on multiple parameters including equitable distribution of driving hours, rest hours and transit hours. The algorithm also considers driver performance on parameters such as driving behaviour while deciding the final match between truck and ‘pilot’, as every driver is addressed in Rivigo.

“This is yet another milestone for us at Rivigo. Our global first relay model being recognised by the United States Patent and Trademark Office is an endorsement of our pilot-first model predicated on innovation at a technological and human level,” said Gazal Kalra, co-founder, Rivigo. 

Gazal Kalra, co-founder, Rivigo: "Our global first relay model being recognised by the United States Patent and Trademark Office is an endorsement of our pilot-first model predicated on innovation at a technological and human level."

“This cutting-edge and disruptive ‘Relay’ technology will not just bring efficiencies and help streamline the sector through better service to customers, but more importantly will ensure that truck driving becomes a viable job opportunity for pilots as they get to come back home to their families every day,” he added.

“Fleet owners find it extremely difficult to find truck drivers for long-distance driving. India has a severe shortage of truck drivers – for every 1,000 trucks, we have only 482 truck drivers. Through this technology, we will offer ‘Relay as a Service’ to fleet owners thereby providing a sustainable and scalable solution to this large and chronic national problem,” explained Kalra.

The relay model reduces transit times in long distance transportation. The algorithm and simulation of the system reduces transit time during changeovers by ensuring that the driver is not only available for the next duty but also informed in advance about the upcoming trip. The system also ensures that the driver is performing minimal and only the required checks during the changeover, thus saving time. 

System will boost safety on road
Rivigo believes the patented system will not only reduce the transit time but also help decrease the rate of accidents on national highways as truck drivers drive fixed hours and get mandatory rest before next trip is allocated.

Set up in 2014, Rivigo has emerged as one of the fastest growing technology enabled logistics companies in India, currently owning a fleet of over 3,000 trucks.