Method and system for conserving power of a battery associated with one or more articles

Abstract

Aspects of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for conserving power in batteries associated with one or more items. One or more embodiments of the present invention describe a method comprising the steps of receiving a location and charge state of a battery associated with each of one or more items placed within a container. The method further describes the steps of assigning a cluster to a group of items from the one or more items based on the location of each of the one or more items; and identifying a master item from the group of items based on the charge state of each item in the cluster. The method further describes the steps of transmitting a message to the master item for sensing parameters for the group of items in the cluster; and receiving the sensed parameters for the group of items from the master item.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to tracking of items. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for conserving power in batteries associated with item(s). Background Art

[0002] Electronic circuits are often mounted on items to provide them with various functionalities. These circuits include one or more sensors, communication modules, location modules, and other components. These circuits are powered by batteries and operate until the batteries are depleted. For example, the electronic circuits may consume power from the batteries while transmitting or processing data. Consequently, the batteries associated with these electronic circuits have a limited lifespan and can only be used until they are depleted. Once the batteries are depleted or exhausted, the items cannot perform any operations, rendering them inoperable.

[0003] Currently, there are solutions available to conserve battery power and prevent items from becoming inoperative due to a lack of power in the battery. However, such solutions do not provide an effective way to conserve battery power or prevent the electronic circuitry of the accompanying item from becoming inoperative.

[0004] In view of the aforementioned problems with existing solutions, there exists a need for efficient and effective systems and methods for conserving power in batteries associated with articles. There is also a need for extending the life of the batteries by conserving power. There is also a need to prevent electronic circuits associated with articles from becoming inoperative due to a lack of power in the batteries. To address the problems with existing solutions, systems and methods are disclosed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Various embodiments of the present invention describe a system for conserving power of batteries associated with (one or more) items. The system includes a container, one or more items placed within the container, and a server. The container includes a beacon adapted to broadcast a signal within the container. The one or more items placed within the container include a location detection module adapted to determine a location based on a signal received from the beacon. The one or more items further include: a battery charge determination module adapted to determine a charge state of a battery associated with each of the one or more items; and a transmitter adapted to transmit the location and charge state of the battery associated with each of the one or more items to the server. The server includes a receiver adapted to receive the location and charge state of the battery associated with each of the one or more items from the transmitter of the one or more items. The server further includes: a clustering unit adapted to assign a cluster to a group of items from the one or more items based on the location of each of the one or more items; and a processor adapted to identify a master item from the group of items in the cluster based on the charge state of each item in the cluster. The server also includes a transmitter adapted to transmit a message to the master item for sensing parameters inside the container for grouping items in the cluster, and a receiver further adapted to receive the sensed parameters for grouping items in the cluster from the master item in response to the message.

[0006] In an embodiment of the invention, the position detection module is adapted to determine the position of each of the one or more items in the container based on the angle of arrival of the signal from the beacon.

[0007] In another embodiment of the present invention, the signal from the beacon is used to determine a first factor related to the height of each of the one or more items from the bottom of the container, a second factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the top wall of the container, and a third factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the beacon in the container.

[0008] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the clustering unit is adapted to assign the same cluster to the grouping of items when the first factor, the second factor and the third factor of one or more items fall within a threshold value.

[0009] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the processor is adapted to identify the master item by ranking the grouping of items in the cluster based on the charge state of the battery associated with each item in the cluster. In addition, the master item is ranked higher than other items in the cluster.

[0010] In various embodiments of the invention, the state of charge of the battery associated with the master item is higher than each of the state of charge of the batteries associated with the other items in the cluster.

[0011] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the master item transmits the sensed parameters to the server on behalf of the other items in the cluster.

[0012] In another embodiment of the present invention, each of the groupings of items in a cluster behaves according to a predefined behavior.

[0013] In an embodiment of the present invention, the master item collects sensed parameters from other items in the cluster and transmits the sensed parameters to the server when the other items in the cluster do not function according to a predefined behavior.

[0014] In another embodiment of the present invention, the parameter includes a temperature parameter, a humidity parameter, a fire parameter or a gas parameter.

[0015] Various embodiments of the present invention describe a method for conserving power in a battery associated with one or more items. The method includes the steps of receiving a location and a charge state of a battery associated with each of one or more items placed within a container. The method further includes assigning a cluster to a group of items from the one or more items based on the location of each of the one or more items, and identifying a master item from the group of items in the cluster based on the charge state of each item in the cluster. The method also includes transmitting a message to the master item for sensing parameters within the container for the group of items in the cluster, and receiving the sensed parameters of the group of items in the cluster from the master item in response to the message.

[0016] In another embodiment of the present invention, the location of each of the one or more items is determined based on the angle of arrival of a signal transmitted by a beacon of the container.

[0017] In various embodiments of the present invention, signals from a beacon are used to determine a first factor related to the height of each of the one or more items from the bottom of a container, a second factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the top wall of the container, and a third factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the beacon in the container.

[0018] In an embodiment of the present invention, when the first factor, the second factor, and the third factor of one or more items fall within a threshold value, the item grouping is assigned to the same cluster.

[0019] In another embodiment of the present invention, the grouping of items in a cluster is ranked based on the charge state of the battery associated with each item in the cluster to identify a master item. In addition, the master item is ranked higher than other items in the cluster.

[0020] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the master item transmits the sensed parameters to the server on behalf of the other items in the cluster.

[0021] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, each of the groupings of items in a cluster behaves according to a predefined behavior.

[0022] In various embodiments of the present invention, a computer-readable medium for conserving power of batteries associated with one or more items is disclosed. The computer-readable medium includes one or more processors and a memory coupled to the one or more processors, the memory storing instructions for execution by the one or more processors. The memory stores instructions, which are executed by the one or more processors, configured to receive a location and charge state of a battery associated with each of one or more items placed within a container. The memory stores instructions, which are executed by the one or more processors, further configured to assign a cluster to a group of items from the one or more items based on the location of each of the one or more items, and to identify a master item from the group of items in the cluster based on the charge state of each item in the cluster. The memory stores instructions, which are executed by the one or more processors, further configured to transmit a message to the master item for sensing parameters for the group of items in the cluster within the container, and receive the sensed parameters for the group of items in the cluster from the master item in response to the message.

[0023] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0024] Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses exemplary embodiments of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Figure 1 Depicts an exemplary system architecture according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 Depicted are exemplary groupings of items in clusters according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 A block diagram depicting different components of an electronic circuit coupled to an article according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 4 A block diagram depicting the different components of a server according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 5 An exemplary flow chart illustrating an exemplary method for performing the present invention is depicted according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Described herein are technologies employing systems and methods for conserving power in batteries associated with one or more items. One or more items may be placed within a container, and each of the items may communicate with a server via a network. Each of the one or more items may determine a location within the container and also determine a charge state of a battery associated with each of the one or more items. Each of the one or more items may transmit the determined location and charge state of the battery to the server. The server may assign a cluster to a group of items based on the location of each of the one or more items. The server may select a group of items from the one or more items to assign the cluster to. The server may further identify a master item from the group of items based on the charge state of the battery associated with each item in the group. To identify the master item, the server may rank each item in the group based on its battery charge state, using the highest rank (i.e., the item with the highest battery charge compared to the other items in the cluster). The server may then transmit a message to the master item to sense parameters within the container for the group of items in the cluster. The master item may then transmit the sensed parameters for the group of items in the cluster to the server. By doing so, only the primary item in the cluster can sense parameters within the container for the other items in the cluster and transmit the sensed parameters to the server on behalf of the other items in the cluster. As a result, the other items in the cluster will not sense any parameters or communicate with the server, thereby resulting in the loss of batteries associated with each of the other items in the cluster.

[0032] As used herein, (one or more) articles include contents for consumption or use by an end customer. Each of (one or more) articles may have an associated battery for supplying power to an electronic device associated with the article. The electronic device of (one or more) articles may include, but is not limited to, a transmitter, a receiver, a position detection module, a battery charge determination module, one or more sensors, a processor and / or a memory. Such (such) article may be a bottle or a box having liquid contents, solid contents or semi-solid contents or any such article known in the art. The contents in (one or more) articles may be for any kind of consumption / use and may be pharmaceutical contents, liquid contents, edible contents, lotions, creams, tablets or any such contents known in the art.

[0033] As used herein, a container can be used to store, preserve, or hold (one or more) items. The container can communicate with (one or more) items and / or a server via a network. The container may include, but is not limited to, a beacon and electronic circuitry. The electronic circuitry of the container can perform the same operations and functions as those performed by the electronic device of the item. The electronic circuitry may include, but is not limited to, a transmitter, a receiver, a position detection module, a battery level determination module, one or more sensors, a processor, and / or a memory. Such a container can be a reefer, a box, a receiver, a storage unit, a refrigeration unit, or any such unit well known in the art.

[0034] As used herein, a battery associated with an article(s) may be a lithium battery, a lithium-air battery, a mercury battery, an aluminum-air battery, a zinc-air battery, or any such primary battery pack well known in the art.

[0035] As used herein, a server has processing capabilities as further disclosed in this specification.The server may be a cloud storage device, a remote database, or any such storage device known in the art.

[0036] As used herein, parameter(s) may be sensed by sensor(s). Parameter(s) may include, but are not limited to, temperature parameters, humidity parameters, air pressure parameters, fire parameters, gas parameters, or any such parameters known in the art.

[0037] As used herein, one or more sensors may have the capability to sense / monitor one or more parameters within a container. The one or more sensors may be capable of sensing temperature, humidity, fire, gas, or air pressure within the container in which the item is placed or present. The one or more sensors may include, but are not limited to, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, fire sensors, gas sensors, air pressure sensors, or any other such sensors apparent to one skilled in the art.

[0038] As used herein, a network may refer to a mesh network, a Global System for Mobile (GSM) network, a Long Term Evolution (LTE) network, a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) network, Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) technology or Class M1 technology, a Bluetooth network, a Wi-Fi network, a ZigBee network, or any such network / technology known in the art.

[0039] Throughout this specification, reference numeral 108 depicts a single item. Reference numerals 108A, 108B, 108C, ..., 108K may be considered to represent one or more items. Similarly, throughout this specification, reference numeral 110 depicts a single electronic device coupled to an item. Reference numerals 110A, 110B, 110C, ..., 110K may be considered to represent one or more electronic devices coupled to one or more items.

[0040] Figure 1 A system architecture 100 is depicted for conserving power of a battery associated with an item(s) in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 108, and a server 114. In the exemplary embodiment, the electronic circuit 106 coupled to the container 102 and the electronic device 110 coupled to the item 108 are shown. The server 114 may include a container 102, a beacon 104 associated with the container 102, an electronic circuit 106 coupled to the container 102, one or more items 108A-108K placed inside the container 102, and one or more electronic devices 110A-110K coupled to the one or more items 108A-108K. As shown, the container 102 and / or the one or more items 108A-108K may communicate with a server 114 via a network 112. In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic circuit 106 coupled to the container 102 may be the same as the electronic device 110 to which the item 108 is coupled.

[0041] A beacon 104 associated with a container 102 may broadcast signal(s) within the container 102. The signal(s) may be announcement(s) broadcast by the beacon 104 in the container 102. Each of the one or more items 108A-108K in the container 102 may detect the signal(s) broadcast by the beacon 104 and may determine the location of the one or more items 108A-108K based on the signal(s) broadcast by the beacon 104. Each of the one or more items 108A-108K may determine the location based on the angle of arrival of the signal from the beacon 104. In particular, the beacon 104 in the container 102 may transmit a special direction-finding signal using a single antenna of the beacon 104. Each of the one or more items 108A-108K in the container 102 may have multiple antennas arranged in an array. As the signal transmitted by beacon 104 traverses the array of one or more items 108A-108K, each of the one or more items 108A-108K can determine the signal phase difference caused by the difference in distance from each of the antennas in its array relative to the beacon 104's transmitting antenna. Each of the one or more items 108A-108K can consider IQ (i.e., I = Amplitude * cos(angle), Q = Amplitude * sin(angle)) samples of the signal phase difference while switching between active antennas in the array. Based on the IQ sample data, each of the one or more items 108A-108K can calculate the relative signal direction. Since each of the one or more items 108A-108K can identify its distance (d2) from beacon 104 based on signal strength and angle of arrival, the height (h) of each of the one or more items 108A-108K can be calculated using triangulation to measure the remaining distance (d1) from each of the one or more items 108A-108K to beacon 104. Furthermore, each of the one or more items 108A-108K may be identified at a location by considering the overall measurements (eg, height, width, and length) of the container 102 as described below.

[0042] Each of the one or more items 108A-108K may utilize the signal(s) from the beacon 104 to determine a first factor associated with the height (“h”) of each of the one or more items 108A-108K from the bottom of the container 102. Moreover, each of the one or more items 108A-108K may further utilize the signal(s) from the beacon 104 to determine a second factor associated with the distance (“d1”) between each of the one or more items 108A-108K and the top wall of the container 102. Additionally, each of the one or more items 108A-108K may utilize the signal(s) from the beacon 104 to determine a third factor associated with the distance (“d2”) between each of the one or more items 108A-108K and the beacon 104 of the container 102. By using the determined first factor, the determined second factor, and / or the determined third factor, each of the one or more items 108A-108K in the container 102 may determine its position. For example, as Figure 1 , item 108A can determine the height ("h") from the bottom of container 102 to where electronic device 110A of item 108A is located (i.e., the first factor). Similarly, item 108A can determine the distance ("d1") between item 108A and the top wall of container 102 (i.e., the second factor). Item 108A can also determine the distance ("d2") between item 108A and beacon 104 of container 102 (i.e., the third factor). Based on the first, second, and / or third factors and the overall measurements of container 102 (e.g., height, width, and length), item 108A can determine an approximate or exact location in three dimensions (using the three factors).

[0043] Additionally, when any item within container 102 is displaced from its position, or when the position of any item changes during transit of container 102, such displacement of the item can be identified by comparing the previous angle of arrival of the signal from beacon 104 with the current angle of arrival of the signal from beacon 104 for the item. Alternatively, displacement of the item can be identified by comparing the previous angle of arrival of the signal from beacon 104 with threshold angles of arrival defined for a particular item. For example, if the current angle of arrival of the signal does not fall within the thresholds of 40 and 60 degrees, the item can again transmit its updated position to the server.

[0044] In addition, each of the one or more items 108A-108K may also determine the charge state of a battery associated with each of the one or more items 108A-108K. The charge state of a battery corresponds to the charge or power level stored in the battery. Several methods well known in the art may be used to detect the charge state of a battery. In an embodiment, each of the one or more items 108A-108K may determine the charge state of a battery based on the occurrence of an event. For example, when one or more items 108A-108K receives an instruction to determine the charge state of a battery from server 114 via network 112, the one or more items 108A-108K may detect the charge state of the battery. In an alternative embodiment, when one or more items 108A-108K receives an instruction from container 102, the one or more items 108A-108K may determine the charge state of a battery.

[0045] After each of the one or more items 108A- 108K determines the associated location and charge status of the battery, each of the one or more items 108A- 108K may transmit the location and charge status of the battery to the server 114 via the network 112 .

[0046] Upon receiving the location and charge state of the batteries of one or more items 108A-108K, server 114 may assign a cluster to the group of items from the one or more items 108A-108K. In an exemplary embodiment, server 114 may assign a cluster to the group of items from the one or more items 108A-108K based on the relative distance between the two items. In another embodiment, server 114 may assign a cluster to the group of items from the one or more items 108A-108K based on the approximate or exact location of the one or more items 108A-108K where the one or more items 108A-108K are placed within container 102. In another embodiment, server 114 may assign a cluster to the group of items when a first factor ("h"), a second factor ("d1"), and a third factor ("d2") for each of the one or more items 108A-108K fall within a threshold. Such thresholds may be defined by the manufacturer of the item, the manufacturer of the contents within the item, etc. The server 114 may use any, both, or all of these embodiments to assign clusters to groupings of items.

[0047] Figure 2An exemplary scenario for clustering items 108A-108K is depicted. Server 114 may group items 108A, 108F, and 108G in Cluster 1. Similarly, server 114 may group items 108B, 108C, 108H, and 108I in Cluster 2. Similarly, server 114 may group items 108D, 108E, 108J, and 108K in Cluster 3. To assign clusters to groups of items from one or more of items 108A-108K, server 114 may consider the factors described above. The present invention also includes the server iteratively assigning clusters to items if any item of a cluster within container 102 is displaced from its location during transit of container 102. Based on the item's updated location, server 114 reassigns clusters to the items.

[0048] Once each of the one or more items 108A-108K in the container 102 is assigned a cluster, the server 114 can identify a master item from the grouping of items in the cluster based on the charge state of each item in the cluster. Figure 2 and the following exemplary Table 1 showing three clusters, the corresponding groupings of items in the clusters, the charge state of the battery of each item in each cluster, and the primary item in each cluster.

[0049]

[0050] Table 1

[0051] As provided in exemplary Table 1 above, exemplary cluster 1 may include item 108A, item 108F, and item 108G. Server 114 may rank items 108A, 108F, and 108G in cluster 1 based on the state of charge of the batteries of each item 108A, 108F, and 108G. As can be seen in Table 1, item 108A (i.e., having a 90% charge) may be ranked higher than item 108F (i.e., having a 70% charge) and item 108G (i.e., having a 75% charge). Accordingly, server 114 may identify item 108A as the primary item in cluster 1 based on the state of charge of its battery (i.e., 90%).

[0052] Similarly, exemplary cluster 2 may include item 108B, item 108C, item 108H, and item 108I. Server 114 may rank items 108B, 108C, 108H, and 108I in cluster 2 based on the state of charge of the batteries of each item 108B, 108C, 108H, and 108I. As can be seen in Table 1, item 108C (i.e., having a 95% charge) may be ranked higher than item 108B (i.e., having an 80% charge), item 108H (i.e., having an 85% charge), and item 108I (i.e., having a 75% charge). Accordingly, server 114 may identify item 108C as the primary item in cluster 2 based on the state of charge of its battery (i.e., 95%).

[0053] In addition, exemplary cluster 3 may include item 108D, item 108E, item 108J, and item 108K. Server 114 may rank items 108D, 108E, 108J, and 108K in cluster 3 based on the state of charge of the batteries of each item 108D, 108E, 108J, and 108K. As can be seen in Table 1, item 108K (i.e., having a 98% charge) may be ranked higher than item 108D (i.e., having a 90% charge), item 108E (i.e., having a 75% charge), and item 108J (i.e., having an 83% charge). Accordingly, server 114 may identify item 108K as the primary item in cluster 3 based on the state of charge of its battery (i.e., 98%).

[0054] After server 114 identifies the master items (items 108A, 108C, and 108K), server 114 may transmit a message via network 112 to each of the master items (items 108A, 108C, and 108K) in each corresponding cluster (Cluster 1, Cluster 2, and Cluster 3) to sense parameters within container 102 for the grouping of items. A master may then begin sensing parameters within container 102. The master item in each cluster may transmit the sensed parameters to server 114 via network 112 on behalf of the other items in the cluster. Continuing with exemplary Table 1 above, server 114 may transmit a message to master item 108A in Cluster 1 to sense parameters (e.g., temperature, etc.) within container 102 for the grouping of items (i.e., items 108F and 108G). Accordingly, master item 108A may sense parameters (e.g., temperature, gas, etc.) inside container 102 and may transmit the sensed parameters (e.g., a sensed temperature of 18° C.) to server 114 via network 112 on behalf of the other items (i.e., items 108F and 108G). Furthermore, server 114 may transmit a message to master item 108C in cluster 2 to sense parameters inside container 102 for the group of items (i.e., items 108B, 108H, and 108I). Accordingly, master item 108C may sense parameters in cluster 2 inside container 102 and may transmit the sensed parameters to server 114 via network 112 on behalf of the other items (i.e., items 108B, 108H, and 108I). Furthermore, server 114 may transmit a message to master item 108K in cluster 3 to sense parameters for the group of items (i.e., items 108D, 108E, and 108J) within container 102. Accordingly, master item 108K may sense parameters within container 102 and transmit the sensed parameters to server 114 via network 112 on behalf of the other items in cluster 3 (i.e., items 108D, 108E, and 108J). It should be noted that transmitting the sensed parameters further includes sensing multiple parameters of the items and transmitting the multiple sensed parameters to server 114.

[0055] The present invention facilitates a master item in a cluster to sense a parameter within container 102 only when all other items in the cluster are behaving in accordance with the same predefined behavior. The same predefined behavior may be exhibited by the items in the cluster when the sensed parameters monitored by the items in the cluster are equal or identical. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensed parameter monitored by electronic circuit 106 (e.g., a temperature of 23°C) and the sensed parameter monitored by the master item in the cluster (e.g., a temperature of 23.2°C) are equal or identical. In another exemplary embodiment, the sensed parameter monitored by the master item in the cluster (e.g., a temperature of 23.2°C) and the sensed parameter monitored by another item in the cluster (e.g., a temperature of 23°C) are equal or identical. In this case, the master item may transmit the sensed parameter monitored by the master item to a server on behalf of the other items in the cluster. The present invention also facilitates the master item to determine if all other items in the cluster are not behaving in accordance with the same predefined behavior. When the sensed parameters monitored by the other items in the cluster and the master item are unequal / different, the other items in the cluster do not function according to the same predefined behavior. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensed parameter monitored by electronic circuit 106 (e.g., a temperature of 23°C) and the sensed parameter monitored by the master item in the cluster (e.g., a temperature of 18°C) are unequal / different. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the sensed parameter monitored by the master item in the cluster (e.g., a temperature of 18°C) and the sensed parameter monitored by the other items in the cluster (e.g., a temperature of 27°C) are unequal / different. In this case, the master item may collect the sensed parameters from the other items in the cluster and transmit the sensed parameters monitored by the other items to server 114. In all of the above cases, the other items in the cluster do not communicate with server 114, thereby saving power to the batteries of the other items. Additionally, one or more items 108A-108K are placed inside container 102 for refrigeration. Typically, the temperature of the refrigerated compartment inside the container 102 becomes below ambient temperature (possibly as low as -60°C, which may also cause battery discharge behavior). Therefore, by using the present invention, the batteries of the one or more items 108A-108K inside the container 102 will be effectively preserved.

[0056] Furthermore, server 114 may iteratively identify a new master item in each cluster (Cluster 1, Cluster 2, Cluster 3) based on the charge states of the items in each cluster (Cluster 1, Cluster 2, Cluster 3). Server 114 may identify a new master item when the charge state of the battery of an existing master item (item 108A, item 108C, item 108K) drops below a predefined threshold. To do this, server 114 may compare the most recent charge state of the battery of the master item (item 108A, item 108C, item 108K) to a defined threshold. For example, server 114 may identify a new master item for a cluster (Cluster 1, Cluster 2, Cluster 3) when the most recent charge state of the battery of the master item (item 108A, item 108C, item 108K) drops below a predefined threshold of 50% charge. As used herein, a predefined threshold may be defined by the manufacturer of container 102, the manufacturer of item 108, or any other entity. Furthermore, when the most recent state of charge of the batteries of the master items (items 108A, 108C, and 108K) falls below a defined threshold, server 114 may again rank the groupings of items in clusters (cluster 1, cluster 2, and cluster 3) based on the state of charge of the batteries of each other item in each cluster (cluster 1, cluster 2, and cluster 3), and accordingly identify a new master item in each cluster (cluster 1, cluster 2, and cluster 3) that has a higher state of charge than the other items in the cluster. For example, server 114 may identify item 108G as the new master item in cluster 1 because the state of charge of the battery of item 108G (75%) is higher than the state of charge of the battery of item 108F (70%). For cluster 2, server 114 may identify item 108H as the new primary item in cluster 2 because the state of charge of the battery of item 108H (85%) is higher than the state of charge of the battery of item 108B (80%) and higher than the state of charge of the battery of item 108I (75%). For cluster 3, server 114 may identify item 108D as the new primary item because the state of charge of the battery of item 108D (90%) is higher than the state of charge of the battery of item 108E (75%) and higher than the state of charge of the battery of item 108J (83%).

[0057] Although the present invention is described by depicting three exemplary clusters with three or more items within each cluster, those skilled in the art will appreciate that any number of clusters with any number of items may be created by the present invention.

[0058] Figure 3A block diagram depicts various components of an electronic device 110 coupled to an item 108, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device 110 may include, but is not limited to, a transmitter 302, a receiver 304, a location detection module 306, a battery level determination module 308, one or more sensors 310, a processor 312, and / or a memory 314. The receiver 304 of the electronic device 110 coupled to the item 108 may be adapted to receive the signal(s) broadcast by the beacon 104 of the container 102. The location detection module 306 of the electronic device 110 coupled to the item 108 may be adapted to determine the location of the item 108 based on the signal(s) from the beacon 104 of the container 102. In particular, the location detection module 306 may determine the location of the item 108 based on the angle of arrival of the signal from the beacon 104. Location detection module 306 may also be adapted to utilize the signal(s) from beacon 104 to determine a first factor related to the height ("h") of item 108 from the bottom of container 102, a second factor related to the distance ("d1") between item 108 and the top wall of container 102, and / or a third factor related to the distance ("d2") between item 108 and beacon 104 in container 102. Using the determined first factor, the determined second factor, and / or the determined third factor, location detection module 306 may determine the location of item 108. Battery charge determination module 308 of electronic device 110 coupled to item 108 may be adapted to determine the charge state of a battery associated with item 108. The charge state of a battery corresponds to the power, charge, or voltage level of the battery. Location detection module 306 may communicate the location of item 108, and battery charge determination module 308 may communicate the charge state of the battery associated with item 108 to transmitter 302.

[0059] Transmitter 302 of electronic device 110 coupled to item 108 may be adapted to transmit the location of item 108 and the charge state of a battery associated with item 108 to server 114 via network 112. Furthermore, receiver 304 of electronic device 110 coupled to item 108 may be adapted to receive messages from server 114 for sensing parameters within container 102 for grouping items in a cluster. Furthermore, one or more sensors 310 of electronic device 110 coupled to item 108 may be adapted to sense one or more parameters within the container and transmit the sensed parameters to transmitter 302. Transmitter 302 may be adapted to transmit the sensed parameters to server 114 via network 112. Memory 314 of electronic device 110 coupled to item 108 may be adapted to store the location of item 108, the charge state of a battery associated with item 108, and / or the sensed parameters of item 108. In addition, the transmitter 302, receiver 304, location detection module 306, battery level determination module 308, one or more sensors 310, and / or memory 314 can be communicatively coupled to the processor 312. The different units described herein are exemplary. One or more units can be used to implement the present invention. For example, the tasks performed by the transmitter 302, receiver 304, location detection module 306, battery level determination module 308, one or more sensors 310, memory 314, and / or processor 312 can be performed by a single unit. Alternatively, a greater number of units as described herein can be used to implement the present invention.

[0060] Figure 4 A block diagram depicts various components of server 114 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Server 114 may include, but is not limited to, a transmitter 402, a receiver 404, a clustering unit 406, a processor 408, and a memory 410. Receiver 404 of server 114 may be adapted to receive the location of item 108 and the charge status of a battery associated with item 108 from item 108 via network 112. Receiver 404 may also communicate the location of item 108 and the charge status of the battery to clustering unit 406. Clustering unit 406 of server 114 may be adapted as described above. Figure 1 As described above, clusters are assigned to groups of items from items 108 based on the locations of items 108. The processor 408 of the server 114 can communicate with the clustering unit 406 and can be adapted to identify a master item from the group of items in the cluster based on the charge state of each item in the cluster. To this end, the processor 408 can rank the group of items in the cluster based on the charge state of each item in the cluster. This is in Figure 1 and the exemplary Table 1 for detailed description.

[0061] Processor 408 may also transmit a unique identifier associated with the master item of each cluster to transmitter 402. Transmitter 402 of server 114 may be adapted to transmit a message to the master item (via network 112) using the unique identifier to sense parameters within container 102 for the grouping of items in each cluster. Furthermore, receiver 404 of server 114 may be adapted to receive the sensed parameters for the grouping of items in the cluster from the master item. Alternatively, transmitter 402 of server 114 may be adapted to transmit a message to one or more items 108 in container 102 to sense parameters within container 102 when one or more items 108 in a cluster are not functioning according to a predefined behavior. Accordingly, receiver 404 of server 114 may be adapted to receive the sensed parameters from one or more items 108 via network 112. Furthermore, transmitter 402, receiver 404, clustering unit 406, and / or memory 410 may be communicatively coupled to processor 408. The various elements described herein are exemplary. One or more elements may be used to implement the present invention. For example, the tasks performed by transmitter 402, receiver 304, clustering unit 406, memory 410, and / or processor 408 may be performed by a single unit. Alternatively, a greater number of units as described herein may be used to perform the present invention.

[0062] Figure 5 A flow chart outlining features of the present invention through an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted. Method flow chart 500 describes a method for conserving power of a battery associated with an item(s). Method flow chart 500 begins at step 502 .

[0063] At step 504, the server 114 or container 102 may receive the location and charge status of the battery associated with each of the one or more items 108A-108I placed inside the container 102. The server 114 or container 102 may receive the location and charge status of the battery from the one or more items 108A-108I. Figure 1 Detailed description in.

[0064] At step 506, the server 114 or container 102 may assign a cluster to the group of items from the one or more items 108A-108I based on the location of each of the one or more items 108A-108I. Figure 2 and are described in detail in Exemplary Table 1 above.

[0065] At step 508, the server 114 or container 102 may identify a primary item from the group of items in the cluster based on the charge status of each item in the cluster. Figure 2 and are described in detail in Exemplary Table 1 above.

[0066] At step 510, the server 114 or the container 102 may transmit a message to the master item for sensing parameters for grouping items in a cluster within the container 102. Figure 2 and are described in detail in Exemplary Table 1 above.

[0067] At step 512 , the server 114 or the container 102 may receive the sensed parameters for the grouping of items in the cluster from the master item in response to the message as described above. The method flow chart 500 may then end at 514 .

[0068] The present invention is applicable to various fields such as, but not limited to, the pharmaceutical industry, the cosmetic industry, the food industry, and any such fields where articles are well known in the art and can be utilized.

[0069] The present invention provides the following technical advantages over existing solutions: a) conserving power of batteries associated with items; b) extending battery life by saving power; c) preventing items from becoming inoperable due to lack of power in the batteries; d) employing clustering techniques to identify the master item for sensing parameters; e) avoiding communication between other items in the cluster and the server; and (f) enabling other items in the cluster to save battery power by not communicating with the server.

[0070] In one embodiment of the present invention, one or more computer-readable devices can be used to operate the present invention. The one or more computer-readable devices can be associated with server 114 or container 102. The computer-readable medium includes one or more processors and a memory coupled to the one or more processors, the memory storing instructions for execution by the one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to receive the location and charge status of a battery associated with each of one or more items 108A-108I placed within container 102. The memory stores instructions for execution by the one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to assign a cluster to a group of items from one or more items 108A-108I based on the location of each of the one or more items 108A-108I, and to identify a master item from the group of items in the cluster based on the charge status of each item in the cluster. The memory stores instructions for execution by the one or more processors. The one or more processors are further configured to transmit a message to the master item for sensing parameters for the group of items in the cluster within container 102, and to receive the sensed parameters for the group of items in the cluster from the master item in response to the message.

[0071] The embodiments and tables of the present invention described herein are exemplary, and various modifications and variations known to those skilled in the art fall within the scope of the present invention. Exemplary computer-readable media include flash memory drives, digital versatile disks (DVDs), compact disks (CDs), floppy disks, and magnetic tape cassettes. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable media include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented by any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media are tangible and mutually exclusive with communication media. Computer storage media are implemented by hardware and do not include carrier waves or propagating signals. For the purposes of the present invention, computer storage media are not signals themselves. Exemplary computer storage media include hard disks, flash drives, and other solid-state memories. In contrast, communication media typically embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal (such as a carrier wave or other transmission mechanism) and include any information delivery media.

[0072] Although described in connection with an exemplary computing system environment, examples of the invention are implementable with numerous other general purpose or special purpose computing system environments, configurations, or devices.

[0073] Examples of the present invention can be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions (such as program modules) executed by one or more computers or other devices with software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof. Computer-executable instructions can be organized into one or more computer-executable components or modules. Typically, program modules include, but are not limited to, routines, programs, objects, components, and data structures that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. Aspects of the present invention can be implemented with such components or modules of any number and organization. For example, aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific computer-executable instructions or specific components or modules shown in the figures / tables and described herein. Other examples of the present invention may include different computer-executable instructions or components with more or less functionality than that shown and described herein. Aspects of the present invention transform a general-purpose computer into a special-purpose computing device when configured to execute instructions described herein.

[0074] Unless otherwise indicated, the order in which the operations in the examples of the present invention shown and described herein are performed or executed is not required. That is, unless otherwise indicated, the operations may be performed in any order, and the examples of the present invention may include additional or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that performing or executing a particular operation before, concurrently with, or after another operation falls within the scope of aspects of the present invention.

[0075] As used in this subject specification, the term "processor" can refer to substantially any computational processing unit or device, including but not limited to single-core processors, single processors with software multi-threaded execution capabilities, multi-core processors, multi-core processors with software multi-threaded execution capabilities, multi-core processors with hardware multi-threading technology, parallel platforms, and parallel platforms with distributed shared memory. In addition, a processor can refer to the following items designed to perform the functions described herein: integrated circuits, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. The processor can adopt nanoscale architectures (such as, but not limited to, transistors, switches, and gates based on molecules and quantum dots) to optimize space usage or enhance the performance of user devices. The processor can also be implemented as a combination of computational processing units.

[0076] When introducing elements of aspects of the present invention or examples thereof, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to the listed elements. The term "exemplary" is intended to mean "an example of..." The phrase "one or more of: A, B, and C" means "at least one of A and / or at least one of B and / or at least one of C."

[0077] Having described aspects of the present invention in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the aspects of the invention as defined in the appended claims. As various changes can be made in the above constructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope of aspects of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

[0078] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as examples of implementing the claims, and other equivalent features and acts are intended to fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A system for saving power, comprising: a container having a beacon adapted to broadcast a signal within the container; One or more items placed inside the container, the one or more items comprising: a position detection module adapted to determine a position based on said signals received from said beacons; a battery charge determination module adapted to determine a state of charge of a battery associated with each of the one or more items; and a transmitter adapted to transmit the location and the charge status of the battery associated with each of the one or more items to a server; and Servers, including: - a receiver adapted to receive, from said transmitter of said one or more items, said position and said charge state of said battery associated with each of said one or more items; a clustering unit adapted to assign a cluster to a group of items from said one or more items based on said location of each of said one or more items; - a processor adapted to identify a master item from the grouping of items in the cluster based on the charge status of each item in the cluster; - a transmitter adapted to transmit a message to the master item for sensing parameters inside the container for the grouping of items in the cluster; and - the receiver is further adapted to receive, from the master item in response to the message, sensed parameters for the grouping of items in the cluster, wherein the signal from the beacon is used to determine a first factor related to the height of each of the one or more items from the bottom of the container, a second factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the top wall of the container, and a third factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the beacon in the container.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: The position detection module is adapted to determine the position of each of the one or more items in the container based on an angle of arrival of the signal from the beacon.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein: The clustering unit is adapted to assign the same cluster to a grouping of items when the first factor, the second factor, and the third factor of the one or more items fall within a threshold value.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein: The processor is adapted to identify the master item by ranking the grouping of items in the cluster based on a charge state of a battery associated with each item in the cluster.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein: The primary item is ranked higher than other items in the cluster.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein: The state of charge of the battery associated with the primary item is higher than each state of charge of batteries associated with other items in the cluster.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein: The master item transmits the sensed parameters to the server on behalf of other items in the cluster.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein: Each of the groupings of items in the cluster behaves according to a predefined behavior.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein: The master item collects sensed parameters from other items in the cluster and transmits the sensed parameters to the server when the other items in the cluster do not function according to a predefined behavior.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein: The parameters include temperature parameters, humidity parameters, fire parameters or gas parameters.

11. A method for saving power, comprising: receiving a location and charge state of a battery associated with each of the one or more items placed inside the container; assigning a cluster to a group of items from the one or more items based on the location of each of the one or more items; identifying a primary item from the grouping of items in the cluster based on the charge status of each item in the cluster; transmitting a message to the master item for sensing parameters within the container for the grouping of items in the cluster; as well as receiving, from the master item in response to the message, a sensed parameter for the grouping of items in the cluster, wherein a signal from the beacon of the container is used to determine a first factor related to the height of each of the one or more items from the bottom of the container, a second factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the top wall of the container, and a third factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the beacon in the container.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein: The location of each of the one or more items is determined based on an angle of arrival of a signal transmitted by a beacon of the container.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein: When the first factor, the second factor, and the third factor of the one or more items fall within a threshold, the grouping of items is assigned to the same cluster.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein: The master item is identified by ranking the grouping of items in the cluster based on a charge state of a battery associated with each item in the cluster.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the primary item is ranked higher than other items in the cluster.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein: The master item transmits the sensed parameters to a server on behalf of other items in the cluster.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein: Each of the groupings of items in the cluster behaves according to a predefined behavior.

18. A computer-readable medium comprising one or more processors and a memory coupled to the one or more processors, the memory storing instructions executed by the one or more processors, the one or more processors configured to: receive a location and a charge state of a battery associated with each of one or more items placed inside a container; assigning a cluster to a group of items from the one or more items based on the location of each of the one or more items; identifying a primary item from the grouping of items in the cluster based on the charge status of each item in the cluster; transmitting a message to the master item for sensing parameters within the container for the grouping of items in the cluster; as well as receiving, from the master item in response to the message, a sensed parameter for the grouping of items in the cluster, wherein a signal from the beacon of the container is used to determine a first factor related to the height of each of the one or more items from the bottom of the container, a second factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the top wall of the container, and a third factor related to the distance between each of the one or more items and the beacon in the container.

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