Methods and systems for monitoring items

Abstract

This invention relates to a system and method for monitoring one or more items. One or more embodiments of the invention describe the method, which includes the steps of: receiving information from a device about sensed parameters / multiple parameters of one or more items. The one or more items are placed inside a container. The method further describes the step of: a first server determining an anomaly associated with the one or more items based on the information about the sensed parameters / multiple parameters. The method further describes the step of: transmitting the determined anomaly to a second server, wherein the second server determines an action in response to the anomaly and transmits the action to the container to correct the anomaly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to the monitoring of articles. More specifically, this invention relates to systems and methods for monitoring articles placed in containers. Background Technology

[0002] During transport, one or more items are packaged in multiple boxes placed inside a container. Furthermore, some items may need to be maintained in a desired environment to keep the items inside the box fresh and suitable for consumption by the end consumer. This desired environment may involve maintaining atmospheric parameters within the box (such as temperature, humidity, or air pressure) to keep the items fresh or prevent them from becoming stale. Without devices configured to maintain the desired environment within the box, the items may become stale or inedible for the end consumer, and consumption of such items may affect the end consumer's health.

[0003] Current solutions on the market provide monitoring of atmospheric parameters inside containers (boxes containing items). However, monitoring atmospheric parameters inside the container only provides information on atmospheric parameters outside the box (i.e., inside the container) and does not provide accurate information on atmospheric parameters inside the box (where the items are stored). Since the atmospheric parameters maintained inside the box will differ from those maintained outside, obtaining accurate information on the atmospheric parameters maintained inside the box is crucial. Current solutions do not provide any means for determining whether the items inside the box are maintained in the desired environment.

[0004] In view of the aforementioned problems in existing solutions, there is a need for an effective system and method for determining whether items placed inside a cargo container are maintained in a desired environment. It is necessary to determine the accurate atmospheric parameters maintained inside the cargo container. To address the problems in existing solutions, a system and method are disclosed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Various embodiments of the present invention describe a system for monitoring one or more items. The system includes a device, a first server, and a second server. The device is adapted to sense parameters / parameters of one or more items placed within a container and transmit information about the sensed parameters / parameters to the first server. The first server is adapted to determine an anomaly associated with the one or more items based on the information about the sensed parameters / parameters and transmit the determined anomaly to the second server. The second server is adapted to determine an action in response to the anomaly and transmit the action to the container to correct the anomaly.

[0006] In an embodiment of the present invention, if the information of the sensed parameters / multiple parameters of the one or more items exceeds a predefined threshold of the parameters / multiple parameters, the anomaly is determined.

[0007] In different embodiments of the invention, the second server is adapted to determine the action for the anomaly when the anomaly is classified under a recoverable alert.

[0008] In an embodiment of the invention, the action transmitted to the container includes a shutdown-restart action.

[0009] In another embodiment of the invention, the second server is adapted to provide diagnostic services to the container using a bidirectional communication channel.

[0010] In another embodiment of the invention, the one or more articles and the device are placed in one or more boxes, and the one or more boxes are placed in the container.

[0011] In another embodiment of the invention, the action received by the container is performed by the container to maintain the desired atmospheric conditions within the one or more boxes.

[0012] In another embodiment of the invention, the container is adapted to sense the parameter / multiple parameters in the container and transmit the information of the sensed parameter / multiple parameters to the second server.

[0013] In different embodiments of the present invention, the information of the sensed parameter / multiple parameters in the container and the information of the sensed parameter / multiple parameters in the one or more boxes are different, wherein the container and the device sense the parameter / multiple parameters independently.

[0014] In another embodiment of the invention, the container and the device include a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor and / or a pressure sensor.

[0015] In another embodiment of the invention, the parameter / multiple parameters sensed by the device and the container include temperature parameters, humidity parameters, carbon dioxide parameters and / or pressure parameters.

[0016] Various embodiments of the present invention describe a method for monitoring one or more items. The method includes the steps of: receiving information from a device about sensed parameters / multiple parameters of the one or more items. Furthermore, the one or more items are placed inside a container. The method further includes the step of: a first server determining an anomaly associated with the one or more items based on the information about the sensed parameters / multiple parameters. The method further includes the step of: transmitting the determined anomaly to a second server. Furthermore, the second server determines an action in response to the anomaly and transmits the action to the container to correct the anomaly.

[0017] In an embodiment of the present invention, if the information of the sensed parameter / multiple parameters of the one or more items exceeds a predefined threshold of the parameter / multiple parameters, then the anomaly is determined.

[0018] In different embodiments of the invention, the second server determines the action for the anomaly when the anomaly is classified under a recoverable alert.

[0019] In an embodiment of the present invention, the action transmitted from the second server to the container includes a shutdown-restart action.

[0020] In another embodiment of the invention, the one or more articles and the device are placed in one or more boxes, and the one or more boxes are placed inside the container.

[0021] In another embodiment of the present invention, the container senses the parameter / multiple parameters in the container and transmits the information of the sensed parameter / multiple parameters to the second server.

[0022] In an embodiment of the present invention, the second server provides diagnostic services to the container using a bidirectional communication channel.

[0023] In different embodiments of the invention, the information of the sensed parameters / parameters in the container is different from the information of the sensed parameters / parameters of the one or more items placed in the one or more boxes. Furthermore, the container and the device sense the parameters / parameters independently.

[0024] In another embodiment of the invention, a computer-readable medium for monitoring 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 executable by the one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to receive information about sensed parameters / parameters of the one or more items from a device. Furthermore, the one or more items are placed within a container. The one or more processors are also configured to have a first server determine an anomaly associated with the one or more items based on the information about the sensed parameters / parameters, and to pass the determined anomaly to a second server. Furthermore, the second server determines an action in response to the anomaly and passes the action to the container to correct the anomaly.

[0025] This overview is provided to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form, as further described below in the detailed description. This overview is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0026] Other aspects, advantages, and key features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments disclosed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 An exemplary system architecture according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0028] Figure 2 A block diagram depicts different components of an exemplary device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 3 A block diagram depicts different components of an exemplary first server according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 4 A block diagram depicts the different components of an exemplary second server according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 5 An exemplary flowchart according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted, illustrating a method for performing the invention.

[0032] Throughout the accompanying drawings, the corresponding reference numerals indicate the relevant parts. Detailed Implementation

[0033] This document describes a technology having a system and method for monitoring items placed within one or more boxes and taking necessary actions / multiple actions to control atmospheric conditions within the one or more boxes. One or more items may be placed in each of the one or more boxes. Additionally, devices may be placed within each of the one or more boxes. Each of the one or more boxes may be placed in a container. Each device within the one or more boxes can sense parameters / multiple parameters of one or more items within each of the one or more boxes, and can transmit information about the sensed parameters / multiple parameters to a first server. Upon receiving information about the sensed parameters / multiple parameters, the first server can determine an anomaly associated with the one or more items based on the sensed parameters / multiple parameters. Specifically, the first server can determine an anomaly when the information about the sensed parameters / multiple parameters exceeds a predefined threshold of the sensed parameters / multiple parameters.

[0034] When the first server identifies an anomaly, it can pass the identified anomaly to the second server. The second server can determine the appropriate action to take in response to the anomaly and can then pass the determined action to the container (e.g., to the container's transport refrigeration unit). Therefore, the container can implement actions to correct the anomaly.

[0035] As used herein, one or more items may be placed in one or more boxes. Furthermore, one or more items may be usable / consumable by the end consumer. Alternatively, one or more items may include content for consumption or use by the end consumer. In this case, such items may be bottles or boxes having liquid, solid, or semi-solid content, or any such items as known in the art. The items or their contents may be intended for any kind of consumption / use and may be pharmaceutical items / contents, liquid items / contents, edible items / contents, lotions, emulsions, tablets, or any such items / contents known in the art.

[0036] As used herein, the device can be located anywhere within each of one or more boxes (in which one or more items are placed). Furthermore, the device can have the capability to sense parameters / multiple parameters of one or more items placed within the one or more boxes, and can also have the capability to transmit information of the sensed parameters / multiple parameters to a first server via a network. Additionally, the device can include, but is not limited to, a transmitter, a receiver, sensors / multiple sensors, a battery, memory, and / or a processor.

[0037] As used herein, one or more boxes may be used to store or preserve one or more items. Boxes are adapted to provide a suitable / desired environment for one or more items and may be placed inside containers.

[0038] As used herein, the container can be a trailer or any vehicle capable of transporting one or more items. Furthermore, the container may include a transport refrigeration unit (TRU) responsible for controlling operations / functions within the container and thereby helping to provide a suitable / desired environment to one or more boxes placed inside. The container's TRU may have the ability to interact with a second server via a network.

[0039] As used herein, the first server and the second server have processing capabilities as further disclosed in the specification. The first server and the second server may be cloud storage devices, remote databases, or any such storage devices known in the art.

[0040] As used herein, "network" can refer to a wired network, a mesh network, a cellular network (such as a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network, a Long Term Evolution (LTE) network, a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) network, Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) technology or Category M1 technology), a Bluetooth network, a WiFi network, a ZigBee network, or any such network / technology known in the art.

[0041] Throughout the instruction manual, reference numeral 104 depicts different boxes. Each of reference numerals 104A-104C can be considered a separate box. Similarly, throughout the instruction manual, reference numeral 108 depicts different devices. Each of reference numerals 108A-108C can be considered a separate device. Likewise, throughout the instruction manual, reference numeral 110 depicts different articles. Each of reference numerals 110A-110H can be considered a separate article.

[0042] Figure 1 An exemplary system architecture 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted. For example... Figure 1 As depicted, container 102 may include a transport refrigeration unit 118, and one or more boxes 104 may be placed inside container 102. Furthermore, the one or more boxes 104 may also hold or store one or more items 110. As can be seen, first box 104A may store items 110A, 110B, and 110C, second box 104B may store items 110D, 110E, and 110F, and third box 104C may store items 110G and 110H. Additionally, device 108 may be located / placed in each of the one or more boxes 104. As an example, first device 108A may be placed inside first box 104A, second device 108B may be placed inside second box 104B, and third device 108C may be placed inside third box 104C.

[0043] Each device 108 in one or more boxes 104 can sense parameters / multiple parameters of one or more items 110 placed within one or more boxes 104, and can transmit the sensed parameters / multiple parameters to a first server 112 via network 114A. The exemplary Table 1A below depicts exemplary parameters / multiple parameters (of items 110A, 110B, 110C placed within the first box 104A) sensed by device 108A within the first box 104A and the information of the sensed parameters / multiple parameters transmitted to the first server 112.

[0044] Parameters sensed by device 108A Information associated with parameter / multiple parameters time 2020-01-30; 11:00 AM Temperature parameters 5 degrees Celsius Humidity parameters 54 grams per cubic meter or grams per kilogram Carbon dioxide parameters 252 parts per million (ppm) Pressure parameters 102 kilopascals (kPA)

[0045] Example Table 1A.

[0046] Similarly, the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 can also sense parameters / parameters within container 102 (in which one or more boxes 104 are placed), and can transmit the sensed parameters / parameters information to the second server 116 via network 114C. The exemplary Table 1B below depicts the parameters / parameters sensed by the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 (for the first box 104A, the second box 104B, and the third box 104C) and the information of the sensed parameters / parameters transmitted to the second server 116. As used herein, the parameters / parameters sensed by device 108 and transport refrigeration unit 118 may include, but are not limited to, temperature parameters, humidity parameters, carbon dioxide parameters, and / or pressure parameters.

[0047] Parameters sensed by the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 Information associated with parameter / multiple parameters time 2020-01-30; 11:00 AM Container unique identifier 118 Temperature parameters 8 degrees Celsius Humidity parameters 60 grams per cubic meter or grams per kilogram Carbon dioxide parameters 258 parts per million (ppm) Pressure parameters 105 kilopascals (kPA)

[0048] Example Table 1B.

[0049] Each of the devices 108 and / or transport refrigeration units 118 in container 102 may respectively include a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature parameter, a humidity sensor for sensing a humidity parameter, a carbon dioxide sensor for sensing a carbon dioxide parameter, and / or a pressure sensor for sensing pressure parameters within one or more boxes 104 and within container 102. Measurement of other parameters is also within the scope of this invention. In an exemplary embodiment, the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 may sense parameter / multiple parameters and periodically transmit information of the sensed parameter / multiple parameters to a second server 116, and / or device 108A may sense parameter / multiple parameters and periodically transmit information of the sensed parameter / multiple parameters to a first server 112. For example, transport refrigeration unit 118 and / or device 108A may sense parameter / multiple parameters and transmit information of the sensed parameter / multiple parameters every 30 minutes. In an exemplary alternative embodiment, the transport refrigeration unit 118 may sense parameters / parameters and transmit information about the sensed parameters / parameters to a second server 116 based on an event, and / or the device 108A may sense parameters / parameters and transmit information about the sensed parameters / parameters to a first server 112 based on an event. For example, when the second server 116 sends a request to the transport refrigeration unit 118 of the container 102, the transport refrigeration unit 118 may sense parameters / parameters and transmit information about the sensed parameters / parameters to the second server 116. Similarly, when the first server 112 sends a request to the device 108A to provide information about the sensed parameters / parameters, the device 108A may sense parameters / parameters and transmit such information to the first server 112. Furthermore, as can be seen in the exemplary Tables 1A and 1B above, the transport refrigeration unit 118 and the device 108A of container 102 independently sense parameters / parameters. Therefore, the information regarding temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and / or pressure parameters sensed by the transport refrigeration unit 118 and / or device 108A of container 102 is different, because the transport refrigeration unit 118 senses the parameters / parameters within container 102, and the device 108A senses the parameters / parameters within box 104A. This embodiment of the invention provides the following technical advantage: accurate / effective determination of the parameters being sensed and maintained within box 104 and within container 102.

[0050] When the first server 112 receives information about parameters / parameters sensed by device 108A, the first server 112 can determine an anomaly associated with one or more items 110A, 110B, 110C placed in the first box 104A based on the information about parameters / parameters sensed by device 108A. To determine the anomaly, the first server 112 compares information about each of the sensed parameters / parameters with a predefined threshold for each of the parameters / parameters to determine whether the information about the sensed parameters / parameters of one or more items 110 exceeds the predefined threshold for the parameter / parameter. Such predefined thresholds for each of the parameters / parameters can be configured by the owner of one or more items 110, the transporter of one or more items 110, the manufacturer of one or more items 110, or by any such person associated with one or more items 110. The exemplary Table 2 below depicts the predefined thresholds for each of the parameters / parameters.

[0051] Parameters / Multiple parameters The parameters sensed by the transport cooling unit 118 / predefined threshold values ​​of multiple parameters The parameters sensed by device 108 / predefined threshold values ​​of multiple parameters Temperature parameters 15 degrees Celsius 10 degrees Celsius Humidity parameters 30 grams per cubic meter or grams per kilogram 30 grams per cubic meter or grams per kilogram Carbon dioxide parameters 240 parts per million (ppm) 240 parts per million (ppm) Pressure parameters 90 kilopascals (kPA) 90 kilopascals (kPA)

[0052] Example Table 2.

[0053] Considering the exemplary first scenario, in Tables 1A and 2 above, the first server 112 can compare the information of each of the sensed temperature parameters / multiple temperature parameters with a predefined threshold for the temperature parameters / multiple temperature parameters. By comparison, the first server 112 can determine anomalies associated with items 110A, 110B, and 110C placed in the first box 104A because the information of the temperature parameters / multiple temperature parameters sensed by device 108A (i.e., 5 degrees Celsius) is below the predefined threshold for the temperature parameters / multiple temperature parameters (i.e., 10 degrees Celsius). Considering the exemplary second scenario, where the information of the temperature parameters / multiple temperature parameters sensed by device 108A is 30 degrees Celsius. In this scenario, the first server 112 can again determine anomalies associated with items 110A, 110B, and 110C placed in the first box 104A because the information of the temperature parameters / multiple temperature parameters sensed by device 108A (i.e., 30 degrees Celsius) is above the predefined threshold for the temperature parameters / multiple temperature parameters (i.e., 10 degrees Celsius). Similarly, the first server 112 can compare information from other sensed parameters / parameters with a predefined threshold for the specific parameter / parameters and can identify anomalies. Furthermore, when the first server 112 does not identify any anomalies (i.e., when the information from each of the sensed parameters / parameters does not exceed the predefined threshold for that parameter / parameters), the first server 112 may not perform any further action. This embodiment of the invention also provides the following technical advantage: determining whether the item 110 placed in the box 104 and / or container 102 is maintained in a desired environment (i.e., within a predefined threshold).

[0054] When the first server 112 determines an anomaly, it can transmit the determined anomaly to the second server 116 via network 114B. The second server 116 can analyze the anomaly transmitted by the first server 112 and determine the appropriate action. Furthermore, when the anomaly is classified under a recoverable alarm, the second server 116 can determine the appropriate action. The second server 116 then transmits the determined action to the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 via network 114C for anomaly correction. Upon receiving the action, the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 can perform actions to maintain the desired atmospheric conditions within one or more containers 104. Therefore, the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 can implement actions for anomaly correction. Such actions may include, but are not limited to, shutdown-restart actions, automatic calibration actions, temperature change actions, gas release actions, gas release stop actions, or any such actions that are obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0055] As used herein, a shutdown-restart action can refer to an action performed by the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 for automatically shutting down and restarting the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102, device 108, and / or one or more boxes 104. As used herein, a calibration action can refer to an action performed by the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 for automatically performing calibration on the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102. As used herein, a temperature change action can refer to an action performed by the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 for automatically increasing or decreasing the temperature within one or more boxes 104 to maintain desired atmospheric conditions within one or more boxes 104. As used herein, a gas release action can refer to an action performed by the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 for automatically releasing more gas to maintain desired parameters within container 102 and / or one or more boxes 104. As used herein, a stop gas release action can refer to an action performed by the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 for automatically stopping the release of gas from container 102 and / or one or more boxes 104. By performing the aforementioned actions, the identified anomalies can be resolved. This embodiment of the invention provides the following technical advantages: it offers a suitable solution to problems within container 102 and / or one or more boxes 104.

[0056] Considering the exemplary first scenario explained above, the second server 116 can determine an action to increase the temperature inside the first container 104A by 5 degrees Celsius to maintain the temperature inside the first container 104A at a predefined threshold (i.e., 10 degrees Celsius), since the temperature parameter / multiple temperature parameters sensed by the device 108A inside the first container 104A are 10 degrees Celsius. Considering the exemplary second scenario explained above, the second server 116 can determine an action to decrease the temperature inside the first container 104A by 20 degrees Celsius to maintain the temperature inside the first container 104A at a predefined threshold (i.e., 10 degrees Celsius), since the temperature parameter / multiple temperature parameters sensed by the device 108A inside the first container 104A are 30 degrees Celsius. The second server 116 can then transmit the temperature increase / decrease (i.e., change) action to the transport refrigeration unit 118 of the container 102, and the transport refrigeration unit can accordingly increase / decrease the temperature inside the container 104.

[0057] Furthermore, by determining the appropriate actions to correct the anomalies, the second server 116 can provide diagnostic services to the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 using a bidirectional communication channel. The ability of the transport refrigeration unit 118 to use the bidirectional communication channel enables it to transmit information about sensed parameters within container 102 at regular intervals (as described in Table 1B above), and to receive any actions from the second server 116.

[0058] Although the invention has been described in which a first server 112 determines an anomaly and a second server 116 determines an action in response to the anomaly, those skilled in the art will understand that a single server can also determine an anomaly and also determine an action in response to the anomaly. In other words, the first server 112 and the second server 116 may represent a single server for determining the anomaly and the action, rather than two different servers.

[0059] Figure 2 A block diagram depicts various components of an exemplary device 108 placed within a housing 104 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Device 108 may include, but is not limited to, a communication unit 202, sensors / multiple sensors 204, a battery 206, a memory 208, and / or a processor 210. Sensors / multiple sensors 204 may include a temperature sensor adapted to sense a temperature parameter, a humidity sensor adapted to sense a humidity parameter, a carbon dioxide sensor adapted to sense a carbon dioxide parameter, and / or a pressure sensor adapted to sense a pressure parameter within one or more housings 104. Sensors / multiple sensors 204 may transmit the sensed parameters / multiple parameters to the processor 210, and the processor 210 may be adapted to determine information about the sensed parameters / multiple parameters, which may then be transmitted to the communication unit 202. Communication unit 202 may be adapted to transmit the sensed parameter / multiple parameter information to a first server 112 via a network 114A. Communication unit 202 may also be adapted to receive a request from the first server 112 to provide information about the sensed parameters / multiple parameters. Battery 206 may be adapted to provide power to device 108. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication unit 202 may be a transceiver. The memory 208 may be adapted to store information about the sensed parameters / multiple parameters.

[0060] Furthermore, the communication unit 202, the sensor / multiple sensors 204, the battery 206, and / or the memory 208 may be communicatively coupled to the processor 210. The different units described herein are exemplary. The invention can be performed using one or more units. For example, a task performed by the communication unit 202, the sensor / multiple sensors 204, the battery 206, the memory 208, and / or the processor 210 may be performed by a single unit. Alternatively, a greater number of units as described herein may be used to perform the invention.

[0061] Figure 3A block diagram depicts various components of an exemplary first server 112 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The first server 112 may include, but is not limited to, a transmitter 302, a receiver 304, an anomaly detection unit 306, a memory 308, and / or a processor 310. The receiver 304 may be adapted to receive information of sensed parameters / parameters from one or more devices 108 via a network 114A. The receiver 304 may transmit the information of the sensed parameters / parameters to the anomaly detection unit 306. The anomaly detection unit 306 may be adapted to determine an anomaly based on the information of the sensed parameters / parameters as described above, and may transmit the determined anomaly to the transmitter 302. The transmitter 302 may be adapted to transmit the determined anomaly to a second server 116 via a network 114B. The memory 308 may be adapted to store the determined anomaly.

[0062] Furthermore, transmitter 302, receiver 304, anomaly detection unit 306, and / or memory 308 may be communicatively coupled to processor 310. The different units described herein are exemplary. The invention may be performed using one or more units. For example, a task performed by transmitter 302, receiver 304, anomaly detection unit 306, and / or memory 308 and / or processor 310 may be performed by a single unit. Alternatively, a greater number of units as described herein may be used to perform the invention.

[0063] Figure 4 A block diagram depicts various components of an exemplary second server 116 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The second server 116 may include, but is not limited to, a transmitter 402, a receiver 404, an action determination unit 406, a memory 408, and / or a processor 410. The receiver 404 may be adapted to receive information about sensed parameters / parameters from the transport refrigeration unit 118 of the container 102 via a network 114C. The receiver 404 may also be adapted to receive determined anomalies from a first server via a network 114B. The receiver 404 may transmit the determined anomalies to the action determination unit 406. The action determination unit 406 may be adapted to determine an action in response to the determined anomaly, such as... Figure 1 As explained herein, the action can be transmitted to transmitter 402. Transmitter 402 may be adapted to transmit the action to transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102 via network 114C. Memory 408 may be adapted to store the determined action.

[0064] Furthermore, transmitter 402, receiver 404, motion determination unit 406, and / or memory 408 may be communicatively coupled to processor 410. The different units described herein are exemplary. The invention can be performed using one or more units. For example, a task performed by transmitter 402, receiver 404, motion determination unit 406, and / or memory 408 and / or processor 410 may be performed by a single unit. Alternatively, a greater number of units as described herein may be used to perform the invention.

[0065] Figure 5 A flowchart outlining the features of the invention in exemplary embodiments is depicted. Method flowchart 500 describes a method for monitoring one or more items 110 placed within one or more boxes 104. Method flowchart 500 begins at step 502.

[0066] In step 504, the first server 112 can receive information about sensed parameters / multiple parameters of one or more items 110 from the device 108 via network 114A. One or more items 110 placed in one or more boxes 104 and one or more boxes 104 can be placed inside the container 102. This has already been stated above. Figure 1 The text explains this in more detail.

[0067] In step 506, the first server 112 can determine anomalies associated with one or more items 110 based on information from the sensed parameters / multiple parameters. This has already been stated above. Figure 1 The text explains this in more detail.

[0068] In step 508, the first server 112 can transmit the identified anomaly to the second server 116 via network 114B. The second server 116 can determine an action in response to the anomaly and transmit the action to container 102 (i.e., to the transport refrigeration unit 118 of container 102) to correct the anomaly. This has already been stated above. Figure 1 The following explains this in more detail, and then the method flowchart 500 can end at 510.

[0069] This invention is applicable to the pharmaceutical industry, cosmetics industry, food industry, and any industry that produces environmentally sensitive articles / contents, and is known in the art. The embodiments of the invention discussed herein are exemplary, and various modifications and variations will fall within the scope of this invention for those skilled in the art.

[0070] In one embodiment of the invention, the invention may be operated using one or more computer-readable devices. The one or more computer-readable devices may be associated with a first server 112. The computer-readable medium includes one or more processors and memory coupled to the one or more processors, the memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to receive information from device 108 regarding sensed parameters / parameters of one or more items 110 placed within container 102. The one or more processors are configured to be used by the first server 112 to determine anomalies associated with the one or more items 110 based on the sensed parameters / parameters information. The one or more processors are also configured to pass the determined anomalies to a second server 116. The second server 116 may determine an action in response to the anomaly and pass the action to container 102 to correct the anomaly.

[0071] Exemplary computer-readable media include flash memory drives, digital versatile discs (DVDs), compact discs (CDs), floppy disks, and cassette tapes. 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 using 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 in hardware and do not include carrier waves and propagation signals. Computer storage media used for the purposes of this invention are not signals themselves. Exemplary computer storage media include hard disks, flash memory drives, and other solid-state memories. In contrast, communication media typically embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in the form of modulated data signals (such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms) and include any information delivery medium.

[0072] Although described in conjunction with exemplary computing system environments, examples of the present invention can be implemented 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 in the form of 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 a particular task or implement a particular abstract data type. Aspects of the present invention can be implemented with any number and organization of such components or modules. 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 having 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 the instructions described herein.

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

[0075] As used in this subject matter specification, the term "processor" can refer substantially to any computing processing unit or device, including, but not limited to, single-core processors, single-processors with software multithreading capabilities, multi-core processors, multi-core processors with software multithreading capabilities, multi-core processors with hardware multithreading technology, parallel platforms, and parallel platforms with distributed shared memory. Additionally, a processor can refer to the following 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. Processors can employ nanoscale architectures (such as, but not limited to, molecular and quantum dot-based transistors, switches, and gates) to optimize space utilization or enhance the performance of user equipment. Processors can also be implemented as a combination of computing processing units.

[0076] In this subject matter specification, terms such as “data storage,” “data storage device,” “database,” “cache,” and virtually any other information storage component relating to the operation and functionality of a component refer to a “memory component” or an entity implemented in “memory” or a component that includes memory. It will be understood that the memory component or computer-readable storage medium described herein can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, non-volatile memory may include read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory may include random access memory (RAM), which acts as an external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM may be available in many forms, such as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), dual data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), synchronous link DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct memory bus RAM (DRRAM). In addition, the memory components disclosed in the systems or methods herein are intended to include, but are not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0077] When introducing elements or examples of aspects of the invention, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean the presence of one or more of the stated elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. The term “exemplary” is intended to mean “an example of…”. The phrase “one or more of the following: A, B, and C” means “at least one of A and / or at least one of B and / or at least one of C.”

[0078] Having described aspects of the invention in detail, it will be understood that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Since various changes can be made to the above constructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, everything intended to be included in the above description and shown in the drawings should be interpreted illustratively and not in a restrictive sense.

[0079] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or actions, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. Rather, the specific features and actions described above are disclosed as examples of implementing the claims, and other equivalent features and actions are intended to fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A system for monitoring items, the system comprising a container, one or more bins placed within the container, a device located in one of the one or more bins, a first server and a second server, wherein: - the device is adapted to sense a parameter / parameters of one or more items placed within the one bin and to transmit information of the sensed parameter / parameters of the one or more items to the first server; - the container is adapted to sense a parameter / parameters in the container and to transmit information of the sensed parameter / parameters in the container to the second server, wherein the information of the sensed parameter / parameters in the container and the information of the sensed parameter / parameters of the one or more items are different; - the first server is adapted to determine an anomaly associated with the one or more items based on the information of the sensed parameter / parameters of the one or more items and to communicate the determined anomaly to the second server; and - the second server is adapted to determine an action for the anomaly and to communicate the action to the container for rectifying the anomaly.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein, The anomaly is determined if the information of the sensed parameter / parameters of the one or more items exceeds a predefined threshold of the parameter / parameters.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein, The second server is adapted to determine the action for the anomaly when the anomaly is classified under a recoverable alert.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein, The action communicated to the container comprises a shut-down-restart action.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein, The second server is adapted to provide diagnostic services to the container using a two-way communication channel.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein, The system comprises a plurality of the devices, each device located in one of the one or more bins.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein, The action received by the container is executed by the container to maintain a desired atmospheric condition within the one or more bins.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein, The container and the device independently sense the parameter / parameters.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein, The container and the device comprise a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor and / or a pressure sensor.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein, The parameter / parameters sensed by the device and the container comprise a temperature parameter, a humidity parameter, a carbon dioxide parameter and / or a pressure parameter.

11. A method for monitoring items, comprising: - receiving information of sensed parameter / parameters of one or more items from a device, the device located in one of one or more bins placed within a container, the one or more items being placed within the one bin; - receiving information of sensed parameter / parameters in the container from the container, wherein the information of the sensed parameter / parameters in the container and the information of the sensed parameter / parameters of the one or more items are different; - determining, by a first server, an anomaly associated with the one or more items based on the information of the sensed parameter / parameters of the one or more items; and - determining, by a second server, an action for the anomaly based on the information of the sensed parameter / parameters of the one or more items and the information of the sensed parameter / parameters in the container. - passing the determined anomaly to a second server, wherein the second server determines an action for the anomaly and passes the action to the container for rectifying the anomaly.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The anomaly is determined if the information of the sensed parameter / parameters of the one or more items exceeds a predefined threshold of the parameter / parameters.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein, The second server determines the action for the anomaly when the anomaly is classified under a recoverable alert.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein, The action passed by the second server to the container includes a shut-down-restart action.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein, There are multiple said devices, each device is located in one of the one or more bins.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein, The container senses parameters / parameters in the container and transmits information of the sensed parameters / parameters to the second server.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein, The second server provides diagnostic services to the container using a two-way communication channel.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein, The container and the devices independently sense the parameters / parameters.

19. A computer readable medium comprising 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 configured to: receive information of sensed parameters / parameters of one or more items from a device, the device is located in one of one or more bins placed inside a container, the one or more items are placed inside the one bin; receive information of sensed parameters / parameters in the container from the container, wherein the information of sensed parameters / parameters in the container and the information of sensed parameters / parameters of the one or more items are different; determine, by a first server, an anomaly associated with the one or more items based on the information of sensed parameters / parameters of the one or more items; and pass the determined anomaly to a second server, wherein the second server determines an action for the anomaly and passes the action to the container for rectifying the anomaly.

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