A monitoring device for a package in transit

Abstract

A monitoring device 102 for a package in transit comprises a unit 110 for determining orientation, velocity, and position through the measurement of linear and angular motion such as an inertial measu

Description

Field of the invention

[001] The invention relates to a monitoring device for a package in transit. In particular, the invention relates to a monitoring device for integration within a package to detect and record shocks, impacts, changes in orientation, and other handling conditions during transit. Furthermore, the invention relates to a comprehensive monitoring system for packages in transit, including monitoring devices, mobile applications and cloud-based platforms, for visualising, analysing and managing the collected data. Background of the invention

[002] Online shopping has revolutionised the way we purchase goods. Customers can access a vast array of products, compare prices, and arrange delivery to their doorsteps, all from the comfort of their homes. Many online retailers provide order tracking options. Customers typically receive a confirmation email with a tracking number that allows the customers to monitor the whereabouts of products in real-time. This transparency keeps customers informed about the estimated delivery timeframe and provides peace of mind throughout the fulfilment process.

[003] Online shopping is undoubtedly a convenience, but it is not without drawbacks. Packages are sorted, loaded, and unloaded throughout the shipping journey. Rough handling by shipping carriers can damage fragile items. Inadequate packaging materials can leave products vulnerable to crushing, bending, or breaking during transport. Even new products can have inherent manufacturing defects that may not be apparent until they are received by the customer. Damaged goods translate to lost profits, frustrated customers, and a tarnished reputation for the seller.

[004] Products such as large household appliances are one of the products that frequently break down during distribution. Unlike smaller items, damage to large appliances may not be immediately apparent upon delivery. Dents, cracks, or misalignments might be hidden beneath packaging, and internal malfunctions might only surface after installation or use.

[005] If product damage occurs during the distribution process, determining whether the fault lies with the manufacturer or distributor can complicate the compensation process for the customer. Typically, a factory manufacturing a product undergoes a verification process to assess its quality at the final stage of production. If the inspection confirms the product’s integrity, it is then shipped from the factory and distributed to the end consumer. This process ensures that manufacturers verify the product’s quality before shipping it out. However, if defects arise after distribution, proving whether the manufacturer or distributer is liable for damages can be challenging, especially if no issues were identified during factory inspections.

[006] Of course, packages are transported for a great many different reasons, not only in response to online shopping. The problems outlined above and the solutions provided below are applicable to all forms of shipping and transportation of goods, including the transportation of high-value, fragile, and sensitive goods.

[007] A system is therefore needed that can enable senders and recipients to track where and when a package is damaged, if it is damaged during transit.

[008] Attempts have been made to provide such systems. For example, specially manufactured stickers can be applied to the external surfaces of packaging, which irrevocably change colour in the event that they experience shocks or are tipped beyond a certain angle. These can indicate that a potentially damaging incident has occurred at some point since the stickers were affixed, but do not give any more precise information about the location or time of the damage. If a package has been handled by more than one courier over the course of its journey, such stickers do not help identify the liable party. Furthermore, such stickers can be deliberately activated by the receiver, for example in an attempt to commit insurance fraud.

[009] Tracking devices have also been produced, to be secured to an external face of a package to be transported, which provide more precise information about the nature, time and location of potentially damaging occurrences. These do not last long because of their heavy power consumption requirements, often making use of 5G networks, and they are susceptible to accidental or deliberate interference during transit because they are external to the packages. Furthermore, the information they supply is complicated and difficult to interpret, and is not automatically available to the end user.

[010] These limitations of the prior art underscore the necessity for innovative technologies that provide transparency in the shipping, logistics, storage, and courage sectors. There is also a need for a system and device that provides realtime monitoring of tilt, tip, acceleration, and shock throughout a package’s journey. Furthermore, there is a need for a system which eliminates the ambiguities in dispute resolution regarding where and when damaging incidents occurred during transit. Finally, there is a need for a system that allows shipping companies to refine their processes and enhance their service levels for customers. Summary of invention

[011] A first aspect of the invention provides a monitoring device for a package in transit comprising: a unit for determining orientation, velocity, and position through the measurement of linear and angular motion; a low power wireless communication module; a data storage unit; a real-time clock; and an electrical energy storage device; all contained within a housing.

[012] The present invention provides a single device within an easy-to-handle housing, containing all of the components necessarily to effectively and usefully track the conditions of a package over time, and to communicate this information either in real-time or when in communications range with a suitable receiver. The device should preferably have the size and dimensions which render it suitable to be attached to a product being packaged, beneath or within the packaging, so that it is protected from interference in transit.

[013] In some embodiments, the unit for determining orientation, velocity, and position through the measurement of linear and angular momentum comprises an inertial measurement unit comprising at least one accelerometer and at least one gyroscope associated with at least one of the pitch, yaw and roll axes of the housing. The inertial measurement unit may comprise an accelerometer and a gyroscope for each of the pitch, yaw and roll axes of the housing.

[014] Thus, the device can sense when the package with which it is in transit experiences excessive tipping or sudden force, for example, which may result in damage.

[015] In some embodiments, the low power wireless communication module includes a Bluetooth Low Energy module, and preferably a peripheral module.

[016] This is particularly advantageous because of the low power requirements of Bluetooth Low Energy modules, which means that the device can continue to operate for long periods of time compared with the prior art, even when supplied with a relatively small power source. It is further advantageous because of the wide compatibility of Bluetooth communications with readily available and commonly owned user devices, such as smart phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, and many others. The device can store data throughout the shipping procedure, and upload the data to a central server whenever it comes within range of a suitable Bluetooth receiver.

[017] In some embodiments, the low range wireless communication module includes a LoRaWAN module.

[018] This is particularly advantageous because of the low power requirements of LoRaWAN communication, which means that the device can continue to operate for long periods of time compared with the prior art, even when supplied with a relatively small power source. It is further advantageous because of the long range of LoRa communication equipment. The device is likely to be in constant range of a suitable receiver during many transit operations, in which case a central server can be updated in real time. Furthermore, LoRa devices can be used for precise location pinpointing when in range of three receivers.

[019] Where the central server is being updated in real time, potentially damaging incidents can be detected immediately, which may provide the opportunity for immediate remedial action to be taken, before a damaged item is delivered to the recipient.

[020] In some embodiments, the electrical energy storage device is a battery, preferably a coin battery

[021] Coin type batteries are particularly advantageous because they are substantially flat, which contributes to enabling the housing to be relatively small in at least one dimension, which makes it easier to insert within the packaging of a package without increasing the volume of the package in any significant way. Similarly, coin type batteries are relatively light-weight, which contributes to enabling the monitoring device to be relatively light-weight so as not to contribute to the weight of a package in any significant way.

[022] In some embodiments, the housing is suitable for insertion into the packaging of a package.

[023] As already discussed, suitability for insertion into the packaging of a package is determined by size and weight, but also by robustness. A device suitable for insertion into the packaging of a package is preferably small, light-weight and capable of withstanding the forces experienced by packages in transit.

[024] In some embodiments the housing is not more than 40 x 40 x 8 mm.

[025] These dimensions, particularly the very small thickness of 8 mm, render the housing eminently suitable for insertion into the packaging of a package, since it will not contribute in any significant way to the shape or volume of the package. More generally, it is preferable that the housing should be between 4 and 15 mm thick, and more particularly between 6 and 10 mm thick, so as to fit conveniently into the packaging. It is preferable that the length and width of the housing not exceed 80 mm, and even more preferable that the not exceed 60 mm, so as to be transportable with even quite small items. Brief description of the drawings

[026] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to certain preferred embodiments and the following figures:

[027] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a monitoring device for monitoring a package in transit according to an embodiment of the invention.

[028] Figures 2A to 2E depict different views of a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[029] Figure 2F depicts an exemplary dashboard of a user profile according to an embodiment of a monitoring system for use with monitoring devices of the invention.

[030] Figure 3 is a flowchart of a method for tracking damage to a package in transit, using an embodiment of the invention. Detailed description

[031] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a tracking system 100 for monitoring a product to be shipped. In one embodiment herein, the tracking system 100 is configured to enhance package monitoring, provide accurate handling visualizations, comprehensive data management, and improved delivery insights. The tracking system 100 comprises a tracking device 102, and one or more user devices 104. The tracking device 102 is configured to be installed within a package of the product for monitoring throughout a shipping process, thereby providing real-time data of the product to both a sender and a recipient and ensuring continuous tracking and monitoring until the package reaches its final destination.

[032] An embodiment of the first aspect, the tracking device 102 is configured to be installed inside a package of a product. The tracking device 102 comprises a housing 116, a monitoring unit 110, a time tracker unit 112, a control unit 114, and at least one power source 120. The housing 116 has a compartment for storing the power source 120. The power source 120 is configured to supply electrical power to the tracking device 102.

[033] The monitoring unit 110 is disposed within the housing 116. The monitoring unit 110 is configured to detect the data related to the product. The data includes one or more parameters of the product such as shocks and impacts on the product, and changes in orientation of the product in the package.

[034] The time tracker unit 112 is disposed within the housing 116. The time tracker unit 112 is configured to associate the data related to the product with a time stamp to maintain accurate log data, thereby creating a detailed and accurate log of the product's condition and handling history throughout the shipping process.

[035] The control unit 114 is disposed within the housing 116. The control unit 114 is in communication with a server 106 through a network 108.

[036] The user devices 104 are configured to receive the damage analysis report from the control unit 114 or the server 106 through the network 108. The user devices 104 are further configured to receive visual representation data of the potential breakage, issues, and faults based on the data related to the product. The user devices 104 are further configured to receive estimated delivery time for the product to deliver. It should be understood that all data collected by the monitoring device is received by the user devices, not only data relating to potential damage events.

[037] It will be apparent to the skilled reader that both the sender and the receiver receive the data from the monitoring device, via the server, as a matter of course, without having to request it. This is a considerable improvement in terms of transparency compared with the prior art, and will foster trust and accountability in the shipping process.

[038] The tracking device 102 comprises a memory unit 118 disposed within the housing 116. The memory unit 118 is configured to store the data related to the product with the time stamp collected by the monitoring unit 110, and the time tracker unit 112. The power source 120 is configured to power the tracking device 102. In one embodiment, the control unit 114 comprises a microcontroller and the memory unit 118.

[039] In some embodiments, the memory unit 118 and the server 106 can refer to any tangible storage and / or transmission medium that participates in providing instructions to the microcontroller for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media includes, for example, non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), or magnetic or optical disks. Volatile media includes dynamic memory, such as main memory. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, or any other magnetic medium, magneto-optical medium, a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a random access memory (RAM), a programmable read only memory (PROM), and erasable programmable read only memory EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, a solid state medium like a memory card, any other memory chip or cartridge.

[040] The monitoring unit 110 comprises an inertial measurement unit (IMU). The IMU comprises at least one of accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers. The monitoring unit 110 is preferably a self-calibrating 6-axis IMU.

[041] The time tracker unit 112 is a real-time clock (RTC) that is disposed within the tracking device 102. The RTC maintains accurate time and date information, even when the tracking device 102 is powered off.

[042] The server 106 comprises a data processing module 122 that is configured to process the data related to the product with the time stamp to generate the visual representation data of the potential breakage, issues, and faults.

[043] The data processing module 122 is configured to detect anomalies in product’s condition and handling history throughout the shipping process. The data processing module 122 is configured to provide the visual representation data for the sender and the recipient through a user interface of the one or more users.

[044] The server 106 further comprises a database 124 for storing the data related to the product with the time stamp, the damage analysis report, and the visual representation data of the potential breakage, issues, and faults, wherein the database 124 is in communication with the user devices 104 and the tracking device 102 via the network 108. The database 124 is created from data collected the tracking device 102, providing delivery and material breakage analysis to support industry improvements and changes.

[045] The user devices 104 comprise at least one of smart phones, laptops, computers, and smart watches.

[046] Alternatively, the visual representation data is achieved through the creation of detailed graphs and dynamic simulations, leveraging Blender Add-ons and Python code. These tools enable the visualization of impact and movement with high precision and realism. Blender Add-ons extend Blender’s capabilities, allowing for more advanced data visualization techniques, while Python scripts automate and enhance the process, enabling the creation of custom graphs and simulations. This combination provides a powerful platform for transforming complex datasets into clear, comprehensible visual forms, facilitating better understanding and analysis of the data. The simulations make it easier to understand the cause of any damage, and identify the responsible party.

[047] The user devices 104 and the tracking device 102 are integrated with an application that allows for easy pairing and connection to the tracking device 102 via Bluetooth, offering features such as account management, impact shock and tilt visualization, secure login, data synchronization with cloud storage, and integration with e-commerce or logistics platforms through Application Programming Interfaces (APIs).

[048] The application is configured to display simulated videos of how the package was handled, based on data collected from the IMU, providing visual insights into the package's journey. The memory unit 118 stores collected data until it can be transferred to the user devices 104 or cloud-based platform.

[049] The application includes, but is not limited to, a mobile application, and a web application.

[050] A user is allowed to access the damage analysis report through a user profile via the application. In some embodiments, the user includes the sender and the recipient.

[051] Alternatively, the database 124 can easily be integrated to pre-existing software via simple API.

[052] In some embodiments, the network 108 comprises, but is not limited to, a cellular communication module, a Bluetooth module, a broadcast radio module, a Wi-Fi module, and an infrared communication module. In an alternative embodiment, the network 108 comprises, but is not limited to, a local area network (LAN) module, a wireless personal area network (WPAN) module, and a storage area network (SAN) module.

[053] Preferably, the network 108 includes a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) network that enables wireless communication for data transfer and device interaction, and broadcasts as a beacon for Find My Device compatibility.

[054] Also preferably the network includes a LoRaWAN network for long range wireless communication with low power consumption. The eponymous long range of LoRa communication means that in most circumstances, the monitoring device can be in constant real-time communication with the server, so that the users can receive updated information without being within Bluetooth range of the monitoring device. The low power consumption ensures the monitoring device can continue to work for months.

[055] The user devices 104 and the tracking device 102 may be integrated with a cloud-based platform. The cloud-based platform may comprise a web-based dashboard hosted on Microsoft Azure BI, providing an overview of shipment feedback with key metrics, customizable reports, secure data storage, user management, data export, API access, anomaly detection, alerts, and predictive analytics.

[056] In some embodiments, the user is allowed to access the damage analysis report through the user profile via the user interface. The user profile includes a comprehensive dashboard that provides an overview of all shipment feedback, featuring key metrics such as location, status, tilt, shock, breakages, and time &date. This dashboard offers a centralized view, enabling users to quickly assess the condition and status of their shipments through real-time data and detailed insights. Key metrics are visually represented, making it easy to monitor and analyse shipment performance, identify issues, and take proactive measures to ensure the safe and timely delivery of goods.

[057] In other embodiments, the tracking system 100 provides customizable reports and analytics, allowing users to identify trends and patterns in package handling. Additionally, the tracking system 100 supports integration with existing Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) or Transportation Management Systems (TMS), providing a seamless and optional enhancement to current logistics operations. This integration ensures a comprehensive approach to monitoring and managing the entire supply chain, improving efficiency and accuracy in package tracking and handling.

[058] The server 106 is preferably configured to encrypt the data related to the product with the time stamp, and the damage analysis report. The network 108 includes a communication protocol comprise at least one of Bluetooth, wireless local area network (WLAN), transmission control protocol / internet protocol (TCP / IP), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), global system for mobile communications (GSM), code division multiple access (CDMA), or a combination of both wireless and wired technologies.

[059] Figures 2A to 2E show the housing 116 of the tracking device 102. The housing 116 defines a chamber for securing a printed circuit board 128. The printed circuit board 128 is configured with the monitoring unit 110, the time tracker unit 112, the control unit 114, the memory unit 118 and the power source 120. Further, an indicator 126 is disposed on the housing 116. The indicator 126 is an LED that is electrically connected to the power source 120. The indicator 126 is configured to emit light. In one embodiment, the power source 120 is a 3V coin cell battery. The coin cell battery is designed to power the tracking device 102 for an extended period, ensuring continuous monitoring during the shipment process.

[060] The power source 120 is inserted in the housing 116 by removing a cap 116A. The cap 116A is configured to detachably attach with the housing 116 for insertion and removal of the power source 120.

[061] Figure 2F refers to an exemplary dashboard 130 of the user profile. The tracking device 102 comprises a backend infrastructure comprising server-side software for data processing, storage, analysis, and communication management between the application and the cloud platform, with robust security protocols to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access. Both the sender and receiver can access all collected data, including simulated videos, ensuring transparency in package handling and delivery conditions.

[062] The tracking device 102 is designed to be attached internally to the package, providing comprehensive data visibility to both the sender and the receiver. To optimize battery life, the tracking device 102 utilizes BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) beacons for location tracking.

[063] Additionally, the tracking device 102 creates the database 124 to store detailed information for delivery and material breakage analysis, enabling the implementation of improvements within the industry. The tracking device 102 is also recyclable, aligning with sustainable practices and reducing environmental impact.

[064] Figure 3 refers to a flowchart 300 of a method for tracking damage to a product during shipping process. At step 302, the tracking device 102 is installed inside the package containing the product. The method comprises, detecting, by the monitoring unit 110, the data related to the product, as depicted in step 304. The data includes the parameters of the product such as shocks and impacts on the product, and changes in orientation of the product in the package.

[065] The method comprises, associating, by the time tracker unit 112, the data related to the product with the time stamp to maintain accurate log data, thereby creating a detailed and accurate log of the product's condition and handling history throughout the shipping process, depicted in step 306. The method comprises, generating, by the control unit 114, a damage analysis report for the product automatically based on the data related to the parameters of the product with the time stamp, and images or video captured by the capturing units, depicted in step 308.

[066] The method comprises, establishing, by the control unit 114, a communication with the user devices 104 through the network 108 to send the generated damage analysis report to the sender and the recipient, depicted in step 310. The method comprises, generating by the control unit 114, a signal for tracking a location of the product in real-time, depicted in step 312. The method comprises estimating, by the control unit 114, a delivery time to for the product to reach its final destination and transfer delivery information to the sender and the recipient, depicted in step 314.

[067] The tracking device 102 has the potential to radically disrupt and revolutionize the logistics and shipping industry. This device is securely fixed to the interior of a shipment, requiring the shipment to be physically opened for removal. This design makes it nearly impossible to tamper with the device without leaving clear visual evidence at each handover point or upon arrival at the final destination. In many jurisdictions it is illegal for couriers to open packages without the permission of the recipient.

[068] The tracking device 102 presents data in easily digestible formats, including animations that visually demonstrate the tip, tilt, acceleration, or impact experienced by the shipment. This innovation aims to create complete transparency in the logistics, shipping, courier, and storage sectors, ensuring that recipients and insurance companies can rely on the security it provides for their important cargo. It eliminates any ambiguity regarding when and where incidents occurred during the shipment's journey.

[069] By monitoring shipments at all points in their journey, through each handover and storage point, the tracking device 102 ensures safe delivery. It offers a cost-effective and widely accessible solution, poised to revolutionize the industry by providing unprecedented levels of transparency and security.

[070] The system disclosed herein benefits not only sellers and recipients, but also couriers, since it provides evidence of proper handling where this is the case. This can be crucial when making insurance claims or when disputes arise between the parties involved in a transaction.

[071] The environmental impact of a given transaction is at least doubled when a replacement is required due to damage. As well as the need to supply a new item, new packaging materials, and an extra shipping journey, the damaged item must be disposed of. Couriers who know the monitoring device of the invention is monitoring their shipment are likely to take more care when transporting it. Aggregated date from devices of the invention across many transactions will also help courier companies improve their processes by identifying weak points. These combined effects will reduce the incidence of damaged goods needing to be replaced, and thus the environmental impact of damaged goods will be reduced.

[072] The tracking device 102 provides a battery life of up to two years, providing long-lasting functionality. Despite robust features, the tracking device 102 is lightweight that is less than 25 grams. Its compact dimensions, measuring 40 mm x 40 mm x 8 mm, ensure that the tracking device 102 can be easily integrated into various products or packages without adding significant bulk. However, these specifications can vary depending on the size, design, and specific requirements of the application. Adjustments in these aspects may influence the battery life, weight, and dimensions to better suit different use cases or design constraints.

[073] The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. The description is intended to enable a skilled person to make the invention, not to limit the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims.

Claims

1. A monitoring device for a package in transit comprising:a unit for determining orientation, velocity, and position through the measurement of linear and angular motion;a low power wireless communication module;a data storage unit;a real-time clock; andan electrical energy storage device;all contained within a housing.

2. A monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein the unit for determining orientation, velocity, and position through the measurement of linear and angular momentum comprises an inertial measurement unit comprising at least one accelerometer and at least one gyroscope associated with at least one of the pitch, yaw and roll axes of the housing.

3. A monitoring device according to claim 2 wherein the inertial measurement unit comprises an accelerometer and a gyroscope for each of the pitch, yaw and roll axes of the housing.

4. A monitoring device according to any preceding claim, wherein the low power wireless communication module includes a Bluetooth Low Energy module.

5. A monitoring device according to any preceding claim, wherein the low power wireless communication module includes a LoRaWAN module.

6. A monitoring device according to claim 4, wherein the Bluetooth Low Energy module is a peripheral module.

7. A monitoring device according to any preceding claim wherein the electricalenergy storage device is a battery.

8. A monitoring device according to claim 6 wherein the battery is a coin battery.

9. A monitoring device according to any preceding claim wherein the housing is suitable for insertion into the packaging of a package.5 10. A monitoring device according to any preceding claim wherein the housingis not more than 40 x 40 x 8 mm.

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