A container system with a low-power wireless door sensor and a telematics device
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an efficient and cost-effective way to monitor the opening and closing of container doors in trailers, particularly in refrigerated trailers, to prevent energy loss and unauthorized access, while avoiding the use of wired connections which add complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A low-power wireless door sensor using a LoRa module for communication with a telematics device, capable of operating at low power levels and specific frequencies to comply with RF regulations, allowing for monitoring of door openings and closings without the need for a gateway device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wired connection is used for door sensor communication, then communication reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wired mechanical connections with wireless communication technology. The door sensor and telematics device communicate via wireless signals, eliminating the need for physical wiring through the container wall, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining communication reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication module as an intermediary between the door sensor and telematics device. This intermediary enables reliable data transmission without requiring direct physical connections, simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Speed
If high power level is used for wireless communication, then communication range is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power adjustment in the wireless communication system. The door sensor adjusts its transmission power level based on communication needs and battery status, using higher power only when necessary for initial pairing or long-distance communication, and lower power for routine updates, thereby optimizing the balance between range and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic communication cycles where the door sensor transmits door status information at intervals rather than continuously. This periodic transmission reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining effective monitoring coverage.
3Device complexity
If wireless communication is implemented without gateway, then device complexity is reduced, but communication reliability deteriorates over long distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes communication parameters including transmission power levels, frequency selection, and data packet structures to ensure reliable wireless communication over the 40+ foot distance without requiring a gateway. The system adjusts these parameters dynamically based on communication conditions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables efficient, low-power communication between the door sensor and telematics device, reducing energy consumption and compliance with various RF requirements, thereby addressing the need for monitoring door events in refrigerated trailers.
Implementation Method 1
capable of low-power wireless communications at less than 14 dB of power level and at a frequency of up to about 433 MHz or higher with the telematics device
Data Source
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AI summary
A container system (401) is provided and includes a body (402) having a first end (403), a second end (404) opposite the first end, and a door (405) disposed at the second end. The container system further includes a telematics device (410) disposed at the first end and a door sensor (420) disposed at the door and capable of low-power wireless communications with the telematics device.