Asset Beacon Tracking Using Nearby Devices for Real-Time Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing asset tracking devices are expensive, heavy, have a large form factor, and require recurring communication fees, making them impractical for tracking large numbers of assets, especially when individual products need to be tracked to their final destinations, and they lack real-time tracking capabilities due to manual cargo-conveyance linking methods.
Innovation Solution
A low-duty cycle transmitter with a unique identifier that does not determine its own location, using short-range communication protocols, is associated with an object and broadcasts its identifier, which is received by a second communication device that determines its own location and relays this information to a location server, allowing for real-time tracking without the need for location-determining functionality in the transmitter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional asset tracking devices are used, then tracking capability is provided, but cost, weight, and energy consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the tracking function into two separate components: a simple beacon device that only transmits identification signals, and existing communication devices (smartphones, tablets) that perform location determination and data transmission. This segmentation allows the beacon to be extremely lightweight and low-power while leveraging the capabilities of other devices for complex functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes existing communication devices that users already carry to perform location determination and data transmission functions. These devices serve themselves by using their built-in GPS, cellular, and wireless communication capabilities without requiring additional dedicated tracking hardware, thereby eliminating the need for high-power onboard tracking devices.
2Reliability
If traditional asset tracking devices are used, then tracking capability is provided, but device size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the location determination and data transmission functions from the beacon device itself, placing these functions in existing communication devices. The beacon only retains the essential function of transmitting its identification signal, reducing it to a minimal component that can be attached to or integrated into the asset without significant weight addition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system leverages the multi-functionality of existing communication devices that already possess GPS, cellular communication, and processing capabilities. These universal devices perform multiple roles including location determination, signal reception, data transmission, and power management, eliminating the need for dedicated single-function tracking hardware.
3Reliability
If manual cargo linking is used, then cargo tracking is achieved, but errors and delays increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous automated feedback by having the beacon continuously transmit identification signals and existing communication devices continuously determine location and report status. This real-time feedback loop automatically updates cargo location and status without manual intervention, eliminating errors and delays associated with manual cargo linking while providing current tracking information.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed for tracking the location of an object. The method includes assigning a unique identifier for a first communication device, associating the first communication device with an object, associating the first communication device with a destination device, and storing the unique identifier in a location server. The method also includes periodically receiving, from second communication devices, a respective message comprising the unique identifier, associating the periodic location of the respective second communication device with the first communication device, receiving, at the location server, data comprising spatial, temporal, and contextual data elements, identifying an event as satisfying a rule associated with the object and destination device using the received data elements, and responsive to the identified event, and based on the rule associated with the object and destination device, transmitting a message to one or more of the destination device and a delivery mechanism carrying the object.