Commercial Asset Pairing Using Optical ID and Sensor-Guided Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of pairing commercial shipping assets, such as tractors and trailers, has increased due to the need for precise physical connections, which is exacerbated by reliance on sensor information alone, especially when multiple assets or distinct configurations are involved.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses sensor systems to identify and connect assets by retrieving a master asset identifier through an optically-readable encoded asset identifier, updating a dynamic information discovery protocol environment, and adjusting docking operations based on sensor feeds to facilitate automated or semi-automated pairing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If sensor information alone is used for asset pairing, then the pairing process can be automated, but the complexity increases when multiple assets or distinct configurations are involved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the asset identification process into multiple stages: initial sensor detection, optically-readable identifier verification, and master asset identifier retrieval. This segmentation allows the system to handle complex multi-asset scenarios by breaking down the identification process into manageable steps, reducing overall pairing complexity while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optically-readable encoded identifiers and master asset identifiers as intermediary elements between the sensor systems and the asset pairing logic. These intermediaries provide a standardized interface for identifying assets, enabling the automated system to handle diverse asset configurations without increasing complexity.
2Reliability
If physical connection of assets is required for pairing, then the pairing is more reliable, but the process becomes more complex and difficult to automate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary identification and verification actions before the physical connection is made. The sensor system detects the second asset, retrieves its master asset identifier, and verifies compatibility before the physical coupling occurs. This preliminary action ensures reliable pairing while keeping the physical connection process simple and straightforward.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the sensor system continuously monitors the pairing process, retrieves asset identifiers, and provides information back to the control system. This feedback loop ensures that the physical connection is made only when the correct assets are identified and compatible, maintaining reliability without requiring complex manual intervention.
3Measurement precision
If master asset identifier retrieval is added to the pairing process, then the accuracy of asset identification improves, but the time required for pairing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The master asset identifier information is prepared and made accessible in advance through the optically-readable encoded identifiers on the assets. When pairing is needed, the sensor system can quickly retrieve this pre-prepared information without requiring time-consuming searches or manual entry, thus maintaining high identification accuracy while minimizing pairing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual asset identification methods with automated optical sensing and digital identifier retrieval. The sensor system automatically reads the optically-readable identifiers and retrieves master asset identifiers from databases, eliminating the need for manual verification and significantly reducing pairing time while improving accuracy.
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
This method enhances the efficiency and accuracy of asset pairing by leveraging sensor data to align and connect assets correctly, treating them as a single unit within the dynamic information discovery protocol, improving operational efficiency and reducing manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
identifying the presence of a second asset using a sensor system of the first asset, wherein identifying the presence of the second asset includes detecting an optically-readable encoded asset identifier using the sensor system of the first asset
Data Source
AI summary
A method for pairing commercial shipping assets includes identifying the presence of a second asset using a sensor system of a first asset, retrieving a master asset identifier of the second asset using a controller of the first asset, physically connecting the first asset and the second asset, and updating a dynamic information discovery protocol environment.