Local Fleet Connectivity via BLE Mesh for Automated Machine Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managers and operators of work equipment rely on discrete systems and methods for tracking, tasking, and servicing each piece of equipment, which is inefficient and prone to human error, leading to increased costs and reduced productivity.
Innovation Solution
A local fleet connectivity system that enables networked communication between work machines using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Machine to Machine (M2M) protocols and a mesh network, allowing for automated data exchange and command transmission without human intervention, and integrating tracking, tasking, and service support functions on a common platform.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If discrete systems and methods are used for tracking, tasking, and servicing each piece of equipment, then individual equipment management is possible, but system complexity increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete equipment management functions (tracking, tasking, servicing) into a single integrated fleet management system. The system consolidates data from multiple sources including machine sensors, operator devices, and maintenance systems into one unified platform, enabling centralized management of the entire fleet rather than handling each piece of equipment separately through discrete systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The fleet management system is designed to perform multiple functions universally across different types of equipment. The system can track location, monitor operational status, manage maintenance schedules, and coordinate tasks across various machine types using a common platform, making the management system adaptable to diverse equipment while improving overall productivity.
2Device complexity
If manual tracking and tasking methods are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but human error increases and costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables machines to automatically report their own status, location, and operational data through integrated sensors and communication modules. Equipment self-monitors parameters such as fuel levels, maintenance needs, and operational hours, eliminating the need for manual data collection and reducing human error while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where machine data is automatically collected, processed, and used to trigger appropriate actions. Sensors provide real-time feedback on equipment status, which feeds into the management platform to automatically schedule maintenance, alert operators to issues, and optimize task allocation, thereby improving reliability without requiring overly complex manual intervention systems.
3Productivity
If automated machine-to-machine communication is implemented, then productivity and efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized management platform that acts as an intermediary between machines. Rather than requiring direct complex communication between all machine pairs, the platform receives data from machines, processes it centrally, and coordinates actions, simplifying the overall system architecture while enabling automated machine-to-machine communication and improving fleet operation efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A local fleet connectivity system includes a plurality of machines disposed at a location. Each of the plurality of machines includes an implement and a prime mover configured to drive the implement. The system includes at least one control module communicably coupled with a first machine of the plurality of machines. The system includes at least one connectivity module communicably coupled with the plurality of machines. The at least one control module is configured to establish, via the at least one connectivity module, a connection between the plurality of machines. The at least one control module is configured to exchange, via the at least one connectivity module, data between the plurality of machines.