Cargo Sensor Interface Layout for Shorter Container Cabling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current environmental parameter sensor interfaces in climate-controlled containers require long cables, leading to increased setup time, susceptibility to damage, and costly replacements, while failing to efficiently monitor critical parameters like temperature, humidity, and gas levels during cargo transportation.
Innovation Solution
A sensor interface system that includes a combination of embedded and temporary interface portions with plug terminations within the shipping container, reducing cable length and exposure, and optionally using wireless communication for environmental sensors to enhance data logging and monitoring efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If long cables are used to connect environmental sensors to the central controller, then the sensors can be positioned anywhere in the container, but the setup time increases and the cables become susceptible to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the container into multiple zones, each with its own embedded interface portion and plug termination. Sensors connect to local plug terminations rather than requiring long cables to a central controller, segmenting the communication infrastructure into distributed units that reduce cable length and setup complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a centralized communication architecture to a distributed three-dimensional network of embedded interface portions integrated into the container structure. This spatial redistribution allows sensors to connect at multiple locations throughout the container volume, eliminating the need for long radial cable runs to a single central point
2Adaptability or versatility
If long cables are used to connect environmental sensors to the central controller, then the sensors can be positioned anywhere in the container, but the cables are susceptible to damage and require costly replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The communication infrastructure is segmented into multiple distributed plug terminations embedded throughout the container structure. This eliminates the need for long vulnerable cables by creating short localized connections between sensors and the nearest plug termination, significantly reducing cable exposure and damage risk
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded interface portions and plug terminations are pre-integrated into the container structure during manufacturing. This preliminary integration creates permanent, protected connection points that eliminate the need for extensive cable routing and setup, reducing both setup time and cable vulnerability to damage
3Reliability
If wired sensor interfaces with embedded portions are used, then cable length and exposure are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The embedded interface portion merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides structural mounting for the plug termination, establishes electrical connections, and integrates with the container structure. This consolidation simplifies the overall system by eliminating separate cable management components and reducing the number of discrete parts
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded interface portions are designed as universal components that can accommodate multiple sensor types and configurations. Each plug termination serves as a multi-functional node that can connect different environmental sensors while maintaining consistent electrical and mechanical interfaces, reducing the need for specialized connection hardware
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for monitoring cargo conditions, includes at least one environmental sensor (50) to monitor at least one environmental parameter associated with the cargo (30), a controller (60) to log a plurality of readings from each of the at least one environmental sensors (50), and a sensor interface (51) to facilitate communication between the at least one environmental sensor (50) and the controller (60).