Cargo Tracking Transmitter with Shared Spectrum LAN and WAN
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo tracking systems face challenges in managing cargo data across different geographic and political regions due to varying communication spectrum regulations, and they are costly and complex, especially when cargo items are stacked or in obstructed areas, and do not effectively handle different modes of transportation and packaging arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A communication system that uses shared spectrum WLAN transmitters and WAN uplink devices to transmit messages on overlapping frequency spectra, allowing local management and remote tracking, with transmission characteristics different from each other to minimize interference and comply with regional regulations, enabling flexible cargo placement and reliable communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cargo items are physically situated with adequate clearance from obstacles for satellite transmission, then satellite communication reliability is improved, but cargo placement flexibility is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The communication function is segmented into two independent parts: a LAN transmitter for local communication and a WAN transmitter for satellite communication. This allows the cargo sensor to be positioned flexibly without requiring direct satellite line-of-sight, as the LAN transmitter can relay data through intermediate nodes. The segmentation resolves the contradiction by decoupling the requirements for local accessibility from satellite transmission requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
A LAN-based intermediary communication network is introduced between the cargo sensor and the satellite. The LAN transmitter acts as a mediator that collects data from the cargo sensor and transmits it to the WAN transmitter, which then communicates with the satellite. This intermediary layer eliminates the need for direct satellite line-of-sight from the cargo item, enabling flexible cargo placement while maintaining communication reliability.
2Reliability
If separate WAN and LAN transmitters with different frequency spectra are used, then communication reliability in different regions is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The LAN transmitter and WAN transmitter are merged into a single integrated device that handles both local and satellite communication functions. This unified approach reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate transmitters while maintaining the ability to operate in different frequency spectra for different regions. The integrated device can switch between LAN and WAN modes as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated transmitter device is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing both LAN and WAN transmission functions. It can operate using different frequency spectra depending on the regional requirements, making it a universal solution that adapts to various communication environments without requiring multiple specialized devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication spectra are supported for different regions and transportation modes, then adaptability to different environments is improved, but cost is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system uses dynamic frequency selection, where the transmitter automatically adjusts its operating frequency based on regional regulations and environmental conditions. Rather than supporting all possible frequencies simultaneously, the system dynamically switches between appropriate spectra (e.g., 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or satellite frequencies) as needed, reducing hardware complexity and cost while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (frequency, modulation mode, transmission power) based on the current environment and regulations. By adjusting these parameters dynamically rather than hardcoding multiple fixed configurations, the system achieves versatility across different regions and transportation modes at lower cost and with simpler manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo, containerized cargo, high value asset monitoring and tracking communication system including a local area network (LAN) transmitter that transmits a first message having a first frequency spectrum, and a wide area network (WAN) uplink device that receives the first message from the local area network radio transmitter, whereby both WAN and LAN share the same spectrum. Further, the WAN uplink device transmits a second message having a second frequency spectrum overlapping the first frequency spectrum to a WAN receiver using an orbital satellite. At least one of the LAN transmitter and the WAN uplink device transmits with a transmission characteristic different from a transmission characteristic of the other. A communication device and method include similar features.