Container Imaging System with Infrared Detection and Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current container security systems lack the ability to visually monitor and track the contents of shipping containers effectively, despite the use of various sensors, due to the impracticality of individual inspections at multiple transit points and the absence of image capture devices in existing systems.
Innovation Solution
A container imaging system incorporating an image capture device capable of capturing images in both visible and infrared spectra, with a control element and image processing unit for analysis and communication, which captures and compresses images for remote monitoring, transitioning to frequent image capture during alarm conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to monitor container tampering events, then the detection capability is improved, but the system cannot provide visual confirmation of actual events and contents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor types (acoustic, vibration, temperature, light, GPS, infrared, chemical, biological, radiation sensors) with image capture devices into a single integrated monitoring system. This merging allows the system to both detect tampering events through sensors and provide visual confirmation through imaging, resolving the information gap identified in the contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: detecting tampering through various sensors, capturing visual images of container contents and events, transmitting data, and providing both alarm and visual documentation capabilities. This multi-functional approach ensures that a single system provides both detection precision and visual information.
2Measurement precision
If individual container inspections are performed at each transit point, then monitoring accuracy is improved, but it becomes impractical due to the large number of transit points and containers
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary monitoring and detection actions continuously as containers move through transit, rather than waiting for individual inspections at each point. Sensors and image capture devices are activated to detect and record events in real-time during transit, eliminating the need for stopping and manually inspecting each container at every transit point.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection processes with automated sensing and imaging systems. Instead of physically opening and examining each container at transit points, the system uses acoustic sensors, vibration sensors, image capture devices, and other sensors to automatically detect and monitor container status and contents during transit.
3Loss of information
If image capture devices are added to provide visual monitoring, then visual confirmation is improved, but power consumption and data transmission requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The image capture device operates periodically rather than continuously, capturing images at scheduled intervals or when triggered by sensor events. This periodic operation significantly reduces power consumption compared to continuous imaging while still providing adequate visual monitoring coverage for security purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses image capture devices to create visual copies (images) of container contents and events, which can then be transmitted and stored. These visual copies provide the necessary information without requiring continuous real-time video streaming, reducing bandwidth and power requirements while maintaining monitoring effectiveness.
4Manufacturing precision
If images are transmitted in high resolution, then image quality is improved, but bandwidth requirements exceed the narrowband communication channels available
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and transmits only the essential visual information needed for security monitoring, such as key event images or condensed image data, rather than transmitting complete high-resolution image streams. This extraction approach provides sufficient visual confirmation while adapting to the bandwidth limitations of narrowband communication channels.
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
Enhances the security and integrity of container monitoring by providing visual confirmation of events and tampering, enabling more accurate tracking and reporting of container contents, even under power and bandwidth constraints.
Implementation Method 1
The imaging system may include: an image capture device which may be mounted on the container door; a control element for controlling the image capture device and analyzing received image data... The image capture device is suitable to capture images in the visible light spectrum as well as in the infrared light spectrum
Data Source
AI summary
A system for visually capturing and monitoring the contents and events surrounding a cargo container is provided. The system includes an image capture device, a control device, and an image processing device. This system may be used for both visible and infrared images. The image capture device may be situated on the container door, and record images at a more frequent rate if it is determined that an event has occurred based on comparison of successive images. Image compression techniques may also be used to transmit captured and computed images back to a central monitoring station where they can be viewed and further analyzed.