Container Locking Policy for Multi-Party Trailer Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current inventory control methods during transportation are vulnerable to theft due to untrusted drivers and insecure key distribution, lacking tracking and logging of trailer access, and logistical challenges with physical keys and combination locks.
Innovation Solution
A digital key mechanism for container locks that uses policies and location-based unlocking, integrated with sensor systems and central monitoring, enabling secure, remote, and auditable locking and unlocking processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical keys are distributed to shipper and receiver, then trailer access control is enabled, but key security and distribution management become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical key system with an electronic keypad and code-based access system. Instead of using physical keys that can be lost or stolen, the system uses electronic locks with programmable access codes that can be remotely managed, distributed, and revoked without physical key distribution logistics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the access control parameter from static physical keys to dynamic electronic codes. The electronic lock can accept multiple different codes over time, allowing flexible security management where codes can be changed, revoked, or assigned to different users without replacing physical keys.
2Ease of operation
If combination locks are used, then key distribution logistics are simplified, but combinations may be intercepted and tracking of access is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic lock system incorporates feedback mechanisms that record and report access events. Each time a code is entered and the lock is actuated, the system logs the event with timestamp, location, and user identity, providing real-time feedback and audit trails that were impossible with traditional combination locks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary electronic control unit between the user and the lock mechanism. This intermediary device manages the codes, records access events, and communicates with remote servers, thereby preventing direct interception of combination information while maintaining secure access control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual reprogramming of combination locks is performed, then new combinations can be set, but the process is cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical reprogramming with electronic code programming through a keypad interface. Codes can be quickly entered, changed, and updated electronically without the time-consuming process of manually reprogramming mechanical combination locks, enabling rapid security parameter changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows access codes to be pre-programmed and stored in the electronic lock before needed. Multiple codes can be prepared in advance and activated as needed, eliminating the need for on-site reprogramming and reducing time loss during access control changes.
4Reliability
If drivers are treated as untrusted parties, then inventory theft risk is reduced, but operational efficiency and access convenience are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the access control parameter from trust-based physical key access to code-based electronic access. Drivers can be granted temporary or permanent access codes without having physical keys, allowing controlled access that maintains security while improving operational convenience and eliminating key distribution logistics.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for actuating a locking mechanism on a container, the method including receiving, at a computing device associated with the container, a policy for actuating the locking mechanism; determining, at the computing device, that conditions within the policy have been met; and actuating the locking mechanism.