Shipping Container Mass Estimation via Acceleration and Acoustic Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring the gross mass of a shipping container during transport are inefficient, as they lack accurate and real-time data acquisition and processing techniques to determine the mass based on dynamic forces and acoustic signals.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising sensors such as accelerometers, proximity sensors, and acoustic sensors, which collect and process acceleration and acoustic data to estimate the mass of the shipping container using Hooke's differential equation and Fourier transforms, allowing for precise mass calculation while the container is in motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional measurement methods are used, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision and real-time capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensors (accelerometer, proximity sensor, acoustic sensor) into an integrated measurement system that works together to determine mass. The accelerometer measures acceleration, the proximity sensor measures distance, and the acoustic sensor captures sound waves, with all data processed together to calculate mass, achieving high precision through combined measurements rather than relying on a single complex device
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system is designed to perform multiple functions: measuring acceleration, distance, and acoustic signals simultaneously, then processing all this data to determine mass. This multi-functional approach allows the system to achieve precise mass measurement without requiring separate dedicated measurement devices, thereby improving precision while managing device complexity
2Productivity
If real-time data acquisition is implemented, then the productivity and logistics management capability are improved, but the device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously acquires and processes data from all sensors in real-time during transport, rather than performing measurements at discrete intervals. The processor continuously analyzes acceleration, distance, and acoustic data to determine mass, enabling real-time logistics management decisions while maintaining consistent measurement quality throughout the transport process
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time feedback from sensor measurements to continuously refine mass calculations. The processor analyzes the continuous stream of data from accelerometers, proximity sensors, and acoustic sensors, adjusting mass estimates based on the feedback from ongoing measurements, which improves both productivity and measurement accuracy without requiring overly complex processing systems
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are deployed, then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of operation and installation become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into separate sensor components (accelerometer, proximity sensor, acoustic sensor) that can be independently installed and configured. Each sensor handles a specific measurement function, allowing for modular installation and easier operation while maintaining high overall precision through the combined results of all segmented measurement systems
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
Enables accurate and real-time estimation of the shipping container's mass, facilitating logistics management, detecting unauthorized changes in cargo, and improving route optimization by providing reliable weight data during transport.
Implementation Method 1
The accelerometer determines acceleration data of the shipping container or acceleration information of the shipping container
Implementation Method 2
The acoustic sensor measures acoustic signal associated with the shipping container
Implementation Method 3
The proximity sensor determines vibration distance using a proximity sensor
Implementation Method 4
the shipping container is on a platform with a known spring constant such as a truck, ocean vessel, trailer or train
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method of estimating mass of a shipping container while being transported on a platform. At first, acceleration data of the shipping container is received or acceleration information is computed from at least one sensor operatively attached to the shipping container. Further, an acoustic signal associated with the shipping container is received. Furthermore, the acceleration data or the computed acceleration information is processed over a time interval when the acoustic signal becomes greater than a threshold, to estimate the mass of the shipping container from at least one of the acceleration data and the computed acceleration information.