Image-Assisted CTU Location Tracking With Reduced Sensor Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining the accurate location of cargo transportation units (CTUs) is challenging due to power consumption issues with position sensors and signal interference from obstructions, which affect battery life and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing image data from cameras on adjacent CTUs, combined with position data from sensors, to determine the location of CTUs, especially when sensors are deactivated or obstructed, by a location determination engine that processes this data to enhance accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If position sensors are activated frequently to determine CTU locations, then location determination accuracy is improved, but battery life is reduced due to increased power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic sensor activation combined with image-based location determination. Instead of continuous sensor operation, the system alternates between using image data from cameras and periodic sensor readings, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining adequate location tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Image data from cameras serves as an intermediary to verify and correct sensor positions. When sensors are deactivated or provide inaccurate data due to obstructions, the image processing system uses visual data to determine CTU locations, eliminating the need for continuous sensor operation.
2Measurement precision
If position sensors are used continuously to track CTU locations, then location accuracy is maintained, but power consumption increases affecting battery life
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses image data from cameras that are already part of the CTU's sensor suite to supplement position sensor functionality. The camera system, which captures other operational data, is also utilized for location determination, eliminating the need for dedicated continuous sensor operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between sensor-based and image-based location determination methods based on conditions such as sensor activation state and data accuracy requirements. This parameter change allows optimization of power consumption while maintaining location accuracy.
3Use of energy by moving object
If image data processing is used to determine CTU locations, then battery life is extended by reducing sensor activation, but location determination complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image processing system serves multiple functions: it processes visual data for location determination, verifies sensor positions, corrects inaccurate sensor readings, and provides backup when sensors are deactivated. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by eliminating dedicated sensor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces continuous mechanical sensor operation with optical image processing. By using camera-based vision systems to determine locations, the patent substitutes energy-intensive sensor activation with lighter image data processing, reducing power consumption despite increased computational complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
In some examples, a system includes at least one processor configured to receive, over a network, position data acquired by a position sensor, receive, over the network, an image of a first cargo transportation unit (CTU) acquired by a camera, and determine a location of the first CTU or a second CTU based on the position data and information in the image of the first CTU.