Real-Time Data Storage Device Tracking System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The transit of data storage devices between facilities poses risks of loss or theft, and there is a need for effective tracing and tracking systems to ensure the secure location and provenance of vital business data.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device tracing system that includes containers equipped with two-way radios and a network coordinator, enabling real-time location tracking and monitoring of data storage devices through a network, using cellular-based or ZigBee-compliant platforms to communicate with microcontrollers and sensors that log conditions such as temperature, humidity, and movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data storage devices are shipped or transferred to offsite repositories for secure storage, then data security and compliance are improved, but the risk of loss or theft during transit increases and tracking becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time location tracking of data storage devices during transit using GPS or other location technologies. The system continuously monitors device positions and transmits this information to a central database, enabling immediate detection of unauthorized movement or loss. This feedback mechanism allows organizations to respond quickly to security incidents while maintaining secure offsite storage practices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary tracking system that acts as a mediator between the data storage devices and the organization's security infrastructure. This intermediary layer provides continuous monitoring and location information without interfering with the actual storage or transit operations, enabling enhanced security oversight while maintaining operational efficiency.
2Reliability
If data storage devices are tracked and traced, then security and compliance are improved, but system complexity and implementation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal tracking devices that can be attached to various types of data storage media (tapes, disks, cartridges) regardless of format or size. These multi-functional tags provide location tracking, identification, and security monitoring capabilities across diverse storage devices, simplifying the overall system architecture by using a single tracking solution for all storage media types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy or digital representation of each physical data storage device's location and status information in a centralized database. This digital twin approach allows the system to track and monitor device positions without adding physical complexity to the storage devices themselves, as the tracking information exists as separate data records rather than complex embedded systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage device tracing system includes at least one container configured to maintain at least one electronic data storage device, a two-way radio coupled to each of the container(s), and a network including a network coordinator configured to transmit to and receive data from the two-way radio. In this regard, the two-way radio communicates real-time container location data to the network coordinator to enable real-time tracing of the container(s) and the electronic data storage device(s).