Docking Station Accessory for Multi-Module Package Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current package monitoring systems lack an efficient means to integrate and combine multiple electronic modules for real-time tracking and monitoring, leading to inefficiencies in logistics and potential disruptions.
Innovation Solution
An accessory device with a housing member and retaining feature that docks multiple wireless radio modules, such as Bluetooth and Ultra-wideband, for enhanced package location tracking and monitoring, integrating with mobile devices and computer systems for improved logistics management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electronic modules are delivered as separate individual components, then each module can be provided by different manufacturers with specialized functions, but there is no means to integrate or combine them into a single accessory device for efficient package monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate electronic modules (radio modules, temperature monitoring devices, barcodes, NFC modules, display screens) into a single integrated accessory device with a housing member that accommodates all components. This merging resolves the contradiction by providing unified package monitoring functionality while maintaining the specialized capabilities of each individual module through dedicated compartments and retaining features within the housing.
2Ease of manufacture
If electronic modules are provided as separate components, then manufacturers can specialize in specific module types, but the modules lack means for secure retention and organized assembly into a functional unit
Solution Approach 1:
The housing member is divided into multiple compartments, recessed regions, and retaining features that separately accommodate different electronic modules. Each module type has its designated space with appropriate retention mechanisms, allowing manufacturers to produce specialized modules independently while ensuring secure assembly into the complete accessory device through the segmented housing structure.
3Productivity
If multiple modules are combined in a single accessory device, then real-time monitoring and location tracking can be achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex with housing members, retaining features, and recessed regions
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory device housing member is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of electronic modules simultaneously (radio modules for location tracking, temperature monitoring devices, barcodes, NFC modules, display screens). This multi-functional design enables comprehensive real-time package monitoring through a single device structure, resolving the contradiction by making the complexity worthwhile through integrated productivity gains.
Data Source
AI summary
An accessory device as a positioning device configured for use in connection with a package in-process of being delivered, or being prepared for, staged for or in-transit of delivery are herein described. The accessory device comprises a docking station including a receptacle used to receive, carry or apply one or more small electronic communication device module(s) to monitor package location(s) or condition(s) by securing electronic module(s) within the accessory device as a docking station to then be added and associated by computer-implemented systems with a package for wireless location and condition monitoring. The accessory device may include one or more retaining compartment features designed to hold or carry short-range radio module(s), serving as positioning device with monitoring module(s), coupled into the retaining feature receptacle(s).