Dynamic Group Controller for Package Tracking Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tracking systems for packages, especially those using Global Positioning System technology and sub-microscopic video cameras, face challenges such as RF signal interference from trucks and containers, leading to unreliable data transmission and battery life issues for small, long-duration operations.
Innovation Solution
A communication system that includes a plurality of objects, transceivers, and a central server, where each object is equipped with a communication device capable of using various wireless technologies like GSM, TDMA, CDMA, and RFID, and can dynamically join or leave groups managed by group controllers, allowing for efficient tracking and data transmission through a wide area network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Global Positioning System technology and sub-microscopic video cameras are used for real-time tracking, then tracking capability is improved, but RF signal interference from trucks and containers causes unreliable data transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication system that uses alternative to RF signals for data transmission. Instead of relying solely on RF signals that are blocked by trucks and containers, the system uses a combination of satellite communication and other non-RF transmission methods to ensure reliable data communication throughout the shipping journey.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking device is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple communication modes. It incorporates both RF transmission capabilities and satellite communication capabilities, allowing it to switch between different transmission methods depending on the environment, ensuring continuous operation regardless of RF signal availability.
2Weight of moving object
If electronics are made small and battery operated for package tracking, then device size is reduced, but battery life is insufficient for long-duration shipping operations
Solution Approach 1:
The battery-powered electronics in the tracking device operate in periodic cycles rather than continuously. The device alternates between active monitoring modes and low-power sleep modes, transmitting data only at scheduled intervals. This periodic operation significantly extends battery life while maintaining effective tracking capabilities for long-duration shipping operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts operational parameters based on shipping duration and environmental conditions. The device can modify its monitoring frequency, transmission intervals, and power consumption levels to extend battery life. By changing operational parameters adaptively, the device achieves long-duration operation without requiring excessive battery capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system (100) dynamically manages a plurality of objects (105). Each object (120) has a communication device (145) placed within or in close proximity to the object (120) for communicating a plurality of object information (245). A group controller (220) communicates with the communication device (145) and takes over responsibility for communication within the communication system (100) for the communication device (145) when the object location (130) comes within a communication range of the group controller (220).