Dynamic Wireless Connection for Container Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessing the computer systems in intermodal shipping containers, particularly refrigerated containers, is challenging due to their stacked configuration and battery-powered wireless controllers, which quickly drain battery power when maintaining wireless connections.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dynamic wireless connection method where container controllers operate in a low-power mode by default and transition to a higher power mode upon receiving an activation signal, allowing one container to act as an access point and others as clients, reducing power consumption and enabling efficient data collection from multiple containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If container controllers maintain wireless connections continuously, then data access from multiple containers is enabled, but battery power is quickly drained
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless connection system dynamically transitions between power states based on operational needs. Controllers operate in low-power mode by default and only activate wireless connections when needed, allowing the system to adapt power consumption to actual usage requirements rather than maintaining continuous operation
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of continuous operation, the system uses periodic activation where wireless connections are established only when data access is required. The access point controller activates its wireless interface periodically to serve client containers, then returns to low-power mode, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining functionality
2Productivity
If containers are stacked in tight quarters to maximize space utilization, then shipping efficiency is improved, but access to individual containers becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The access point controller acts as an intermediary that enables remote access to containers without physical access. By establishing wireless connections, the system allows operators to interact with container computers from a distance, eliminating the need to physically reach into tight stacks to access individual containers
3Productivity
If container computers are made accessible remotely, then operational efficiency is improved, but wireless infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access point controller serves multiple functions: it operates as a container computer for its own operations, serves as a wireless access point for other containers, and provides data collection and communication capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated infrastructure components
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service access where any container can act as an access point for others without requiring centralized infrastructure setup. Containers autonomously establish wireless connections and provide data access to operators, eliminating the need for complex external wireless infrastructure installation
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and systems for dynamic wireless communication are provided. Aspects include receiving, by a first controller of a first device, a first activation signal from an activation device, responsive to receiving the first activation signal, transitioning the first device from a low power state to a high power state, broadcasting, by the first device, a second activation signal to a second controller of a second device, broadcasting, by the first device, a wireless network, wherein the first device comprises an access point for the wireless network, receiving, from the second device, a request to join the wireless network, and granting, by the first device, access to the wireless network for the second device.