Fleet Connectivity Hub for BLE Machine Monitoring and Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work equipment such as lifts and telehandlers require efficient tracking, tasking, monitoring, and servicing at a work site, but current systems are often discrete and prone to inefficiencies and human errors.
Innovation Solution
A local fleet connectivity system enabling automated machine-to-machine connectivity through wireless networks, allowing for data exchange, diagnostics, and remote monitoring, with features like machine location, fault detection, and fleet management, using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Machine to Machine (M2M) communication and a connectivity hub for seamless integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If discrete systems and applications are used for each piece of equipment, then individual equipment can be monitored and managed, but system complexity increases and human errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete monitoring and management systems into a single integrated fleet management system. The system consolidates tracking, tasking, monitoring, and servicing functions across all equipment into one unified platform, eliminating the need for separate discrete systems for each piece of equipment and thereby reducing human error while managing complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The fleet management system is designed as a universal platform that can manage multiple types of work equipment (lifts, telehandlers, etc.) through a single interface. The system provides multi-functional capabilities including tracking, task assignment, real-time monitoring, and servicing management, allowing one system to perform the functions previously requiring multiple discrete applications.
2Productivity
If manual tracking and monitoring methods are used, then equipment status can be recorded, but productivity decreases and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated self-service monitoring where equipment automatically reports its status, location, and operational data to the fleet management system without requiring manual intervention. Tracking, tasking, and monitoring functions are performed autonomously by the system, eliminating the time previously spent on manual data collection and entry while significantly enhancing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes continuous feedback loops where equipment status information is automatically transmitted to the fleet management system in real-time. This automated feedback mechanism provides up-to-date information on equipment location, operational state, and task completion without requiring manual checks, thereby reducing time loss and improving overall productivity.
3Loss of information
If traditional fleet management systems are used, then basic tracking is possible, but real-time monitoring and automated diagnostics are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual information gathering and diagnostic methods with automated electronic monitoring and communication systems. Equipment status is captured automatically through sensors and telematics, and diagnostic information is transmitted electronically to the fleet management system, eliminating the need for mechanical or manual inspection methods and achieving both real-time information availability and automated diagnostics.
Solution Approach 2:
The fleet management system acts as an intermediary between equipment and operators/managers, automatically collecting, processing, and transmitting real-time status information. The system mediates the flow of information from equipment sensors to users, providing real-time updates and automated diagnostic capabilities without requiring direct manual intervention at the equipment level.
Data Source
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AI summary
A local fleet connectivity system includes a plurality of machines disposed at a location. Each of the plurality of machines include an implement and a prime mover configured to drive the implement. The system includes a connectivity hub configured to establish, via a connectivity module, a connection with the plurality of machines. The connectivity hub is configured to establish a connection with at least one remote server. The connectivity hub is configured to exchange data between the plurality of machines and the at least one remote server. The data flows through the connectivity hub.