Hermetic Asset Tracker with Randomized RF Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current asset tracking systems in logistics and distribution networks are inadequate in accurately determining the location of trailers within docking bays, leading to human errors, delays, and increased costs due to misplaced assets and unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing hermetically sealed asset trackers with low-power wireless radio frequency transmitters and GNSS technology, combined with dead reckoning and magnetometers, to provide accurate positioning and alignment verification of trailers within docking bays, along with RF transceivers and mobile device communication for real-time tracking and authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional asset tracking methods are used, then asset location can be monitored, but the precision of determining trailer location within docking bays is insufficient leading to human errors
Solution Approach 1:
The docking bay area is divided into multiple zones with RF transceivers positioned at specific locations (e.g., corners, edges) to create a grid-like detection network. This segmentation allows the system to determine trailer position by comparing signal strengths from multiple discrete transceiver locations, significantly improving location precision within the bay.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual verification methods (visual inspection, physical signage) with an automated RF-based electronic system. The mechanical/manual process of checking trailer placement is substituted with wireless signal detection and automated comparison against predefined virtual zones, eliminating human error in location determination.
2Productivity
If manual asset management is used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but productivity and response time are reduced due to delays in locating and managing assets
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-monitoring of asset locations and statuses. The RF transceivers continuously detect trailer positions and the central server automatically updates the database and generates alerts, eliminating the need for manual checking and reducing the time required to locate and manage assets.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where RF signal data is constantly collected, processed, and used to update asset location information in real-time. This feedback mechanism enables immediate detection of trailer movement or misplacement, allowing rapid response and improving overall asset management productivity.
3Reliability
If basic tracking systems are used, then asset location is recorded, but the system cannot detect unauthorized access or verify asset authenticity
Solution Approach 1:
The RF transceiver system serves multiple functions: location determination, unauthorized access detection, and asset authenticity verification. By using a single multi-functional platform rather than separate systems for each function, the patent achieves enhanced reliability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication layer between the asset and the tracking system. RFID tags or transponders attached to assets act as intermediaries that provide verification capabilities, enabling the system to detect unauthorized access and verify authenticity without requiring complex integrated security hardware at every sensor point.
4Loss of information
If continuous monitoring is implemented, then real-time asset tracking is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous transmission, the asset trackers transmit location information periodically at scheduled intervals. This periodic action maintains real-time monitoring capability while significantly reducing average power consumption compared to continuous transmission, as the transmitter remains inactive between transmission cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts transmission intervals based on asset status and movement detection. When assets are stationary and stable, transmission frequency is reduced to conserve energy. When movement or status changes are detected, the system increases transmission frequency to maintain accurate real-time information, optimizing the balance between information availability and energy consumption.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution significantly reduces human error in trailer placement, enhances asset management, and ensures the authenticity and location of assets throughout the supply chain, minimizing delays and losses by providing precise tracking and real-time monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
The device comprises a hermetically sealed outer casing; and a circuit board hermetically sealed within the outer casing
Implementation Method 2
The circuit board comprises a low power wireless radio frequency transmitter and electronic components for causing the transmitter to repeatedly transmit a device identifier
Data Source
AI summary
A device for attaching to an asset in order to allow the location of the asset to be tracked. The device comprises: a hermetically sealed outer casing; and a circuit board hermetically sealed within the outer casing. The circuit board comprises a low power wireless radio frequency transmitter and electronic components for causing the transmitter to repeatedly transmit a device identifier at intervals that are randomly varied around a fixed interval.