Integrated Smart Label Display for Remote Asset Redirection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Labels or stickers often require time-consuming updates, and battery-operated tracking devices may unexpectedly run out of energy during shipments, leading to potential asset handling issues.

Innovation Solution

A wireless tracking device with an integrated smart label display and rechargeable battery that can update information and redirect assets, and a method to recycle tags when the battery level falls below a threshold.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional labels or stickers are used to display asset information, then information can be displayed on assets, but updating the information requires time-consuming manual replacement of individual labels

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation update efficiencyVSAvoidtime for label replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical label replacement with an electronic display system. The smart label uses an electronic display device that can be updated remotely via wireless communication, eliminating the need for manual physical replacement of labels when information needs to be changed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The smart label system enables self-service information updates through remote wireless communication. The display can be updated automatically or remotely without requiring manual intervention at the asset location, allowing the system to serve itself for information updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If battery-operated tracking devices are used for multiple shipments, then tracking functionality is provided, but the devices may run out of energy unexpectedly without regular maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetracking device reusabilityVSAvoidbattery life reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates battery level monitoring that provides feedback about the energy status of tracking devices. When battery levels fall below a threshold, the system automatically generates notifications and arranges recycling, allowing proactive management before complete battery depletion occurs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a recycling program for tracking devices with depleted batteries. Automated notifications are sent to arrange pickup and recycling of devices whose batteries have fallen below the threshold, ensuring devices are recovered and refurbished for future use rather than being discarded.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Productivity

If battery-operated tracking devices are used without monitoring, then device operations continue, but loss of battery life results in damages to tracking, handling, or delivery

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous tracking operationVSAvoidbattery depletion
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors battery levels and provides feedback when energy falls below a threshold. This early warning system allows for proactive intervention through notifications and automated recycling arrangements, preventing complete battery depletion and associated tracking failures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system takes preliminary action by monitoring battery levels and arranging recycling before complete battery depletion occurs. By acting in advance when battery levels fall below the threshold, the system prevents the harmful outcome of tracking device failure during asset transport.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12423641B2Wireless tracking device with integrated smart label display
Publication Date: 2025.09.23 TRACKONOMY SYSTEMS INC
  • US12423641B2 patent drawing
  • US12423641B2 patent drawing
  • US12423641B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tape node and associated methods update an integrated smart label display to redirect delivery of an associated asset. Information of the associated asset is displayed on the integrated smart label display and includes an original destination address and a barcode. When the tape node determines that the associated asset is to be redirected to an alternative destination, based on received instructions and/or at least one rule defining conditions for the associated asset, the tape node updates the displayed information to include an address of the alternative destination and updates the barcode of the associated asset on the integrated smart label display. The tape node may provide instructions for receiving a reward for recycling the tape node.