Integrated Tracking System Multimodal Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tracking systems for international multimodal transport face challenges such as limited location system coverage and radio communication issues, particularly in areas like sea containers under Faraday shields, and lack successful integration methods between different tracking environments, leading to inconsistent and unavailable tracking information.
Innovation Solution
An integrated tracking system that includes at least two tracking sub-systems with processor units to manage location information, automatically switch between sub-systems at change-over locations, and integrate data from different systems by comparing location information to a predetermined model, ensuring continuous and accurate tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS-based tracking is used in metallic sea containers, then location information can be provided, but the Faraday shield phenomenon causes serious operational problems and tracking failure
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking system is divided into multiple independent tracking devices, each responsible for specific transportation legs or modes. This segmentation allows the system to switch between different tracking devices depending on the operational environment, bypassing Faraday shield issues by using devices optimized for specific conditions (e.g., GPS for open sky, alternative systems for metallic enclosures).
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching between different tracking technologies and communication methods based on environmental conditions. When GPS is blocked by Faraday shielding, the system transitions to alternative location methods and communication protocols that work within metallic container constraints.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple tracking sub-systems are used for different transportation modes, then coverage can be improved, but integration between systems is lacking causing inconsistent tracking information
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple independent tracking sub-systems are merged into a unified tracking chain through a coordination mechanism. Each sub-system maintains its independence for optimal local performance, while the integration layer combines their data streams into a coherent tracking record, eliminating gaps and inconsistencies between different transportation modes and jurisdictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system is designed with universal interoperability, where each tracking device can operate independently but also integrates seamlessly with others. The system uses standardized data formats and protocols that allow different tracking sub-systems to communicate and coordinate, providing consistent tracking information across diverse transportation environments.
3Measurement precision
If tracking devices operate continuously to provide constant location information, then tracking accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous operation, tracking devices use periodic reporting with variable intervals. The system adjusts the reporting frequency based on operational context, location stability, and transportation phase, providing sufficient location information accuracy while minimizing energy consumption during stable transport phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system dynamically adjusts its operational mode based on real-time conditions. When the transported object is in motion or approaching critical locations, tracking intensity increases for higher precision. When stationary or in stable conditions, the system reduces monitoring frequency to conserve energy, optimizing the balance between accuracy and power consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary integrated tracking system tracks transported objects in a transportation system. The integrated tracking system includes a tracking device for providing at least location information of the at least one transported object. At least one processor unit generates and stores a predetermined model of transportation information of the at least one object. The predetermined model includes at least change-over location area information as the transportation information of the at least one transported object. The integrated tracking system includes at least two tracking sub-systems having the tracking device at least when the tracking device arrives in a change-over location area. The at least one processor unit integrates utilization of the at least location information from at least two tracking sub-systems by comparing at least location information from different tracking sub-systems to the predetermined model.