Keyhole Communication Device for Container Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current container tracking and monitoring systems lack granularity, failing to track or monitor assets within ISO shipping containers, which is a security and logistical concern, especially for preventing the smuggling of weapons of mass destruction.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication system is integrated into shipping containers, featuring a 'keyhole' communication device with antennas and circuitry that extends through a specially designed opening, enabling wireless communication between devices inside and outside the container, facilitating tracking and monitoring of both the container and its contents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a communication device is integrated into the container wall structure, then wireless communication between internal and external devices is enabled, but the container wall structure is compromised and sealing is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device is divided into two separate housing components: a first housing component that attaches to the exterior of the container wall and a second housing component that attaches to the interior of the container wall. These components are connected through a coupling mechanism that passes through the wall structure, allowing wireless communication functionality to be integrated without compromising the container's sealing integrity. The segmentation allows each component to maintain its structural role while enabling communication.
2Loss of information
If communication devices are placed inside containers, then tracking of container contents is enabled, but devices cannot communicate with external networks
Solution Approach 1:
The first housing component acts as an intermediary between the second housing component (containing internal communication devices) and the external network. The first housing component includes an antenna and electronic circuitry that receives wireless signals from internal devices and transmits them to external networks, and vice versa. This intermediary function enables internal devices to communicate with external networks without requiring direct placement outside the container.
3Power
If the communication device extends through the container wall, then signal transmission between internal and external devices is facilitated, but the wall structure is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device is segmented into exterior and interior housing components that attach to opposite sides of the container wall. The coupling mechanism connecting these components through the wall is designed to minimize structural compromise while maintaining signal transmission capability. The segmented design allows the wall structure to remain intact where not compromised by the coupling mechanism.
4Reliability
If tracking systems provide detailed monitoring of container contents, then security is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device is designed as a universal platform that can support multiple functions: wireless communication with internal devices, external network connectivity, GPS tracking, and integration with various types of sensors and monitoring equipment. This multi-functional design consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into a single integrated device, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive security monitoring capabilities.
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 provides enhanced visibility and control over the contents of shipping containers, improving security and logistical efficiency by enabling real-time tracking and monitoring of assets within the containers, even when stacked or in close proximity.
Implementation Method 1
A keyhole communication device with antennas and circuitry that extends through a specially designed opening, enabling wireless communication
Data Source
AI summary
A shipping container that facilitates communications between wireless communication devices within the shipping container and an external network container includes a keyhole communication device that is adapted for wireless communications with the external network and that includes first and second housing components. The first and second housing components together form an integrated housing structure that extends through a small opening in a wall of the shipping container, with the first housing component being disposed exterior to the shipping container and the second housing component being disposed interior to the shipping container. A first antenna is disposed within the first housing component for communications via a first communications protocol, such as a Bluetooth protocol. A second antenna also may be disposed within the first housing component for communications via a second communications protocol, such as a cellular communications protocol. The communications are controlled by electronic circuitry within the second housing component.