Embedded Monitoring Circuitry for Data Storage Transit Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data storage system transportation methods lack effective tracking and notification mechanisms, leading to potential loss, theft, or tampering during transit, with owners relying on transportation companies for information and facing delays in detection.
Innovation Solution
Electronically activating monitoring circuitry co-located with data storage equipment to provide real-time location tracking, alerts for deviations or tampering, and secure data protection by destroying access to sensitive information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional transportation companies are used to ship data storage systems, then professional transportation services are provided, but reliable tracking and immediate notification of loss/theft/tampering cannot be guaranteed
Solution Approach 1:
The data storage system monitors its own transportation status through embedded monitoring circuitry that independently tracks location, detects tampering, and sends alerts without relying on external transportation companies. This self-monitoring capability ensures reliable tracking while avoiding the complexity of coordinating multiple external systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring circuitry performs multiple functions including location tracking, tampering detection, power monitoring, and alert transmission within a single integrated system. This multi-functionality improves tracking reliability while minimizing the addition of separate monitoring devices that would increase overall system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If transportation companies perform lengthy investigations to track lost/stolen equipment, then thorough investigation is conducted, but time is delayed and data security is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring circuitry continuously sends location and status data back to the owner and immediately alerts when anomalies such as off-route travel, tampering, or power loss occur. This real-time feedback enables immediate detection and response, eliminating the time delays associated with post-event investigations by transportation companies.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs continuous monitoring and preliminary detection of abnormal conditions during transportation, sending alerts before the transportation company would ever investigate. This preliminary detection action reduces detection time and allows the owner to take immediate protective measures.
3Productivity
If monitoring circuitry is activated and location data is continuously transmitted, then real-time tracking is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring circuitry transmits location and status data at periodic intervals rather than continuously, reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective real-time tracking. The system can adjust transmission frequency based on conditions, using more frequent updates when needed and reduced frequency during normal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring circuitry utilizes the existing power supply infrastructure of the data storage system, drawing power from the same source that powers the storage devices. This self-service approach to power supply eliminates the need for separate battery systems or additional energy sources, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining monitoring capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A technique is directed to transporting data storage equipment. The technique involves electronically activating monitoring circuitry which is co-located with the data storage equipment. The technique further involves, after the monitoring circuitry is electronically activated, receiving location data from the monitoring circuitry while the data storage equipment is en route from a first ground location to a second ground location. The technique further involves, based on the location data, performing a set of location evaluation operations to determine whether the data storage equipment is on course along a predefined route between the first ground location and the second ground location.