Package Tracking Device with Event-Driven Transmission
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current package tracking systems fail to effectively monitor shipment conditions and ensure the viability of sensitive items during transport, particularly when delays or environmental changes are critical.
Innovation Solution
A tracking device attached to or inside packages that periodically transmits GPS coordinates and environmental measurements, using a networked system to manage shipment logistics, alert for potential issues, and adjust data transmission to conserve battery life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous monitoring and data transmission are implemented, then real-time tracking capability is improved, but battery life deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device transmits location and environmental data at periodic intervals rather than continuously. The processor determines whether to transmit data based on whether changes exceed predetermined thresholds, creating an event-driven periodic transmission pattern that conserves battery while maintaining effective monitoring capability.
2Measurement precision
If frequent data transmission is implemented, then monitoring accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates feedback mechanisms where the processor evaluates environmental sensor data against predetermined thresholds before triggering transmission. This feedback-controlled approach ensures data is transmitted only when meaningful changes occur, maintaining monitoring accuracy while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption from frequent transmissions.
3Reliability
If comprehensive environmental monitoring is implemented, then shipment condition control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device integrates multiple environmental sensors (temperature, humidity, light, motion detectors) and combines them with GPS location tracking and wireless communication capabilities in a single multi-functional unit. This universal design provides comprehensive shipment condition monitoring without requiring separate devices for each function, thereby managing complexity through integration.
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
Ensures the integrity and viability of items during transport by providing real-time monitoring and alerting for deviations, ensuring timely delivery and maintaining environmental conditions critical for sensitive goods.
Implementation Method 1
a GPS receiver configured to determine a location of the tracking device
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed towards tracking a package with a tracking device (TD). Embodiments include obtaining a shipping itinerary for the package, receiving a carrier acceptance confirmation indicating the driver has transferred the package to the carrier; receiving a departure confirmation for the segment; receiving, after receiving the departure confirmation, a TD status message including a first location of the package as determined by the TD; and in response to receiving the TD status message after the departure confirmation, issuing a failure to board alert for the package.