Pallet Mesh Network Tracking Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for tracking and monitoring shipping pallets and cargo are labor-intensive and costly, as they rely on passive RFID devices that require infrastructure setup and have limited functionality, unable to communicate or share data effectively.
Innovation Solution
Embedding electronic devices in shipping containers that can form a mesh network, using multiple wireless interfaces to connect and send shipment information, including identifiers and sensor data, to a central server, allowing for efficient tracking and monitoring across various environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If passive RFID devices are used for tracking pallets, then identification capability is provided, but infrastructure cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The active electronic device on the pallet performs self-service by autonomously transmitting its identifier and receiving/relaying shipment information from nearby devices without requiring external infrastructure. The device wakes up on events, logs information, and attempts connections automatically, eliminating the need for powered RFID gates or readers at each location.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic device acts as an intermediary in the mesh network, receiving shipment information from nearby pallets and relaying it to central servers or other devices. This intermediary function enables data sharing and communication between pallets without requiring direct connection to centralized infrastructure at every point.
2Loss of information
If passive RFID devices are used, then basic identification is achieved, but data sharing and communication functionality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device merges multiple functions into a single unit: it stores its own identifier, receives shipment information from nearby pallets, logs events, and transmits data to central servers. This combination of functions enables comprehensive data tracking and communication capabilities that passive RFID devices cannot provide.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic device provides universal functionality by operating independently without infrastructure, forming mesh networks with other devices, communicating with central servers, and adapting to different communication scenarios. The device can function as a tracker, relay node, and data logger simultaneously, making it versatile across various supply chain applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If active electronic devices with mesh network capability are deployed, then communication and data sharing improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device segments its functionality into distinct modules: identifier storage, event detection, information logging, and communication transmission. This segmentation allows each function to be implemented independently and simplifies the overall device architecture, making the complex functionality manageable and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes its operational parameters dynamically based on conditions: it wakes up and becomes active on events rather than continuously operating, selects different wireless interfaces based on availability, and adjusts its communication behavior based on network conditions. These parameter changes enable adaptability without requiring permanently active complex subsystems.
4Measurement precision
If continuous monitoring is implemented, then tracking accuracy improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device employs periodic action by waking up on specific events (such as pallet movement or arrival) rather than continuously monitoring. It enters low-power mode between events and activates only when needed to log information and transmit data, maintaining tracking accuracy while minimizing energy consumption through event-driven operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed technology addresses the need in the art for a pallet embedded with an electronic device to track and manage items during shipping. Such an electronic device can receive and store shipment information associated with a pallet associated with the electronic device and/or a nearby pallet. The shipment information can include an identifier associated with the pallet. The electronic device can then attempt a connection on a first wireless interface such as a low power and short range interface. If the electronic device determines that the first wireless interface is inappropriate for a connection, it can try a second wireless interface (such as a higher power and long range interface). The electronic device can then connect on the second wireless interface and send the shipment information.