Pivotally Coupled Tracking Device with Pull-Tab Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic tracking devices for monitoring cargo in transit are costly, complex to activate, and prone to damage in cold and wet environments, with temperature probes requiring holes to be drilled, compromising waterproofing.
Innovation Solution
A portable, reusable tracking device with a pivotally coupled housing, a processor for data collection and transmission, and a pull-tab activation mechanism that simplifies setup and ensures waterproofing, allowing for real-time monitoring of cargo location and conditions without exposing sensors to damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional electronic tracking devices are packaged in industrial plastic cases, then the devices are protected from environmental damage, but the activation process becomes complex and requires drilling holes that compromise waterproofing
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit is pre-configured with a pull-tab covering the conductive interface. Before use, the pull-tab is simply removed to activate the device, eliminating the need for complex activation procedures or drilling operations. This preliminary setup enables easy activation while maintaining waterproof integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive interface is extracted and exposed only when needed by removing the pull-tab. This allows the interface to remain protected during storage and transport, yet accessible for activation, resolving the conflict between protection and ease of operation.
2Reliability
If temperature probes are integrated into sealed plastic cases, then waterproofing is maintained, but the probes are exposed to damage and require complex installation
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature probe is nested within the sealed housing structure, protected from external environmental damage. The probe is positioned to extend into the cargo area through the sealed enclosure, allowing it to monitor temperature while remaining protected from physical damage and maintaining waterproof integrity.
3Reliability
If industrial plastic cases are used for tracking devices, then environmental protection is provided, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The housing uses a thin-film sealed enclosure structure that provides environmental protection at lower cost than traditional industrial plastic cases. The sealed housing with integrated circuit board and pull-tab mechanism offers comparable protection with reduced manufacturing complexity and cost.
Data Source
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AI summary
A tracking device configured to track a shipment of cargo is provided including a housing having a complementary top portion and bottom portion. The top portion and the bottom portion of the housing are pivotally coupled. A tracking unit, arranged within the housing, includes a processor configured to collect and transmit data. A power unit having at least one power source is arranged within the housing and is configured to supply power to the tracking unit. A circuit board connects the power unit and the tracking unit. The circuit board includes a metal tab arranged adjacent a conductive interface. A portion of a pull tab formed from a thin, non-conductive material is arranged between the tab and the conductive interface. The tracking device is configured to transform from an inactive state to a fully active state upon removal of the pull tab.