RF Tag Interrogator and Fixed Transmitter for Marine Terminal Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern marine terminals face challenges in accurately and efficiently tracking and locating containers due to the large number of containers, various processing systems, and labor-intensive methods, which lead to increased time and labor costs and delays in shipping.
Innovation Solution
A real-time location system using tag interrogators and embedded or fixed tag transmitters that emit wireless RF signals, allowing for precise tracking and identification of containers and vehicles within the terminal, with access points processing these signals to determine locations and provide real-time tracking solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual tracking methods using sticker magnets are used, then location accuracy is improved, but labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical tracking system (employees walking and noting locations) with an automated wireless RF signal-based tracking system. Tag transmitters on containers emit RF signals that are received by access points, automatically determining container locations without human intervention, thus resolving the contradiction between accuracy and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables containers to self-identify their locations through embedded tag transmitters that continuously emit RF signals. The containers essentially track themselves automatically as they move through the terminal, eliminating the need for manual tracking while maintaining location accuracy.
2Extent of automation
If wireless tracking systems are implemented, then tracking capability is improved, but system complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tracking functionality into separate, simple tag transmitters that can be independently attached to containers, rather than requiring a complex centralized tracking system. The tag transmitters operate autonomously and simply emit RF signals, separating the tracking function from the container management system.
Solution Approach 2:
The tag transmitters serve multiple functions: they provide location tracking, identify container status (parked or stacked), and can be used across different container types and terminal operations. This universal approach simplifies the overall system by using a single technology platform for diverse tracking needs.
3Measurement precision
If continuous monitoring of all containers is implemented, then location accuracy is improved, but cost and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring tracking devices on all containers, the system uses a selective approach where tags are placed on containers that need monitoring. The system monitors containers partially based on operational needs rather than universally, reducing the quantity of tracking devices while maintaining sufficient location accuracy for effective container management.
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
The system enables efficient and accurate tracking of containers and vehicles, reducing labor costs and time, and improving the operational efficiency of marine terminals by providing real-time location data and automating the tracking process.
Implementation Method 1
at least one tag transmitter fixed at a known location within the terminal where vehicles are to be identified and receptive to a tag interrogator on the vehicle when the vehicle passes within proximity to the fixed tag transmitter for transmitting a wireless RF signal
Implementation Method 2
The tag interrogator is operative for emitting a signal containing data identifying the vehicle to which the tag interrogator is mounted
Data Source
AI summary
A system tracks vehicles within a terminal and includes at least one tag interrogator mounted on a vehicle to be identified and tracked within the terminal. The tag interrogator is operative for emitting a signal containing data identifying the vehicle to which the tag interrogator is mounted. At least one tag transmitter is fixed at a known location within the terminal where vehicles are to be identified and receptive to a tag interrogator on the vehicle when the vehicle passes within proximity to the fixed tag transmitter for transmitting a wireless RF signal having data identifying the tag transmitter and identifying the tag interrogator as an identifier for the vehicle to which the tag interrogator is mounted. At least one access point is positioned at the terminal for receiving the RF signal from the tag transmitter for subsequent processing to verify vehicle identity at the known location.