Satellite-Connected Inventory Monitor for Secure Cargo Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current asset and goods protection systems lack real-time global monitoring, are not actively connected for remote command execution, and fail to ensure secure transportation from origin to destination, with limitations in traceability, battery life, and environmental durability.

Innovation Solution

A system combining electronic, pneumatic, and mechanical solutions for remote wireless command and control of inventory stock monitoring, using a protector device with a rechargeable battery, sensors, and satellite connectivity to ensure uninterrupted monitoring and secure cargo transport via air, sea, or land, with automatic recharging and alert mechanisms for irregular openings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If portable locks and fuel caps are used to protect cargo and fuel, then basic protection is provided, but real-time global monitoring and active remote control capabilities are lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection reliabilityVSAvoidreal-time status information
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously transmits status information (location, temperature, humidity, door status, fuel level) from the protected device to the monitoring center via satellite communication, enabling real-time feedback on the condition and location of cargo and fuel stocks throughout the supply chain

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

A satellite communication system acts as an intermediary between the protected device and the monitoring center, enabling real-time data transmission and remote command execution across global distances without requiring direct line-of-sight or infrastructure-based communication

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If passive monitoring systems are used, then device status can be acknowledged, but active remote command execution and permanent in-out communication are not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote command executionVSAvoidcommunication system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The microcontroller unit serves multiple functions including processing sensor data, managing satellite communication, executing remote commands, and controlling the protection mechanism, consolidating what would otherwise require separate dedicated systems into a single integrated unit

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically receives and processes telecommand signals from the monitoring center, executes predetermined actions based on received commands without requiring manual intervention, and autonomously manages its own monitoring and communication operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional protection devices are used, then basic security is provided, but global coverage without roaming plans and marine surface operations capability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveglobal coverage capabilityVSAvoidcommunication infrastructure requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Satellite communication serves as a universal intermediary that provides global coverage including marine and remote areas without requiring local infrastructure or roaming agreements, enabling the system to operate anywhere on Earth's surface

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Ease of operation

If portable devices with magnetic attachments are used, then portability is achieved, but vulnerability to theft and lack of permanent fixation occur

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidanti-theft reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system adapts to different installation requirements by supporting both portable magnetic attachment mode and permanent fixed installation mode, allowing the same device to be configured according to the specific protection needs of different applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11720853B2System for logistic monitoring, control and preservation of inventory stocks of goods
Publication Date: 2023.08.08 VARGAS PARKER JUAN PABLO
  • US11720853B2 patent drawing
  • US11720853B2 patent drawing
  • US11720853B2 patent drawing

AI summary

System for logistic monitoring, control and preservation of inventory stocks of goods while they are transported by air, sea, land and/or kept in depository sites, through the processing of staggering coded commands, received remotely through wireless telemetry actions, the system comprising: an inventory stock control and monitoring system, provided with status measurement sensor, electromechanical and pneumatic device, pneumatic sliding actuator device, sliding actuator engaging device, engage-release electronic control device a rechargeable battery pack unit, an electronic central unit based upon an electronic processing microcontroller with memory, and GPRS telecommunication device together with a transmit receive satellite modem; a Bluetooth wireless application software within an external unit; an electronic staggering deciphering device, based upon a Bluetooth receiver, connected to the electronic central unit.