Temporary Tag Mounting Device for Shipping Container Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Inefficient tracking of shipping containers and truck trailers in crowded terminals due to the lack of accurate and real-time identification systems, particularly for temporary identification needs where permanent tags are not suitable.

Innovation Solution

A temporary tag mounting device that can be easily applied and removed from containers or trailers, using a clamp mechanism and wireless signal transmission for geolocation, allowing for real-time tracking without the need for permanent identification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a permanent tag transmitter is used for tracking containers or trailers, then reliable identification is achieved, but adaptability for temporary tracking needs deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveidentification reliabilityVSAvoidtemporary tracking adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the tracking solution into two independent components: a permanent tag transmitter embedded in the container/trailer for reliable identification, and a removable mounting device for temporary deployment. This allows the permanent tag to ensure reliable identification while the removable mounting device provides adaptability for temporary tracking needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The removable mounting device acts as an intermediary between the permanent tag transmitter and the container/trailer. It enables temporary attachment and removal of the tagging system, providing versatility for different tracking scenarios while the permanent tag ensures reliable identification when attached.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If a permanent tag mounting system is installed, then stable tracking is achieved, but ease of removal and reapplication deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetracking stabilityVSAvoidmounting and removal ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting device transitions from a static permanent installation to a dynamic removable system. The clamp mechanism with movable jaw allows the mounting device to be easily attached and removed while maintaining stable tracking during operation, resolving the contradiction between tracking stability and ease of removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces complex mechanical permanent mounting systems with a simplified clamp-based mechanical system that provides both stability during tracking and ease of removal. The clamp mechanism uses simple mechanical action (squeezing the movable jaw) to secure the tag, making removal as easy as releasing the clamp.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If multiple tracking devices are deployed in high-density environments, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation tracking precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The removable mounting device provides a universal solution that can be applied to various container and trailer types without requiring different mounting systems. This multi-functionality allows consistent deployment across diverse assets, improving measurement precision through standardized positioning while avoiding the complexity of multiple specialized mounting systems.

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

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

Enables efficient and accurate real-time location tracking of containers and trailers, even in high-density environments, with the ability to temporarily mount and remove the tracking device as needed, improving operational efficiency in terminals and yards.

Implementation Method 1

A tag transmitter is carried by the tag support member and operative for transmitting wireless signals, such as radio frequency (RF), magnetic, or similar wireless signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadio frequency transmission: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS7475814B2Tag mounting device used for locating shipping containers and truck trailers
Publication Date: 2009.01.13 ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES CORP
  • US7475814B2 patent drawing
  • US7475814B2 patent drawing
  • US7475814B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tag mounting device can temporarily mount a tag transmitter on a shipping container or trailer for tracking location of the shipping container or trailer. The tag mounting device includes a mounting frame having a support leg with opposing ends. A clamp mechanism is carried by the support leg for clamping the support leg onto a rim of a container or trailer such that the support leg extends against a surface of the container or trailer. A tag support member extends outward from the support leg. A tag transmitter is carried by the tag support member and operative for transmitting wireless signals to at least one receiver for subsequent processing to determine the location of the tag transmitter and a container or trailer on which the tag mounting device is mounted.