Tamper-Evident Seal With Geolocation Alert for Shipment Traceability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tamper-evident sealing devices lack the ability to provide real-time tracking and tracing capabilities, making it difficult to determine when and where unauthorized access or tampering occurs, which is crucial for secure supply chain management, especially in the food and beverage industry.
Innovation Solution
A tamper-evident sealing device with a conductive element embedded in the strap that detects breakage, transmitting a message with a unique identifier, current geolocation, and date/time via wireless communication, utilizing a GPS or mobile relay device, and storing records in a distributed ledger for immutable traceability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional tamper-evident sealing devices are used, then the sealing function is provided, but the ability to provide real-time tracking and tracing capabilities is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single sealing device: the traditional sealing function (strap with engagement mechanism) is merged with tracking functionality (conductive element, processor, GPS receiver, and wireless transmitter). This integration allows the device to provide both physical sealing and real-time location tracking without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical sealing through the strap and engagement mechanism, detects tampering through the conductive element breakage detection, determines location via GPS receiver, and transmits data wirelessly. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate tracking devices.
2Reliability
If the sealing device includes tracking electronics, then real-time location information is provided, but the device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical tamper detection mechanisms with an electrical/conductive system. Instead of using mechanical switches or sensors that require moving parts, the invention uses a simple conductive element embedded in the strap that completes an electrical circuit when intact and breaks the circuit when cut or damaged, providing reliable tamper detection with minimal mechanical complexity.
3Reliability
If the conductive element is cut to remove the sealing device, then the sealing is broken, but the engagement mechanism could potentially be reattached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful act of cutting the strap (which destroys the conductive element) into a beneficial security feature. When the conductive element is cut to remove the sealing device, it simultaneously triggers the tamper detection system to send an alert, transforming the destruction of the component into valuable security information that prevents reuse and provides tracking data.
4Loss of information
If the sealing device transmits location data continuously, then real-time tracking is achieved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic rather than continuous transmission of location data. The wireless transmitter sends location information at intervals or when triggered by specific events (such as tamper detection), reducing power consumption while still providing effective tracking and monitoring capabilities throughout the shipping process.
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 real-time tracking and tracing of shipments, ensuring secure transit, facilitating efficient product recalls, and meeting regulatory traceability requirements by providing immediate alerts and immutably logged records.
Implementation Method 1
A conductive element is embedded in the strap and electrically connected to a computer processor. The computer processor is configured to detect a break in the conductive element
Implementation Method 2
a wireless receiver in signal communication with a Global Positioning System (GPS). Based on detecting a break in the conductive element, the computer processor may obtain from the GPS the current geolocation of the sealing device
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure relate to sealing devices, methods, and systems. A sealing device may be configured to seal a container. The sealing device may send or trigger a message indicating the current geographic location of the sealing device based on the sealing device being removed from the container.