Multi-Phase Tracking Device Battery Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic tracking devices used in asset management often run out of battery life during multi-phase transport, leading to loss of data and tracking capabilities, especially due to variable distances and energy consumption, which can result in damage to assets.
Innovation Solution
A wireless tracking system with monitoring agents equipped with processors, memory, and sensors that can receive and compare data sets to determine phase requirements and agent capabilities, enabling actions such as dynamic hibernation or identifying suitable agents for phase completion, and a monitoring module that manages battery life and component replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic tracking devices are used during multi-phase transport, then tracking capability is provided, but battery life is depleted leading to loss of tracking function
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device dynamically adjusts its operational state based on battery level and phase requirements. The system transitions between active tracking mode and hibernation mode, modifying its behavior to extend battery life while maintaining tracking capability when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as communication frequency, sensor activation, and processing intensity based on battery status and phase requirements. This allows the device to optimize performance within available energy constraints.
2Loss of information
If tracking devices operate continuously during multi-phase transport, then data collection is maintained, but energy consumption increases depleting battery life
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous operation, the tracking device employs periodic data collection and communication cycles. Sensors are activated at intervals, and data transmission occurs at scheduled times, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining adequate data coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial data collection focused on critical parameters and events rather than comprehensive continuous monitoring. This selective approach maintains essential tracking functionality while significantly reducing energy requirements.
3Productivity
If tracking devices are reused across multiple phases, then device utilization is optimized, but battery depletion occurs during extended operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment of battery status and phase requirements before committing a tracking device to a multi-phase operation. Devices with insufficient battery life are identified in advance and either recharged or replaced before critical failure occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system continuously monitors battery status and provides feedback to the management system. This real-time information allows dynamic reassignment of devices to phases, ensuring that devices are deployed only when they have sufficient energy to complete the assigned operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for multi-phase monitoring, comprising: receiving a first set of data associated with a monitoring agent during a first phase of an itinerary for monitoring an asset; determining the first phase of the itinerary is complete; receiving a second set of data relating to a second phase of the itinerary, the second set of data defining a phase requirement for implementing the second phase; determining an agent capability of the monitoring agent; comparing the agent capability to the phase requirement; and performing an action based on whether the phase requirement is capable of being met by the monitoring agent.