ULD Loading Detection Using Elevation and Wireless IoT Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Incorrect handling of unit load devices (ULDs) at transportation facilities leads to costly delays and asset loss due to errors in loading them onto the wrong vehicles, exacerbated by the difficulty in distinguishing assets amidst stationary and moving objects using simple wireless proximity tracking.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a gateway node coupled to a loading platform that detects an elevation increase and receives a unique ID from a wireless tracking device to determine asset loading, combined with multiple tracking techniques to enhance reliability and avoid false negatives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If simple wireless proximity tracking is used to track asset movement, then the system complexity is reduced, but the tracking reliability deteriorates due to difficulty in distinguishing assets amidst stationary and moving objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple tracking techniques (proximity tracking, elevation detection, loading platform detection) into a unified tracking system. This integration allows the system to distinguish assets from stationary and moving objects more reliably while maintaining reasonable system complexity through coordinated operation of multiple sensors and algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces elevation detection as an additional dimension to traditional proximity tracking. By monitoring the vertical position (elevation) of assets alongside their horizontal position, the system can more reliably distinguish moving assets from stationary objects and detect loading events, thereby improving tracking reliability without excessive complexity increase.
2Reliability
If multiple tracking techniques are combined to improve tracking reliability, then the tracking reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tracking system into distinct functional components: proximity tracking modules, elevation detection modules, loading platform detection modules, and a central coordination system. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the overall system to achieve high reliability through diversified tracking techniques while managing complexity through modular design and clear division of responsibilities.
3Loss of time
If early detection of loading errors is implemented, then the loss of time for correction is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to multiple tracking techniques
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary detection of loading errors by continuously monitoring asset position, elevation, and loading platform status during the loading process. The system detects potential loading errors early (before the vehicle departs) and notifies operators immediately, enabling quick correction. This preliminary action approach minimizes correction time and asset loss while the modular multi-technique architecture keeps complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A gateway node detects loading of a unit load device (ULD) into a vehicle by fusing sensed information. The gateway node, physically coupled to a loading platform of a loader, determines its location and a vehicle identifier (ID) of the vehicle based on the location. The gateway node detects an increase in elevation of the loading platform and receives a movement message containing a unique ID of a tape node attached to the ULD. The gateway node determines that the ULD is being loaded into the vehicle based on the vehicle ID, the detected increase in elevation of the loading platform, and an association of the unique ID with the ULD.