Universal Logistics Tracking Unit for Multi-Handoff Shipment Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional shipping models face challenges in tracking shipments due to increased complexity with multiple handoffs and the need for enhanced logistics tracking beyond traditional destination-based methods, especially with the rise of lean manufacturing and complex inventory management.

Innovation Solution

A logistics tracking system that includes a logistics tracking unit (LTU) capable of providing real-time, near-real-time tracking information, including environmental conditions and travel data, using GPS and other satellite systems, and communicating through various channels to a server for comprehensive shipment monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional destination-based tracking methods are used, then the tracking process is simple, but it cannot provide continuous monitoring across multiple handoffs and transfers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetracking accuracyVSAvoidtracking system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal tracking platform that serves multiple functions: GPS tracking, environmental monitoring (temperature, humidity, shock), and communication across various carriers and handoffs. This multi-functional system replaces multiple specialized tracking solutions, providing comprehensive shipment monitoring while maintaining manageable complexity through integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary tracking device that attaches to shipments and communicates with multiple carriers and handlers throughout the supply chain. This intermediary element enables continuous tracking across handoffs without requiring each carrier to implement complex tracking infrastructure, thereby improving reliability without proportionally increasing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If asset tracking products are sold in low volumes, then customization is possible, but non-recurring engineering costs are heavily burdened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetracking solution adaptabilityVSAvoidproduction cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal tracking platform that can be adapted to different shipment types and carriers through software configuration rather than hardware redesign. This approach maintains adaptability for customized tracking needs while avoiding the high NRE costs associated with developing separate tracking solutions for each application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables customization through parameter changes in software settings (tracking intervals, alert thresholds, communication protocols) rather than physical redesign. This allows the same hardware platform to serve multiple customers with different requirements, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If real-time tracking information is provided, then logistics efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelogistics efficiencyVSAvoidtracker energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic tracking updates rather than continuous real-time monitoring. The system can adjust update intervals based on shipment conditions and carrier requirements, providing sufficient logistics efficiency while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables dynamic adjustment of tracking frequency and communication intervals based on environmental conditions, shipment priority, and carrier location. This dynamic approach optimizes the balance between logistics efficiency and energy consumption, intensifying monitoring when needed and reducing it during stable conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 continuous, detailed monitoring of shipments across multiple handoffs, ensuring accurate tracking and condition reporting, thereby improving logistics efficiency and reducing the burden of non-recurring engineering costs associated with current asset tracking products.

Implementation Method 1

using GPS and other satellite systems

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGPS satellite positioning:

Data Source

PatentUS11115732B2Systems and methods for building multiple GPS trackers from a common core

Publication Date: 2021.09.07 POSITIONING UNIVERSAL HOLDINGS INC

AI summary

Methods, devices, and systems for tracking an asset are provided. In particular, a device is provided that includes a processor; a wide-area network radio; a global positioning system (GPS) receiver; an accelerometer; and a physical interface. The processor communicates with two or more sensors via the physical interface. Based on the communication with the two or more sensors, the processor determines a type of sensor associated with each of the two or more sensors. The processor receives first information from a first sensor of the two or more sensors via the physical interface. The processor determines the first information received from the first sensor is related to a significant event. The processor records second information received from a second sensor of the two or more sensors via the physical interface.