Wireless Asset Tracking Controller for Marine Terminal Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern marine terminals face challenges in accurately and efficiently locating and tracking containers due to the large number of containers and limited space, with existing techniques lacking real-time and precise identification and tracking systems for drayage tractors, wheeled container chassis, and other equipment.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a controller to manage wireless locating units of geo-spatial positioning systems, such as RTLS and satellite-based navigation, to track assets within a geographic area, including the use of tags that transmit radio frequency signals and integrate with satellite-based navigation systems for precise location determination, and data transmission protocols to optimize data transmission and handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual tracking methods are used, then device complexity is low, but measurement precision and real-time location accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universal tracking units that can be attached to various types of equipment (tractors, containers, chassis) and work across multiple geo-spatial positioning systems (GPS, RTLS, cellular towers). This multi-functional approach enables precise tracking of different assets using the same technological platform, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a centralized server as an intermediary that receives location data from multiple positioning systems and consolidates the information. This server acts as a mediator between the various positioning technologies and the user interface, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining high measurement precision through data fusion and cross-validation.
2Measurement precision
If multiple geo-spatial positioning systems are integrated, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and system configuration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the positioning functionality into separate modules, with each geo-spatial positioning system operating independently but feeding data to a common consolidation server. This segmentation allows each positioning system to be configured and maintained separately while achieving improved measurement precision through integrated data processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses virtual representations of physical assets (digital twins) that contain location data from multiple positioning systems. These virtual copies are updated in real-time and provide a unified view of asset locations, simplifying the configuration complexity while maintaining high precision through multi-source data fusion.
3Productivity
If real-time tracking is implemented, then productivity and operational efficiency improve, but energy consumption and data transmission requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic location updates rather than continuous tracking, where locating units transmit position data at predetermined time intervals or when specific events occur (such as asset movement between zones). This periodic action maintains real-time awareness of asset locations while significantly reducing energy consumption and data transmission requirements compared to continuous monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts tracking parameters based on operational conditions, such as changing update frequencies or transmission thresholds when assets are stationary versus in motion. This adaptive parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between productivity (real-time visibility) and energy consumption by activating full tracking only when necessary.
4Loss of information
If comprehensive asset tracking is deployed throughout the terminal, then measurement precision and visibility improve, but loss of information from wireless interference or signal blockage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple geo-spatial positioning systems (GPS, RTLS, cellular tower triangulation) into a unified tracking architecture where each system compensates for the weaknesses of others. When one system experiences signal interference or blockage, the other systems can provide redundant location data, thereby reducing information loss and improving overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements redundant positioning systems and backup communication channels as a form of beforehand cushioning against signal interference and data loss. By having multiple positioning technologies and communication pathways in place before problems occur, the system can maintain location awareness even when primary systems fail due to wireless interference or physical blockage.
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
The system provides real-time visibility and accurate tracking of containers and handling equipment, enhancing operational efficiency by enabling precise location and movement tracking within the terminal, reducing the complexity of container management and increasing capacity handling.
Implementation Method 1
wireless locating units (e.g., tag transmitters, satellite-based navigation sensor units, etc.)
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided for tracking an asset within a geographic area. The system includes an antenna mast supportable by, and extending upward from, an object configured to move or facilitate movement of the asset. The antenna mast is capable of supporting a plurality of wireless locating units of a plurality of geo-spatial positioning systems, which are configured to locate a respective one or more locating units, and thereby the asset, within the geographic area. The system also includes a controller positionable on the object and configured to control operation of the wireless locating units. The controller is further configured to direct transmission of data to a host via one of the locating units or another wireless transmitter, and in a manner that accounts for a wireless link between the respective locating unit or other wireless transmitter and the host.