Worksite Connectivity Mesh for Automated Fleet Data Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managers and operators of work equipment rely on discrete systems, applications, and methods to perform tracking, tasking, and servicing functions for each piece of equipment, which is inefficient and prone to human error.
Innovation Solution
A local fleet connectivity system that integrates work machines through a network of communicatively connected machines using low energy wireless data networks, mesh networks, satellite communications, and cellular networks, enabling machine-to-machine communication and data exchange via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocols, with connectivity modules and hubs to facilitate automated data sharing and machine coordination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If discrete systems and applications are used for each piece of equipment, then individual equipment can be managed separately, but system complexity increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete equipment management systems into a unified fleet management system. Different equipment types (aerial work platforms, telehandlers, forklifts) are integrated through a common communication network and centralized platform, enabling consolidated tracking, tasking, and servicing while maintaining individual equipment identity and control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The fleet management system provides universal functionality across diverse equipment types. A single platform performs multiple functions including real-time location tracking, task assignment, maintenance scheduling, and operational monitoring for all equipment, replacing the need for separate discrete systems for each equipment type.
2Loss of information
If discrete systems are used for tracking and monitoring, then individual equipment data can be collected, but human error increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Equipment automatically collects and transmits its own operational data through onboard connectivity modules. Sensors and controllers on each piece of equipment self-report status, location, and performance information to the fleet management system, eliminating manual data entry and reducing human error while maintaining comprehensive data collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where equipment data is automatically monitored, analyzed, and used to trigger appropriate actions. Real-time data feedback enables automated alerts for maintenance needs, task completion confirmation, and operational status updates, improving reliability through systematic verification rather than manual checking.
3Extent of automation
If multiple connectivity modules establish a site network, then machine-to-machine communication is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fleet management system acts as an intermediary layer between connectivity modules and equipment controllers. Standardized communication protocols and data formats are implemented at the intermediary level, simplifying the interaction between diverse equipment and the central system while enabling automated data exchange without requiring complex point-to-point configurations between individual machines.
4Productivity
If comprehensive data is transmitted across the fleet network, then fleet-wide control is achieved, but data management complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Fleet data is segmented into hierarchical categories: equipment-level data (individual sensor readings), fleet-level data (aggregated performance metrics), and site-level data (location and task information). This segmentation allows selective data transmission and processing at appropriate levels, achieving fleet-wide control while reducing overall data processing complexity through distributed intelligence.
Data Source
AI summary
A site connectivity system includes a first connectivity module configured to be coupled to a first machine. The first connectivity module may join a site network formed between a plurality of connectivity modules associated with a plurality of machines when the first connectivity module is within communication range of at least one of the plurality of connectivity modules. The first connectivity module may transmit first data associated with the first machine to at least one or more of the plurality of connectivity modules within communication range of the first connectivity module. The first connectivity module may transmit second data received from at least a respective one of the plurality of connectivity modules to one or more of the plurality of connectivity modules not in communication range of the respective one of the plurality of connectivity modules.