CA2562092A1 - System and method for wireless asset tracking - Google Patents
System and method for wireless asset tracking Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2562092A1 CA2562092A1 CA002562092A CA2562092A CA2562092A1 CA 2562092 A1 CA2562092 A1 CA 2562092A1 CA 002562092 A CA002562092 A CA 002562092A CA 2562092 A CA2562092 A CA 2562092A CA 2562092 A1 CA2562092 A1 CA 2562092A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- location information
- location
- localized
- vehicle
- received
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
- G01S13/87—Combinations of radar systems, e.g. primary radar and secondary radar
- G01S13/878—Combination of several spaced transmitters or receivers of known location for determining the position of a transponder or a reflector
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R25/00—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles
- B60R25/10—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles actuating a signalling device
- B60R25/102—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles actuating a signalling device a signal being sent to a remote location, e.g. a radio signal being transmitted to a police station, a security company or the owner
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R25/00—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles
- B60R25/30—Detection related to theft or to other events relevant to anti-theft systems
- B60R25/33—Detection related to theft or to other events relevant to anti-theft systems of global position, e.g. by providing GPS coordinates
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
- G01S13/74—Systems using reradiation of radio waves, e.g. secondary radar systems; Analogous systems
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S19/00—Satellite radio beacon positioning systems; Determining position, velocity or attitude using signals transmitted by such systems
- G01S19/38—Determining a navigation solution using signals transmitted by a satellite radio beacon positioning system
- G01S19/39—Determining a navigation solution using signals transmitted by a satellite radio beacon positioning system the satellite radio beacon positioning system transmitting time-stamped messages, e.g. GPS [Global Positioning System], GLONASS [Global Orbiting Navigation Satellite System] or GALILEO
- G01S19/42—Determining position
- G01S19/48—Determining position by combining or switching between position solutions derived from the satellite radio beacon positioning system and position solutions derived from a further system
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R2325/00—Indexing scheme relating to vehicle anti-theft devices
- B60R2325/10—Communication protocols, communication systems of vehicle anti-theft devices
- B60R2325/105—Radio frequency identification data [RFID]
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R2325/00—Indexing scheme relating to vehicle anti-theft devices
- B60R2325/20—Communication devices for vehicle anti-theft devices
- B60R2325/205—Mobile phones
Abstract
A system and method employing a combination of long-range and short-range asset location systems, preferable a GPS-based system combined with an RFID-based system. The short-range system regularly activates itself, or is remotely polled, to determine if the asset is within range of the short-range transceivers, and the long-range system is activated to determine the location of the asset when it is outside the range of the short-range transceivers. In at least some embodiments, the asset is an automobile equipped with both RFID and GPS-based transceivers.
Description
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR WIRELESS ASSET TRACKING
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed, in general, to systems and methods for wireless asset tracking, and, more specifically, to asset tracking systems using multiple tracking means.
~~
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Tracking assets, physical inventory, and other objects in a large-scale enterprise is a daunting task.
Traditionally, this requires a manual, physical inventory that must be regularly repeated. Further, as assets move from place to place, or out of the control of the enterprise, the conventional process requires a time-intensive paperwork trail to track the movement of the assets.
This already-daunting task is made even more difficult when the assets being tracked are physically similar, since in that case every specific serial number must be verified to conclusively identify the specific item.
Recently, for items such as shipping containers, radio-frequency identification ('RFID) tags have been used to partially automate this process in a real-time location system (RTLS). In the common case, an asset with an attached RFID tag transmits a unique identifier, allowing an RFID tag reader to easily receive the transmitted ID number and thereby identify specific shipping containers.
An entirely different type of asset location is used for locating stolen vehicles. A commonly known system of this type is the "LoJack" system manufactured by the LoJack Corporation of Westwood, Ma, and described in United States Patents 4,818,998, 4,908,29, 5,917,423, and 6,665,613, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference. In general terms, this type of system uses a remotely activated system to track a vehicle in motion, using transceivers installed in the target vehicle in combination with transceiverldetectors mounted on other vehicles.
Typically, a LoJack system is used to track stolen vehicles. When a target vehicle is reported stolen, its transceiver is remotely activated, and thereafter police units that are specially equipped with transceiver/detectors can detect and locate the target vehicle.
LoJack is a form of an asset location system that utilizes a special FCC-allocated radio frequency (173.075 MHz), an older technology, very high frequency (VHF) signal.
The LoJack transceiver is passive until activated by police radio towers, and specially equipped police cruisers with receivers must work together to triangulate and locate the target vehicle. LoJack does not utilize GPS for location information, and is currently only available in 22 states.
Another 'type of long-range vehicle-tracking system uses global positioning satellites (GPS) to identify the current location of a vehicle. In this case, a GPS receiver is mounted in the vehicle to determine the vehicle location, and a separate transmitter is used to send the location data to the person or entity tracking the vehicle. In the common "OnStar" system, cellular telephone technology is used to activate the GPS receiver and to transmit the location data to the OnStar service center.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed, in general, to systems and methods for wireless asset tracking, and, more specifically, to asset tracking systems using multiple tracking means.
~~
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Tracking assets, physical inventory, and other objects in a large-scale enterprise is a daunting task.
Traditionally, this requires a manual, physical inventory that must be regularly repeated. Further, as assets move from place to place, or out of the control of the enterprise, the conventional process requires a time-intensive paperwork trail to track the movement of the assets.
This already-daunting task is made even more difficult when the assets being tracked are physically similar, since in that case every specific serial number must be verified to conclusively identify the specific item.
Recently, for items such as shipping containers, radio-frequency identification ('RFID) tags have been used to partially automate this process in a real-time location system (RTLS). In the common case, an asset with an attached RFID tag transmits a unique identifier, allowing an RFID tag reader to easily receive the transmitted ID number and thereby identify specific shipping containers.
An entirely different type of asset location is used for locating stolen vehicles. A commonly known system of this type is the "LoJack" system manufactured by the LoJack Corporation of Westwood, Ma, and described in United States Patents 4,818,998, 4,908,29, 5,917,423, and 6,665,613, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference. In general terms, this type of system uses a remotely activated system to track a vehicle in motion, using transceivers installed in the target vehicle in combination with transceiverldetectors mounted on other vehicles.
Typically, a LoJack system is used to track stolen vehicles. When a target vehicle is reported stolen, its transceiver is remotely activated, and thereafter police units that are specially equipped with transceiver/detectors can detect and locate the target vehicle.
LoJack is a form of an asset location system that utilizes a special FCC-allocated radio frequency (173.075 MHz), an older technology, very high frequency (VHF) signal.
The LoJack transceiver is passive until activated by police radio towers, and specially equipped police cruisers with receivers must work together to triangulate and locate the target vehicle. LoJack does not utilize GPS for location information, and is currently only available in 22 states.
Another 'type of long-range vehicle-tracking system uses global positioning satellites (GPS) to identify the current location of a vehicle. In this case, a GPS receiver is mounted in the vehicle to determine the vehicle location, and a separate transmitter is used to send the location data to the person or entity tracking the vehicle. In the common "OnStar" system, cellular telephone technology is used to activate the GPS receiver and to transmit the location data to the OnStar service center.
There is, therefore, a need in the art for a system and process that allows tracking of vehicles and other assets on both a long-range and short-range basis.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The preferred embodiment includes a system and method employing a combination of long-range and short-range asset location systems, preferably a GPS-based system combined with an RFID-based system. The short-range system regularly activates itself, or is remotely polled, to determine if the asset is within range of the short-range transceivers, and the long-range system is activated to determine the location of the asset when it is outside the range of the short-range transceivers. In at least some embodiments, the asset is an automobile equipped with both RFID and GPS-based transceivers.
The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present invention so that 1.5 those skilled in the art may better understand the detailed description of the invention that follows. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be. described hereinafter that form the subject of the claims of the invention. Those skilled in the art will, appreciate that they may readily use the conception and the specific embodiment disclosed as a. basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention in its broadest form.
Before undertaking the DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
INVENTION below, it may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words or phrases used throughout this patent document: the terms "include" and "comprise," as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation; the term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or; the phrases "associated with" and "associated therewith," as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained 5 within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have,, have a property of,' or the like; and the term "controller" means any device system or part thereof that controls at lea t one operation, whether such a device is implemented in hardware, firmware, software or some combination of at least two of the same.
It should be noted that the functionality associated with any particular controller may be centralized or distributed, whether locally or remotely. .Definitions for certain words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document, and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that such definitions apply in many, if not most, instances to prior as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases.
S
The preferred embodiment includes a system and method employing a combination of long-range and short-range asset location systems, preferably a GPS-based system combined with an RFID-based system. The short-range system regularly activates itself, or is remotely polled, to determine if the asset is within range of the short-range transceivers, and the long-range system is activated to determine the location of the asset when it is outside the range of the short-range transceivers. In at least some embodiments, the asset is an automobile equipped with both RFID and GPS-based transceivers.
The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present invention so that 1.5 those skilled in the art may better understand the detailed description of the invention that follows. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be. described hereinafter that form the subject of the claims of the invention. Those skilled in the art will, appreciate that they may readily use the conception and the specific embodiment disclosed as a. basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention in its broadest form.
Before undertaking the DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
INVENTION below, it may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words or phrases used throughout this patent document: the terms "include" and "comprise," as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation; the term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or; the phrases "associated with" and "associated therewith," as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained 5 within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have,, have a property of,' or the like; and the term "controller" means any device system or part thereof that controls at lea t one operation, whether such a device is implemented in hardware, firmware, software or some combination of at least two of the same.
It should be noted that the functionality associated with any particular controller may be centralized or distributed, whether locally or remotely. .Definitions for certain words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document, and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that such definitions apply in many, if not most, instances to prior as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases.
S
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a more complete understanding of the present invention, and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like numbers designate like objects, and in which:
Figure 1 depicts a block diagram of an RTLS system in accordance with a preferred embodiment;
Figure 2 depicts a block diagram of a GPS-based system in accordance with a preferred embodiment;
Figure 3 depicts a block diagram of a combined system, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, including both RFID and GPS-based location systems; and Figure 4 depicts a flowchart of a process.in accordance with the preferred embodiment.
For a more complete understanding of the present invention, and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like numbers designate like objects, and in which:
Figure 1 depicts a block diagram of an RTLS system in accordance with a preferred embodiment;
Figure 2 depicts a block diagram of a GPS-based system in accordance with a preferred embodiment;
Figure 3 depicts a block diagram of a combined system, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, including both RFID and GPS-based location systems; and Figure 4 depicts a flowchart of a process.in accordance with the preferred embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIGURES 1 through 4, discussed below, and the various embodiments used to describe the principles of the present invention in this patent document are by way of illustration only and should not be construed in any way t~ limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present invention may be implemented in any suitably arranged device: The numerous innovative teachings of the present application will be described with particular reference to the presently preferred embodiment.
The preferred embodiment includes a system and method employing a combination of long-range andshort-range, asset location systems, preferable a GPS-based system combined with an RFID-based system. The short-range sys em regularly activates itself, or is remotely polled, to determine if the-asset is within range of the short-range transceivers, and the long-range system is activated to determine the location of the asset when it is outside the range of the short-range transceivers. Tn at least some embodiments, the asset i:s an automobile equipped with both RFhD anti. GPS-based transceivers.
The following detailed description will be specifically drawn to automotive-based applications, but the skilled artisan will recognize that the claimed embodiments are not limited to automotive applications, but can be,used in any number of asset tracking systems.
A preferred embodiment uses multiple wireless technologies (RTLS/GPS) in single tag ~to facilitate vehicle tracking and locating, and is particularly advantageous in such areas as manufacturing plants, during delivery to dealers (trains, trucks, bailment lots, etc.), and dealer lots.
In a preferred embodiment, the real-time location system (RTLS) does not require line-of-.sight (indoor/outdoor), but utilizes RF or RFID tags. Preferably, these tags conform to the ANSI 371 / INCITS 371 standards, known to those of skill in the art, including transponder tag, antennae, and transceiver with deco,der,. This type of system is typically capable of XY location accuracy within 3-300 meters. Of course, more readers enable greater accuracy).
In some embodiments, the initial RF tag is attached to vehicle during beginning of assembly. Later, RF tag is integrated into the GPS system on vehicle. In this way., the vehicle is trackable throughout plant grounds (indoo,r and outdoor), and the system facilitates finding vehicles (plant lots, proving grounds, etc.) to fix quality and other issues. Preferably, a handheld PDA can be. used to locate vehicles. The same RTLS infrastructure can be used for yard management, wireless part calls, container management,~gate management, etc.
The RTLS RFD tags can be programmed to emit a signal every several hours, as selected by the operator, and when in the presence of a reader would update the ~ database with the vehicle's location.
Figure 1 depicts a block diagram of an RTLS system in accordance with a preferred embodiment. In this figure, an identifier tag, preferably an RFID./RTLS tag, is installed in vehicle 104. This tag communicates with antennas 106, which are in turn connected to communicate with location application server 108. While three representative antennas 106 are shown, a typical installation will include many antennas, so that an RTLS tag can be located anyrahere within the covered property. The tags can be set to broadcast a vehicle identification number, or other asset identifier, at set intervals (e. g., every 10 minutes, every hour,. etc.).
Location application server 108 includes software having a triangulation algorithm, as known to those of. skill in the art, for locating the vehicle 104 within the area served by antennas 106. Location application server 108 communicates over network 110, which can be the Internet or another public or private network, with central location server 112. Typically, there will also. be one or more firewalls, not shown, through. which the, communications are made. Location information is preferably encrypted and secure at all times during transmission and storage. Central location server 112 includes a database that stores the last known location of each vehicle.
External system 114 is connected to communicate with.
central location server 112, so that the vehicle location information can be used for any appropriate purpose.
Also according to a preferred embodiment, a Global Positioning System (GPS) compliant system is installed in the vehicle. GPS is a US Govt. Satellite system used to triangulate location, and typically requires line-of-sight to satellites, necessitating outdoor use. Assisted GPS
utilizes cellular network to reduce GPS search time to seconds vs. minutes. Special software, known to those of skill in the art, is required for both transponder and transceiver/decoder. The GPS system is typically capable of XY Locate accuracy within 5-30 meters.
Figure 2. depicts a block diagram of.a .GPS-based system in accordance with a preferred embodiment.. In this figure,, 5 a GPS, receiver and transceiver unit, typically a cellular-telephone-based transceiver is installed in vehicle 204..
The GPS receiver receives. location data from satellites 222, and can thereby determine its current location.
The transceiver communicates with a local base station 10 226, by which the location information is transmitted to location application server 228. As is known in GPS-based systems, the transceiver can be remotely activated, using base station 226, and the current location information can be polled from the GPS receiver.
Location application server 228 communicates ,over network 210, which can be the Internet or another public or private network, with central location server 212.
Typically, there will also be one or more firewalls, not shown,.through which the communications are made. Location information is preferably encrypted and secure at all times during transmission and storage. Central location server 212 includes a database that stores the last known location of each vehicle.
External system 214 is connected to communicate with central. location server 212, so that the vehicle location information can be used for any appropriate purpose.
In the GPS-based system, vehicle location polling can be done similarly to what is currently in production at "OnStar"-type systems today. Unsold vehicles or other vehicles for which up-to-date location information is needed can be polled when their last known location is a selected number of hours old. Vehicle location polling can be tied to vehicle event status (build, delivered, sold, etc.) Figure 3 depicts a block diagram of a combined system, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, including both RTLS/RFID and GPS-based location systems.
In this figure, a GPS receiver and transceiver unit, typically a cellular-telephone-based transceiver is~
installed in vehicle 304. The GPS receiver receives location data from satellites 322, and can thereby determine its current location.
The transceiver communicates with a local base station 326, by which the location information is transmitted to location application server 328. As is known.im GPS-based systems, the transceiver can be remotely activated, using base station 326, and the current location information can be polled from the GPS receiver.
Location application server 328 communicates over network 310, which can be the Internet or another public or private network, with central, location server 312.
Typically, there will also be one or more fi.rewalls, not shown, through which the communications are made. Location information is preferably encrypted and secure at all times during transmission and storage. Central location server 212 includes a database that stores the last known location of each vehicle.
An identifier tag, preferably an RFID/RTLS tog, is installed also in vehicle 304. This tag communicates with antennas 306, which are in turn connected to communicate with location application server 308. while three representative antennas 306 are shown, a typical installation will include many antennas, so that an RTLS tag ,can be located anywhere within the covered property. The tags can be set to broadcast ayehicle identification number, or other asset identifier, at, set intervals (e: g., every 30 minutes, every hour, etc.) Location application server 308 includes software having a triangulation algorithm, as known to those of skill in the art, for locating the vehicle 304 within the area served by antennas 306. Location application server 308 communicates over network 310, which can be the Internet or another public or private network, with central location server 31~.., Typically, there will also be one or ;more firewalls, not shown, through which the communications are made. Location information is preferably encrypted and secure at all times during transmission and storage.
External system 314 is connected to communicate with central location server 312, so that the vehicle location information can be used for any appropriate purpose.
In the GPS-based system, vehicle location polling.. can be done similarly to what is currently in production at "OnStar"-type systems today. Unsold vehicles or other vehicles for which up-to-date location information is needed can be polled when their last known location is a selected number of hours old. Vehicle location polling can be tied to vehicle event status (build, delivered, sold, etc.) The combination system allows vehicles to be tracked in transit from the assembly plant to their end destination via GPS. Vehicles can then be tracked by GPS on a national scale, or by RF once they reach suitably-equipped locations, such as dealer locations, rail yards, bailment lots, etc.
Figure 4 depicts a flowchart of a process in accordance with the preferred embodiment. Here, the central location server will periodically receive updates of the location of~
an asset, generated by an automatic signal sent by the RTLS
tag of the asset. In this case as above, the asset is preferably but not necessarily a vehicle: When the. RF-generated location information is received (step 4'05), the.
asset location database is updated to reflect he current location of the asset (step 410).
If no RF-generated location information is .received (step 405) after a predetermined delay (step 415), which is typically between one hour and one day, the central location server will generate a location request, which is transmitted over. the network to be delivered to the asset over a wireless network, typically a wireless telephone network (step 420)-The asset will receive the request, determine its current location based on the GPS system, and.respond via the wireless network. The central location server will receive the GPS-based location information. (step 4.25). When the GPS-based location information is received, the asset location database is updated to reflect the current location of the asset (step,410).
Some specific advantages of a system as described and claimed include tying GPS and RTLS together to allow for "smart" connections utilizing the lower cost medium when available. The tag can augment and leverage GPS systems such as "OnStar." RTLS can later be expanded to locate CA 02562092 2006-10-04 ' ,.
FIGURES 1 through 4, discussed below, and the various embodiments used to describe the principles of the present invention in this patent document are by way of illustration only and should not be construed in any way t~ limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present invention may be implemented in any suitably arranged device: The numerous innovative teachings of the present application will be described with particular reference to the presently preferred embodiment.
The preferred embodiment includes a system and method employing a combination of long-range andshort-range, asset location systems, preferable a GPS-based system combined with an RFID-based system. The short-range sys em regularly activates itself, or is remotely polled, to determine if the-asset is within range of the short-range transceivers, and the long-range system is activated to determine the location of the asset when it is outside the range of the short-range transceivers. Tn at least some embodiments, the asset i:s an automobile equipped with both RFhD anti. GPS-based transceivers.
The following detailed description will be specifically drawn to automotive-based applications, but the skilled artisan will recognize that the claimed embodiments are not limited to automotive applications, but can be,used in any number of asset tracking systems.
A preferred embodiment uses multiple wireless technologies (RTLS/GPS) in single tag ~to facilitate vehicle tracking and locating, and is particularly advantageous in such areas as manufacturing plants, during delivery to dealers (trains, trucks, bailment lots, etc.), and dealer lots.
In a preferred embodiment, the real-time location system (RTLS) does not require line-of-.sight (indoor/outdoor), but utilizes RF or RFID tags. Preferably, these tags conform to the ANSI 371 / INCITS 371 standards, known to those of skill in the art, including transponder tag, antennae, and transceiver with deco,der,. This type of system is typically capable of XY location accuracy within 3-300 meters. Of course, more readers enable greater accuracy).
In some embodiments, the initial RF tag is attached to vehicle during beginning of assembly. Later, RF tag is integrated into the GPS system on vehicle. In this way., the vehicle is trackable throughout plant grounds (indoo,r and outdoor), and the system facilitates finding vehicles (plant lots, proving grounds, etc.) to fix quality and other issues. Preferably, a handheld PDA can be. used to locate vehicles. The same RTLS infrastructure can be used for yard management, wireless part calls, container management,~gate management, etc.
The RTLS RFD tags can be programmed to emit a signal every several hours, as selected by the operator, and when in the presence of a reader would update the ~ database with the vehicle's location.
Figure 1 depicts a block diagram of an RTLS system in accordance with a preferred embodiment. In this figure, an identifier tag, preferably an RFID./RTLS tag, is installed in vehicle 104. This tag communicates with antennas 106, which are in turn connected to communicate with location application server 108. While three representative antennas 106 are shown, a typical installation will include many antennas, so that an RTLS tag can be located anyrahere within the covered property. The tags can be set to broadcast a vehicle identification number, or other asset identifier, at set intervals (e. g., every 10 minutes, every hour,. etc.).
Location application server 108 includes software having a triangulation algorithm, as known to those of. skill in the art, for locating the vehicle 104 within the area served by antennas 106. Location application server 108 communicates over network 110, which can be the Internet or another public or private network, with central location server 112. Typically, there will also. be one or more firewalls, not shown, through. which the, communications are made. Location information is preferably encrypted and secure at all times during transmission and storage. Central location server 112 includes a database that stores the last known location of each vehicle.
External system 114 is connected to communicate with.
central location server 112, so that the vehicle location information can be used for any appropriate purpose.
Also according to a preferred embodiment, a Global Positioning System (GPS) compliant system is installed in the vehicle. GPS is a US Govt. Satellite system used to triangulate location, and typically requires line-of-sight to satellites, necessitating outdoor use. Assisted GPS
utilizes cellular network to reduce GPS search time to seconds vs. minutes. Special software, known to those of skill in the art, is required for both transponder and transceiver/decoder. The GPS system is typically capable of XY Locate accuracy within 5-30 meters.
Figure 2. depicts a block diagram of.a .GPS-based system in accordance with a preferred embodiment.. In this figure,, 5 a GPS, receiver and transceiver unit, typically a cellular-telephone-based transceiver is installed in vehicle 204..
The GPS receiver receives. location data from satellites 222, and can thereby determine its current location.
The transceiver communicates with a local base station 10 226, by which the location information is transmitted to location application server 228. As is known in GPS-based systems, the transceiver can be remotely activated, using base station 226, and the current location information can be polled from the GPS receiver.
Location application server 228 communicates ,over network 210, which can be the Internet or another public or private network, with central location server 212.
Typically, there will also be one or more firewalls, not shown,.through which the communications are made. Location information is preferably encrypted and secure at all times during transmission and storage. Central location server 212 includes a database that stores the last known location of each vehicle.
External system 214 is connected to communicate with central. location server 212, so that the vehicle location information can be used for any appropriate purpose.
In the GPS-based system, vehicle location polling can be done similarly to what is currently in production at "OnStar"-type systems today. Unsold vehicles or other vehicles for which up-to-date location information is needed can be polled when their last known location is a selected number of hours old. Vehicle location polling can be tied to vehicle event status (build, delivered, sold, etc.) Figure 3 depicts a block diagram of a combined system, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, including both RTLS/RFID and GPS-based location systems.
In this figure, a GPS receiver and transceiver unit, typically a cellular-telephone-based transceiver is~
installed in vehicle 304. The GPS receiver receives location data from satellites 322, and can thereby determine its current location.
The transceiver communicates with a local base station 326, by which the location information is transmitted to location application server 328. As is known.im GPS-based systems, the transceiver can be remotely activated, using base station 326, and the current location information can be polled from the GPS receiver.
Location application server 328 communicates over network 310, which can be the Internet or another public or private network, with central, location server 312.
Typically, there will also be one or more fi.rewalls, not shown, through which the communications are made. Location information is preferably encrypted and secure at all times during transmission and storage. Central location server 212 includes a database that stores the last known location of each vehicle.
An identifier tag, preferably an RFID/RTLS tog, is installed also in vehicle 304. This tag communicates with antennas 306, which are in turn connected to communicate with location application server 308. while three representative antennas 306 are shown, a typical installation will include many antennas, so that an RTLS tag ,can be located anywhere within the covered property. The tags can be set to broadcast ayehicle identification number, or other asset identifier, at, set intervals (e: g., every 30 minutes, every hour, etc.) Location application server 308 includes software having a triangulation algorithm, as known to those of skill in the art, for locating the vehicle 304 within the area served by antennas 306. Location application server 308 communicates over network 310, which can be the Internet or another public or private network, with central location server 31~.., Typically, there will also be one or ;more firewalls, not shown, through which the communications are made. Location information is preferably encrypted and secure at all times during transmission and storage.
External system 314 is connected to communicate with central location server 312, so that the vehicle location information can be used for any appropriate purpose.
In the GPS-based system, vehicle location polling.. can be done similarly to what is currently in production at "OnStar"-type systems today. Unsold vehicles or other vehicles for which up-to-date location information is needed can be polled when their last known location is a selected number of hours old. Vehicle location polling can be tied to vehicle event status (build, delivered, sold, etc.) The combination system allows vehicles to be tracked in transit from the assembly plant to their end destination via GPS. Vehicles can then be tracked by GPS on a national scale, or by RF once they reach suitably-equipped locations, such as dealer locations, rail yards, bailment lots, etc.
Figure 4 depicts a flowchart of a process in accordance with the preferred embodiment. Here, the central location server will periodically receive updates of the location of~
an asset, generated by an automatic signal sent by the RTLS
tag of the asset. In this case as above, the asset is preferably but not necessarily a vehicle: When the. RF-generated location information is received (step 4'05), the.
asset location database is updated to reflect he current location of the asset (step 410).
If no RF-generated location information is .received (step 405) after a predetermined delay (step 415), which is typically between one hour and one day, the central location server will generate a location request, which is transmitted over. the network to be delivered to the asset over a wireless network, typically a wireless telephone network (step 420)-The asset will receive the request, determine its current location based on the GPS system, and.respond via the wireless network. The central location server will receive the GPS-based location information. (step 4.25). When the GPS-based location information is received, the asset location database is updated to reflect the current location of the asset (step,410).
Some specific advantages of a system as described and claimed include tying GPS and RTLS together to allow for "smart" connections utilizing the lower cost medium when available. The tag can augment and leverage GPS systems such as "OnStar." RTLS can later be expanded to locate CA 02562092 2006-10-04 ' ,.
parts, racks, assemblies, etc. at assembly plants and/or test facilities.
In some.embodiments, an Active RFID tag is used as the RFID tag. An active RFID can be re-written many times.
Utilization of an~ active RFID tag in a vehicle would alloia it to broadcast various vehicle telematics data. Fox example, the vehicle may have a "service engine soon" light coming on. The applicable trouble code is stored in the vehicle's On-board Diagnostic system and written to the RFID
tag. The trouble code can then be broadcast, so that when.
the driver pulls into a dealer service bay, the code can be received by an RFID reader and pre-populate the service writer's screen,with the relevant data (VIN, trouble code, mileage, etc.). In essence, the above would do away with the need for dealer's to plug a computer into the OBD system on the car to pull the trouble code.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that, for simplicity and clarity, the full structure and operation, of all data processing systems suitable for use with th.e present~inventiom is not being depicted or described herein.:, Instead, only so much of a data processing system as is unique to the present invention or necessary for an understanding of the present invention is depicted and described. The remainder of the construction and operation of data processing system 100 may conform to any of the various current implementations and prat ices known in the art.
It is' important to note that while the present invention has been described in the context of a fully functional system, those skilled in the art will appreciate that at least portions of the mechanism of the present invention are capable of being distributed in the form of instructions contained within a machine usable medium in any of a variety of forms, and that the. present invention applies equally regardless of the particular type of 5 instruction or signal bearing medium utilized to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of machine usable mediums include: nonvolatile, hard-coded type mediums such as read only. memories (,ROMs). ~r erasable, electrically programmable read only memories'(EEPROMs), user-recordable 10 type, mediums such as floppy disks, hard disk drives and compact disk read only memories (CD-ROMs) or digital versatile disks ~(DVDs), and transmission type mediums such as digital and analog communication links.
Although an exemplary embodiment of the present 15 invention has been described in detail, those skilled~in the art will understand that various changes, substitutions';.
variations, and improvements of the invention disolosed herein may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention in its broadest form.
None of the description in. the present application should be read as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an essential element which must 'be included in the claim scope: THE SCOPE OF PATENTED SUBJECT
MATTER IS DEFINED ONLY BY THE ALLOWED CLAIMS. Moreover, none of these claims are intended to invoke paragraph six of USC X112 unless the exact words"means for" are followed by a participle.
In some.embodiments, an Active RFID tag is used as the RFID tag. An active RFID can be re-written many times.
Utilization of an~ active RFID tag in a vehicle would alloia it to broadcast various vehicle telematics data. Fox example, the vehicle may have a "service engine soon" light coming on. The applicable trouble code is stored in the vehicle's On-board Diagnostic system and written to the RFID
tag. The trouble code can then be broadcast, so that when.
the driver pulls into a dealer service bay, the code can be received by an RFID reader and pre-populate the service writer's screen,with the relevant data (VIN, trouble code, mileage, etc.). In essence, the above would do away with the need for dealer's to plug a computer into the OBD system on the car to pull the trouble code.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that, for simplicity and clarity, the full structure and operation, of all data processing systems suitable for use with th.e present~inventiom is not being depicted or described herein.:, Instead, only so much of a data processing system as is unique to the present invention or necessary for an understanding of the present invention is depicted and described. The remainder of the construction and operation of data processing system 100 may conform to any of the various current implementations and prat ices known in the art.
It is' important to note that while the present invention has been described in the context of a fully functional system, those skilled in the art will appreciate that at least portions of the mechanism of the present invention are capable of being distributed in the form of instructions contained within a machine usable medium in any of a variety of forms, and that the. present invention applies equally regardless of the particular type of 5 instruction or signal bearing medium utilized to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of machine usable mediums include: nonvolatile, hard-coded type mediums such as read only. memories (,ROMs). ~r erasable, electrically programmable read only memories'(EEPROMs), user-recordable 10 type, mediums such as floppy disks, hard disk drives and compact disk read only memories (CD-ROMs) or digital versatile disks ~(DVDs), and transmission type mediums such as digital and analog communication links.
Although an exemplary embodiment of the present 15 invention has been described in detail, those skilled~in the art will understand that various changes, substitutions';.
variations, and improvements of the invention disolosed herein may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention in its broadest form.
None of the description in. the present application should be read as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an essential element which must 'be included in the claim scope: THE SCOPE OF PATENTED SUBJECT
MATTER IS DEFINED ONLY BY THE ALLOWED CLAIMS. Moreover, none of these claims are intended to invoke paragraph six of USC X112 unless the exact words"means for" are followed by a participle.
Claims (24)
1. A method for locating a physical object, comprising:
detecting if localized location information corresponding to the physical object has been received, the localized location information corresponding to a location determined from a signal received from a short-rage transmitter;
if the localized location information has been received, then storing the localized location information;
if no localized location information has been received for a predetermined amount of time, then sending a location request;
receiving secondary location information corresponding to the physical object, the secondary location information corresponding to a location determined from global positioning satellites; and storing the secondary location information.
detecting if localized location information corresponding to the physical object has been received, the localized location information corresponding to a location determined from a signal received from a short-rage transmitter;
if the localized location information has been received, then storing the localized location information;
if no localized location information has been received for a predetermined amount of time, then sending a location request;
receiving secondary location information corresponding to the physical object, the secondary location information corresponding to a location determined from global positioning satellites; and storing the secondary location information.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the localized location information is determined by a real-time location system.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the short-range transmitter is an RFID transmitter.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the location request is sent over a wide-area wireless network.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the secondary location information is received over a wide-area wireless network.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the predetermined amount of time is one day.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the physical object is a vehicle.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the physical object has both an RFID transmitted and a GPS receiver.
9. A computer program product tangibly embodied in a machine-readable medium, comprising:
instructions for detecting if localized location information corresponding to the physical object has been received, the localized location information corresponding to a location determined from a signal received from a short-range transmitter;
instructions for, if the localized location information has been received, then storing the localized location information;
instructions for, if no localized location information has been received for a predetermined amount of time, then sending a location request;
receiving secondary location information corresponding to the physical object, the secondary location information corresponding to a location determined from global positioning satellites; and storing the secondary location information.
instructions for detecting if localized location information corresponding to the physical object has been received, the localized location information corresponding to a location determined from a signal received from a short-range transmitter;
instructions for, if the localized location information has been received, then storing the localized location information;
instructions for, if no localized location information has been received for a predetermined amount of time, then sending a location request;
receiving secondary location information corresponding to the physical object, the secondary location information corresponding to a location determined from global positioning satellites; and storing the secondary location information.
10. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the localized location information is determined by a real-time location system.
11. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the short-range transmitter is an RFID transmitter.
12. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the location request is sent over a wide-area wireless network.
13. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the secondary location information is received over a wide-area wireless network.
14. The computer program-product of claim 9, wherein the predetermined amount of time is one day.
15. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the physical object is a vehicle.
16. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the physical object has both an RFID transmitted and a GPS
receiver.
receiver.
17. An asset location system, comprising:
means for detecting if localized location information corresponding to the physical object has been received, the localized location information corresponding to a location determined from a signal received from a short-range transmitter;
means for, if the localized location information has been received, then storing the localized location information;
means for, if no localized location information has been received for a predetermined amount of time, then sending a location request;
receiving secondary location information corresponding to the physical object, the secondary location information corresponding to a location determined from global positioning satellites; and storing the secondary location information.
means for detecting if localized location information corresponding to the physical object has been received, the localized location information corresponding to a location determined from a signal received from a short-range transmitter;
means for, if the localized location information has been received, then storing the localized location information;
means for, if no localized location information has been received for a predetermined amount of time, then sending a location request;
receiving secondary location information corresponding to the physical object, the secondary location information corresponding to a location determined from global positioning satellites; and storing the secondary location information.
18. The system of claim 17, further comprising a real-time location system configured to receive a signal from the short-range transmitter and thereby determine the location of the physical object.
19. The system of claim 17, further comprising means for transmitting the location request over a wireless telephone network.
20. The system of claim 17, further comprising means for receiving the secondary location information over a wireless telephone network.
21. The system of claim 17, wherein the short-range transmitter is an RFID transmitter.
22. A locatable vehicle, comprising:
propulsion means;
an RFID transmitter configured to periodically transmit a vehicle identifier;
a GPS receiver configured to determine the location of the vehicle according to global positioning satellites; and a wireless transceiver configured to transmit vehicle location information over a wireless telephone network.
propulsion means;
an RFID transmitter configured to periodically transmit a vehicle identifier;
a GPS receiver configured to determine the location of the vehicle according to global positioning satellites; and a wireless transceiver configured to transmit vehicle location information over a wireless telephone network.
23. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the short-range transmitter is an RFID transmitter.
24. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein vehicle status data is written to and transmitted by the short-range transmitter.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/879,711 US6977612B1 (en) | 2004-06-29 | 2004-06-29 | System and method for wireless asset tracking |
US10/879,711 | 2004-06-29 | ||
PCT/US2005/015443 WO2006007041A1 (en) | 2004-06-29 | 2005-05-03 | System and method for wireless asset tracking |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2562092A1 true CA2562092A1 (en) | 2006-01-19 |
Family
ID=35064763
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002562092A Abandoned CA2562092A1 (en) | 2004-06-29 | 2005-05-03 | System and method for wireless asset tracking |
Country Status (9)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US6977612B1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1761797B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE400824T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2005262838B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2562092A1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE602005008062D1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2308517T3 (en) |
MX (1) | MXPA06013426A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006007041A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (98)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7777675B2 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2010-08-17 | Era Systems Corporation | Deployable passive broadband aircraft tracking |
US8446321B2 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2013-05-21 | Omnipol A.S. | Deployable intelligence and tracking system for homeland security and search and rescue |
US8203486B1 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2012-06-19 | Omnipol A.S. | Transmitter independent techniques to extend the performance of passive coherent location |
US7570214B2 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2009-08-04 | Era Systems, Inc. | Method and apparatus for ADS-B validation, active and passive multilateration, and elliptical surviellance |
US7908077B2 (en) | 2003-06-10 | 2011-03-15 | Itt Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc. | Land use compatibility planning software |
US7889133B2 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2011-02-15 | Itt Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc. | Multilateration enhancements for noise and operations management |
US7739167B2 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2010-06-15 | Era Systems Corporation | Automated management of airport revenues |
US7667647B2 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2010-02-23 | Era Systems Corporation | Extension of aircraft tracking and positive identification from movement areas into non-movement areas |
US7782256B2 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2010-08-24 | Era Systems Corporation | Enhanced passive coherent location techniques to track and identify UAVs, UCAVs, MAVs, and other objects |
AU5588000A (en) * | 1999-05-19 | 2000-12-05 | Id Systems, Inc. | Fully automated vehicle rental system |
US7283047B2 (en) | 2003-08-01 | 2007-10-16 | Spectrum Tracking Systems, Inc. | Method and system for providing tracking services to locate an asset |
US7610210B2 (en) * | 2003-09-04 | 2009-10-27 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | System for the acquisition of technology risk mitigation information associated with insurance |
US7711584B2 (en) | 2003-09-04 | 2010-05-04 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | System for reducing the risk associated with an insured building structure through the incorporation of selected technologies |
US9311676B2 (en) | 2003-09-04 | 2016-04-12 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | Systems and methods for analyzing sensor data |
KR100540194B1 (en) * | 2003-09-23 | 2006-01-10 | 한국전자통신연구원 | Establishment System of RFID Tag Using Vehicle and Method Using It |
US8090599B2 (en) | 2003-12-30 | 2012-01-03 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | Method and system for computerized insurance underwriting |
US7783505B2 (en) | 2003-12-30 | 2010-08-24 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | System and method for computerized insurance rating |
US20050215200A1 (en) * | 2004-03-25 | 2005-09-29 | General Motors Corporation | Method and system for implementing a vehicle WiFi access point gateway |
EP1975640A1 (en) * | 2004-08-12 | 2008-10-01 | Wherenet Corp. | System and method for tracking containers in grounded marine terminal operations |
US20060145871A1 (en) * | 2004-12-02 | 2006-07-06 | Smith & Nephew, Inc. | Radio Frequency Identification for Medical Devices |
US8831991B2 (en) * | 2005-01-21 | 2014-09-09 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Limited-life electronic mail account as intermediary |
WO2006093992A2 (en) * | 2005-03-01 | 2006-09-08 | I.D. Systems, Inc. | Mobile portal for rfid applications |
CN101185347A (en) * | 2005-03-01 | 2008-05-21 | I.D.系统公司 | Mobile portal for rfid applications |
US7248167B2 (en) * | 2005-03-02 | 2007-07-24 | Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Ab | Methods, computer program products, mobile terminals, and web pages for providing directional information associated with RFID enabled moveable objects |
US9483881B2 (en) * | 2005-09-26 | 2016-11-01 | Applus Technologies Inc. | System and method for testing vehicle emissions and engine controls using a self-service on-board diagnostics kiosk |
US7925399B2 (en) * | 2005-09-26 | 2011-04-12 | Applus Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for testing vehicle emissions and engine controls using a self-service on-board diagnostics kiosk |
US8560459B2 (en) | 2005-11-17 | 2013-10-15 | Casella Waste Systems, Inc. | Methods and facilities for a municipal solid waste management system |
US9813867B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2017-11-07 | Polte Corporation | Angle of arrival (AOA) positioning method and system for positional finding and tracking objects using reduced attenuation RF technology |
US7969311B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2011-06-28 | Invisitrack, Inc. | Multi-path mitigation in rangefinding and tracking objects using reduced attenuation RF technology |
US10091616B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2018-10-02 | Polte Corporation | Angle of arrival (AOA) positioning method and system for positional finding and tracking objects using reduced attenuation RF technology |
US7872583B1 (en) * | 2005-12-15 | 2011-01-18 | Invisitrack, Inc. | Methods and system for multi-path mitigation in tracking objects using reduced attenuation RF technology |
US10281557B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2019-05-07 | Polte Corporation | Partially synchronized multilateration/trilateration method and system for positional finding using RF |
US9288623B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2016-03-15 | Invisitrack, Inc. | Multi-path mitigation in rangefinding and tracking objects using reduced attenuation RF technology |
US10834531B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2020-11-10 | Polte Corporation | Multi-path mitigation in rangefinding and tracking objects using reduced attenuation RF technology |
US9699607B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2017-07-04 | Polte Corporation | Multi-path mitigation in rangefinding and tracking objects using reduced attenuation RF technology |
US9913244B2 (en) | 2005-12-15 | 2018-03-06 | Polte Corporation | Partially synchronized multilateration or trilateration method and system for positional finding using RF |
US20070260466A1 (en) * | 2006-03-20 | 2007-11-08 | Casella Waste Systems, Inc. | System and methods for a recycling program |
EP1996958A4 (en) * | 2006-03-23 | 2010-12-29 | Rfind Systems Inc | Wireless asset identification and location |
IL174671A0 (en) * | 2006-03-30 | 2006-08-20 | Ely Levine | A system and case for tracking articles |
US7501949B2 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2009-03-10 | Bea Systems, Inc. | RFID bridge for RFID system administration |
US7965227B2 (en) | 2006-05-08 | 2011-06-21 | Era Systems, Inc. | Aircraft tracking using low cost tagging as a discriminator |
US20070294153A1 (en) * | 2006-05-22 | 2007-12-20 | General Electric Company | System and method for automatically generating shipping manifests |
US7746228B2 (en) * | 2006-06-12 | 2010-06-29 | Sensenig Tim R | Passive container tracking device, system, and method |
US7970534B2 (en) | 2006-08-24 | 2011-06-28 | Blackbird Technologies, Inc. | Mobile unit and system having integrated mapping, communications and tracking |
US8359209B2 (en) | 2006-12-19 | 2013-01-22 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | System and method for predicting and responding to likelihood of volatility |
WO2008079325A1 (en) | 2006-12-22 | 2008-07-03 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | System and method for utilizing interrelated computerized predictive models |
WO2008083743A1 (en) * | 2007-01-10 | 2008-07-17 | Tomtom International B.V. | Navigation device and method for displaying traffic information |
US7843335B2 (en) | 2007-03-13 | 2010-11-30 | Blackbird Technologies, Inc. | Mobile asset tracking unit, system and method |
KR100859198B1 (en) * | 2007-04-27 | 2008-09-18 | (주) 넥스모어시스템즈 | Portable location finding system using rfid and gps |
US7518502B2 (en) * | 2007-05-24 | 2009-04-14 | Smith & Nephew, Inc. | System and method for tracking surgical assets |
US20080291023A1 (en) * | 2007-05-24 | 2008-11-27 | Microsoft Corporation | RFID Discovery, Tracking, and Provisioning of Information Technology Assets |
US7342503B1 (en) * | 2007-08-24 | 2008-03-11 | Light Elliott D | System and method for providing visual and physiological cues in a matching system |
US7391331B1 (en) | 2007-08-24 | 2008-06-24 | Robelight, Llc | System and method for providing visual and physiological cues in a security matching system |
US7970418B2 (en) * | 2007-08-31 | 2011-06-28 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Method and system of providing event content sharing by mobile communication devices |
US20090102659A1 (en) * | 2007-09-24 | 2009-04-23 | Savi Technology, Inc. | Method and Apparatus for Tracking and Monitoring Containers |
US20090171528A1 (en) * | 2007-12-27 | 2009-07-02 | Sandisk Il Ltd. | Apparatus and process for recording data associated with a vehicle |
US9665910B2 (en) | 2008-02-20 | 2017-05-30 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | System and method for providing customized safety feedback |
US20090251295A1 (en) * | 2008-03-07 | 2009-10-08 | Savi Technology, Inc. | Method and Apparatus for Tracking and Monitoring Containers |
US8416083B2 (en) * | 2008-04-17 | 2013-04-09 | Intellectual Ventures Fund 66 Llc | Networking in a virtual space |
US7508310B1 (en) * | 2008-04-17 | 2009-03-24 | Robelight, Llc | System and method for secure networking in a virtual space |
US7522058B1 (en) * | 2008-04-17 | 2009-04-21 | Robelight Llc | System and method for social networking in a virtual space |
US20100007495A1 (en) * | 2008-07-10 | 2010-01-14 | International Business Machines Corporation | System and Method for Monitoring a Location of a Mobile RFID Reader |
US20100236598A1 (en) * | 2009-03-18 | 2010-09-23 | Solar Semiconductor Pvt. Ltd. | Embedded rfid solution for solar panels |
US8169328B2 (en) * | 2009-06-09 | 2012-05-01 | Lojack Operating Company, Lp | Proximity monitoring and locating system |
GB2472632B (en) * | 2009-08-13 | 2013-06-19 | Spinnaker Int Ltd | A security container and security systems |
WO2011038018A1 (en) * | 2009-09-23 | 2011-03-31 | Earthsearch Communications International, Inc. | Device and process for monitoring secure storage and delivery of items |
US8355934B2 (en) | 2010-01-25 | 2013-01-15 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | Systems and methods for prospecting business insurance customers |
CA2734219A1 (en) * | 2010-03-18 | 2011-09-18 | Assetworks Inc. | Maintenance system and method for vehicle fleets |
US9460471B2 (en) | 2010-07-16 | 2016-10-04 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | System and method for an automated validation system |
US8558694B2 (en) | 2010-10-06 | 2013-10-15 | International Business Machines Corporation | Asset management for information technology resources |
GB2490649A (en) * | 2011-03-23 | 2012-11-14 | Tracker Network Uk Ltd | Vehicle location and recovery system |
CN102791015B (en) * | 2011-05-20 | 2016-04-13 | 赛恩倍吉科技顾问(深圳)有限公司 | Base station apparatus, wireless communication system and method |
US8538373B2 (en) | 2011-05-25 | 2013-09-17 | Blackbird Technologies, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for emergency tracking |
US11125850B2 (en) | 2011-08-03 | 2021-09-21 | Polte Corporation | Systems and methods for determining a timing offset of emitter antennas in a wireless network |
EP2739986B1 (en) | 2011-08-03 | 2018-01-10 | PoLTE Corporation | Multi-path mitigation in rangefinding and tracking objects using reduced attenuation rf technology |
US11835639B2 (en) | 2011-08-03 | 2023-12-05 | Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. | Partially synchronized multilateration or trilateration method and system for positional finding using RF |
US8924548B2 (en) | 2011-08-16 | 2014-12-30 | Panduit Corp. | Integrated asset tracking, task manager, and virtual container for data center management |
EP2754105A4 (en) * | 2011-09-09 | 2015-05-20 | Margaret Hildick-Pytte | Emergency services system and method |
CN102494683B (en) * | 2011-10-26 | 2015-04-15 | 泰斗微电子科技有限公司 | Radio frequency identification (RFID)-based joint positioning device and method |
US10440512B2 (en) | 2012-08-03 | 2019-10-08 | Polte Corporation | Angle of arrival (AOA) positioning method and system for positional finding and tracking objects using reduced attenuation RF technology |
US10845453B2 (en) | 2012-08-03 | 2020-11-24 | Polte Corporation | Network architecture and methods for location services |
US10863313B2 (en) | 2014-08-01 | 2020-12-08 | Polte Corporation | Network architecture and methods for location services |
US9342935B2 (en) * | 2013-01-04 | 2016-05-17 | Diamond 18 Ltd. | Smartphone based system for vehicle monitoring security |
US9911151B1 (en) | 2013-06-06 | 2018-03-06 | AutoNation Holding Corp. | System and method of inventory management and marketing for vehicles |
US10024971B2 (en) * | 2013-07-16 | 2018-07-17 | Walter Fields | Apparatus, system and method for locating a lost instrument or object |
KR101481348B1 (en) * | 2013-12-17 | 2015-01-09 | 현대자동차주식회사 | Device and method for preventing discharge of eCall system backup battery |
WO2015186043A1 (en) * | 2014-06-06 | 2015-12-10 | Zih Corp. | Method, apparatus, and computer program product improving real time location systems with multiple location technologies |
US9734682B2 (en) | 2015-03-02 | 2017-08-15 | Enovate Medical, Llc | Asset management using an asset tag device |
DE112015006717T5 (en) * | 2015-08-18 | 2018-05-17 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | In-vehicle locating device and method |
US20170154386A1 (en) * | 2015-11-30 | 2017-06-01 | Telogis, Inc. | Vehicle manufacture tracking |
US20170308845A1 (en) * | 2016-04-26 | 2017-10-26 | Inventor-E Limited | Asset tag and method and device for asset tracking |
US10394871B2 (en) | 2016-10-18 | 2019-08-27 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | System to predict future performance characteristic for an electronic record |
BR112020000303A2 (en) | 2017-07-07 | 2020-09-15 | Apptricity Corporation | network edge controller and remote field service system |
US10382897B1 (en) | 2018-01-25 | 2019-08-13 | Geoforce, Inc. | Wireless gateway relay system and method |
US10495764B2 (en) | 2018-01-30 | 2019-12-03 | Bastian Solutions, Llc | Asset tracking system |
US11255945B2 (en) | 2018-03-27 | 2022-02-22 | Polte Corporation | Multi-path mitigation in tracking objects using compressed RF data |
EP4133412A4 (en) | 2020-04-07 | 2024-01-10 | Apptricity Corp | Flexible radio beacons and flexible delivery structures and system and method for using |
US11770152B2 (en) | 2020-04-07 | 2023-09-26 | Apptricity Corporation | Radio frequency (RF) location beacon with tunable antennas and cloud integration |
Family Cites Families (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4908629A (en) | 1986-03-31 | 1990-03-13 | Lo-Jack Corporation | Apparatus for locating and/or tracking stolen or missing vehicles and the like |
US4818998A (en) | 1986-03-31 | 1989-04-04 | Lo-Jack Corporation | Method of and system and apparatus for locating and/or tracking stolen or missing vehicles and the like |
US6738697B2 (en) | 1995-06-07 | 2004-05-18 | Automotive Technologies International Inc. | Telematics system for vehicle diagnostics |
US6542076B1 (en) | 1993-06-08 | 2003-04-01 | Raymond Anthony Joao | Control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method |
ZA959074B (en) | 1995-04-12 | 1996-05-22 | Lo Jack Corp | Vehicle tracking transponder system and transponding method |
DE19637702A1 (en) * | 1996-09-04 | 1998-04-09 | Grundstuecks Verwaltung Frenze | Person and object location system e.g. for taxis |
US5990826A (en) * | 1997-10-07 | 1999-11-23 | Rockwell Science Center, Inc. | Interbuilding and urban canyon extension solution for global positioning systems |
US6618593B1 (en) | 2000-09-08 | 2003-09-09 | Rovingradar, Inc. | Location dependent user matching system |
US6405125B1 (en) * | 2000-09-26 | 2002-06-11 | Mourad Ben Ayed | Parked vehicle locator |
US7034683B2 (en) * | 2000-11-06 | 2006-04-25 | Loran Technologies, Inc. | Electronic vehicle product and personnel monitoring |
US20030057270A1 (en) * | 2001-09-17 | 2003-03-27 | Collen Jess M. | Location identification system and method |
US6665613B2 (en) | 2001-09-25 | 2003-12-16 | Lojack Corporation | Method of and apparatus for dynamically GoeFencing movable vehicle and other equipment and the like |
US6662068B1 (en) | 2001-10-12 | 2003-12-09 | Touraj Ghaffari | Real time total asset visibility system |
US7038619B2 (en) * | 2001-12-31 | 2006-05-02 | Rdp Associates, Incorporated | Satellite positioning system enabled media measurement system and method |
US6768450B1 (en) * | 2002-11-07 | 2004-07-27 | Garmin Ltd. | System and method for wirelessly linking a GPS device and a portable electronic device |
US7289786B2 (en) * | 2003-01-16 | 2007-10-30 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Method and apparatus for communicating emergency information using wireless devices |
-
2004
- 2004-06-29 US US10/879,711 patent/US6977612B1/en active Active
-
2005
- 2005-05-03 AU AU2005262838A patent/AU2005262838B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2005-05-03 ES ES05761078T patent/ES2308517T3/en active Active
- 2005-05-03 MX MXPA06013426A patent/MXPA06013426A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2005-05-03 EP EP05761078A patent/EP1761797B1/en active Active
- 2005-05-03 CA CA002562092A patent/CA2562092A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2005-05-03 WO PCT/US2005/015443 patent/WO2006007041A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2005-05-03 DE DE602005008062T patent/DE602005008062D1/en active Active
- 2005-05-03 AT AT05761078T patent/ATE400824T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6977612B1 (en) | 2005-12-20 |
AU2005262838A1 (en) | 2006-01-19 |
MXPA06013426A (en) | 2007-01-23 |
US20050285782A1 (en) | 2005-12-29 |
EP1761797A1 (en) | 2007-03-14 |
DE602005008062D1 (en) | 2008-08-21 |
AU2005262838B2 (en) | 2009-07-02 |
WO2006007041A1 (en) | 2006-01-19 |
ES2308517T3 (en) | 2008-12-01 |
EP1761797B1 (en) | 2008-07-09 |
ATE400824T1 (en) | 2008-07-15 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6977612B1 (en) | System and method for wireless asset tracking | |
US7493211B2 (en) | System and method for updating geo-fencing information on mobile devices | |
US8013735B2 (en) | Asset recovery system | |
US6144916A (en) | Itinerary monitoring system for storing a plurality of itinerary data points | |
US9049545B2 (en) | System and method for determining location of an item | |
US20100094482A1 (en) | Vehicle tracking system | |
US20140074667A1 (en) | System and Method for Inventory Control of Mobile Assets | |
JP2006515696A (en) | Mobile trailer tracking system and method | |
US20080162034A1 (en) | System and method for automatically generating sets of geo-fences | |
US20060109109A1 (en) | Method and apparatus involving global positioning and long-range wireless link | |
JPH09166657A (en) | Tracking system and method for collecting, decreasing, processing and sending property tracking data | |
US20090309731A1 (en) | Method and system for tracking objects using Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver built in the Active Radio Frequency ID (RFID) receiver | |
US20070216542A1 (en) | System and method for remotely tracking and monitoring a container and its contents | |
CA2392326A1 (en) | Monitoring system and method | |
WO2008097322A2 (en) | Passive container tracking device, system, and method | |
Bajaj et al. | GPS based automatic vehicle tracking using RFID | |
WO2008082630A2 (en) | Method and system for geolocation assisted operations management | |
AU2019275563A1 (en) | Method and system for tracking cable drums and length of cable on the drum | |
US20020090955A1 (en) | Tracking system using an existing wireless network | |
US10186151B2 (en) | Method for finding an object coupled to a radio transmitter | |
US20220091420A1 (en) | Augmented reality system | |
US11802931B2 (en) | System and method for tracking mobile assets, first notices of loss, tracking device and corresponding computer programs | |
JP5459679B2 (en) | Vehicle location management system | |
CA2252997A1 (en) | Method and system for monitoring the transportation and positioning of moving object | |
CN104360365A (en) | Auxiliary positioning method based on radio frequency recognition |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
FZDE | Discontinued | ||
FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20110503 |