Location tracking with integrated identification of cargo carrier contents and related system and method

Various methods and devices are provided for integrating location tracking and cargo identification. For example, an identification of a cargo carrier can be provided, such as by an identification or tracking device associated with the cargo carrier. Also, an identification of a carried asset can be provided, such as by a tag or optical code associated with the carried asset. Further, a determination can be made whether the carried asset is being added to or removed from the cargo carrier. This could be done automatically or based on user input. This information can be collected and stored in association with each other so that location information about the carried asset can be provided to users.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to asset tracking systems. More specifically, this disclosure relates to location tracking with integrated identification of cargo carrier contents and related system and method.

BACKGROUND

Many exploration and production operations, such as oil and gas operations, are supplied by supply chains that use various types of containers like tanks, boxes, and pallets. Many of these containers are tracked at certain points along a supply chain. However, full visibility into a supply chain is often limited. For example, a supply inventory in a container is often unknown. These supplies vary from “rope, soap and dope” (which may be tracked for manifesting purposes) to valuable drilling equipment, such as downhole tools, drilling collars, formation evaluation tools, and core samples. Some containers may also include hazardous materials or other materials that have regulatory requirements.

SUMMARY

This disclosure provides location tracking with integrated identification of cargo carrier contents and related system and method.

In a first embodiment, a method includes receiving, at a portable device associated with a user, an identification of a cargo carrier from an identification device associated with the cargo carrier. The method also includes identifying, at the portable device, an asset being added to or removed from the cargo carrier. The method further includes generating, at the portable device, one or more messages identifying the cargo carrier and the asset and indicating whether the asset is being added to or removed from the cargo carrier. In addition, the method includes transmitting, from the portable device, the one or more messages.

In a second embodiment, a method includes identifying, at a location tracking device associated with a cargo carrier, a location of the location tracking device. The method also includes receiving, at the location tracking device, information identifying one or more carried assets in or on the cargo carrier. The method further includes generating, at the location tracking device, one or more messages identifying the location of the location tracking device and the one or more carried assets in or on the cargo carrier. In addition, the method includes transmitting, from the location tracking device, the one or more messages.

In a third embodiment, a method includes receiving information identifying a location associated with a cargo carrier and receiving information identifying one or more carried assets in or on the cargo carrier. The method also includes storing the information identifying the location of the cargo carrier in association with the information identifying the one or more carried assets in or on the cargo carrier. The method further includes updating the location of the cargo carrier to track the location of the one or more carried assets.

Before undertaking the DETAILED DESCRIPTION below, it may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and 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 term “transceiver” includes a transmitter, a receiver, or a combination of a transmitter and a receiver. The phrase “associated with,” as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained 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, have a relationship to or with, or the like. Definitions for certain words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document, those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that in many, if not most instances, such definitions apply to prior, as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1illustrates an example global tracking device (GTD)100according to this disclosure. As shown inFIG. 1, the GTD100includes a control unit105and a hardened case110. The hardened case110is configured to protect the control unit105during deployment in the field. The hardened case110can be formed from any suitable material(s), such as a zinc alloy, steel, or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the material used to form the hardened case110is anti-magnetic and/or non-sparking. The hardened case110inhibits damage to the control unit105, such as by helping to prevent damage from compression, impact, and weather. As a specific example, the hardened case110can prevent water or other liquids from contacting or entering into the control unit105. In some embodiments, the GTD100includes at least two layers of seals configured to protect processing circuitry and a power source contained within the control unit105.

In this example, the hardened case110includes a first window115configured to allow transmission of wireless signals to and from the control unit105. The wireless signals can include long-range RF signals, such as cellular wireless signals or satellite communication signals. The first window115is also configured to protect the control unit105from electro-static interference (ESI). In this example, the first window115is dimensioned to enable part of the control unit105to extend into the first window115. In some embodiments, the portion of the control unit105that extends into the first window115can extend beyond a planar level of a surface of the hardened case110. In addition, the first window115can be dimensioned to help focus wireless signals towards a transceiver in the control unit105. For example, the first window115can be dimensioned so that a metal edge of the first window115is disposed at a specified angle in relation to a location of the transceiver. In some embodiments, the metal edge of the first window115is disposed at an angle of about 28° from the transceiver.

The hardened case110also includes a second window120configured to allow transmission of local wireless signals to and from the control unit105. The local wireless signals can include BLUETOOTH LOW ENERGY (BLE), WiFi, ZIGBEE, Radio Frequency identification (RFID), or other signals. The second window120also protects the control unit105from ESI. In this example, the second window120is dimensioned to enable part of the control unit105to extend into the second window120. In some embodiments, the portion of the control unit105that extends into the second window120can extend beyond a planar level of a surface of the hardened case110.

The GTD100further includes a switch125that enables an operator to activate or deactivate the GTD100. The switch125here extends through a third window130in the hardened case110. The switch125can be coupled to the processing circuitry or other components within the control unit105. The switch125represents any suitable type of switch, such as a magnetic switch.

The GTD100is adapted to be removably mounted to a container or other structure. For example, the GTD100can include a mounting mechanism for attaching the GTD100to a number of different types of containers, tools, equipment, or machinery. For example, the GTD100can be mounted using one or more hex-head screws, socket-head cap screws, hex-head self-tapping screws, Phillips-head self tapping screws, stainless steel banding straps, zip-ties, VHB tape, and/or magnetic mountings. As a particular example, the hardened case110can include a number of openings135configured to receive screws, such as hex-head screws or socket-head cap screws. The GTD100can also be mounted via a standard mounting, a flush mounting, or some other mounting technique. In general, the GTD100can be mounted on or to any suitable “cargo carrier,” which refers to any structure configured to carry or store one or more products or other materials. A cargo carrier could represent a pallet, tank, box, or any other suitable container or other carrier.

FIG. 2illustrates an example hardened case110for a global tracking device100according to this disclosure. As shown inFIG. 2, the hardened case110is configured to protect processing circuitry in the control unit105and a power source for the processing circuitry. In some embodiments, the hardened case110and the processing circuitry in the control unit105can be configured to have a limited lump capacitance. Also, in some embodiments, the hardened case110is configured to be certified for powered devices operating within explosive environments. Example certifications could include European ATEX and/or International Electro-technical (IEC-W0029-0).

In the example shown inFIG. 2, the hardened case110has a modular construction. The hardened case110here includes a top portion110-aand a bottom portion110-b. When coupled together, the top portion110-aand the bottom portion110-bare configured to form a water-tight seal around the control unit105. For example, the top portion110-aand the bottom portion110-bcan include interlaced gaskets202each having multiple ridges configured to interlace with each other to form the water-tight seal. The gaskets202can include any suitable material(s) for forming a seal. The gaskets202could, for instance, be formed of a fluorosilicone material or other material(s) resistant to and providing a water-tight seal across a wide temperature range, such as from a low temperature of −40° C. to a high temperature of 85° C. The gaskets202can further be configured to absorb changes in section of metal or plastic.

In this example, the top portion110-aalso includes multiple support dowels205, and the bottom portion110-balso includes multiple vias210. Each via210is adapted to receive and couple with a respective support dowel205. Each via210can also include a threaded opening adapted to receive a connector, such as a hex bolt or other bolt215. A bolt215can be inserted through an opening in one of the dowels205and coupled with the threaded opening in the via210. Accordingly, the bolt215secures the top portion110-ato the bottom portion110-b. In some embodiments, the opening in one or more support dowels205is threaded. The support dowels205and vias210are configured to form an interlocking structure that protects against a shear load applied to the hardened case110.

The hardened case110further includes reinforcement ridges220(also seen inFIG. 1). The reinforcement ridges220protrude from at least two sides of the hardened case110. The reinforcement ridges220provide load bearing reinforcement to the hardened case110. In some embodiments, the top portion110-aincludes one part of each reinforcement ridge220, and the bottom portion110-bincludes another part of each reinforcement ridge220. In other embodiments, either the top portion110-aor the bottom portion110-bincludes each reinforcement ridge220.

Different hardened cases110can be dimensioned to have different sizes depending upon specified applications. In some embodiments, one example of a hardened case110is dimensioned to be 3.1 inches wide, 6.25 inches long, and 1.41 inches high.

FIG. 3illustrates an example bottom view of the hardened case110according to this disclosure. As shown inFIG. 3, the hardened case110includes a substantially flat mounting surface300(its bottom surface here). In some embodiments, the mounting surface300is flat and includes no protrusions or recesses. In other embodiments like the one shown here, the mounting surface300includes a recess305. The recess305can be adapted, for example, to receive a mounting mechanism, such as a tape or magnetized source. The mounting surface300also includes a fourth window310, which provides an access point to the control unit105. For example, the fourth window310can be used to upgrade or connect to the control unit105. The fourth window310includes one or more seals for inhibiting the leakage of liquids into the hardened case110. Note that use of the fourth window310can be optional.

FIG. 4illustrates an example cross-sectional view of the global tracking device100according to this disclosure. As shown inFIG. 4, the GTD100includes the control unit105protected by the hardened case110. The control unit105here includes a plastic or other encasement405. The encasement405can be molded to conform to an internal shape of the hardened case110. In some embodiments, the encasement405is configured to form a water-tight seal with the internal surfaces of the hardened case110. The encasement405can be a self-contained, sealed compartment that houses processing circuitry410and other components of the control unit105. Accordingly, the combination of the hardened case110and the encasement405provides two layers of water-tight seals for the GTD100. In some embodiments, portions of the encasement405are configured to extend through one or more windows115,120,130of the hardened case110.

The GTD100also includes a power source415, which supplies operating power for the GTD100. Any suitable power source could be used, such as multiple batteries420coupled in series or in parallel. In some embodiments, the power source415can include a power converter configured to convert power from an external source for use by the processing circuitry410or other components. For example, the power source415can include a solar cell converter configured to convert or otherwise redirect electrical power generated by a solar cell into power configured to re-charge the batteries420and/or provide power to the processing circuitry410.

In this example, the batteries420are contained within a battery compartment425. The battery compartment425can be formed by a cavity created between the encasement405and the bottom portion110-bof the hardened case110. For example, the battery compartment425can be disposed in a region beneath or otherwise adjacent to a location of the processing circuitry410within the encasement405. The encasement405can include a plurality of ribs427that are configured to define individual battery seats, as well as to inhibit compression of the control unit105. Upon opening of the hardened case110(such as by removing the bottom portion110-b), access to the batteries420within the battery compartment425can be obtained. Accordingly, one or more batteries420can be easily replaced by opening the hardened case110.

The hardened case110further includes one or more seals430where different portions of the encasement405meet. Among other things, these seals430help to seal the battery compartment425. This can also help to seal battery contacts electrically connecting the processing circuitry410to the batteries420in order to protect against liquids penetrating the control unit105.

The processing circuitry410here is mounted on a circuit board435, which is contained within the encasement405. The circuit board435in this example includes an external electrical connection440. The external electrical connection440is electrically coupled to the processing circuitry410through one or more connections on the circuit board435. The external electrical connection440is also configured to extend through the fourth window310. The external electrical connection440can be used in various ways, such as to communicate with or power the processing circuitry410or to couple to an external device. The junction of the external electrical connection440and the encasement405is configured to maintain the water-tight seal of the encasement405. That is, the encasement405can be in physical contact with or otherwise molded to the external electrical connection440so that liquids cannot enter into the encasement405at the junction between the encasement405and external electrical connection440.

The processing circuitry410is coupled to the switch125through one or more connections on the circuit board435. The switch125can be configured, for example, to toggle the processing circuitry410from an on state to an off state and vice-versa. As a particular example, the switch125can be configured to interrupt or allow power from the power source415to be delivered to the processing circuitry410. A portion445of the switch125extends through the third window130of the hardened case110.

In addition, the GTD100includes transceivers450-455configured to communicate through one or more of the windows115-120. As noted above, the transceivers450-455could support any suitable wireless communication protocol(s). For example, the transceiver450could represent a BLE transceiver disposed in proximity to the second window120, and the transceiver455could represent an RFID transceiver also disposed in proximity to the second window120.

FIG. 5illustrates an example circuit board435in the global tracking device100according to this disclosure. As shown inFIG. 5, circuitry is disposed on both sides of the circuit board435. The circuitry here includes a controller505and a long-distance transceiver510. The transceiver510can include an antenna coupled to a modem512, such as a satellite modem, cellular modem, or other suitable wireless communications modem.

The circuitry also includes a global positioning system (GPS) engine515, a BLE engine520, and an RF identifier525. The RF identifier525could be an embedded passive global RFID device. The circuit board435further includes various conductive tracings configured to communicatively couple the controller505to the transmitter510, the GPS engine515, the BLE engine520and the RF identifier525. An expansion header530can be coupled to one or more elements on the circuit board435through the conductive tracings to provide a connection point for access to the components on the circuit board435or for future access. For example, the expansion header530can be configured to provide a future use capability for communicating with or powering of the processing circuitry510or for coupling to an external device via the external electrical connection440.

The controller505is coupled to a memory535. The memory535is configured to store instructions and data used, generated, or collected by the controller505. The controller505is configured to control the functions of the GTD100. For example, the controller505can be configured to control wireless communications sent and received by the transceiver510or the BLE engine520.

In this example, the circuit board435further includes multiple sensors. The sensors can include a shock sensor540, an accelerometer545, a temperature sensor550, and a three-dimensional (3D) impact sensor555. The controller505can use the sensors540-555in any suitable manner. For example, the controller505could use the sensors to determine if the object to which the GTD100is attached has been dropped or damaged. Accordingly, the GTD100can be configured to initiate event-based maintenance. For instance, the GTD100can trigger an alarm indicating that the object to which the GTD100is attached may require maintenance due to an impact occurring over a threshold amount, such as an impact three times the force of gravity (3G) in any direction. Moreover, the GTD100can store information related to the impact, such as by storing and providing information related to the shock in x-y-z vectors. Additionally, the controller505can be configured to differentiate between impact, motion, and machine vibration (such as vibration from normal operation). The controller505can combine information regarding motion and vibration to detect impact and differentiate impact from normal operation. The GTD100also can be configured to measure an internal temperature of the GTD100.

The controller505may represent a single processing device, a multi-processing unit, or a distributed processing system. The controller505can utilize instructions stored in the memory535and connections to various other components, such as various transceivers, sensors, or batteries.

During operation, the controller505can store data related to the object to which the GTD100is attached in the memory535. The controller505can therefore be configured to perform data logging, such as downloading high-resolution data locally. Additionally, the controller505can alter the timing of a report based on motion of the GTD100, such as movement of the object to which the GTD100is attached. The GTD100can also store information related to vibration of the object to which the GTD100is attached. Accumulated vibration information can include data related to year-to-date, lifetime, and instant operation (this trip) vibrations. The GTD100can further measure the vibrations using the sensors and embed vibration information in messages reported to an operator or central facility. In some embodiments, the GTD100includes a vibration detection read switch configured to enable an operator to read vibration information via an external device.

The memory535may include any suitable volatile and/or non-volatile storage and retrieval device(s). For example, the memory535can include any electronic, magnetic, electromagnetic, optical, electro-optical, electro-mechanical, and/or other physical device(s) that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transmit information. The memory535can store data and instructions for use by the controller505. Additionally, the memory535can store information related to the object to which the GTD100is attached, such as detected location, event history, maintenance history, emergency handling procedures, and so forth.

External devices and users can interact with the GTD100in any suitable manner. For example, the GTD100could communicate with a monitor, keyboard, mouse, or other input/output device. The GTD100could also communicate wirelessly with other devices or systems.

FIG. 6illustrates an example signal focusing configuration600of the global tracking device100according to this disclosure. As shown inFIG. 6, one or more long-range RF signals are focused into the transceiver510using this signal focusing configuration.

The signal focusing configuration600defines a relationship between a location of the transceiver510and edges of the hardened case110. More specifically, the transceiver510is disposed at a location corresponding to the first window115. For example, the transceiver510can be disposed at a location on the circuit board435that is centered beneath the first window115. The transceiver510is also disposed such that an angle formed by an adjacent edge of the first window115, the transceiver510, and the circuit board435focuses RF energy towards the transceiver510. In some embodiments, the angle formed by an adjacent edge of the first window115, the transceiver510, and the circuit board435is about 28°. The hardened case110therefore focuses RF energy towards the transceiver510. The exact position of the transceiver510may vary as long as the relationship between the transceiver510and edges of the first window115is maintained.

FIG. 7illustrates an example global tracking and reporting system700according to this disclosure. As shown inFIG. 7, an operation site705includes multiple pieces of equipment710, such as storage containers710-a, machinery710-b, and construction equipment710-c. The operation site705can represent any suitable location, such as an excavation site, a drilling site, an industrial facility, a manufacturing site, or the like. The operation site705can include any number of pieces of equipment.

Each piece of equipment here includes, is attached to, or is otherwise associated with a GTD100. For example, a container710-ais associated with a first GTD100-aattached to a sidewall, either internally or externally. Among other things, the first GTD100-acould store information about the container710-aand one or more articles contained within the container710-a. Additionally, the machinery710-band the construction equipment710-care associated with a second GTD100-band a third GTD100-c, respectively. Each of these GTDs100-band100-ccan store information regarding the respective item to which it is attached.

The operation site705can optionally include a transponder715, such as an RFID transponder. The transponder715can be configured to transmit a location identifier (ID), read an identifier from an RFID transmitter, or both. The location identifier can include information regarding the operation site705. For example, the GTD100-aattached to the container710-acan receive a location identifier from the transponder715as the GTD100-aenters into communication proximity with the transponder715. This could occur, for instance, when a transport truck delivers the container710-ato the operation site705and the transponder715transmits the location identifier to the GTD100-a. This could support local functions within the operation site705, such as when the operation site705supports local RFID tracking. Note, however, that the transponder715could be omitted in favor of the on-board location identification functionality of the GTDs.

The GTD100-acan transmit messages to a central facility720. A message can include an identifier for that GTD and a location of that GTD. A message can also include an object identifier identifying the object to which the GTD is attached. In some embodiments, a message further includes information regarding the contents of a container or other equipment710. For example, the message may indicate that a specified container710-ais located at a specified location and contains specified equipment and material. If the GTD100is configured to do so, the message can also include an identifier uniquely associated with the contents of the container710-a. In some embodiments, when the contents include a radioactive or other hazardous source, the message can include a reading from a radiation sensor or other sensor (in either the container710-aor operation site705).

The GTDs100-band100-ccan also transmit messages to the central facility720about their associated machinery710-band construction equipment710-c. Additionally, if a GTD is so configured, a message can include an identifier of other co-located GTD-enabled objects nearby.

In some embodiments, messages from the GTDs to the central facility720are transmitted using wireless cellular communications via one or more base stations725to the central facility720. A base station725can be configured to transmit the messages to the central facility720via wireless communications or via a backhaul connection730.

In other embodiments, messages can also be transmitted to one or more relay stations735. A relay station735may be located at a regional office with a transceiver, or the relay station may be a standalone transceiver with appropriate logic necessary to transmit the messages.

In yet other embodiments, a vehicle740can transport equipment or materials, such as in one or more containers710-d. The vehicle740could represent a truck, railcar, ship, plane, or other vehicle. The containers710-don the vehicle740are housed in an overpack745, such as when the containers710-dcontain a radioactive material. The containers710-dinclude a number of articles with corresponding information, such as IDs, stored in the memory of the attached GTDs100-d. In some embodiments, the GTDs100-don the containers710-dtransmit messages to the central facility720via one or more satellites750. The overpack745can also transmit an overpack message, which includes information received from the GTDs100-dattached to the containers710-d, to the central facility720via the satellite(s)750using its own GTD100-e. A transceiver on the vehicle740can further transmit messages or overpack messages to the central facility via the satellite(s)750. Note, however, that the messages from the vehicle740can be sent in other ways, such as via the base station(s)725or relay station(s)735.

InFIG. 7, at least one portable external device755is configured to communicate with various GTDs. The external device755can be any type of portable device adapted to transmit data to and receive data from one or more GTDs. The external device755could, for example, represent a cellular phone, a smartphone, a personal digital assistance, or a laptop computer.

In some embodiments, the external device755is adapted to query a GTD to obtain information about the object to which the GTD is attached, such as containers710-aor710-d, machinery710-b, or construction equipment710-c. The external device755can also be adapted to program the GTD. For example, the external device755can be configured to allow a user to establish a periodic interval for reporting, upload or download maintenance history and comments, and upload or download emergency handling procedures.

The central facility720is configured to receive messages and overpack messages from the GTDs and other components at multiple locations. The central facility720can also be adapted to track the locations of each GTD, and as such the object to which each GTD100is attached, in a database. The central facility720can further be configured to report the locations, movement, and histories of each piece of equipment via a user interface760, such as a computer terminal or website.

In some embodiments, the central facility720can generate information data records regarding the locations, movement, and histories of the equipment. For example, the central facility720can support a website located on a global communication network (GCN) (such as the web). The website can include the information data records. Accordingly, one or multiple users can be provided access to the location, movement, and history of each piece of equipment. In some embodiments, the website includes a graphical representation of the locations of the pieces of equipment710. Also, in some embodiments, the website is configured to allow users to interact with the graphical representations. For example, a user may be able to select an icon representing a particular piece of equipment, and in response the website displays information corresponding to the selected equipment.

In some embodiments, the central facility720is also configured to send email notifications to multiple users. For example, the central facility720can be configured to send the notifications in response to an “alert” event occurring, at periodic intervals, or both. As a particular example, if a container experiences a collision as reported by its GTD100and/or is moved (transported), the central facility720can send an email alert to a predetermined list of users informing them that the equipment is being moved and/or may be damaged.

As described in more detail below, the GTDs100support the association of cargo carriers on which the GTDs100are mounted with the cargo being carried by those cargo carriers. For example, in some embodiments, a GTD100could receive wireless signals (such as RFID or BLE signals) from cargo when the cargo is placed onto or into a cargo carrier. The GTD100could then transmit information identifying the cargo carrier and its cargo, such as to the central facility720or a local portable device755. Note that in the discussion below, for clarity the cargo may be referred to as carried assets and the cargo carriers may be referred to as “baskets” (which are themselves assets).

The information collected from the GTDs100could be used in any suitable manner. For example, the information could be stored in a database765, which represents any suitable data storage and retrieval device(s). From there, a server770could make the information available over a network, such as a private or public data network like the Internet. As a particular example, the server770could represent a web server that generates and provides a website located on a GCN as described above. The server770represents any suitable computing device providing access to the information collected by GTDs100or to data based on the information collected by GTDs100. The server770could, for example, represent a computing device having one or more processing devices775for executing instructions and processing data. At least one memory780stores data and instructions used, generated, or collected by the server770. At least one network interface785supports communications over one or more networks, such as over a wired or wireless network.

Although various features have been shown inFIGS. 1 through 7and described above, various changes may be made to these figures. For example, the size, shape, arrangement, and layout of components shown inFIGS. 1 through 6are for illustration only. Each component could have any suitable size, shape, and dimensions, and multiple components could have any suitable arrangement and layout. Also, various components inFIGS. 1 through 7could be combined, further subdivided, or omitted and additional components could be added according to particular needs. For instance, a system using GTDs could support only cellular or satellite communications. Further, each component in a device or system could be implemented using any suitable structure(s) for performing the described function(s).

As noted above, a GTD100can include one or more short-range transceivers, such as the transceivers450-455. In some embodiments, at least one transceiver in the GTD100receives wireless signals from RFID tags, BLE tags, or other trackers associated with carried assets that are in or on a cargo carrier. The GTD100could associate the carried assets with the cargo carrier and transmit signals using its long-range transceivers, such as the transceiver510. In other embodiments, the RF identifier525in a GTD100could be scanned by a mobile device, such as a portable external device755. The scanning can involve the GTD100transmitting its own identifier, such as an RFID identifier, using a short-range transceiver. The mobile device can then scan one or more trackers or other identifiers (such as optical codes) on the carried assets to associate the GTD100or its associated cargo carrier with the carried assets, and a user can indicate whether a carried asset is added to or removed from the cargo carrier. This information can then be transmitted by the portable device755, such as via WiFi, cellular, or satellite communications. The transmitted information can be received at any suitable destination, such as the central facility720. The data can then be stored and made available to users, such as via a web-based graphical user interface. This allows the users to identify both the cargo carriers and the carried assets on those cargo carriers.

FIG. 8illustrates an example cargo carrier800with integrated location tracking and identification of cargo carrier contents according to this disclosure. As shown inFIG. 8, the cargo carrier800represents a container structure storing or carrying various tracked assets802. In this example, the tracked assets802represent downhole assets used in the oil and gas industry. Note, however, that any other suitable cargo carrier could be used, and any other or additional tracked assets could be placed in or on the cargo carrier. As noted above, an asset carrying or otherwise containing other assets may be referred to as a “basket.”

As can be seen inFIG. 8, a GTD100has been mounted on the cargo carrier800. The GTD100can be mounted at any suitable position inside or outside a cargo carrier800. Also, one or more assets802in this example are each attached to or otherwise associated with a tracking tag804or an optical code806. The tracking tag804stores information identifying a tracked asset802, such as a serial number or other identifier that can be uniquely associated with the tracked asset802. Similarly, the optical code806is encoded with a unique identifier associated with a tracked asset802.

In some embodiments, a tracking tag804provides its stored information to the GTD100, which can associate the tracked asset's information with the cargo carrier800and provide that information to an external destination. In this way, the GTD100provides both location tracking and the identification of cargo carrier contents in an integrated device.

In other embodiments, the GTD100and a tracking tag804or optical code806provides information to the portable device755or other mobile device, which can associate the tracked asset's information with the GTD's information and provide that information to an external destination. In these embodiments, the GTD100or the mobile device could provide location tracking information to the central facility720. Again, however, the GTD100is supporting both location tracking and the identification of cargo carrier contents.

The cargo carrier800represents any suitable structure for storing or carrying cargo, such as a pallet, tank, box, or other carrier. The tracked assets802represent any suitable assets that can be tracked by one or more location tracking devices. Each tracking tag804includes any suitable structure for identifying a tracked asset. For example, a tracking tag804could represent a passive device (such as a passive RFID device) that provides information when powered or interrogated by an external device (such as the GTD100). Other types of tracking tags804could also be used, such as active RFID tags. In addition, any suitable optical encoding can be used in the optical code806, such as a barcode or a Quick Response (QR) optical code.

AlthoughFIG. 8illustrates one example of a cargo carrier800with integrated location tracking and identification of cargo carrier contents, various changes may be made toFIG. 8. For example, any suitable cargo carrier800could be used, and any suitable number and type of tracked assets802could be stored or carried by the cargo carrier.

FIGS. 9 through 11illustrate example methods for location tracking with integrated identification of cargo carrier contents according to this disclosure. In particular,FIG. 9illustrates a method900that can be performed using a tracking device (such as the GTD100), andFIG. 10illustrates a method1000that can be performed using a data collector (such as the server770). Also,FIG. 11illustrates a method1100that can be performed using a portable mobile device (such as the device755).

As shown inFIG. 9, the method900includes mounting a tracking device on a cargo carrier at step905. This could include, for example, mounting a GTD100inside or outside of a cargo carrier. This could optionally include programming the GTD100with information about the cargo carrier. This could further include updating a data record associated with the cargo carrier with the device identifier of the GTD100or updating a data record associated with the GTD100with an identifier of the cargo carrier. The data update could be done locally (such as using the portable device755) or remotely (such as at the remote facility720).

The tracking device identifies its location at step910and transmits a message identifying its location at step915. This could include, for example, the control unit105identifying the location of the GTD100using the GPS engine515. The control unit105could then generate a message containing its device identifier, current location, and any other suitable information for transmission over a WiFi, cellular, or satellite network.

A carried asset is detected in or on the cargo carrier at step920. This could include, for example, the GTD100polling for any contents of the cargo carrier to determine if any RFID, BLE, or other tags respond. This could also include the GTD100receiving a signal indicating that cargo has been added to the cargo carrier. Information from the carried asset's tag is collected at step925. This could include, for example, the control unit105identifying a unique serial number or other identifier associated with the asset tag. Note that steps920-925could be combined, such as when the detection of the carried asset includes receiving an RFID, BLE, or other signal that also identifies the carried asset. A message is transmitted from the tracking device at step930. This could include, for example, the control unit105generating a message for transmission over a WiFi, cellular, or satellite network. The message can include an identification of the GTD100, as well as an identification of the carried asset(s) present in or on the cargo carrier.

Removal of a carried asset from the cargo carrier is detected at step935. This could include, for example, the GTD100determining that a passive asset tag previously in or on the cargo carrier is now failing to respond to polling messages. This could also include the GTD100determining that an active asset tag is no longer transmitting data to the GTD100. A message is then transmitted at step940. This could include, for example, the control unit105generating a message for transmission over a WiFi, cellular, or satellite network. The message can include an identification of the GTD100, as well as an identification of the carried asset(s) present in or on the cargo carrier or an identification of the carried asset(s) removed from the cargo carrier.

As shown inFIG. 10, the method1000includes receiving an association of a tracking device and a cargo carrier at step1005, and the information is stored in a database at step1010. This could include, for example, receiving information indicating that a particular GTD100has been mounted to a particular cargo carrier. Any suitable information about the GTD100or cargo carrier could be received here, such as a device identifier for the GTD100and a name, description, or identifier of the cargo carrier. This information can be provided from any suitable source, such as a portable external device755. This information can also be received at any suitable destination, such as the central facility720. The information can further be stored in any suitable manner, such as by creating a record in the database765to associate the GTD100and the cargo carrier.

A location message is received at step1015, and the information is stored in the database at step1020. This could include, for example, receiving a location update message from the GTD100mounted to the cargo carrier. The GTD100could report its position at any suitable periodic or non-periodic interval(s). The location information can be stored in the database as the location of the GTD100or the location of the cargo carrier. As noted above, the location information could be received from other sources, such as the portable device755.

An asset message is received at step1025, and the information is stored in the database at step1040. The asset message could represent a message indicating that a carried asset has been placed onto or into the cargo carrier or removed from the cargo carrier. The asset message could include any suitable information, such as a unique identifier identifying the carried asset, an indication whether the carried asset was added or removed, and a timestamp identifying when the addition or removal of the carried asset was detected by the GTD100. As noted above, information about the asset could originate from other sources, such as the portable device755.

A request for information about the cargo carrier is received at step1035. This could include, for example, the server770receiving a request for information about the cargo carrier through a website. The information about both the cargo carrier and its carried assets is retrieved from the database and provided to the user at step1040. This could include, for example, generating a web page showing information about the cargo carrier as well as information about the carried assets currently in or on the cargo carrier. The web page could also include information about what assets were previously in or on the cargo carrier and have been removed.

As shown inFIG. 11, the method1100provides an alternate way in which information associating a GTD or a cargo carrier with the cargo carrier's carried assets is disclosed. As shown here, an identifier is received from a tracking device associated with a cargo carrier at step1105. This could include, for example, a portable device755receiving an RFID, BLE, or other identifier from a GTD100mounted in or on a cargo carrier. As a particular example, this could be done in response to a user initiating a scan of the GTD100with the portable device755.

When an asset is added to or removed from the cargo carrier, information from a tracker or optical code associated with that asset is received at step1110. This could include, for example, the portable device755scanning a passive tag804or an optical code806on the asset. An indication of whether the asset is being added to or removed from the cargo carrier is received at step1115. This can be done, for example, by presenting add or remove options on a display screen of the portable device755and receiving a selection from the user.

The location of the cargo carrier is identified at step1120. This could include, for example, the GTD100or the portable device755identifying its location. One or more messages are transmitted at step1125. This could include, for example, the portable device755transmitting a message identifying the cargo carrier, the asset, and whether the asset was placed in or removed from the cargo carrier. This could also include the GTD100and/or the portable device755transmitting a message identifying the location of the GTD100and/or the portable device755. If transmitted from the portable device755, a single message or multiple messages could be transmitted. The central facility720or other destination receiving the message(s) could then use the information in any suitable manner, including as shown inFIG. 10, to associate the location with the carried asset. Note that when the portable device755identifies the location of the cargo carrier, the tracking device on the cargo carrier may (but need not) be replaced by an identification device, such as a passive RFID tag or other identifier on the cargo carrier, that merely identifies the cargo carrier rather than tracking a location of the cargo carrier.

AlthoughFIGS. 9 through 11illustrate examples of methods for location tracking with integrated identification of cargo carrier contents, various changes may be made toFIGS. 9 through 11. For example, while shown as a series of steps, the steps in each figure could overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a different order, or occur any number of times. As a particular example, the GTD100could repeat steps910-915at a specified interval, while steps920-940are performed only when the addition or removal of a carried asset is detected.

FIGS. 12 through 14illustrate example graphical user interfaces showing integrated location tracking and identification of cargo carrier contents according to this disclosure. The graphical user interfaces could, for example, be generated by the server770using data stored in the database765.

As shown inFIG. 12, a graphical user interface1200allows a user to locate assets and select those assets for more information. In this example, the graphical user interface1200includes an asset selection area1202, which allows a user to locate and select different assets. Here, the user can choose to view assets either on a map, by location, or in a list. The user can also search for assets, such as by entering one or more keywords related to one or more assets' names or descriptions. The user could further select shared assets (assets owned by more than one individual or organization) by account using a drop-down menu. In addition, the user can use various filters to search for assets.

A view area1204provides the user with information about the asset or assets located during the user's search. In this example, for instance, the view area1204provides information identifying various assets associated with the keyword “basket.” Each located asset is included in a row1206in the view area1204. Each row1206identifies an asset's name, identifier, and last-known location and time.

If an asset listed in the view area1204has contents associated with it, an icon1208is presented in the row1206for that asset. The icon1208indicates that the asset listed in the view area1204itself contains other assets that can be tracked. In other words, the icon1208is used to identify whether a listed asset is a cargo carrier. As described below, the icon1208can be selected to view the contents of the cargo carrier.

Note that when searching for assets such as by keyword, the system can allow matches to the asset name itself or to the contents of an asset. For example, a search for the term “basket” could identify all assets with the term “basket” in their names, as well as any cargo carriers having carried assets with the term “basket” in the names. When a cargo carrier has a carried asset that matches search criteria provided by a user, an indicator can be used to identify that this has occurred. InFIG. 12, for example, a line1210can be placed around an icon1208, indicating that a cargo carrier associated with that icon1208contains a carried asset that matches the user's search criteria.

A toolbar1212provides access to various functions, at least some of which are related to the assets identified in the view area1204. For example, some controls in the toolbar1208allow the user to identify various assets as shared assets, group assets together into groups, or delete assets. Another command allows the user to apply certain rules to selected assets, such as rules related to movement of the assets. Yet another command allows the user to change the flag or icon associated with an asset.

FIG. 13illustrates the graphical user interface1200after the user has placed a cursor over an icon1208in the display. When this occurs, a pop-up window1302can appear identifying the contents of the cargo carrier associated with that icon1208. In this example, the pop-up window1302identifies various information about any carried assets associated with the selected icon1208, such as each asset's owner, description, and identifier. The information can also include rental information, such as rental start day and remaining rental days.

FIG. 14illustrates an example graphical user interface1400presenting information related to a single “basket” or cargo carrier. The graphical user interface1400can be presented, for example, when the user selects one of the assets from the view area1204in the graphical user interface1200.

As shown inFIG. 14, the graphical user interface1400includes a bar identifying the name of the basket or other asset. Description information1404provides a brief description of the asset, and location information1406provides information about the last-known location of the asset.

Basket contents1408identify the contents of a cargo carrier (assuming the asset identified in areas1402-1406is a cargo carrier). Here, the basket contents1408include the same information provided in the pop-up window1302. Note, however, that more detailed information could be provided in the basket contents1408since there is more display room in this example. Also note that hyperlinks could be associated with the listed carried assets, enabling a user to obtain more information about each carried asset.

In addition, compliance information1410provides compliance-related information about the basket or the carried assets in the basket. The compliance information1410can include information such as compliance tasks that have been or are to be performed. If completed, the compliance information1410can include the name of the person that performed a task, the date of the task's completion, and the length of time that the task results are valid. Further, the next due date for a compliance task could be identified and color-coded or otherwise marked. In addition, links can be provided for viewing documentation or other information about the compliance tasks.

Using the graphical user interfaces shown here, a user is able to quickly identify carried assets that are contained within cargo carriers. Moreover, the user is able to view information about those carried assets in a logical and convenient manner.

AlthoughFIGS. 12 through 14illustrate examples of graphical user interfaces showing integrated location tracking and identification of cargo carrier contents, various changes may be made toFIGS. 12 through 14. For example, the content and arrangement of the information inFIGS. 12 through 14are for illustration only. Other graphical user interfaces could present information about baskets and their contents in any other suitable manner. Also, while certain indicators are described here (such as large lines or color-coded shadings), any other suitable indicators could be used.