CN114019549A - Container positioning sensing system and container remote monitoring method - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a container positioning and sensing system, comprising: a positioning unit, comprising: the terminal in the container is arranged in the container; a positioning communication antenna arranged in a container ventilator and connected to the in-box terminal through a vent hole of the container ventilator; and a battery disposed within the container ventilator configured to power the in-box terminal and the positioning communication antenna; and one or more sensing units disposed within the container, configured to detect an environment within the container and transmit to the in-box terminal of the location unit; wherein the in-box terminal is configured to send a signal indicative of a location and an environment within the container utilizing the location communication antenna. The present application further includes a method of remote monitoring of a container.

Description

Container positioning sensing system and container remote monitoring method

Technical Field

The invention relates to a positioning sensing system, in particular to a container positioning sensing system.

Background

The container is a group tool which can be loaded with packaged or unpackaged goods for transportation and is convenient to load, unload and carry by mechanical equipment.

The container positioning unit is a device which can upload the position information of the container at regular time. After the container is installed with the locator, the position of the container on land and on the sea can be monitored. Based on such a real-time positioning system, the customer can efficiently monitor his/her own cargo and know about each stage of the transportation process.

In addition, during the transportation process of the container, the container itself and the internal conditions need to be monitored to a certain extent according to different transported goods. For example, during the transportation of some fruits and vegetables, the temperature and humidity in the box are satisfactory or whether they are rotten or not. Also for example, transporting some harmful gases, whether the gas leaks. Similar to this, the problems such as whether the articles in the container are damaged, whether the door of the container is in a closed state, whether the temperature, humidity or harmful gas concentration in the container exceeds the standard or not need to be monitored, and whether the problems occur or not is known in real time, so that the problems can be found and solved as soon as possible.

In the existing container monitoring, a sensor is usually arranged in a positioning unit in a container, and the positioning unit is integrated into a whole. This has a number of disadvantages, firstly the need to reduce the volume of the positioning unit in order to reduce its impact on container transport and handling. Thus, the battery size of the positioning unit is limited, and if too many functions are integrated into the positioning unit, the overall operation time of the device is severely reduced. Secondly, the container is usually bulky, and sometimes if a problem occurs at a corner of the container, the sensor cannot find the problem in time, so that the loss of the transported goods is caused.

There is a need for a device capable of positioning and multi-point real-time monitoring a container, which is convenient for workers to know the current condition of the container as soon as possible and also enhances the overall endurance of the system. Also, a solution is needed which not only meets the customs inspection requirements, but also has no influence on cargo safety and is convenient for workers to maintain.

Disclosure of Invention

Aiming at the technical problems in the prior art, the invention provides a container positioning and sensing system, which comprises: a positioning unit, comprising: the terminal in the container is arranged in the container; a positioning communication antenna arranged in a container ventilator and connected to the in-box terminal through a vent hole of the container ventilator; and a battery disposed within the container ventilator configured to power the in-box terminal and the positioning communication antenna; and one or more sensing units disposed within the container, configured to detect an environment within the container and transmit to the in-box terminal of the location unit; wherein the in-box terminal is configured to send a signal indicative of a location and an environment within the container utilizing the location communication antenna.

Optionally, the positioning communication antenna includes one or more of a satellite communication antenna, a mobile wireless communication antenna, a microwave or short wave communication antenna, and a short-range wireless communication antenna.

Optionally, wherein the in-box terminal comprises: the circuit board is suitable for being arranged in a groove which is sunken outwards on the inner side wall of the container; one or more cables configured to electrically connect the positioning communication antenna and the battery with the circuit board.

Optionally, wherein the in-box terminal comprises: an integral connector disposed inside the container; a first cable electrically connecting the battery with the integral connector; a second cable electrically connecting the positioning communication antenna with the integral connector; a third cable electrically connecting the circuit board with the integral connector, wherein the integral connector is configured to electrically connect the first electrical cable with the third electrical cable; and a fourth cable electrically connecting the circuit board with the integral connector, wherein the integral connector is configured to electrically connect the second cable with a fourth cable; wherein the integral connector comprises one or more plugs adapted to be disposed in the ventilation holes of the container ventilator, the first and/or second cable being electrically connected to the integral electrical connector through the plugs.

Optionally, wherein the in-box terminal comprises: a circuit board adapted to be disposed within the container over the vent of the container; one or more plugs adapted to be disposed in the vents of the container ventilator; wherein the circuit board comprises a first connector electrically connected to the positioning communication antenna and a second connector electrically connected to the battery; the first connector and/or the second connector are electrically connected by the plug.

Optionally, wherein the in-box terminal comprises: a first housing; the capacitor is arranged in the first shell and connected with the circuit board, the diameter of the capacitor is not more than 18mm, the length of the capacitor is not more than 50mm, and the electric quantity of the capacitor is 90-200 mAh; and wherein the first housing includes a first portion in which the circuit board is disposed and a second portion in which the capacitor is disposed, the first portion having a thickness of not more than 10mm, the second portion having a thickness of not more than 20 mm.

Optionally, the in-box terminal further includes: one or more sensors.

Optionally, wherein the sensing unit comprises: one or more first sensing modules disposed at a container vent, the first sensing modules comprising: a control circuit arranged in the ventilator of the container outside the container; a sensor battery disposed in the container ventilator outside the container; and a monitoring module electrically connected to the sensor battery through a vent in the container ventilator, the monitoring module comprising: one or more sensors configured to detect environmental information within the container; and an in-box antenna configured to send the detected environmental information within the container to the in-box unit of the positioning units.

Optionally, wherein the one or more sensors comprise: the sensor comprises one or more of an empty weight box sensor, a temperature and humidity sensor, a vibration sensor, an ultrasonic distance measuring sensor, a carbon dioxide concentration sensor, an oxygen concentration sensor, a combustible gas concentration sensor and a toxic and harmful gas concentration sensor.

Optionally, wherein the sensing unit comprises: the second sensing module is arranged in a recess at the inner side of the door of the container, close to the top of the container, and the height of the second sensing module is not higher than that of the recess; wherein the sensing module comprises: a second housing including a first space and a second space; a magnetic induction switch is arranged in the first space and is configured to sense the intensity of the magnetic field; the second space is provided with a convex tongue fixedly connected with a permanent magnet, and when the box door is changed from an opening state to a closing state, the convex tongue moves in the second space and changes the relative position of the permanent magnet and the magnetic induction switch; when the magnetic field intensity sensed by the magnetic induction switch is smaller than the threshold value, a second signal is sent.

Optionally, wherein the second sensing module comprises one or more sensors comprising: the sensor comprises one or more of an empty weight box sensor, a temperature and humidity sensor, a vibration sensor, an ultrasonic distance measuring sensor, a carbon dioxide concentration sensor, an oxygen concentration sensor, a combustible gas concentration sensor and a toxic and harmful gas concentration sensor.

The present application further includes a method of remote monitoring of a container, comprising: receiving a container position from a container position sensing system as previously described; receiving the environment within the container from a container position sensing system as previously described; and displaying the position of the container and the environment in the container.

Drawings

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a diagram of a container ventilator location;

FIG. 1B is a schematic view of a container positioning sensing system according to one embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 2 is a side view of a prior art ventilator;

FIG. 3 is a side view of a conventional container positioning and monitoring device;

FIG. 4A is a schematic structural diagram of a split container positioning unit according to an embodiment of the present application;

FIGS. 4B and 4C are schematic diagrams of an out-of-box terminal configuration according to one embodiment of the present application;

FIGS. 4D and 4E are schematic views of a positioning unit according to an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 4F is a schematic view of a one-piece connector according to one embodiment of the present application;

FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams of an in-box terminal configuration according to one embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an in-box terminal according to another embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of an in-box terminal internal connection according to one embodiment of the present application;

8A-8C are schematic diagrams of the sensor module of the present application;

FIG. 8D is a top inside view of the container door of the present application;

FIGS. 9A-9B are schematic diagrams of the sensor module of the present application; and

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a system location according to one embodiment of the present application.

Detailed Description

In order to make the objects, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention, and it is obvious that the described embodiments are some, but not all, embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments, which can be derived by a person skilled in the art from the embodiments given herein without making any creative effort, shall fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments of the application. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar elements throughout the different views. Various specific embodiments of the present application are described in sufficient detail below to enable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings of the present application. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical or electrical changes may be made to the embodiments of the present application.

Figure 1A is a diagram of a container ventilator position. As shown in fig. 1A, typically the container ventilator 100 is located on the side wall of the container 101 near the roof of the container, and the ventilator enclosure is located outside the ventilation aperture.

The present application relates to a container positioning sensing system, as shown in fig. 1B, comprising:

a positioning unit 11 disposed at a container vent hole, configured to acquire position information of the container, wherein the positioning unit 11 includes: the terminal in the container is arranged in the container; the positioning communication antenna is arranged in the ventilator and is connected to the terminal in the container through the ventilation hole of the ventilator of the container; and a battery disposed within the ventilator and configured to power the in-box terminal and the positioning communication antenna. The positioning communication antenna can be a communication antenna, can be a positioning antenna, can be networking communication, and can also be container internal communication. In some embodiments, the positioning communications antenna comprises one or more of a satellite communications antenna, a mobile wireless communications antenna, a microwave or short wave communications antenna, a short range wireless communications antenna. In some embodiments, the number of positioning antennas is not limited. Wherein the in-box terminal is configured to send a signal indicative of a location and an environment within the container utilizing a location communication antenna.

One or more sensing units disposed within the container, configured to detect an environment within the container and transmit the detected environment to an in-box terminal of the positioning unit 11, and configured to acquire environmental parameters of an ambient environment at the sensing units and transmit the acquired environmental parameters to the positioning unit. Wherein the environmental parameters include, but are not limited to: the temperature and humidity in the box, the acceleration of the box body, the door opening and closing state, the concentration of toxic and harmful gases and the like will be further explained.

In some embodiments, a ventilator is provided on the container side wall. The ventilator is provided with a plurality of ventilation holes which are communicated with the inner space and the outer space of the container, so that the air pressure inside and outside the container can be balanced to a certain degree, and a certain gas exchange function is realized. Fig. 2 is a side view of a conventional ventilator, and the detailed structure of the ventilator is shown in fig. 2. In fig. 2, the ventilator 20 is arranged on a container side wall 21, wherein the left side of the side wall 21 is outside the container and the right side of the side wall 21 is inside the container. Specifically, the ventilator 20 includes: a wind box 201 and a bottom plate 202. In some embodiments, the wind box 201 is trapezoidal, and the ventilation openings are arranged below, so that air communication between the inside and the outside of the container can be realized along the arrow direction in the figure. The similar structure can realize ventilation and prevent rainwater from entering the container. In some embodiments, the base plate 202 is provided with through holes for screws or rivets to secure the ventilator to the container (e.g., in a recess in the side wall of the container from the outside to the inside). Generally, the wind box 201 and the bottom plate 202 are an integrally formed structure.

In the prior art, the positioning unit is generally placed in the container as a whole, as shown in fig. 3, fig. 3 is a side view structural diagram of the positioning unit of the prior container. The positioning unit 32 includes therein a communication positioning device 321 and a battery 322. Then, the communication signal and the positioning signal are led out of the container through the communication antenna 323 and the positioning antenna 324, and communication with the outside is realized. However, this method has the following disadvantages: batteries have long been used in complex environments such as frequent handling of goods and the like. There is a possibility that the battery may be damaged, for example: battery leakage, battery spontaneous combustion, etc. This not only presents a considerable safety risk, but also may cause contamination of the goods. Moreover, if the battery fails, or the battery runs out of energy, it is also very disadvantageous for maintenance personnel to replace. Especially, when goods are loaded in the box, the box is more inconvenient to open and replace. In addition, container tracking is difficult during long haul transport.

In the scheme of the application, the original integrated structure shown in fig. 3 is changed into a split structure, as shown in fig. 4A. Fig. 4B is a schematic structural diagram of a split container positioning unit according to an embodiment of the present application. In fig. 4B, the left side is the outside of the container, and the right side is the inside of the container.

In fig. 4B, the split type container positioning unit (may be referred to as "positioning unit") is divided into two parts and respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the container sidewall. Wherein the positioning unit comprises an in-box terminal 421 arranged inside the container and a battery 422 arranged inside the out-box terminal (or ventilator) and one or more antennas, wherein the battery 422 is electrically connected to the in-box terminal 421 and can supply power to the in-box terminal 421, and the one or more antennas are connected to the in-box terminal 421 and can be used for the in-box terminal 421 to send or receive information. In some embodiments, the positioning unit further comprises an outer housing 42 disposed over the in-box terminal 421. In some embodiments, the in-box terminal 421 may be disposed in a recess recessed outwardly from the inner side wall of the container. In some embodiments, the overall height of the in-box terminal 421 does not exceed the height of the recess in which it is located. In some embodiments, the in-box terminal 421 or the outer shell 42 can be directly adhered in a groove recessed outward from the inner side wall of the container. In some embodiments, the out-of-box termination may be disposed in an inwardly recessed groove on the outside of the container. In some embodiments, wherein the in-box terminal comprises: the circuit board is suitable for being arranged in the groove which is formed in the inner side wall of the container and is sunken outwards. And one or more cables configured to electrically connect the positioning communication antenna and the battery with the circuit board.

In some embodiments, the antennas may include a satellite antenna 423 and a communications antenna 424, which may be connected to the in-box terminal 421 for receiving and transmitting satellite positioning signals and communications signals, respectively. In operation, the in-box terminal 421 receives and transmits satellite positioning signals and communication signals through the satellite antenna 423 and the communication antenna 424 to realize the position positioning and information transmission of the current container. In some embodiments, the communication antenna 424 may be a flexible antenna.

In some embodiments, the specific structure within the out-of-box terminal is with reference to fig. 4A and 4B. Fig. 4B and 4C are schematic views of an out-of-box terminal structure according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown, the container box outer terminus includes a first space 401 with a downward slope inward and a second space 402 above the first space. Wherein a battery 422, a satellite antenna 423 and a communication antenna 424 are disposed within the second space 402. In some embodiments, the first space 401 includes a plurality of vent holes on the inclined surface, which may be used for ventilation of the container.

In some embodiments, the out-of-box terminal may include a battery mounting slot (not shown) in the first space 401 that may be used to secure the battery 422. In some embodiments, the battery mounting groove may be a plurality of bars, and the battery may be limited by the adjacent bars. In some embodiments, the out-of-box terminal may include multiple antenna mounting stations (not shown) that may be used to secure satellite antenna 423 as well as communications antenna 424. In some embodiments, the antenna mounting stand may be disposed above the battery. In some embodiments, satellite antenna 423 and communication antenna 424 may be located elsewhere. For example: an upper inclined plane arranged at the outer terminal of the container; or respectively arranged on the inclined plane of the terminal outside the box and above the battery.

In some embodiments, the out-of-box terminal may also include a plurality of connection holes 405, which may be used for securement between the out-of-box terminal and the container. In some embodiments, the container may also include a plurality of positioning holes, and the external terminal may be fixed to the positioning holes of the container by screws or rivets.

In some embodiments, the battery 422, the satellite antenna 423, and the communication antenna 424 are provided with terminals, and corresponding wires may be detachably connected to the in-box terminal 421. Thus, when the battery 422, the satellite antenna 423 or the communication antenna 424 need to be replaced, the out-of-box terminal can be directly detached, and the connection wires to the battery 422 and/or the satellite antenna 423 or the communication antenna 424 can be removed and then replaced. In some embodiments, the positioning unit may include a plurality of connecting wires disposed at an inner corner formed between the container lid and the side wall of the container body, and may be used for connection between the battery, the satellite antenna, and the communication antenna and the in-container terminal.

In some embodiments, an in-box terminal comprises: an integral connector disposed inside the container; a first cable electrically connecting the battery with the integral connector; a second cable electrically connecting the positioning communication antenna with the integral connector; a third cable electrically connecting the circuit board with the integral connector, wherein the integral connector is configured to electrically connect the first electrical cable with the third electrical cable; and a fourth cable electrically connecting the circuit board with the integral connector, wherein the integral connector is configured to electrically connect the second cable with a fourth cable. Wherein the integral connector comprises one or more plugs adapted to be arranged in the ventilation holes of the container ventilator, the first and/or second cable being electrically connected to the integral electrical connector through the plugs.

In some embodiments, wherein the in-box terminal comprises: a circuit board adapted to be disposed within the container over the vent of the container; one or more plugs adapted to be disposed in the vents of the container ventilator; wherein the circuit board comprises a first connector electrically connected to the positioning communication antenna and a second connector electrically connected to the battery; the first connector and/or the second connector are electrically connected by the plug.

In some embodiments, the positioning unit may further include a connection plate 440, which may be disposed on the outside of the cabinet, may close the first space 401 in the outside of the cabinet. In some embodiments, the connector plate 440 may include one or more plugs 441 thereon, which may be used to connect to an in-box terminal. In some embodiments, the in-box terminal 421 may be inserted into the plug for securing. In some embodiments, a plurality of plugs 441 may be connected to a plurality of cables connected to the battery or satellite antenna 423 and the communication antenna 424, and the in-box terminal 421 may communicate with the cables connected to the battery or satellite antenna 423 and the communication antenna 424 through the plugs 441. In some embodiments, the cables connected to the battery or satellite antenna 423 and the communication antenna 424 may also be disposed in the plugs 441, not connected thereto, and may directly communicate with the cables disposed in the plugs when the in-box terminal is connected to the plugs 441.

In some embodiments, plugs 441 protrude from the connection plate 440, which may be disposed in the vent holes. In some embodiments, a sealing layer (not shown) may be included between the plug 441 and the vent to secure the connection with the in-box terminal. In some embodiments, the sealing layer may be a sealing rubber ring.

In some embodiments, the connection plate 440 includes a rim 442 that is disposed at an edge of the connection plate 440 such that a ventilation channel (or air passage) remains between the connection plate 440 and the container body to accommodate the passage of air into the first space 401 of the out-of-box terminal. In some embodiments, the connection plate 440 may further include a protrusion 443 disposed thereon that may direct gas through the first space 401 and may also reinforce the connection plate 440. In some embodiments, the air duct may also be connected between at least some of the vents in the container and the first space of the terminal outside the container, thereby allowing for air circulation within the container. In some embodiments, the connection board 440 may further include a plurality of standoffs (not shown) disposed on a side of the connection board away from the plugs, which may be used to define the location of the batteries, and may also support the antennas and reinforce the connection board.

In some embodiments, the positioning unit may also include an integral connector 430, disposed inside the container and connected to the in-box terminal 421, which may be used to connect to a battery or one or more antennas disposed in the out-of-box terminal. In some embodiments, the specific structure of the unitary connector 430 refers to fig. 5. As shown, the unitary connector 430 includes a connecting body 431 and a plurality of terminals 432 disposed on the connecting body 431, wherein the plurality of terminals may be used to connect with a battery or an antenna. In some embodiments, the integrated connector 430 may further include a plurality of cables 433 connected between the plurality of terminals 432 and the in-box terminal 421, which may make electrical or communication connections. In some embodiments, different antennas may be connected to the in-box terminal 421 through different terminals 432 and different cables 433. In some embodiments, the plurality of terminals 432 may be overmolded onto the connecting body.

In some embodiments, the specific structure within the in-box terminal is with reference to fig. 5A and 5B. Fig. 5A and 5B are schematic views of an in-box terminal structure according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown, the container internal terminal may include a housing 510, and a circuit board 520 and a capacitor 530 disposed within the housing 510. The housing 510 may be used to house and protect the circuit board 520 and the capacitor 530; the circuit board 520 may be connected to a battery and an antenna in the terminal outside the box, so that power supply and communication of the terminal inside the box may be accomplished; the capacitor 530 may be connected to the circuit board 520 and may release a large current, thereby allowing communication with the battery to be secured in the box. In some embodiments, the diameter of the capacitor is no greater than 18 mm. For example: 18mm, 15mm, etc. In some embodiments, the length of the capacitor is no greater than 50 mm. In some embodiments, the capacitance has a capacity of 90-200mAh, preferably 155 mAh.

In some embodiments, the in-bin terminal may also include one or more sensors 501 disposed in the housing 510 and coupled to the circuit board 520 that may be used for associated detection of the container. In some embodiments, the sensors include, but are not limited to: one or more of a temperature and humidity sensor, an acceleration sensor, and a light sensor. Wherein, the temperature and humidity sensor is used for monitoring the temperature and humidity in the container. And the acceleration sensor is used for judging states of motion, impact, collision, overturn and the like. And the light sensor is used for monitoring the terminal disassembly state (whether the terminal is disassembled) and the opening and closing state of the box door or monitoring the empty/heavy box and the loading state of goods in the box (whether the terminal is in an unbalanced load state or not).

In some embodiments, the housing 510 includes a first portion 511 and a second portion 512, wherein the first portion 511 may be used to receive the circuit board 520 and the sensor 501, and the second portion 512 may be used to receive the capacitor 530. In some embodiments, the first portion may be a cuboid, which provides only the circuit board and the sensor, and may be no more than 10mm thick. In some embodiments, the second portion may be a cylinder, which provides only capacitance, and may not exceed 20mm in thickness. In some embodiments, the second portion is disposed on the first portion. In some embodiments, an adhesive layer (not shown) may be included between the first portion 511 and the shipping container so that the housing may be secured to the shipping container. In some embodiments, the housing 510 may also include one or more ventilation ports 513 disposed on the first portion that may be used to house sensors to detect relevant information within the container.

In some embodiments, the in-box terminal may also include a plurality of terminals 540 coupled to the circuit board 520 and extending outside the housing, which may be used to couple to a battery and an antenna within the out-of-box terminal. In some embodiments, a plurality of terminals may also be plugged into the plugs 441 on the connector board, thereby securing the housing to the shipping container. In some embodiments, the plurality of terminals 540 may be disposed directly on the circuit board 520. In some embodiments, the plurality of terminals 540 may also be molded on the first portion of the housing and connected to the circuit board by a cable. In some embodiments, the plurality of terminals are molded on the side of the housing that contacts the interior of the container.

In some embodiments, the plurality of terminals may make connections with a battery or antenna in the off-box terminal through one or more vents of the container. In some embodiments, at least some of the plurality of terminals 540 are located in the vent holes. In some embodiments, a sealing layer (not shown) may be included between the plurality of terminals 540 and the shipping container so that the security of the connection may be ensured. In some embodiments, the sealing layer may be a sealing rubber ring.

In some embodiments, the second portion is inclined towards the inside of the container (the first portion is far away from one side of the plastic-sealed terminals), and is closer to the inside of the container than the first portion, when the in-box terminal is connected with a battery or an antenna in the out-box terminal (or the shell is fixed on the container), so that the height of the in-box terminal protruding out of the inner wall of the container (the thickness of the in-box terminal) is not more than 20mm, the thickness of the in-box terminal is favorably reduced, and the possibility that goods in and out of the container collide with the in-box terminal can be reduced. In some embodiments, the height of the second portion is not less than the height of the door frame 51 of the container, so that the thickness of the terminal in the container below the door frame portion of the container is not more than 10mm, in other words, a plurality of terminals can be plugged into the vent holes above the door frame, and the possibility of the goods entering and exiting from the terminal in the container colliding can be further reduced.

In some embodiments, the in-box terminal may also have other forms. Refer to fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a schematic view of an in-box terminal according to another embodiment of the present application. As shown, the housing 610 includes a first portion 611 and a second portion 612. Wherein, the second part 612 inclines to the outside of the container (the first part is close to one side of the plastic-sealed terminals), is closer to the outside of the container than the first part 611, and when the in-box terminal is connected with the battery or the antenna in the out-box terminal (or the housing is fixed on the container), the second part 612 can be arranged in the concave groove of the container from inside to outside, so that the height of the in-box terminal protruding out of the inner wall of the container (the thickness of the in-box terminal) is not more than 10mm, which is beneficial to reducing the thickness of the in-box terminal, and thereby the possibility that the goods in and out of the container collide with the in-box terminal can be reduced. Other structures are similar to those of the embodiment of fig. 5, and therefore are not described herein again.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of an in-box terminal internal connection according to one embodiment of the present application. As shown, the in-box terminal 422 includes: a main control module 710, a power supply module 720, a communication module 730 and a positioning module 740. The main control module 710 is connected to the power module 720, the communication module 730, and the positioning module 740. In some embodiments, power module 720 may also be coupled to battery 701 and capacitor 702, so that power may be supplied to the other modules.

In some embodiments, master module 710 is responsible for controlling and coordinating work among the other modules. The main control module 710 is the core of the data processing of the container positioning unit, and controls each functional module to complete the work flow and implement the business function. In some embodiments, the main control module 710 may further control the capacitor to discharge a large current to complete communication with the battery. In some embodiments, the main control module 710 may also control the battery to charge the capacitor.

In some embodiments, the power module 720 is configured to implement power management according to preset rules. In some embodiments, the power module 720 has a low power consumption energy management function, and operates in a low power consumption state of the terminal, thereby further improving the battery utilization rate and increasing the endurance. In some embodiments, the power module 720 may also control the shutdown of some modules (e.g., some modules that are not commonly used) of the in-box terminal to enable low power operation of the terminal. In some embodiments, the power module 720 may also stabilize the voltage of the in-box terminal.

In some embodiments, the communication module 730 is configured to communicate mobile data via an antenna. In some embodiments, the communication module cooperates with the antenna to enable reception and transmission of 2G, 3G, or 4G signals. In some embodiments, the communication module further comprises: and the near-distance Internet of things communication module is configured to realize networking and information transmission among the containers, and the information transmission mode comprises Bluetooth, ZigBee or Lora and the like.

In some embodiments, the location module 740 is configured to obtain location information via an antenna. In some embodiments, the positioning module cooperates with the antenna to receive satellite navigation signals, including beidou, GPS, GLONASS, and the like.

In some embodiments, the in-box terminal further includes a sensor module 750, which is comprised of various sensors, which may be adjusted as desired. In some embodiments, the in-box terminal may upload the information to the internet or the internet of things through the communication module 730 after acquiring the related information according to the sensor module, and acquire or monitor the environmental information in the container at any time.

In some embodiments, the in-box terminal further comprises other modules. For example: the timing module can be configured to wake up at regular time, and can wake up all or part of functions of the terminal when the terminal is in a dormant state, so that the endurance time of the terminal is further prolonged. In some embodiments, may include: the cargo information acquisition module is configured to scan and read radio frequency electronic tags and store corresponding cargo information, and in the actual transportation process, part of the cargo may have electronic tags such as RFID and the like which can be identified. In the cargo loading and transporting process, the cargo can be scanned and read, and cargo information can be acquired. In some embodiments, the cargo information acquisition module may be further configured to determine empty/heavy cargo and cargo loading status monitoring in the cargo container by means of image recognition. Further, can store goods information, make things convenient for the goods to check. The goods information can be uploaded to the internet or the internet of things through the communication module, and the goods information in the box can be acquired or monitored at any time. In some embodiments, the in-box terminal further comprises: an RFID antenna. In some embodiments, the in-box terminal further comprises: the camera can take pictures in the box.

In some embodiments, the communication module 730 further comprises: and the data relay module is configured to receive active information sent by the goods in the container and forward the active information to the outside of the container. In the actual transportation process, part of cargos have an active communication function, and cargo information can be directly uploaded to a designated server through the active communication function. However, since the container itself has a shielding effect on the signal, such goods cannot communicate with the outside when being transported in the container. In the scheme of the application, the active communication signal of the cargo can be received through the data relay module, and then the signal is forwarded to the outside of the container. As known to those skilled in the art, the specific forwarding rules are not particularly limited. In some embodiments, the forwarding rule may be to convert an active communication signal into a mobile communication signal for forwarding after receiving the active communication signal. In some embodiments, the forwarding rule may be to forward the active communication signal directly through an additional antenna disposed within the out-of-box terminal after receiving the signal. In some embodiments, the in-box terminal further comprises: an encryption module configured to encrypt the communication data.

The utility model provides an incasement terminal places alone through the electric capacity that needs the communication to release the heavy current to reduce the thickness at incasement terminal, thereby can guarantee that incasement terminal sets up when on the container, reduce the probability of goods collision, be favorable to under the terminal normal operating condition in the assurance incasement, improve the life at incasement terminal.

Fig. 8A-8C are schematic structural diagrams of the sensing module of the present application, and the sensing unit of the present application may include a sensing module 80 disposed in a recess at a position close to the top of the container on the inner side of the door of the container, and the height of the sensing module 80 does not exceed the recess.

The sensing module 80 includes:

a housing, said housing comprising a first space 82 and a second space 83, said first space 82 having a magnetically sensitive switch 801 arranged therein, said magnetically sensitive switch 801 being configured to sense the intensity of a magnetic field, said second space 83 having a tongue 805 fixedly connected to a permanent magnet 802, said tongue 805 being at least partially higher than said second space 83, said tongue 805 being fully movable into said second space 83 upon application of a force to the top of said tongue 805, resulting in a state similar to that of fig. 8B. When the door is changed from the open state to the closed state, the tongue 805 moves in the second space and changes the relative positions of the permanent magnet and the magnetic switch.

When the tongue 805 is displaced, the relative position of the permanent magnet 802 and the magnetic induction switch 801 changes, when the magnetic field strength sensed by the magnetic induction switch 801 is greater than a threshold value, a first signal is sent, and when the magnetic field strength sensed by the magnetic induction switch 801 is less than the threshold value, a second signal is sent. In some embodiments, the sensing module 80 is a door opening and closing sensor, the first signal is a door opening signal, and the second signal is a door closing signal.

In some embodiments, wherein the sensing module further comprises: and a battery module 804 disposed at the bottom of the first space 82. A first control unit 803 disposed within the first space 82 above the battery module 804, configured to receive and/or forward the first signal and/or the second signal; a spring (not shown) provided at the bottom of the second space; wherein said tab 805, disposed in second space 83, is located above said spring.

In some embodiments, a mounting plate 81 is further included and positioned between the enclosure and the door. Fig. 8D is a schematic view of the inside of the top of the container door, wherein the beam 811 may be a U-shaped steel fixed to the door by screws 812, and the mounting plate 81 fixes the housing to the door by the door screws 812, and most of the mounting plate is located in the groove 813 of the beam 811, thus having no influence on the loading, unloading and transportation of the container.

In some embodiments, wherein the first control unit 80 comprises: a processor; a communication antenna; a power management module; a communication module configured to perform data communication through the communication antenna; a data acquisition module configured to receive data of the ambient environment monitored by the sensor unit.

In some embodiments, wherein the communication module comprises: and the near-distance Internet of things communication module is configured to realize networking and information transmission between the sensing module and the positioning unit, and the information transmission mode comprises Bluetooth, ZigBee or Lora.

In some embodiments, the sensors in the sensing module 80 may include: the sensor comprises one or more of an empty and heavy box sensor, a cargo loading state sensor in the box, a temperature and humidity sensor, a vibration sensor, an ultrasonic distance measuring sensor, a carbon dioxide concentration sensor, an oxygen concentration sensor, a combustible gas concentration sensor and a toxic and harmful gas concentration sensor. Wherein, the cargo loading state sensor in the case can be through the camera acquisition incasement cargo loading state, for example whether full-load, whether the goods topples over etc..

In fig. 9A, the sensor module is divided into two parts and disposed on the left and right sides of the container sidewall 91. The device comprises, among other things, an antenna 95 arranged inside the container, a sensor battery 92 and a control circuit 93 arranged inside the ventilator, and a monitoring module 94. Wherein the sensor battery 92 is electrically connected to the control circuit 93 and powers the control circuit 93, and the monitoring module 94 and the in-box antenna 95 are electrically connected to the control circuit 93. In some embodiments, the sensor battery 92 is provided at the bottom of the second space of the ventilator and the control circuit 93 is provided in the second space of the ventilator above the sensor battery 92. In some embodiments, the specific locations of the control circuit 93 and the sensor batteries 92 are not particularly limited, for example, the number of the sensor batteries 92 may be increased in order to improve the endurance of the monitoring device, and the sensor batteries 92 may be disposed in the first space 921 and the second space 922. In some embodiments, the sensor battery 92 may be disposed above the control circuit 93. In some embodiments, the in-bin antenna 95 is disposed within the shipping container. In some embodiments, when an additional master device is present, the monitoring device of the present application may communicate with the master device via in-box antenna 95. In some embodiments, when multiple monitoring devices are provided, the multiple monitoring devices can communicate with the antenna 95 in the partner box to achieve the function of interconnecting the devices. In some embodiments, the monitoring module 94 is disposed inside the shipping container. The monitoring module 94 is configured to monitor its surroundings and obtain environmental information related to its surroundings. In some embodiments, the environmental information may be temperature and humidity within the container, cargo loading status sensors within the container, toxic and harmful gas concentrations, carbon dioxide concentrations, oxygen concentrations, whether the container door is open, container acceleration, and other data parameters known to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the monitoring module comprises: one or more sensors configured to detect environmental information within the container. The one or more sensors include: the sensor comprises one or more of an empty and heavy box sensor, a cargo loading state sensor in the box, a temperature and humidity sensor, a vibration sensor, an ultrasonic distance measuring sensor, a carbon dioxide concentration sensor, an oxygen concentration sensor, a combustible gas concentration sensor and a toxic and harmful gas concentration sensor. In some embodiments the monitoring module 94 may be located outside the container, for example within a ventilator. The ventilation path shown in figure 2 ensures that the monitoring module 94, even when located in a ventilator, can monitor the gas conditions within the container.

In some embodiments, the in-box antenna 95 and the monitoring module 94 are connected to the control circuit 93 by a wired connection.

In some embodiments, the control circuit 93 includes: a processor; a power management module; a communication module configured to perform data communication via the in-box antenna 95; and a data acquisition module configured to receive data of the ambient environment monitored by the sensor unit.

Wherein the processor is responsible for controlling and coordinating work among the other modules. The processor is the core of the data processing of the container monitoring device, controls each functional module to complete the work flow and realizes the business function.

And the power management module is configured to realize electric energy management and control according to preset rules. In some embodiments, the power management module has a low-power energy management function, and the terminal can operate in a low-power state, so that the battery utilization rate is further improved, and the endurance is increased.

In some embodiments, the communication module further comprises: and the near-distance Internet of things communication module is configured to realize networking and information transmission among the containers, and the information transmission mode comprises Bluetooth, ZigBee or Lora and the like.

In some embodiments, wherein the communication module further comprises: and the data relay module is configured to receive active information sent by the goods in the container and forward the active information to the outside of the container. In the actual transportation process, part of cargos have an active communication function, and cargo information can be directly uploaded to a designated server through the active communication function. However, since the container itself has a shielding effect on the signal, such goods cannot communicate with the outside when being transported in the container. In the scheme of the application, the active communication signal of the cargo can be received through the data relay module, and then the signal is forwarded to the outside of the container. As known to those skilled in the art, the specific forwarding rules are not particularly limited. In some embodiments, the forwarding rule may be to convert an active communication signal into a mobile communication signal for forwarding after receiving the active communication signal. In some embodiments, the repeating rule may be that, after receiving the active communication signal, the signal is directly repeated via an additional antenna provided in the ventilator.

In some embodiments, the data acquisition module further comprises: an encryption module configured to encrypt the communication data.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a timing module configured to implement timed wake-up. The timing module can awaken all or part of functions of the terminal when the terminal is in a dormant state, so that the endurance time of the terminal is further prolonged.

In some embodiments, the control unit further comprises: and the cargo information acquisition module is configured to scan and read the radio frequency electronic tag and store corresponding cargo information. During actual transportation, some of the goods may have electronic tags, such as RFID, for identification. In the cargo loading and transporting process, the cargo can be scanned and read, and cargo information can be acquired. Further, can store goods information, make things convenient for the goods to check. The goods information can be uploaded to the internet or the internet of things through the communication module, and the goods information in the box can be acquired or monitored at any time. In some embodiments, the data acquisition control unit further comprises: an RFID antenna.

When multi-device networking is required, the control circuit 93 receives and transmits communication signals through the in-box antenna 95 to realize information transmission of the current container. In some embodiments, the in-box antenna 95 is a flexible antenna.

As known to those skilled in the art, the specific location of the antenna 95 in the box is not limited, for example, the two locations may be respectively disposed in the first space 921 and the second space 922, or both locations may be disposed in the second space 922, so as to ensure the communication in the box.

In some embodiments, the sensor unit 94 is positioned between the vent and the roof of the cabinet in order to make the data collected by the sensor unit 94 more accurate.

Fig. 9B is a schematic diagram of a protective cover according to another embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, further comprising a hood 97, wherein the hood is disposed below the sensor unit, the hood including a vent below, the container air being in communication with the outside air via the vent and, the container vent and the ventilator. The shield 97 can prevent the sensor unit 94 from being disturbed by turbulent air flow.

In some embodiments, the container is a generic iso container.

Fig. 10 is a top view of a container monitoring device according to one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in fig. 10. In the figure, the container 1005 has four ventilation holes. In some embodiments, a plurality of the sensing modules 1007, 1006 and 1008 of the present application may be provided at different vents (where the ventilator and monitoring device cabinet interior portions are not shown), without limitation. When more than one sensing module 1007 and sensing module 1006 are provided, the sensing modules 1007 and 1006 can communicate with each other, for example, one of the sensing modules 1007 and 1006 serves as all the main controllers, and data of the other sensing modules 1007 and 1006 are collected to the main controller, and then are processed in a centralized manner or forwarded. In some embodiments, the sensing modules 1007, 1006 may communicate with other types of host systems, for example, the positioning unit 1008, and data of the sensing modules 1007, 1006 may be sent to the positioning unit 1008 for storage, processing, or forwarding by the host system.

The application relates to a container location sensing system does not change the outward appearance of standard container, has kept the ventilation function of ventilator, and positioning unit and sensing module adopt the components of a whole that can function independently design simultaneously, make full use of ventilator inner space, have expanded multiple container environmental monitoring function simultaneously. The scheme of the application overcomes the defects in the prior art and has multiple advantages simultaneously. The container monitoring device that this application relates to sets up in the ventilator, does not need other devices except the ventilator, can not cause unnecessary trouble when for example customs clearance. Moreover, the monitoring device of the scheme is arranged in the ventilator, is high in concealment and has certain anti-theft capacity. The function of the original ventilator is not influenced while the environment monitoring function is realized. Because the battery structure is external, the structure that the terminal is located inside the container obtains bigger expansion space, is convenient for further integrated extension of functions such as monitoring, relaying. On the original basis, more functions such as in-box temperature and humidity monitoring, door opening and closing state monitoring, cargo checking and the like can be integrated. More importantly, the battery is externally arranged, so that the safety of the whole equipment is improved, and the pollution to goods in the box is caused when the battery fails. Besides, the monitoring device can be arranged at a plurality of different points of the container to monitor the environmental information in the container in real time. Because the monitoring device is provided with an independent power supply system, the monitoring device does not need to be integrated with a main control (such as a positioning unit), so that the integral endurance is ensured while multiple functions are realized.

Compare some traditional structures, the space that can set up the battery in this application is bigger, can set up the more battery of electric quantity, promotes the whole continuous operation time of equipment. Because the battery is external, the maintenance cost of this application scheme reduces, only needs to change the battery in off-box portion ventilator or the ventilator during the maintenance. The box inner part does not need to be replaced, and the cost and time for installation and debugging are reduced.

The present application further includes a method of remote monitoring of a container, comprising:

receiving a container position from a container position sensing system as previously described;

receiving the environment within the container from a container position sensing system as previously described; and

and displaying the position of the container and the environment in the container.

The above embodiments are provided only for illustrating the present invention and not for limiting the present invention, and those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention, and therefore, all equivalent technical solutions should fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (12)

1. A container positioning sensing system comprising:

a positioning unit, comprising:

the terminal in the container is arranged in the container;

a positioning communication antenna arranged in a container ventilator and connected to the in-box terminal through a vent hole of the container ventilator; and

a battery disposed within the container ventilator configured to power the in-box terminal and the positioning communication antenna; and

one or more sensing units disposed within the container configured to detect an environment within the container and transmit to the in-box terminal of the location unit;

wherein the in-box terminal is configured to send a signal indicative of a location and an environment within the container utilizing the location communication antenna.

2. The container location sensing system of claim 1, wherein the location communication antenna comprises one or more of a satellite communication antenna, a mobile wireless communication antenna, a microwave or short wave communication antenna, a short range wireless communication antenna.

3. The container positioning sensing system of claim 1, wherein the in-box terminal comprises:

the circuit board is suitable for being arranged in a groove which is sunken outwards on the inner side wall of the container;

one or more cables configured to electrically connect the positioning communication antenna and the battery with the circuit board.

4. The container positioning sensing system of claim 3, wherein the in-box terminal comprises:

an integral connector disposed inside the container;

a first cable electrically connecting the battery with the integral connector;

a second cable electrically connecting the positioning communication antenna with the integral connector;

a third cable electrically connecting the circuit board with the integral connector, wherein the integral connector is configured to electrically connect the first electrical cable with the third electrical cable; and

a fourth cable electrically connecting the circuit board with the integral connector, wherein the integral connector is configured to electrically connect the second electrical cable with a fourth electrical cable;

wherein the integral connector comprises one or more plugs adapted to be disposed in the ventilation holes of the container ventilator, the first and/or second cable being electrically connected to the integral electrical connector through the plugs.

5. The container positioning sensing system of claim 1, wherein the in-box terminal comprises:

a circuit board adapted to be disposed within the container over the vent of the container;

one or more plugs adapted to be disposed in the vents of the container ventilator;

wherein the circuit board comprises a first connector electrically connected to the positioning communication antenna and a second connector electrically connected to the battery; the first connector and/or the second connector are electrically connected by the plug.

6. The container positioning sensing system of claim 5, wherein the in-box terminal comprises:

a first housing;

the capacitor is arranged in the first shell and connected with the circuit board, the diameter of the capacitor is not more than 18mm, the length of the capacitor is not more than 50mm, and the electric quantity of the capacitor is 90-200 mAh; and

wherein the first housing includes a first portion and a second portion, the circuit board is disposed in the first portion, the capacitor is disposed in the second portion, a thickness of the first portion is not more than 10mm, and a thickness of the second portion is not more than 20 mm.

7. The container location sensing system of claim 1, wherein the in-box terminal further comprises: one or more sensors.

8. The container positioning sensing system of claim 1, wherein said sensing unit comprises:

one or more first sensing modules disposed at a container vent, the first sensing modules comprising:

a control circuit arranged in the ventilator of the container outside the container;

a sensor battery disposed in the container ventilator outside the container; and

a monitoring module electrically connected to the sensor battery through a vent in the container ventilator, the monitoring module comprising:

one or more sensors configured to detect environmental information within the container; and

an in-box antenna configured to send the detected environmental information within the container to the in-box unit of the positioning units.

9. The container positioning sensing system of claim 6, wherein the one or more sensors comprise: the sensor comprises one or more of an empty and heavy box sensor, a cargo loading state sensor in the box, a temperature and humidity sensor, a vibration sensor, an ultrasonic distance measuring sensor, a carbon dioxide concentration sensor, an oxygen concentration sensor, a combustible gas concentration sensor and a toxic and harmful gas concentration sensor.

10. The container positioning sensing system of claim 9, wherein said sensing unit comprises:

the second sensing module is arranged in a recess at the inner side of the door of the container, close to the top of the container, and the height of the second sensing module is not higher than that of the recess; wherein the sensing module comprises: a second housing including a first space and a second space; a magnetic induction switch is arranged in the first space and is configured to sense the intensity of the magnetic field; the second space is provided with a convex tongue fixedly connected with a permanent magnet, and when the box door is changed from an opening state to a closing state, the convex tongue moves in the second space and changes the relative position of the permanent magnet and the magnetic induction switch; when the magnetic field intensity sensed by the magnetic induction switch is smaller than the threshold value, a second signal is sent.

11. The container positioning sensing system of claim 10, wherein said second sensing module comprises one or more sensors comprising: the sensor comprises one or more of an empty and heavy box sensor, a cargo loading state sensor in the box, a temperature and humidity sensor, a vibration sensor, an ultrasonic distance measuring sensor, a carbon dioxide concentration sensor, an oxygen concentration sensor, a combustible gas concentration sensor and a toxic and harmful gas concentration sensor.

12. A method of remote monitoring of a container, comprising:

receiving a container position from a container position sensing system according to any of claims 1-11;

receiving the environment within the container from the container location sensing system of any of claims 1-11; and

and displaying the position of the container and the environment in the container.

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