Asset monitoring system and associated method
US5917433A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 26, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jun 29, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 26, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG08G1/20
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The asset monitoring system and associated method includes an asset monitor for providing a remotely located central station with information relating to a container, such as a trailer, both during tethered periods in which the energy storage reservoir of the asset monitor is electrically connected to an external power source, such as the electrical system of a tractor or truck, and during untethered periods in which the energy storage reservoir of the asset monitor is electrically untethered or disconnected from the external power source. As a result, the energy storage reservoir is recharged by energy received from the external power source during tethered periods and supplies energy to the asset monitor during both tethered and untethered periods. The asset monitor also includes a controller for controlling its operations. The controller includes tether status determining means for separately identifying tethered periods and untethered periods. The controller also includes power management means for placing the asset monitor in an active mode during tethered periods and in an energy conservation mode during untethered periods. Once placed in an energy conservation mode, the asse…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.