GPS-based centralized tracking system with reduced energy consumption
US6104978A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 6, 1998 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 6, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01S19/34
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A communication method reduces both the asset energy requirements and communication channel occupancy in a reduced order GPS asset tracking system. The asset is provided with an indication of its position so as to allow detection of substantial movement of the asset at the asset. Reduced order GPS data derived at the asset, such as a railcar, is compressed to allow for shorter railcar data transmission times. This, in turn, reduces both the transmitter energy requirements and communication-channel occupancy, while allowing substantial railcar position changes to be conveniently detected at the railcar. This capability can be used to save further substantial railcar energy by, for example, reporting to the central station less frequently when the railcar position is unchanging.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.