GB2546288A

GB2546288A - Package tracker and method

Info

Publication number: GB2546288A
Application number: GB1600647.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Soutter Wayne
Original assignee: Trackersense Ltd
Current assignee: Trackersense Ltd
Priority date: 2016-01-13
Filing date: 2016-01-13
Publication date: 2017-07-19
Also published as: GB201600647D0

Abstract

A tracker module 100 for tracking parcels comprises a satellite positioning module 108, a cellular radio module 106 and a controller 105. The controller is arranged to selectively first supply power from a power source 103 to the satellite positioning module to acquire a position, reduce power to the satellite positioning module and subsequently supply power to the cellular radio module to send the position to a network. A corresponding method for tracking comprises switching on a satellite positioning module, acquiring a position, switching off the satellite positioning module, switching on a cellular radio module and sending the position. The tracker module may be woken up according to a schedule. The method may further comprise counting a number of scheduled wake ups and switching on the satellite positioning module if a satellite positioning counter is less than a threshold value or if the satellite positioning counter above the threshold but an accelerometer has changed since a previous satellite positioning schedule. The cellular radio module may be switched on if the satellite positioning counter is less than a threshold value. The tracker may also include temperature, light, shock or pressure sensors. Packaging for disguising a tracker module is also disclosed.

Description

PACKAGE TRACKER AND METHOD

Background to the Invention

Tracker modules are very useful for delivery and logistics companies, as well as individuals. They allow parcel locations to be recorded at every point in the journey and are rapidly becoming cheaper, to the extent of becoming an almost disposable item. In order to make them cheap, considerations need to be given to battery limitations.

In addition, by virtue of their light weight, low cost and small size new opportunities arise for covertly tracking packages.

Known prior art in this field includes the Sendum real-time GPS tracking/data logger.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, a tracker module is provided for tracking parcels comprising: a satellite positioning (e.g. GPS) module; a cellular radio (e.g. GSM) module; and a controller arranged to selectively first supply power from a power source to the satellite positioning module to acquire a position, reduce power to the satellite positioning module, and subsequently supply power to the cellular radio module to send the position to a network.

In this way, the power source does not supply power to both the satellite positioning module and the cellular radio module at the same time. This is advantageous because batteries such as lithium-ion polymer batteries are capable of delivering limited current and, if called upon to exceed a certain current level, voltage will fall off to a point at which the tracker module will reset itself.

Preferably the module has a housing that additionally comprises: a spring and a hole for a tab to be positioned within. When the tab is withdrawn from the hole, the spring causes a circuit to be completed to supply power to the tracker module.

In accordance with a second aspect of the invention, a method for tracking is provided, comprising: switching on a GPS module; acquiring a position; switching off the GPS module; switching on a GSM module; and sending the position.

Preferably the controlling of the GPS module by the controller comprises waking up the tracker module according to a schedule.

Preferably the controlling of the GPS module and GSM module by the controller also comprises: counting a number of scheduled wake ups; switching on GPS module if a GPS counter below a threshold value or if the GPS counter above the threshold value and an accelerometer has changed since the previous GPS schedule.

In this way, the GPS module is switched on when movement has been detected by the accelerometer, implying that the GPS module has moved.

Preferably the controlling of the GPS module and GSM module further comprising: attempting GPS acquisition; switching the GPS module off; counting a number of GPS cycles when GPS module has been switched off or when the GPS counter value is greater than the threshold value and the accelerometer did not change since a previous GPS schedule.

In this way, the GPS module is switched off when the accelerometer has not detected movement, implying that they GPS module has not moved.

Preferably the controlling of the GPS module and GSM module further comprising switching the GSM module on if GPS counter is less than the threshold value or if GPS counter is greater than the threshold value, is not equal to a predetermined value and the GPS position has changed.

Preferably the method is started when a tab is pulled out, connecting contacts by means of a spring.

This is beneficial because there will be no drain on the battery before the tracker module has been activated by withdrawing the tab. This enables the tracker module to have a longer shelf life.

The method preferably further comprises one or more of: detecting cell tower identification numbers; sending payload data; receiving updated schedule/counters; and powering down the GSM module.

Further optional steps include: clearing a counter if a GPS counter value satisfies certain criteria and repeating previous steps if the GPS position has not changed; counting GSM failures if the GSM module does not connect successfully after having been switched on; recording GPS and tower identification numbers (LBS) for sending with a next transmission if the GSM module has connected successfully; acquiring LBS data always or when GPS acquisition fails; detecting cell information when LBS data has been acquired or when GPS acquisition succeeds; and/or returning to wake up according to a schedule.

Sensor data may be collected, for example after acquiring LBS data. The sensor data may comprise data from sensors that measure: temperature; light; shock/vibration; and/or pressure. Each sensor data may be collected according to a schedules individual to that sensor, some being collected more frequently than others. E.g. shock/vibration and light may be measured more frequently than temperature and/or pressure, but for certain goods being transported, it may be important to measure temperature (or other parameters) more frequently that others (e.g. shock). Means (e.g. a slider switch) may be provided for selecting a schedule suitable to the goods being tracked. E.g. there may be options: fragile/temperature sensitive/light sensitive. The sensor data is sent with the payload data.

In accordance with a third aspect of the invention, packaging is provided for disguising a tracker module. The packaging comprises cardboard packaging material formed into: a base; enclosing sides; and a lid. When a tracker module is enclosed within the packaging, the tracker module is substantially hidden from view and the packaging appears as layers of cardboard packaging material.

The packaging may comprise two flaps having adhesive for folding flat against the base and attaching to the base, and create a hidden compartment for the tracker module.

Preferably an exterior side of the enclosing sides of the packaging forms a corrugated edge for the cardboard packaging material.

This is beneficial because it disguises the tracker module packaging as a packaging block. The corrugated edges do not look like smooth cardboard sides of packaging that contains goods. Hence the tracker module in its packaging can be hidden amongst other packing material and packaging blocks.

The lid of the packaging may comprise a first layer folded to lie flat against a top of the enclosing sides and a second layer folded to lie flat against a bottom of the base.

Optionally first layer and second layer are joined by a first double fold hinge and the first layer and the base are joined by a second double fold hinge, which fit in respective notches in the enclosing sides.

The packaging may comprise a first partially cut join between the base and first layer which is spanned by the first double fold hinge and a second partially cut join between the first layer and the second layer which is spanned by the second double fold hinge.

The packaging may have a flap having adhesive for attaching to outer sides of the packaging to prevent unfolding of the layers. Preferably there are one or more holes in the base to accommodate protruding components of the tracker module and wherein the second layer of the lid covers the hole when folded flat against the bottom of the base.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Fig. 1 is a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the invention.

Figs. 2 and 3 together are a flow diagram showing operation of the device of Fig 1.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the packaging with the package tracker in position.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the packaging without the package tracker in position.

Fig. 6 is a flat pack version of Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 and 8 show the cross-section at line A of Fig. 10 in folded and un-folded form, respectively.

Fig. 9 shows the view from point B of Fig. 7.

Fig. 10 shows the view from point C of Fig. 7.

Description

The present invention relates to a GPS and GSM tracker, a method for tracking parcels and packaging for said tracker.

The tracker module 100 illustrated in Fig. 1 comprises a battery 103, two capacitors 104, a controller 105, a GSM module 106 and antenna 107, a GPS module 108 and antenna 109, a micro USB plug, a switch and two LEDs. The controller 105 controls the GSM 106 and GPS 108 modules. The tracker module 100 is enclosed in a 2mm thick 'lid' housing 101 made from injection moulded ABS. The housing contains a spring 110, a hole 111 for a tab 102 to be positioned within and a second hole (not shown) to access the micro USB plug.

When the tab 102 is in place it holds the spring 110 away from contacts 112 of the tracker module 100. When it is removed, the spring 110 makes a connection between the two contacts 112 in the circuit, thereby completing it. The battery 103 is Lithium-ion Polymer. These or other batteries my be used but typically deliver from 100 to 265 watt-hours per kilogram (0.36 to 0.95 MJ per kilogram) but typically have an internal resistance of 2 to 6 milliohms or suffer a substantial fall-off of voltage (originally 3.3 to 3.7 V) when called upon to deliver more than a maximum amount of milliamps.

The limitations of the battery are mitigated by provision of the two capacitors which have a total value of 150-450 microFarads, preferably about 300 microFarads. These are capable of delivering charge over a short period (i.e. high current) but the period is limited. Simply adding more capacitors (e.g. 1.5F) has the drawback of increasing the size (and cost) of the module.

In operation, the tracker module 100 follows the work flow of Figs. 2 and 3.

Step 200 is started when tab 102 is pulled out, connecting contacts by means of the spring 110. Capacitors 104 are charged. GPS module 108 is switched on by step 208, controlled by controller 105. The GPS module 108 attempts satellite acquisition (step 210) and, if successful, acquires satellite timings for a position fix, which is stored in memory in controller 105, and controller 105 switches off the GPS 108 in step 210.

Step 214 considers whether this is a first-time ("virgin") run by testing whether a GPS counter is less than 1. Assuming it is not a virgin run, the process proceeds to step 222. The GSM module 106 is switched on by step 222, as controlled by the controller.

In step 224, a GSM connection (or other cellular connection such as 3G, UMTS, WCDMA, LTE) is attempted. If a connection is successfully established, the base station ("tower") identify is noted and stored and the process continues to step 300 in Fig. 3.

Fig. 3 starts at step 300, as a continuation on from step 228 of Fig. 2. LBS data is acquired (step 302). This can occur always or can occur when GPS acquisition fails at step 302. Cell information is detected (step 306) when LBS data has been acquired or when GPS acquisition succeeds. Cell tower identification numbers are detected (step 308), and payload data is sent (step 310) following which updated schedule and/or counters are received (step 312), and the GSM module 106 is powered down (step314). The process then returns to step 200 of Fig. 2.

If cell information is not detected in step 306, individual senor data is collected as per individual schedules (i.e. individual to each sensor or individual to the tracker and its intended purpose). This data includes temperature, light, shock and/or pressure. This sensor data is sent with the payload data.

In one embodiment, tracker module 100 is housed in plastic housing 101. In another aspect, it is housed in packaging material that has the appearance of a block or spacer of packaging material.

Figs. 4, 5 and 6 show packaging comprising a base 407, enclosing sides 404, a first lid 403, a second lid 402 and a flap 401. The packaging 400 may have any number and size of holes 408 in the base 407. The first lid 403 is attached to the base 407 by a double hinge 406, which has two folds 424 and 425. Lines 420 and 421 between the base 407 and first lid 403 are cut. The first lid 403 and the second lid 402 are also attached by a double hinge 405, which has two folds 415 and 416. Lines 417 and 418 between them are cut. The second lid 402 is attached to the flap 401 by a fold along line 410. The flap 401 has a strip of adhesive 412.

When there is no hole 408 in the base 407, the thickness of the flaps 404 is at least that of the thickest part of the tracker 100, so that it can fit correctly in the packaging 400. When there is a hole 408 in the base 407, the thickness of the base 407 and flaps 404 combined must be at least that of the thickest part of the tracker 100.

In operation, the flaps of the enclosing sides 404, as seen in Fig. 6, are folded and stuck with adhesive onto the base 407. The fold lines 422 and 423 between the flaps of the enclosing sides 404 and the base 407 are cut only in a central portion (or partially cut at some other portion). The tracker module 100 is then placed within the enclosing sides 404. The double hinge 406 of the first lid 403 is folded so that the first lid 403 covers the tracker. The double hinge 406 slots into the recess 440. The fold lines 415 and 416 of the second double hinge 405 are then folded so that the second lid 402 lies flat against the back of the base 407. The second double hinge 405 slots into the recess 450. The flap 410 is then folded to lie flat again the outside surface of the resultant packaging and adhered using the adhesive strip 412.

Figs. 7 and 8 show the hidden recess in which the tracker 100 sits when the packaging 400 is completely folded. The tracker module 100 must have interference fit with the packaging 400 so it does not rattle or fall out when opened.

Figs. 9 and 10 show that the tracker 100 cannot be seen from either side when the packaging 400 is folded completely. Only the corrugated edges of the cardboard packaging material can be seen. Thus, the package looks like a block of packaging, e.g. a spacer or packing block, whilst also protecting the tracker 100. It can be placed in a package, e.g. a cardboard box (not shown) containing a high-value product (not shown), such as a television or other electronics product or consumer product. To the casual observer, it looks like a piece of packing, e.g. a spacer block, and looks like its function is to prevent the product from rattling within its outer packing. The material of the package is preferably the same or similar to that of the outer packing. To the casual observer, it is not apparent that the tracker 100 is present. A thief would be unaware that there is a tracker within the packaging of a high-value item being stolen.

Claims

1. A tracker module (100) for tracking parcels comprising: a satellite positioning module (108); a cellular radio module (106); and a controller (105) arranged to selectively first supply power from a power source (103) to the satellite positioning module (108) to acquire a position, reduce power to the satellite positioning module (108), and subsequently supply power to the cellular radio module (106) to send the position to a network.

2. The module (100) of claim 1, wherein the module has a housing (101) that additionally comprises: a spring (110) and a hole (111) for a tab (102) to be positioned within, whereby when the tab is withdrawn from the hole, the spring causes a circuit to be completed to supply power to the tracker module.

3. The module (100) of claim 1, wherein the power source (103) is a lithium-ion polymer battery.

4. A method for tracking comprising: switching on a satellite positioning module (108); acquiring a position; switching off the satellite positioning module (108); switching on a cellular radio module; and sending the position.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the controlling of the satellite positioning module (108) by the controller (105) comprises: waking up the tracker module (100) according to a schedule (200).

6. The method of claim 4 or 5, wherein the controlling of the satellite positioning module (108) and cellular radio module (106) by the controller (105) also comprises: counting (202) a number of scheduled wake ups (200); switching on (208) satellite positioning module (108) if a satellite positioning counter (212) is less than a threshold value (204) or if the satellite positioning counter (212) is not less than the threshold value (204) and an accelerometer has changed since the previous satellite positioning schedule (206).

7. The method of claim 4, 5 or 6, further comprising: attempting satellite positioning acquisition (210); switching the satellite positioning module (108) off (210); counting a number of satellite positioning cycles (212) when satellite positioning module (108) has been switched off (210) or when the satellite positioning counter (212) value is greater than the threshold value (204) and the accelerometer did not change since a previous satellite positioning schedule (206).

8. The method of any one of claims 4 to 7, further comprising switching the cellular radio module (106) on (222) if satellite positioning counter (212) is less than the threshold value (214) or if satellite positioning counter is not less than the threshold value (214), is not equal to a predetermined value (216) and the satellite positioning position has changed (220).

9. The method of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the method is started when a tab (102) is pulled out, connecting contacts by means of a spring (110).

10. The method of any one of claims 4 to 9, further comprising one or more of: detecting cell tower identification numbers (308); sending payload data (310); receiving updated schedule/counters (312); and powering down (314) the cellular radio module (106).

11. The method of any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein sensor data is collected from sensors that measure: temperature (320); light (322); shock (324); and/or pressure (326) and the sensor data is sent with payload data (310).

12. Packaging for disguising a tracker module (100), the packaging comprising cardboard packaging material formed into: a base (407); enclosing sides (404); and a lid (402, 403) such that, when a tracker module is enclosed within the packaging, the tracker module is substantially hidden from view and the packaging appears as layers of cardboard packaging material.

13. The packaging of claim 12, wherein the enclosing sides (404) comprising two flaps (404) having adhesive for folding flat against the base (507) and attaching to the base (507), and create a hidden compartment (707) for the tracker module (100).

14. The packaging of claim 12, wherein an exterior side of the enclosing sides (404) forms a corrugated edge for the cardboard packaging material.

15. The packaging of claim 12, 13 or 14, wherein the lid comprises a first layer (403) folded to lie flat against a top of the enclosing sides (404) and a second layer (402) folded to lie flat against a bottom of the base (407).

16. The packaging of claim 15, wherein the first layer and the base (407) are joined by a first double fold hinge (406) and the first layer (403) and second layer (402) are joined by a second double fold hinge (405), which fit in respective notches (440, 450) in the enclosing sides (404).

17. The packaging of claim 16, comprising a first partially cut join (424, 425) between the base (407) and first layer (403) which is spanned by the first double fold hinge (406) and a second partially cut join (415, 416) between the first layer (403) and the second layer (402) which is spanned by the second double fold hinge (405).

18. The packaging of any one of claims 12 to 17, further comprising a flap (401) having adhesive for attaching to outer sides of the packaging to prevent unfolding of the layers.

19. The packaging of claim 15, wherein there are one or more holes (408) in the base (407) to accommodate protruding components of the tracker module and wherein the second layer (402) of the lid covers the hole when folded flat against the bottom of the base (407).

20. The packaging of any one of claims 12 to 19, wherein the packaging is made of corrugated cardboard.

21. The packaging of any one of claims 12 to 20, in combination with a tracker module (100), wherein the tracker module (100) is, at its thickest point, no thicker than two layers of the cardboard.

22. The packaging of any one of claims 12 to 21, wherein the tracker module (100) makes interference fit in the hole.