If you wish to contribute or participate in the discussions about articles you are invited to contact the Editor

Package and Container Tracking: Difference between revisions

From Navipedia
Jump to navigation Jump to search
No edit summary
No edit summary
 
(15 intermediate revisions by 5 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Article Infobox2
{{Article Infobox2
|Category=Applications
|Category=Applications
|Title={{PAGENAME}}
|Editors=GMV
|Authors=GMV.
|Level=Intermediate
|Level=Medium
|YearOfPublication=2011
|YearOfPublication=2011
|Logo=GMV
|Logo=GMV
}}
}}
With GNSS asset tracking applications, companies can improve efficiency and control the distribution chain of their products and shippings. These systems help to identify the location of cargo or containers equipped with GNSS receivers whilst in transit by road, rail or ships.


With GNSS vehicle tracking applications, companies can improve efficiency and control the distribution chain of their products and shipping's.
Usually vehicle management applications encompasses package and container tracking applications, allowing an integrated view of both cargo and vehicles.
 
Asset's tracking systems help to identify the location of cargo or containers equipped with GNSS receivers whilst in transit by road, rail or ships.
 
Usually vehicle management applications encompasses package and container tracking applications, using GNSS in real time to identify trip inefficiencies, excessive stopping time, speeding incidences or unreasonable claims for overtime or driving incidents.
 
In addition, the time spent by drivers due to paperwork procedures can be reduced, allowing drivers to save time and fuel.  


== Application Architecture ==
== Application Architecture ==


[[File:Geolocation.png|right|thumb|550px|Tracking architecture]]
[[File:Geolocation.png|right|thumb|550px|Tracking architecture]]
Package and Container Tracking, is closely connected with [[Fleet Management and Vehicle Tracking|vehicles tracking]]. A system supporting vehicles fleet tracking can be extended to support the tracking of assets by incorporating low cost devices in the packages or containers.


Package and Container Tracking, is closely connected with assets and vehicles tracking. A system supporting vehicles fleet tracking can be extended to support the tracking of assets by incorporating low range devices in the packages or containers. Those devices establish communication with the the GNSS receiver, enabling the assets position assessment.
The combination of GNSS technology with communication technologies (satellite, cellular, Wi-Fi) can provide continuous real-time tracking and tracing information during the journey.


The combination of GNSS technology with [[wikipedia:GSM|GSM]] can provide continuous real-time tracking and tracing information continually during the the journey.
== Application Characterization ==


=== Fleet Management Tracking ===
Package and container tracking systems are used for tracking of cargo, in trucks, ships or trains allowing a better management of the cargo. Shipments can be located if stolen and customer service can be enhanced with the ability for the shipper to accurately report delivery time.


The core of a Fleet Management Tracking system is a GNSS tracking system used in conjunction with data transmission by means of the selected communications system, for instance GSM or GPRS.<ref>[http://www.gmv.com.pt/productos/Ficha_SAE_ENG_032011.pdf GMV, SAE Fleet Tracking And Management System]</ref>
Package and Container Tracking applications are very important for insurance companies, which can use the tool to obtain proper data about the whereabouts of a certain asset. The real time movements can be obtained, which allow the operators to take actions if an anomaly is detected.


This combination of GNSS technology with GSM/GPRS wireless coverage, can keep track on the position of all the resources, such as vehicles, personnel, assets, as well as incidents. This information is sent to a server and is accessed using a [[wikipedia:Geographic Information System|Geographic Information System (GIS)]] cartography, where the location, stops, idling and distance covered by each item can be obtained. Many systems allow to keep the tracking data stored, which can be latter retrieved for a number of reasons.
Shipping customers or logistic companies can analyze data to choose the most efficient shipper. Package and Container Tracking applications usually offer the following capabilities:


The GNSS unit is essential to identify the position of the vehicle. The tracking systems usually use one of the following architectures, which always include a GNSS receiver:
* Continuous assessing of real-time tracking and tracing information,
* Control of shipment in a specified route, according to the plan and authorized path,
* Incident prevention, due to the monitoring of status parameters,
* Alarm rising in case of anomaly condition detection,
* Recording and logging for regular roundup of reported incidents,
* Informing the emergency response forces for the emergency management arrangements,
* Safeguarding of expensive stolen cargo,


* '''Passive Tracking''': The tracking system stores the vehicles location, through a GNSS receiver, and other data, such as vehicle condition or container status. This data is stored and can be collected and analyzed at the end of the trip.<ref name="gnsstracking">[http://www.gnsstracking.eu/en/pilot-services/ GNSS Tracking site], MENTORE project</ref>
In an similar way as [[Fleet Management and Vehicle Tracking|vehicle tracking]] these application can be sold as a product or as a service and normally are are provided with a standalone applications or access to a server that can show the position of the package or container on a map. These systems usually support geofencing, route monitoring and customizable alarms.


* '''Active Tracking''': The tracking device stores and the vehicle location, through a positioning device (i.e. GNSS terminal), and send it through a wireless communication system to a control room for real-time update and monitoring.<ref name="gnsstracking"/>
One of the drivers of the traceability & monitoring of containers and cargoes are governmental initiatives towards electronic customs. GNSS based tracking and tracing can support the implementation of an interoperable, paper-free customs environment and allow for the security and safety of goods crossing borders to be improved.


* '''Real-time, cellular network''': The vehicle's locations and speed are transmitted over a GSM cellular network. The controller accesses to the information by logging on to the vendor's website, which requires a monthly fee, or by receiving the data directly on a cell phone, which requires a cell phone account.<ref name="maps-gps-info"/> The positions of trucks or goods are updated every few minutes, according with the system specification.
=== Tracking Containers ===


* '''Real-time, satellite''': The vehicle's data is transmitted through satellite to the vendor and the controller accesses the data by logging on to the vendor's website. This method also requires a monthly subscription fee.<ref name="maps-gps-info">[http://www.maps-gps-info.com/gp-vh-trkg.html Maps GPS info site], GPS Vehicle Tracking</ref>
Whether at sea, on rail, stacked or stored, shipping containers can be tracked worldwide using GNSS container tracking devices<ref>[http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEMXZRD1XOG_index_0.html Cont-Trak offers reliable container tracking via satellite], ESA Portal</ref>.


A fleet management tracking is constituted by the following components:
Container tracking devices normally combine satellite communication technologies with GNSS positioning. Cellular network technologies can be used but communications are limited to covered areas which will limit the realtime tracking of the containers in open sea. Some tracking devices combine satellite communications with cellular communications and even Wi-Fi to achieve global coverage while keeping communication costs as low as possible.


* '''On Board Unit (OBU)''', which includes the GNSS receiver and other types of receivers to collect the status of the track and the materials. This device will also have the ability to connect to a central tracking server. The vehicle's information can include latitude, longitude, altitude, computed odometer, door open or close, fuel amount, tyre pressure, turnoff ignition, turn on headlight, engine temperature, as well as cargo information and other vehicle's sensors.
One of the biggest problems of container tracking is that when stacked on ships or ports there might not be on line-of-sight with satellites for positioning and communication. To address this issue two possible solutions have been used:
* '''Integration of container positioning with ship positioning''' - Instead of using container position, use the ship position when the container positioning is not available.
* '''Short-range communication systems between containers''' - Establishing of a short range communication network between the stacked containers and the container(s) with satellite line of sight would send the positioning information for the other containers.  


* '''Central tracking server''', which have the capability to receive, store and publish the tracking data to an user interface, which usually encompasses a Geographic Information System.
Container tracking devices can usually be integrated with external sensors for the detection of events such door opening/closing or to monitor container temperature or other environmental variables. Some can include 3D motion sensor that can detect whether the container in moving or not.


== Application Characterization ==
=== Tracking Parcels ===


The fleet management tracking is used for tracking of cargo, in tracks, ships or trains using the benefits for cargo management. Shipments can be located if stolen and customer service is enhanced with the ability for the shipper to accurately report delivery time.  
The tracking of parcels or pallets sometimes is required if:
* The goods are valuable, as safeguard for theft.
* If the nature of the goods requires traceability.
* To monitor the compliance with transport regulations.
* To be able to inform customers or recipients of the expected arrival time of the goods.


Package and Container Tracking applications are very important for insurance companies, which can grant a tool to obtain proper data about the trail of a certain asset. The real time movements can be obtain, which allow the operators to take actions if an anomaly is detected.
Tracking of parcels or pallets is normally done with small transponders similar to the one used for [[Personal Trackers|personal tracking]]. These transponders combine high-sensitivity GNSS chipsets with cellular communications to enable the realtime tracking of objects usually with geofencing and alarm capabilities. High-sensitivity GNSS is normally required for these transponders since usually they are inside the parcel and usually travel inside closed vehicles.


Many trucks have different types of trailers, the truck's load carrying unit, (e.g., flat bed, refrigerated, curtain sider, box container). These units can be unfastened from the vehicle, which imply that each unit shall be monitored separately.
=== Tracking of Dangerous Goods ===


Shipping customers or logistic companies can analyze data to choose the most efficient shipper. Package and Container Tracking applications usually offer the following capabilities:
The transportation of dangerous industrial waste from its originating source to the site where it will be treated is increasing every year. Trucks carrying the waste-filled containers typically travel through several countries for several days. For security reasons, and to ensure that all the waste arrives where it is intended to, GNSS is being used to track industrial waste containers throughout its journey.<ref>[http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEMUS6VPXPF_index_0.html ESA Portal], Satellite helps make transportation of dangerous waste safer</ref>


* Continuous assessing of real-time tracking and tracing information,
The safe transport of nuclear material is regulated by the [http://www.iaea.org/ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)] rules. In Europe, the transport of radioactive material is also regulated by the laws regulating the transportation of dangerous goods. Such regulations classify the dangerous material such as nuclear waste and material, and establish rules for the relevant safe and controlled transportation<ref name="gnsstracking">GNSS Tracking site, MENTORE project</ref>.
* Control of shipment in a specified route, according to the plan and authorized path,
* Incident prevention, due to the monitoring of status parameters,
* Alarm raising in case of anomaly condition detection,
* Recording and logging for regular roundup of reported incidents,
* Informing the emergency response forces for the emergency management arrangements,
* Safeguarding of vehicles against theft,
* Safeguarding of expensive and specialized equipment or assets, carried by stolen vehicles,
* Quickly recovering of stolen vehicles,
* Route replay features, can help to detect where a certain stolen vehicle, was unloaded.  


=== Tracking of Dangerous Goods and Livestock ===
None of these regulations specifically oblige the use of positioning technology, although the use of GNSS provide enhanced and guaranteed positioning allowing to support law enforcement and to cope with the security needs.  
 
The transportation of dangerous industrial waste from its originating source to the site where it will be treated is increasing every year. Trucks carrying the waste-filled containers typically travel through several European countries for two to three days. For security reasons, and to ensure that all the waste arrives where it is intended to, a small Italian company has developed an innovative tracking system which uses location data from the GNSS to accurately track all movements of the industrial waste throughout its journey.<ref>[http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEMUS6VPXPF_index_0.html ESA Portal], Satellite helps make transportation of dangerous waste safer</ref>
 
The safe transport of nuclear material is regulated by the [http://www.iaea.org/|International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)] rules. In Europe, the transport of radioactive material is also regulated by the laws regulating the transportation of dangerous goods. Such regulations classify the dangerous material such as nuclear waste and material, and establish rules for the relevant safe and controlled transportation.<ref name="gnsstracking"/>
 
None of these regulations specifically oblige the use of positioning technology, although the use of GNSS provide enhanced and guaranteed positioning allowing to support law enforcement and to cope with security needs.
 
The application of satellite positioning for livestock traceability is becoming a general objective to support livestock transportation policies.
Regulation in Europe, requires an appropriate navigation system allowing for recording and providing information equivalent to those required in the journey log and information concerning opening/closing of the loading flap. It also requires a temperature monitoring and recording system which alerts the driver of the vehicle when the temperature in the animal compartment reaches the maximum of 30°C or the minimum of 5°C and a sensor that detects when the loading door is opened or not.
<ref name="gnsstracking"/>
 
In livestock transportation, GNSS will permit to:
* Localize and continuously track and trace the vehicles transporting livestock in order to increase the efficiency of all activities related with livestock transportation.
* Generate reports about sensors information such as temperature, loading doors information, warning signals, etc. in order to improve the animals welfare.
* Optimal route calculation to specify the most suitable roads and hence, to ensure a fast and safe delivery of the cargo.
* Geofencing and alarming.
* Recording of data for statistical and enforcement / governmental use.  


== Application Examples ==
== Application Examples ==


Fleet management application appear in many [[wikipedia:Original equipment manufacturer|OEM]] products such as:<ref name="m2m">[http://www.berginsight.com/ReportPDF/ProductSheet/BIFMWM2M-PS.pdf European fleet management market],M2M Research Series</ref>
In an similar way as [[Fleet Management and Vehicle Tracking|vehicles tracking]] these application can be sold as a product or as a service and normally are are provided with a standalone application or access to a server that can show the position of the container on a map. These application normally geofencing, route monitoring and customizable alarms. Usually these services require a subscription. Normally these providers have a local nature having each country specific providers. There are too many providers to list here.
* Truck manufacturers (Mercedes-Benz, Volvo Group, Scania, MAN Nutzfahrzeuge, or DAF Trucks)
* Construction equipment manufacturers (Caterpillar, Volvo CE, Komatsu)
* Trailer manufacturers (Schmitz Cargobull, or Krone)
 
In R&D field, the GSA MENTORE project is an example of how [[EGNOS General Introduction|EGNOS]] and [[GALILEO General Introduction|GALILEO]] will support track and trace of sensitive assets.<ref name="gnsstracking"/>


== Notes ==
== Notes ==

Latest revision as of 20:20, 9 September 2018


ApplicationsApplications
Title Package and Container Tracking
Edited by GMV
Level Intermediate
Year of Publication 2011
Logo GMV.png

With GNSS asset tracking applications, companies can improve efficiency and control the distribution chain of their products and shippings. These systems help to identify the location of cargo or containers equipped with GNSS receivers whilst in transit by road, rail or ships.

Usually vehicle management applications encompasses package and container tracking applications, allowing an integrated view of both cargo and vehicles.

Application Architecture

Tracking architecture

Package and Container Tracking, is closely connected with vehicles tracking. A system supporting vehicles fleet tracking can be extended to support the tracking of assets by incorporating low cost devices in the packages or containers.

The combination of GNSS technology with communication technologies (satellite, cellular, Wi-Fi) can provide continuous real-time tracking and tracing information during the journey.

Application Characterization

Package and container tracking systems are used for tracking of cargo, in trucks, ships or trains allowing a better management of the cargo. Shipments can be located if stolen and customer service can be enhanced with the ability for the shipper to accurately report delivery time.

Package and Container Tracking applications are very important for insurance companies, which can use the tool to obtain proper data about the whereabouts of a certain asset. The real time movements can be obtained, which allow the operators to take actions if an anomaly is detected.

Shipping customers or logistic companies can analyze data to choose the most efficient shipper. Package and Container Tracking applications usually offer the following capabilities:

  • Continuous assessing of real-time tracking and tracing information,
  • Control of shipment in a specified route, according to the plan and authorized path,
  • Incident prevention, due to the monitoring of status parameters,
  • Alarm rising in case of anomaly condition detection,
  • Recording and logging for regular roundup of reported incidents,
  • Informing the emergency response forces for the emergency management arrangements,
  • Safeguarding of expensive stolen cargo,

In an similar way as vehicle tracking these application can be sold as a product or as a service and normally are are provided with a standalone applications or access to a server that can show the position of the package or container on a map. These systems usually support geofencing, route monitoring and customizable alarms.

One of the drivers of the traceability & monitoring of containers and cargoes are governmental initiatives towards electronic customs. GNSS based tracking and tracing can support the implementation of an interoperable, paper-free customs environment and allow for the security and safety of goods crossing borders to be improved.

Tracking Containers

Whether at sea, on rail, stacked or stored, shipping containers can be tracked worldwide using GNSS container tracking devices[1].

Container tracking devices normally combine satellite communication technologies with GNSS positioning. Cellular network technologies can be used but communications are limited to covered areas which will limit the realtime tracking of the containers in open sea. Some tracking devices combine satellite communications with cellular communications and even Wi-Fi to achieve global coverage while keeping communication costs as low as possible.

One of the biggest problems of container tracking is that when stacked on ships or ports there might not be on line-of-sight with satellites for positioning and communication. To address this issue two possible solutions have been used:

  • Integration of container positioning with ship positioning - Instead of using container position, use the ship position when the container positioning is not available.
  • Short-range communication systems between containers - Establishing of a short range communication network between the stacked containers and the container(s) with satellite line of sight would send the positioning information for the other containers.

Container tracking devices can usually be integrated with external sensors for the detection of events such door opening/closing or to monitor container temperature or other environmental variables. Some can include 3D motion sensor that can detect whether the container in moving or not.

Tracking Parcels

The tracking of parcels or pallets sometimes is required if:

  • The goods are valuable, as safeguard for theft.
  • If the nature of the goods requires traceability.
  • To monitor the compliance with transport regulations.
  • To be able to inform customers or recipients of the expected arrival time of the goods.

Tracking of parcels or pallets is normally done with small transponders similar to the one used for personal tracking. These transponders combine high-sensitivity GNSS chipsets with cellular communications to enable the realtime tracking of objects usually with geofencing and alarm capabilities. High-sensitivity GNSS is normally required for these transponders since usually they are inside the parcel and usually travel inside closed vehicles.

Tracking of Dangerous Goods

The transportation of dangerous industrial waste from its originating source to the site where it will be treated is increasing every year. Trucks carrying the waste-filled containers typically travel through several countries for several days. For security reasons, and to ensure that all the waste arrives where it is intended to, GNSS is being used to track industrial waste containers throughout its journey.[2]

The safe transport of nuclear material is regulated by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) rules. In Europe, the transport of radioactive material is also regulated by the laws regulating the transportation of dangerous goods. Such regulations classify the dangerous material such as nuclear waste and material, and establish rules for the relevant safe and controlled transportation[3].

None of these regulations specifically oblige the use of positioning technology, although the use of GNSS provide enhanced and guaranteed positioning allowing to support law enforcement and to cope with the security needs.

Application Examples

In an similar way as vehicles tracking these application can be sold as a product or as a service and normally are are provided with a standalone application or access to a server that can show the position of the container on a map. These application normally geofencing, route monitoring and customizable alarms. Usually these services require a subscription. Normally these providers have a local nature having each country specific providers. There are too many providers to list here.

Notes


References

  1. ^ Cont-Trak offers reliable container tracking via satellite, ESA Portal
  2. ^ ESA Portal, Satellite helps make transportation of dangerous waste safer
  3. ^ GNSS Tracking site, MENTORE project
Retrieved from "https://gssc.esa.int/navipedia/index.php?title=Package_and_Container_Tracking&oldid=14144"