Abstract: A technique for controlling the state of a power supply in a mobile asset such as a cargo trailer. The technique detects motion status such as may be provided by a vibration sensor. The motion status signal is filtered by other signals, such as with inputs from a global positioning system sensor, and is then further used to select a power consumption mode. The power consumption mode may be further controlled based on configuration information that may indicate that a vibration source such as a refrigeration unit is present on the trailer.

Abstract: A method and system of providing for the rapid availability of assets to customers wherein a lease method and system is provided which includes lease terms, a leasable asset with a unique identifier, associating the lease terms with the asset through the unique identifier, at least one sensor on the asset for detecting the status of at least one condition that starts a lease, a communications system for transmitting information from the sensors on the asset to a central management system, determining the amount due based on the status of the sensors and the lease terms associated with the unique identifier, and preparing an invoice based on the amount due determined.

Abstract: A camera is used to sense cargo in a cargo space. An image of at least a portion of a cargo space is captured using the camera, and a digital signal processor classifies the image as representing an empty cargo space or a non-empty cargo space. Additionally, a type of cargo represented by the captured image may also be classified by the digital signal processor and an indication of the type of cargo output.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for binding a first wireless communication unit installed on a first asset and a second wireless communication unit installed on a second asset, wherein the first asset is connected to the second asset by electrical power lines. The method and system can be used for binding a wireless communication unit of a tractor and a wireless communication unit on a trailer. The method monitors the current in the auxiliary power connection between the assets. By transmitting and detecting power pulses through the auxiliary power line, the wireless communication units can ensure that the two assets are attached and therefore it would be proper to establish a wireless connection between the two wireless communication units. The number of power pulses can be used to identify differing devices. Such method can also be used to detect an open fuse or circuit breaker. In the case of an open fuse, voltages can be used in place of power pulses to complete the binding process.