Abstract: An instrumented module attaches to a shipping container and preferably spans the two locking bars, preventing unauthorized opening. The module includes a means for detecting position and/or movement. The module may be latched onto one of the locking bars of the trailer while the doors are open; when the doors are closed, the module engages the corresponding bar on the opposite door to secure the trailer in transit. The manual latch keeps the module in position while the vehicle is at rest, but is not intended to keep the module in place when the truck is moving. If the module has been manually latched onto one locking bar but not the other, and the driver leaves the loading dock, the module's inherent situational awareness is used to activate the lock automatically, thereby securing the latch and keeping the module attached even if the door is unlocked and swinging freely.

Abstract: A security system for freight containers comprises: a locking device configured to reliably attach to the container and prevent unauthorized opening of the container doors; an electromechanical locking mechanism; and a GPS receiver so that unlocking may be authorized when the container is at a selected location. The system may further include a device to sense conditions affecting the container; and, a communication system to transmit the output of the sensing device to a system administrator located remotely. The locking and sensing devices may be capable of two-way communication with the system administrator. The system may include a visual display on the exterior of the container capable of displaying selected messages. The messages may be preprogrammed or may be changed as the container moves from one geographic location to another.

Abstract: A security system for freight containers comprises: a locking device to reliably attach to the container and prevent unauthorized opening of the container doors; a sensing device to sense conditions affecting the container; and, a communication system configured to transmit the output of the sensing device to a system administrator located remotely from the container. The locking and sensing devices may be capable of two-way communication with the system administrator, whereby the administrator may interrogate the locking/sensing device at selected times. The locking device may contain a GPS receiver whereby its geographic location at various times may be monitored either continuously, periodically, or after a trip is completed. The system may include a visual display on the exterior of the container capable of displaying selected messages. The messages may be preprogrammed or may be changed as the container moves from one geographic location to another.

Abstract: A geographically optimized wireless mesh network comprises: a radio communications device to intelligently route information through a tracking, sensing, or communications network; a sensing device to sense conditions affecting the device or associated items; and, a communication system configured to transmit the output of the sensing device to a system administrator located remotely from the container. The geographically optimized wireless mesh devices may be capable of two-way communication with the system administrator, whereby the administrator may interrogate the devices at selected times. The locking device contains redundant location determination technologies whereby its geographic location is used to optimize the node and network performance.

Abstract: A shipping apparatus for small, high value or accountable items comprises: a substantially rigid housing comprising two opposed sections connected to one another, forming a container capable of being opened and closed, typically in a clamshell arrangement; and an integral locking device to secure the container in the closed position. The locking device includes: a microprocessor; a global positioning system (GPS) receiver; a power supply; and an electromechanical latching mechanism to actuate the locking device and to unlock the locking device upon signal from the microprocessor when the shipping container has reached a selected geographic location. The locking device may further contain additional sensing and communication functions.

Abstract: A power management system for batteries includes: a controller that controls a charger, switch matrix, and outputs, using algorithms to optimize system states based on a fuel gauge and learned conditions; a charger, which converts various inputs into charge voltage; a fuel gauge, which calculates remaining charge and battery health so the controller can effectively manage the battery and extend run-time; and a switch matrix providing management at individual cell level so that cell performance/health can be monitored. Cells can be combined dynamically in series and/or in parallel, and “bad” cells can be removed from service. A related method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A security system for freight containers comprises: a locking device configured to reliably attach to the container and prevent unauthorized opening of the container doors; an electromechanical locking mechanism; and a GPS receiver so that unlocking may be authorized when the container is at a selected location. The system may further include a device to sense conditions affecting the container; and, a communication system to transmit the output of the sensing device to a system administrator located remotely. The locking and sensing devices may be capable of two-way communication with the system administrator. The system may include a visual display on the exterior of the container capable of displaying selected messages. The messages may be preprogrammed or may be changed as the container moves from one geographic location to another.

Abstract: A security system for freight containers comprises: a locking device to reliably attach to the container and prevent unauthorized opening of the container doors; a sensing device to sense conditions affecting the container; and, a communication system configured to transmit the output of the sensing device to a system administrator located remotely from the container. The locking and sensing devices may be capable of two-way communication with the system administrator, whereby the administrator may interrogate the locking/sensing device at selected times. The locking device may contain a GPS receiver whereby its geographic location at various times may be monitored either continuously, periodically, or after a trip is completed. The system may include a visual display on the exterior of the container capable of displaying selected messages. The messages may be preprogrammed or may be changed as the container moves from one geographic location to another.