Abstract: A tracking device is provided having a normally open passive switch for detecting when the tracking device has been removed from a container on which it has been installed. The device includes a powered communication system and the normally open passive switch that is biased toward a closed position. The switch is maintained in the normally open condition via a magnet disposed near the switch. The magnet is disposed on the container and aligned with the switch. The switch includes a magnetically reactive element coupled thereto. When the tracking device is moved away from the container, the magnetic force on the switch will be reduced, and the bias in the switch will cause the switch to move to the closed position. Upon moving the switch to the closed position, the communications system will transmit a message that the device has been removed. When the switch is in the normally open state, the circuit on which the switch is disposed will not draw any power.

Abstract: A tracking device is provided having a normally open passive switch for detecting when a door on a container has been opened or has been attempted to be opened. The device includes a powered communication system and the normally open passive switch that is biased toward a closed position. The switch is maintained in the normally open condition via a magnet disposed near the switch. The magnet is disposed on a rotatable container latching rod. The switch includes a magnetically reactive element coupled thereto. When the magnet is moved away from the switch, such as when the container rod is rotated, the bias in the switch will cause the switch to move to the closed position. Upon moving the switch to the closed position, the communications system will transmit a message that the door is open. When the switch is in the normally open state, the circuit on which the switch is disposed will not draw any power.

Abstract: A tracking device is provided for tracking the location of a container. The tracking device comprises a communication system and a power system, the power system having a renewable energy system and a battery system. The renewable energy system is connected in parallel with the battery system across a first node. The battery system comprises a permanent, non-rechargeable battery connected in parallel with a rechargeable supercapacitor across a second node electrically connected to the first node. A battery diode is interposed between the first node and the renewable energy system and arranged to prevent the renewable energy system from drawing current from the battery system. A solar diode is interposed between the second node and the permanent battery, and is arranged to prevent current being supplied to the permanent battery such that the renewable energy system may charge the supercapacitor without damaging the permanent battery.