Department of Transportation Project Field Test

Introduction

On June 19th 2002, NaviTag Technologies was awarded an $875 thousand grant from the Port Security Grant Program to build a proof of concept prototype for a remote reporting satellite based cargo tracking tool.

The goal was to design and field test a device that Government and commercial organizations alike could use to maintain chain of custody of containerized freight traversing the globe. This had to be accomplished without the deployment of a massive terrestrial network and without modifying any of the equipment used by the service providers that perform the move.

The challenges for such a device are numerous. Containerized freight is an environmentally challenging operating arena for electronic devices, including corrosive maritime conditions, large temperature swings, and rough handing. Standard cargo containers are typically made of metal, and metal blocks radio transmissions. Add to this the fact that these containers are typically stacked close together and you've got a really big challenge.

Security was also a big concern. Transmissions to the satellite must be secure from tampering and insure that any location information is concealed from prying eyes. Activation routines also needed to be secured from unauthorized personnel yet maintain their "commercial off the shelf" mandate.

We met this challenge head on, and succeeded where others had failed. We've successfully tracked containerized freight traversing Asia, North / South America and Europe. Transmissions from the NaviTag were received from containers and tracked as they left their origin, exit & entry port, and ultimately on to their destination. We were also able to receive transmissions from cargo placed above deck on several carriers and track it as it moved across the Atlantic & Pacific oceans. Also noted was the applicability of the NaviTag to domestic interstate trucking, since the NaviTag also could be applied to trailers utilizing the "barn door style" locking bars found on intermodal containers.

We also proved that information regarding in-transit status could be provided on an "as needed" basis to multiple levels throughout the cargos journey. While watching the shipment traverse the ocean was an interesting visual exercise, the real value came when members were alerted that their cargo had missed a ship or stayed too long at a terminal. Armed with this information, the Pilot Program participants could take the necessary proactive steps to keep their shipment moving.

What's Next?

With the proof of concept field testing complete, we're moving to the next phase of development - enhancing the current hardware and software versions by incorporating changes learned from the pilot program into a commercial offering. Field testing of these units will be performed to validate operating conditions, and commercial offerings will follow shortly afterwards.

In the field

Department of Transportation Project Field Test

Introduction

What's Next?