DESC:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2005
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10, rule 13)
1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION:
ASSET TRACKING DEVICE AND TRACKING METHODOLOGY
2. APPLICANT
(a) Name: TOR.AI Limited
(b) Nationality: An Indian Company
(c) Address:
303A, 403-403A, 3rd/4th Floor, B Junction, Survey No. 1/2, Next to Kothrud Post office, Kothrud Pune 411038, Maharashtra, India.
3. PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION
PROVISIONAL
The following specification describes the invention. COMPLETE
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present invention relates to an asset tracking device and, more specifically, to the device and methods for tracking individual assets or consignments carried within vehicles.

BACKGROUND
[002] In the logistics industry, particularly in vehicles containing multiple assets or consignments, misplacement of assets at job sites is a significant concern.
[003] Most of the companies employ off-the-shelf Vehicle Tracking Systems (VTS) as asset tracking solutions. When using vehicle tracking systems as an individual asset tracker, a notable issue arises wherein a single asset can be removed from a vehicle while the vehicle tracking systems continues to function. Consequently, the location reported by the vehicle tracking systems corresponds to the entire vehicle, rather than the specific asset or consignment, thus providing inaccurate information.
[004] Existing vehicle tracking systems are typically connected to the vehicle's battery as their power source, making them susceptible to easy disconnection, thereby disabling tracking capabilities. Some vehicle tracking systems incorporate internal battery backup but suffer from limitations, such as limited operation time on internal batteries.
[005] Also, placing a GPS tracker on an asset inside a vehicle can be challenging, as it is not always feasible to provide an open sky view. All GPS trackers require specific placement to ensure that the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) antenna has an unobstructed view of the sky, essential for accurate GNSS-based location data. Moreover, the use of external antennas complicates matters further, involving antenna placement and cable routing, which, if disrupted, can result in the unavailability of location data, rendering the tracker ineffective.
[006] Accordingly, there exists a need to provide a device and method for asset tracking using the device, which overcomes above-mentioned drawbacks.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[007] An object of the invention is to provide an asset tracking device that utilizes a power unit consisting of standard AA batteries, offering a convenient and widely accessible power source for extended operational use.
[008] Another object of the invention is to incorporate a power converter with over 95% efficiency, thereby maximizing energy utilization and prolonging the device's operational lifespan without frequent battery replacements.
[009] Yet another object of the invention is to integrate a GSM module equipped with a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card within the tracking unit, enabling seamless communication with cellular networks for real-time asset tracking.
[0010] A further object of the invention is to employ the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol within the GSM module, facilitating efficient and reliable data transmission with minimal bandwidth usage.
[0011] An additional object of the invention is to configure the GSM module to enter low-power sleep modes during periods of inactivity, significantly reducing power consumption and extending battery life.
[0012] Another object of the invention is to enable the GSM module to wake up from sleep mode to establish a connection to a server, send or receive data, and return to sleep mode, ensuring efficient power management and data communication.
[0013] Yet another object of the invention is to integrate an accelerometer within the tracking unit, capable of detecting motion along multiple axes, thereby enhancing the device's ability to monitor asset movement accurately.
[0014] A further object of the invention is to configure the accelerometer to activate predefined actions in the GSM module upon detecting motion, providing responsive and dynamic tracking capabilities.
[0015] An additional object of the invention is to include a server configured to communicate with the GSM module, enabling the determination of the asset tracking device's location through signal strength data from multiple cell towers.
[0016] Another object of the invention is to provide a server that stores location and status data received from the asset tracking device, offering a comprehensive record of asset movements and conditions.
[0017] Yet another object of the invention is to offer a user interface on the server for monitoring and interacting with the asset tracking device, allowing users to efficiently manage and track their assets remotely.

SUMMARY
[0018] This summary is not intended to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended for use in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0019] Embodiments of the present invention provide an asset tracking device designed for tracking assets within vehicles. The device comprises a power unit that includes standard AA batteries, ensuring a readily available and cost-effective energy source. A power converter with over 95% efficiency is operably coupled to the power unit, converting the power from the AA batteries into the necessary voltage for the operation of the device's electronics, such as the tracking unit. This high efficiency in power conversion contributes to prolonged device functionality and optimal performance.
[0020] The tracking unit, operably coupled to the power unit, comprises a GSM module equipped with a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card and an accelerometer. The GSM module establishes a connection with a cellular network, enabling communication and data transfer capabilities. The accelerometer, integrated within the tracking unit, detects motion along multiple axes, facilitating real-time tracking and asset management by activating predefined actions in the GSM module upon detecting motion. This configuration allows for efficient monitoring of asset movement and orientation.
[0021] The GSM module utilizes the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol for communication, which optimizes power and time efficiency. It is configured to enter low-power sleep modes during periods of inactivity, minimizing power consumption. Additionally, the GSM module is capable of waking up from sleep mode to establish a connection to a server, send or receive data, and return to sleep mode, ensuring efficient power management and data transmission.
[0022] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the GSM module employs the MQTT protocol for communication, enhancing the efficiency of data transmission. Additionally, the GSM module is configured to enter low-power sleep modes during inactivity, further optimizing power usage. In another embodiment, the GSM module is configured to wake up from sleep mode to establish a connection to a server, send or receive data, and return to sleep mode, ensuring seamless communication and data management.
[0023] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the accelerometer is configured to detect motion along multiple axes, providing comprehensive monitoring of asset movement. Additionally, the accelerometer activates predefined actions in the GSM module upon detecting motion, facilitating real-time tracking and asset management.
[0024] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the asset tracking device further comprises a server configured to communicate with the GSM module and determine the location of the asset tracking device. The server utilizes signal strength data from multiple cell towers to estimate the location of the asset tracking device, providing accurate and reliable location tracking. Additionally, the server is configured to store location and status data received from the asset tracking device, ensuring comprehensive data management and accessibility.
[0025] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the server provides a user interface for monitoring and interacting with the asset tracking device. This user interface, which may be a web-based dashboard or a mobile app, allows users to track the location of their assets and access historical data, enhancing the usability and functionality of the asset tracking system.
[0026] The advantages offered by the first claim include a highly efficient power management system, real-time tracking capabilities, and seamless communication with a server for data management. The integration of a power converter with over 95% efficiency ensures prolonged device functionality, while the use of the MQTT protocol and low-power sleep modes optimizes power usage. The accelerometer's ability to detect motion along multiple axes and activate predefined actions in the GSM module enhances the device's tracking and management capabilities, providing a comprehensive solution for asset tracking within vehicles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0027] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer like features and components.
[0028] Figure 1, illustrates an asset tracking device 100 designed for efficient and reliable tracking of assets within consignment vehicles in accordance with the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] Some embodiments of the present disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0030] References in the specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” mean that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or function described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail. For clarity of the description, known constructions and functions will be omitted.
[0032] According to an embodiment, the present invention provides an asset tracking device. The asset tracking device comprises a power unit and tracking unit.
[0033] In an implementation according to one of the embodiments of the present invention, the power unit is a standard AA battery, which are both non-rechargeable and readily replaceable, ensuring a seamless and cost-effective energy source. Further, the device comprises a power converter with over 95% efficiency, responsible for converting the AA battery's power into the necessary voltage to operate key electronics within the device, such as the tracking unit. This exceptional power conversion efficiency ensures prolonged device functionality and optimal performance.
[0034] The tracking unit is operatably coupled to the power unit and a server configured at users’ location through a network provider or a telecom operator. The tracking unit comprises a GSM module equipped with a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card and an accelerometer. The GSM module, leveraging the SIM card, establishes a connection with the cellular network, enabling communication and data transfer capabilities.
[0035] Simultaneously, the accelerometer serves as a motion and orientation sensor, capable of detecting changes in acceleration of the asset along multiple axes (X, Y, and Z). When the accelerometer identifies motion or specific events, such as the movement of tracked assets, it activates predefined actions through the integrated GSM module, facilitating real-time tracking and asset management.
[0036] The GSM module of the tracking unit uses MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) protocol which saves the power and time required for communication. The GSM modules is configured to enter low-power "sleep" modes when the device is not actively transmitting location data or other information. Further, when a message needs to be sent or received from the GSM module, the GSM module get on "wake up" mode, establish a connection to the server, send or receives the data, and then return to sleep mode. This minimizes the power consumption during idle periods.
[0037] In another aspect, operation of asset tracking device is described in accordance with the present invention.
[0038] Specifically, the SIM card of the GSM module constantly communicate with nearby cell towers to maintain an active connection of the GSM module with server. More Specifically, when the SIM card communicates with more than one tower, and the device records the signal strength for each tower, and also records the signal strength of that connection. The closer the device is to a tower, the stronger the signal.
[0039] Further, by analyzing the signal strength and the known locations of the cell towers, it is possible to estimate the approximate location of the SIM card. This estimation is achieved by comparing the signal strengths obtained from multiple towers and performing precise calculations to determine the intersection point where these signals converge.
[0040] Further, the device is configured to ping the server after specific time intervals using configuration utility. The server communicates determine the location of the SIM card within the device when a ping is received. The server stores the location and status data received from each tracking device. This data may include the location of the SIM card as determined by the telecom operators and any other relevant information from the accelerometer or other sensors on the device. Also, server provides a user interface, such as web-based dashboard or a mobile app, for users to monitor and interact with the asset tracking devices. Users can track the location of their assets and access historical data.
[0041] This present invention is illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, throughout which reference numbers indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. These reference numbers are shown in bracket in the following description below:
• Asset tracking device 100
• Power unit 110
• AA batteries 112
• Power converter 120
• Efficiency convertor 122
• Tracking unit 130
• GSM module 140
• Server 150
• Accelerometer 160
[0042] Now Referring to Figure 1, illustrates an asset tracking device 100 designed for efficient and reliable tracking of assets within consignment vehicles in accordance with the present disclosure. The device 100 is highly portable and easily attachable to various types of assets, providing a versatile solution for tracking consignments. The invention aims to improve the accuracy and efficiency of tracking assets, particularly those containing multiple consignments, by utilizing a combination of standard components and advanced communication protocols.
[0043] The asset tracking device 100 comprises a power unit 110, a tracking unit 130, and a server 150. The power unit 110 includes standard AA batteries 112, which are non-rechargeable and readily replaceable, ensuring a seamless and cost-effective energy source. Further a power converter 120, with an efficiency of over 95%, converts the power from the AA batteries into the necessary voltage to operate the device's electronics, such as the tracking unit 130. This high efficiency ensures prolonged device functionality and optimal performance.
[0044] In one embodiment, the tracking unit 130 is operably coupled to the power unit 110 and comprises a GSM module 140 equipped with a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card and an accelerometer 160. The GSM module 140 establishes a connection with the cellular network, enabling communication and data transfer capabilities. The accelerometer 160 serves as a motion and orientation sensor, capable of detecting changes in acceleration along multiple axes (X, Y, and Z). Upon detecting motion, the accelerometer 160 activates predefined actions through the integrated GSM module 140, facilitating real-time tracking and asset management.
[0045] The GSM module 140 utilizes the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol, which optimizes power and time required for communication. It is configured to enter low-power sleep modes during periods of inactivity, minimizing power consumption. When a message needs to be sent or received, the GSM module 140 wakes up, establishes a connection to the server, transmits or receives data, and returns to sleep mode.
[0046] The server 150 is configured to communicate with the GSM module 140 and determine the location of the asset tracking device. It utilizes signal strength data from multiple cell towers to estimate the device's location. By analyzing the signal strengths and the known locations of the cell towers, the server 150 can estimate the approximate location of the SIM card. This estimation is achieved by comparing the signal strengths obtained from multiple towers and performing calculations to determine the intersection point where these signals converge.
[0047] The server 150 store’s location and status data received from the asset tracking device 100, which may include the location of the SIM card and any other relevant information from the accelerometer or other sensors. A user interface, such as a web-based dashboard or a mobile app, is provided for users to monitor and interact with the asset tracking devices. Users can track the location of their assets and access historical data.
[0048] In another embodiment, the asset tracking device 100 is configured to ping the server 150 at specific time intervals using a configuration utility. This ensures that the server 150 can determine the location of the SIM card within the device when a ping is received. The server's 150 ability to store and analyze data enhances the tracking accuracy and provides users with valuable insights into their assets' movements.
[0049] In another exemplary embodiment, the asset tracking device 100 may include a power unit 110, a power converter 120 operably coupled to the power unit 110, a tracking unit 130 operably coupled to the power unit 110, a GSM module 140 equipped with a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card for establishing a connection with a cellular network, and an accelerometer 160 integrated within the tracking unit 130 for detecting motion along multiple axes. The asset tracking device 100 may also include a server 150 configured to communicate with the GSM module 140, the server 150 determining the location of the asset tracking device 100 through signal strength data from multiple cell towers.
[0050] The power unit 110 may include standard AA batteries 112. The power converter 120 may include an efficiency convertor 122 to achieve over 95%to convert power from the AA batteries 112 into a necessary voltage for device operation. The GSM module 140 may employ the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT)protocol for communication, enters low-power sleep modes during inactivity, and wakes up to establish a connection to the server 150 for data transmission.
[0051] the accelerometer activates may be predefined actions in the GSM module 140 upon detecting motion, facilitating real-time tracking and asset management. The GSM module 140 may be configured to wake up from sleep mode to establish a connection to the server 150, send or receive data, and return to sleep mode.
[0052] The server 150 may be further configured to store location and status data received from the asset tracking device 100. The user interface may be a web-based dashboard or a mobile app. The accelerometer 160 may be configured to detect changes in acceleration along the X, Y, and Z axes.
[0053] In some embodiments, the power unit 110 may be configured to be easily replaceable. The server 150 may estimate the approximate location of the SIM card by comparing signal strengths obtained from multiple cell towers and performing calculations to determine the intersection point where these signals may converge. A method for tracking assets within vehicle consignments.
[0054] In some embodiments, the asset tracking device may be configured to establish a connection between the GSM module 140 and a cellular network using the SIM card. Detecting motion along multiple axes using the accelerometer 160. Activating predefined actions in the GSM module 140 upon detecting motion. Employing the MQTT protocol for communication between the GSM module 140 and the server 150. Entering low-power sleep modes during periods of inactivity and waking up the GSM module 140 to establish a connection to the server 150 for data transmission. Determining the location of the asset tracking device through signal strength data from multiple cell towers. Storing location and status data on the server 150 and providing a user interface for monitoring and interacting with the asset tracking device.
[0055] Advantages of the invention:
1. The device is powered by readily available AA batteries, which can be purchased at any roadside store, ensuring convenient and cost-effective power source replenishment.
2. The device exhibits exceptional efficiency, enabling the continuous tracking of consignments for an entire month, ensuring extended operational capabilities.
3. There is no requirement for a specialized location or specific placement to facilitate tracking, offering flexibility in the tracking process.
4. With a small and compact form factor, this device can be easily attached to individual consignments, parcels, or objects to be tracked, providing a versatile and unobtrusive tracking solution.
[0056] The foregoing objects of the invention are accomplished and the problems and shortcomings associated with prior art techniques and approaches are overcome by the present invention described in the present embodiment. Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiment are provided herein; however, it is to be understood that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure, or matter. The embodiments of the invention as described above and the methods disclosed herein will suggest further modification and alterations to those skilled in the art. Such further modifications and alterations may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. ,CLAIMS:I/We claim:

1. An asset tracking device 100 for vehicle consignments, comprising:
a power unit 110 including standard AA batteries 112;
a power converter 120 operably coupled to the power unit 110, the power converter 120 having an efficiency convertor 122 enabling over 95% to convert power from the AA batteries 112 into a necessary voltage for device operation;
a tracking unit 130 operably coupled to the power unit 110, the tracking unit 130 comprising:
a GSM module 140 equipped with a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card for establishing a connection with a cellular network;
an accelerometer 160 integrated within the tracking unit 130 for detecting motion along multiple axes; and
a server 150 configured to communicate with the GSM module 140, the server 150 determining the location of the asset tracking device through signal strength data from multiple cell towers;
wherein the GSM module 140 employs the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol for communication, enters low-power sleep modes during inactivity, and wakes up to establish a connection to the server for data transmission;
wherein the accelerometer 160 activates predefined actions in the GSM module 140 upon detecting motion, facilitating real-time tracking and asset management.

2. The asset tracking device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the GSM module 140 is configured to wake up from sleep mode to establish a connection to the server 150, send or receive data, and return to sleep mode.
3. The asset tracking device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the server 150 is further configured to store location and status data received from the asset tracking device.
4. The asset tracking device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the user interface is a web-based dashboard or a mobile app.
5. The asset tracking device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the accelerometer 160 is configured to detect changes in acceleration along the X, Y, and Z axes.
6. The asset tracking device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the power unit 110 is configured to be easily replaceable.
7. The asset tracking device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the server 150 estimates the approximate location of the SIM card by comparing signal strengths obtained from multiple cell towers and performing calculations to determine the intersection point where these signals converge.
8. A method for tracking assets within vehicle consignments, comprising:
establishing a connection between the GSM module and a cellular network using the SIM card;
detecting motion along multiple axes using the accelerometer;
activating predefined actions in the GSM module upon detecting motion;
employing the MQTT protocol for communication between the GSM module and the server;
entering low-power sleep modes during periods of inactivity and waking up the GSM module to establish a connection to the server for data transmission;
determining the location of the asset tracking device through signal strength data from multiple cell towers; and
storing location and status data on the server and providing a user interface for monitoring and interacting with the asset tracking device.
Dated this on 17th Day of December, 2024

Prafulla Wange

(Agent for the applicant)
(IN/PA-2058)