DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present invention relates to the performance assessment of heavy equipment and more particularly, the present invention relates to a system for performance measurement of a transit mixer and a method thereof using IoT devices.

BACKGROUND
[002] Heavy vehicles are used primarily for lifting and transporting heavy loads. Transit mixers, typically transport concrete mortar from a concrete batching plant to the construction site location, and after discharging concrete, they travel back to the batching plant for refiling. This travel constitutes a round trip. Because of their constructional features and large inertia, continuous monitoring of the mixer parameters becomes of utmost importance. Even a randomly occurring trivial problem may lead to a complete stoppage of the mixer causing financial loss. Moreover, in-transit unauthorized draining of concrete needs to be monitored. The quantity of concrete delivered by a particular mixer in a particular period also needs to be tracked and logged. A data log comprising entries such as fuel consumption and distance travelled by a particular mixer for a trip facilitates providing an estimate of the operating cost of the mixer.
[003] Accordingly, there exists a need for a system and a method that can measure performance parameters in heavy vehicles; especially transit mixers. Moreover, there is a requirement for a system and a method to continuously monitor vital mixer parameters while in transit with reference to the location, helping to create a preventive maintenance schedule for the mixer as well as provide data related to fuel efficiency.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[004] An object of the present invention is to provide a system for performance measurement of a transit mixer using IoT devices.
[005] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system that measures various transit mixer-related parameters by deploying multiple transducers at one or more locations on the transit mixer.
[006] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a method for performance measurement of a transit mixer using IoT devices.
[007] The object of the invention is to provide an integrated system that utilizes Internet of Things (IoT) technology combined with advanced sensors and data processing systems to monitor and analyze transit mixer performance in real-time, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and maintenance scheduling.
[008] Another object of the invention is to deploy transducers capable of measuring critical parameters such as temperature, pressure, fuel level, and mixer status, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of the transit mixer’s operational conditions.
[009] Yet another object of the invention is to incorporate a gateway with a data processing module that efficiently collects, processes, and transmits sensor data to a server, facilitating seamless data management and analysis.
[0010] A further object of the invention is to integrate GPS technology for precise geolocation tracking of the mixer’s start and endpoint, thereby improving route management and delivery accuracy.
[0011] An additional object of the invention is to utilize hour meters that measure engine runtime using RPM data, providing accurate insights into engine usage and aiding in preventive maintenance scheduling.
[0012] Another object of the invention is to establish robust communication mechanisms utilizing GSM and GNSS technologies, ensuring reliable and continuous data transmission across various operational environments.
[0013] A further object of the invention is to employ a modular design that allows for scalability and adaptability, enabling the system to accommodate various mixer configurations and additional sensors or functionalities without significant system overhauls.
[0014] Yet another object of the invention is to enhance operational transparency through the integration of GPS and geofencing capabilities, ensuring accurate monitoring of concrete delivery and preventing unauthorized draining.
[0015] Another object of the invention is to improve productivity by optimizing transit mixer operations, ensuring adherence to ideal performance ranges, and reducing downtime through real-time data-driven preventive maintenance schedules.
[0016] A final object of the invention is to track and log parameters such as fuel consumption, engine runtime, and distance travelled, aiding in cost estimation and optimization, thereby contributing to overall operational efficiency.

SUMMARY
[0017] 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.
[0018] The present invention provides a system for performance measurement of a transit mixer, which comprises, but is not limited to, a plurality of transducers (101), a gateway (102), a data processing module (105), a communication mechanism (106), and one or more-hour meters (108). The system integrates these components to enable real-time monitoring and analysis of various operational parameters of the transit mixer. The transducers (101) are strategically deployed to measure parameters such as temperature, pressure, fuel level, and mixer status, which are critical for assessing the mixer's performance. The data collected by the transducers (101) is communicated to the gateway (102) via an expansion module (103), which facilitates the transmission of data and allows for the scalability of the system. The gateway (102), equipped with a data processing module (105), processes and collates the data, ensuring that it is ready for transmission to a remote server through a communication mechanism (106) that utilizes GSM and GNSS technologies.
[0019] The integration of these components offers several advantages, including improved maintenance scheduling and operational efficiency. By providing accurate tracking of equipment usage through the hour meters (108), the system facilitates better asset management and potentially extends the service life of the transit mixer through timely service interventions. The ability to sense critical parameters ensures that the system can pre-emptively alert operators to potential issues, reducing downtime and preventing costly repairs. Additionally, by monitoring these parameters, the system can optimize the performance of the transit mixer, ensuring that it operates within ideal ranges, thus enhancing fuel efficiency and overall productivity.
[0020] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the system further comprises transducers (101) configured to sense parameters such as temperature, pressure, fuel level, and mixer status. This capability ensures that the system can provide comprehensive monitoring of the mixer's operational state, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments to maintain optimal performance.
[0021] In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the system includes transducers (101) communicating data to the gateway (102) via an expansion module (103). This modular approach allows for the integration of additional sensors without significant alterations to the existing system architecture, making the system adaptable to a wide range of sensor configurations and operational needs.
[0022] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention, the system comprises a GPS module (not shown) configured to record the start and end location of the transit mixer. This feature enables precise tracking of the mixer's route, which can be used for route optimization, leading to reduced fuel consumption and improved time management. Recording the start and end locations provides valuable data for verifying job completion, enhancing billing accuracy, and improving customer satisfaction through transparent service delivery.
[0023] In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, the system includes hour meters (108-a, 108-b) receiving RPM data from engines and calculating working hours. By receiving RPM data, the hour meters (108) can calculate working hours with high precision, which is essential for accurate job costing and equipment utilization analysis. This calculation allows for a more nuanced understanding of the mixer's operation, distinguishing between idle time and active working time, which can inform better operational decision-making and cost-saving strategies.
[0024] In accordance with an additional embodiment of the present invention, the system comprises a gateway (102) including a data processing module (105) to collate data from the transducers (101). The inclusion of a data processing module (105) within the gateway (102) enables centralized aggregation and preprocessing of data, enhancing the efficiency of data management and reducing the computational load on downstream systems. By collating data from multiple transducers (101), the system provides a comprehensive overview of the mixer's performance, facilitating more accurate and reliable monitoring and diagnostics.
[0025] In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the system comprises a communication mechanism (106) utilizing GSM and GNSS technologies. Utilizing GSM technology allows for reliable data transmission over long distances, ensuring that performance data from the transit mixer is consistently accessible, even in remote locations. The integration of GNSS technology enables precise tracking of the mixer's location, which can be used to optimize routing and scheduling, as well as to verify the completion of delivery rounds.
[0026] Embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for performance measurement of a transit mixer, which comprises capturing raw data from transducers (101), communicating the data to a gateway (102), filtering the data, and calculating mixer parameters such as fuel consumption and run hours. The method includes filtering the data to obtain time series pre-processed data, ensuring that only relevant and accurate information is used for assessing performance metrics, leading to more dependable decision-making.
[0027] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises identifying continuous data strings corresponding to starting, in-progress, and end of a round trip. This allows for detailed analysis of each segment of the journey, which can be used to enhance operational efficiency and identify potential areas for improvement. This level of granularity in data analysis can also assist in accurate billing and verification of service delivery, as well as in the assessment of driver performance and adherence to schedules.
[0028] In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the method comprises filtering, which includes arranging data by date and time and removing extraneous data entries. Arranging data by date and time facilitates chronological analysis of the mixer's operations, making it easier to track performance trends and identify patterns over time. Removing extraneous data entries ensures that the analysis is focused on relevant information, improving the accuracy of performance assessments and reducing the likelihood of erroneous conclusions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0029] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identify the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to features and components.
[0030] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system (100) for performance measurement of a transit mixer using IoT devices in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] Figure 2 represents a flow diagram of the method (200) for performance measurement of a transit mixer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0032] Figure 3 represents a flow diagram of the simple filtering method (202) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0033] [0011] Figure 4 represents a flow diagram of the trip data method (203) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] The embodiments herein provide an IoT-based system (hereinafter referred to as “system”) for performance measurement of a transit mixer and a method thereof, configured to monitor one or more parameters related to the transit mixer. The system comprises a gateway, one or more types of transducers, an expansion module, a data processing module, one or more-hour meters, and a server (hereinafter referred to as “modules of the system”).
[0035] Throughout this application, concerning all reasonable derivatives of such terms, and unless otherwise specified (and/or unless the particular context clearly dictates otherwise), each usage of:
“a” or “an” is meant to read as “at least one”,
“the” is meant to be read as “the at least one.”
[0036] 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.
[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail. For clarity of the description, known constructions and functions will be omitted.
[0038] Parts of the description may be presented in terms of operations performed by at least one processor, electrical/electronic circuit, a computer system, using terms such as data, state, link, fault, packet, and the like, consistent with the manner commonly employed by those skilled in the art to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. As is well understood by those skilled in the art, these quantities take the form of data stored/transferred in the form of non-transitory, computer-readable electrical, magnetic, or optical signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, and otherwise manipulated through mechanical and electrical components of the computer system; and the term computer system includes general purpose as well as special purpose data processing machines, switches, and the like, that are standalone, adjunct or embedded.
[0039] The present invention relates to a system and method for monitoring and analyzing the performance of a transit mixer using Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The invention integrates advanced sensors, data processing systems, and communication mechanisms to provide real-time monitoring and analysis of various operational parameters of the transit mixer. The system is designed to enhance operational efficiency, improve maintenance scheduling, and ensure transparency in concrete delivery operations.
[0040] The invention comprises a plurality of transducers configured to measure parameters such as temperature, pressure, fuel level, and mixer status. These transducers are strategically installed at critical points on the transit mixer to capture accurate data. The data collected by the transducers is transmitted to a gateway via an expansion module. The gateway, equipped with a data processing module, processes the raw data and transmits it to a remote server using a communication mechanism that utilizes GSM and GNSS technologies. The system also includes hour meters linked to the mixer's engines for calculating engine runtime, and a GPS module for geolocation tracking.
[0041] In one embodiment, the transducers are connected to the expansion module, which facilitates data transmission to the gateway. The expansion module is communicatively linked to the gateway via an RS485 converter, allowing for efficient data transfer. The transducers may be manufactured using materials that are resistant to harsh environmental conditions, ensuring durability and reliability in data collection.
[0042] The gateway comprises a data processing module implemented using a combination of hardware and software. The hardware may include one or more processors, while the software consists of processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium. The data processing module is responsible for collating and processing data from the transducers, storing the data, and communicating it to the remote server. The gateway's communication mechanism, utilizing GSM and GNSS technologies, ensures reliable data transmission over long distances and enables precise geolocation tracking.
[0043] The hour meters, which are RPM-based, are linked to the mixer's engines to receive RPM data and calculate engine runtime. These hour meters are capable of distinguishing between idle and active working times, providing valuable insights into equipment utilization and operational efficiency. The GPS module, integrated within the communication mechanism, records the start and end locations of the transit mixer, enabling route optimization and delivery verification.
[0044] In an embodiment of the present invention, the method for performance measurement of a transit mixer involves capturing raw data from the transducers, transmitting the data to the gateway, filtering the data to obtain time series pre-processed data, and calculating key mixer parameters such as fuel consumption and run hours. The filtering process includes arranging the data by date and time, removing extraneous entries, and defining minimum thresholds for parameters of interest. This ensures that only relevant and accurate information is used for performance assessment.
[0045] The system's modular design allows for scalability and adaptability to various mixer configurations. Additional sensors can be integrated into the system without significant alterations to the existing architecture, making it suitable for a wide range of operational needs. The use of an expansion module for communication between transducers and the gateway further enhances the system's scalability.
[0046] An embodiment of the present invention includes a geofencing capability integrated with the GPS module. This feature monitors the mixer's movements and prevents unauthorized activities, ensuring transparency and security in concrete delivery operations. The system's ability to sense critical parameters and provide real-time alerts enables proactive maintenance, reducing downtime and preventing costly repairs.
[0047] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system is configured to sense one or more performance parameters corresponding to the transit mixer by deploying one or more transducers.
[0048] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the transducers may work on the capacitive or resistive principle and produce analog or digital equivalent of the measured quantities in terms of current or voltage (hereinafter referred to as “data”).
[0049] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system is configured to provide an interface that connects the transducers with a processing unit.
[0050] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system is configured to incorporate one or more-hour meters to measure the run time of one or more Internal Combustion (IC) engines deployed in the transit mixer.
[0051] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system is configured to incorporate a gateway module to collate data from one or more transducers, and process and communicate the same to the server.
[0052] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system is configured to record the start and the end location of the transit mixer with a GPS module that is checked with the geofence location to form a round trip.
[0053] In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the transit mixer is fitted with a two-IC engine system. The first engine is deployed to drive a vehicle/truck and the second engine is responsible for mixing the concrete in the tank and unloading the concrete.
[0054] In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an operation of the system (100) is explained by referring to Figure 1. The system (100) comprises one or more types of transducers (101-1, 101-2, 101-n, collectively referred as “101”) configured to sense one or more types of parameters such as temperature, pressure, fuel level, and mixer status from one or more locations on the transit mixer. The transducers communicate the data to the gateway (102) via an expansion module (103). The expansion module (103) is communicatively coupled to the gateway (102) via an RS485 converter. Moreover, a first hour meter (108-a) and a second hour meter (108-b) are communicatively coupled to the gateway (102) via the RS485 converter. The hour meters may be RPM-based hour meters. The first hour meter (108-a) and the second hour meter (108-b) are configured to receive the RPM data of the first IC engine and the second IC engine and are configured to calculate the working hours for the first IC engine and the second IC engine respectively. The gateway (102) is an IoT gateway that comprises a data processing module (105) to collate data from various transducers and a communication mechanism (106). The data processing module (105) may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement one or more functionalities such as data processing/conditioning, data storage, and data communication. The programming for the data processing module (105) may be processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for the data processing module (105) may comprise a processing resource (for example, one or more processors), to execute such instructions. The communication mechanism (106) is a combination of the Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) and the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). The gateway (102) communicates the data to a server (not shown in the figure) via the communication mechanism (106).
[0055] In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the method (200) for performance measurement of a transit mixer can be explained by referring to Figure 2. The method (200) comprises steps such as capturing raw data corresponding to parameters such as temperature, pressure, fuel level, and the status and location of the vehicle by the expansion module, communicating the raw data, by the expansion module to the gateway via RS485 converter, cleaning the raw data using a simple filtering method (202) to obtain time series pre-processed data, reading the time series pre-processed data with location related parameters such as latitude and longitude, identifying the consecutive data strings corresponding to starting, in-progress and end of the round trip, calculating the distance travelled, the fuel consumption and run hours for the vehicle/truck and the mixer.
[0056] In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the simple filtering method (202) for obtaining time series pre-processed data can be explained by referring to Figure 3. The simple filtering method (202) comprises steps such as reading time series data for latitude, longitude, and fuel level, arranging raw data according to date and time, cleaning the data by removing garbage, defining a minimum threshold for the parameters of interest, and getting the time series pre-processed data.
[0057] In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the trip data method (203) for obtaining the parameters of interest for a round trip of a transit mixer can be explained by referring to Figure 4. The method (203) comprises steps such as reading time series pre-processed data, identifying continuous data strings for conditions such as starting, progress, and end of trip, and calculating fuel consumption, engine run hours, time duration for a round trip.
[0058] Referring to Figure 1 to Figure 4, relates to a system (100) and method for measuring the performance of a transit mixer, which incorporates various components and processes to enable detailed monitoring, analysis, and enhancement of the mixer's operations.
[0059] In one embodiment, the system (100) includes multiple transducers (101-1, 101-2, 101-n) configured to detect various operational parameters from different positions on the transit mixer. These parameters may encompass temperature, pressure, fuel levels, and mixer status. The collected data is transmitted to a gateway (102) via an expansion module (103). The expansion module (103) communicates with the gateway (102) through a specific converter, ensuring efficient data transfer between the transducers (101) and the gateway (102).
[0060] The gateway (102) functions as an Internet of Things (IoT) device and consists of a data processing module (105) and a communication system (106). The data processing module (105) combines hardware and software, utilizing programmable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable medium. It may include various processing resources (such as processors) that execute functions like data processing, storage, and communication. This module processes the raw data received from the transducers (101), organizes it, and applies a basic filtering method (202) to produce time-series pre-processed data by sorting the data according to date and time, eliminating extraneous entries, and establishing thresholds for significant parameters.
[0061] The integrated communication system (106) employs Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technologies, ensuring reliable long-distance data transmission and enabling consistent access to performance data in remote regions. The GNSS technology provides accurate location tracking of the transit mixer, which can be utilized for optimizing routes, scheduling, and confirming the completion of delivery tasks.
[0062] Additionally, the system (100) incorporates one or more-hour meters (108-a, 108-b) connected to the gateway (102), designed to receive RPM data from the transit mixer's engines. These RPM-based hour meters (108-a, 108-b) accurately calculate the engines' operational hours, distinguishing between idle and active periods, which aids in precise job costing and equipment utilization analysis—offering valuable insights for asset management and operational strategies.
[0063] A GPS module within the system (100) captures the starting and ending locations of the transit mixer, enabling accurate tracking of its routes and contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency and time management through route optimization. Moreover, this location data is essential for verifying job completion, enhancing billing precision, and improving customer satisfaction through transparent service delivery.
[0064] In the method (200) for performance measurement, raw data regarding parameters such as temperature, pressure, fuel levels, vehicle status, and location is collected by the transducers (101) and forwarded to the gateway (102) via the expansion module (103). The raw data undergoes processing using a filtering method (202) to refine and organize it, producing time-series pre-processed data.
[0065] The system (100) also incorporates a trip data analysis method (203) to assess the transit mixer's operations throughout a round trip. This method (203) includes reading the time-series pre-processed data, recognizing continuous data strings associated with different trip phases—such as start, in-progress, and end—and calculating key parameters like fuel consumption, engine run hours, and total trip duration.
[0066] By utilizing these methods, the system (100) enables real-time monitoring and analysis of various operational parameters, driving improvements in maintenance scheduling, operational efficiency, and decision-making. The system's modular design allows for scalability, as additional sensors can be easily integrated via the expansion module (103) without significant alterations to the existing architecture.
[0067] The combination of GSM and GNSS technologies guarantees continuous communication and precise tracking, even in difficult environments. Furthermore, the ability to monitor and analyze critical parameters such as temperature, pressure, fuel levels, and mixer status allows the system (100) to proactively alert operators to potential issues, minimizing downtime and preventing costly repairs.
[0068] Through the collection and processing of pertinent data, the system (100) optimizes the performance of the transit mixer, ensuring it operates within optimal ranges.
[0069] Advantages of the invention:
• The system captures transit mixer data from the transducers located in multiple locations on the vehicle and mixer and communicates the same to the server via a gateway.
• The system measures the data related to the run hours, speed, distance traveled, and fuel consumption along with other parameters to assess the performance of the vehicle and mixer for a round trip.
[0070] The foregoing objects of the disclosure are accomplished and the problems and shortcomings associated with prior art techniques and approaches are overcome by the present disclosure described in the present embodiment. Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiment are provided herein; however, it is to be understood that the present disclosure 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 disclosure in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure, or matter. The embodiments of the disclosure 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 disclosure.
,CLAIMS:I/We claim:

1. A system for monitoring transit mixer performance, comprising:
a plurality of transducers (101-1, 101-2, 101-n) configured to sense parameters including temperature, pressure, fuel level, and mixer status from various locations on the transit mixer;
an expansion module (103) communicatively linked to the plurality of transducers (101-1, 101-2, 101-n) for facilitating data transmission;
a gateway (102) connected to the expansion module (103) via an RS485 converter, the gateway (102) comprising:
a data processing module (105) implemented using hardware and software for collating and processing data from the transducers (101-1, 101-2, 101-n);
a communication mechanism (106) utilizing GSM and GNSS technologies for transmitting processed data to a remote server;
an hour meters (108-a, 108-b) linked to the mixer's engines for receiving RPM data and calculating engine runtime; and
a GPS module integrated within the communication mechanism (106) for recording start and end locations of the transit mixer;
wherein the system is configured to provide real-time monitoring and analysis of the transit mixer's operational parameters.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the data processing module (105) is further configured to store and communicate data using a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hour meters (108-a, 108-b) are configured to distinguish between idle and active working times of the mixer's engines.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a geofencing capability integrated with the GPS module for monitoring the mixer's movements and preventing unauthorized activities.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the expansion module (103) is configured to allow integration of additional sensors for measuring further parameters without significant system alterations.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the communication mechanism (106) is configured to ensure continuous data transmission across various operational environments.
7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the GPS module is configured to optimize route management by providing precise geolocation tracking for route verification and delivery accuracy.
8. A method for monitoring transit mixer performance, comprising:
capturing raw data from a plurality of transducers (101-1, 101-2, 101-n) configured to sense parameters including temperature, pressure, fuel level, and mixer status;
transmitting the captured data to a gateway (102) via an expansion module (103) and an RS485 converter;
processing the data using a data processing module (105) within the gateway (102);
transmitting the processed data to a remote server using a communication mechanism (106) that utilizes GSM and GNSS technologies;
recording start and end locations of the transit mixer using a GPS module integrated within the communication mechanism (106); and
calculating engine runtime using hour meters (108-a, 108-b) linked to the mixer's engines;
wherein the method includes filtering the data to obtain time series preprocessed data for calculating key mixer parameters such as fuel consumption and run hours.
9. The method as claimed in claim 8, further comprising arranging the data by date and time, removing extraneous entries, and defining minimum thresholds for parameters of interest during the filtering process.
10. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the GPS module is further configured to provide geolocation data for route optimization and time management.
Dated this on 29th Day of January, 2025

Prafulla Wange
Agent for Applicant
IN/PA-2058