Intelligent Containers Based on a Low-Power Sensor Network and a Non-Invasive Acquisition System for Management and Tracking of Goods

This paper presents a prototype of a system for intermodal freight transport with electronics management of goods. The system is based on low-power wireless networks connecting intelligent containers. The proposed intelligent container can be configured with different types of sensors inside. With the objective to preserve the sealing of the container, the data collected inside the container are transmitted through a metal communication channel based on ultrasonic techniques. Outside the container, the implemented system is composed by a long range and low-power scalable wireless network. Finally, a management subsystem has been designed for tracking, monitoring, and alarm reporting.