Asset tracking with parent/child networking
A multi-technology, collaborative approach to track reusable assets in the supply chain.
Parent/child networking is a collaborative mesh system that allows ultra-low-cost Bluetooth tags to perform like full GPS trackers. Unlike conventional Bluetooth solutions, it requires no fixed infrastructure, making it the most cost-effective way to deploy active tracking on pallets, crates, totes and roll cages.
The system uses two types of tracker: parent and child. Parent trackers transmit data directly to the Sensize platform using the LTE cellular network. Child trackers send their data to nearby parent trackers, which relay it to the platform. In effect, parent trackers act as wireless hotspots for the children, providing a gateway for their data.
The benefits of parent/child networking
Parent/child networking offers three important advantages over conventional tracking technologies:
It is much cheaper to deploy than traditional tracking systems.
It does not require permanently installed infrastructure.
It enables different supply chain users to collaborate, maximizing coverage and further reducing costs for everyone.
How parent/child asset tracking reduces cost
In a conventional GPS tracking system, every tracker needs its own cellular radio. Cellular modules, SIM cards and the larger batteries they require are expensive. Operator data fees add further cost. Together, these make traditional GPS trackers prohibitively expensive for large fleets of reusable containers.
In a parent/child deployment, more than 90% of assets carry child trackers. These use Bluetooth technology and contain no cellular radio, making them less than one-tenth the cost of a conventional GPS tracker
Sensize parent trackers do include LTE cellular radios, but only a small proportion of assets, typically under 10%, need to be equipped with them.
This architecture is what makes parent/child networking so cost-effective, and ideally suited for tracking low-cost reusable assets such as crates, pallets and roll cages.
Zero infrastructure
If tag cost were the only factor, RFID stickers would win every time. RFID is a useful technology, but it cannot deliver true “GPS-like” tracking. An RFID tag is only detected when it passes within a meter or two (3-6 ft) of a reader capable of energizing and scanning it. Even the most powerful RFID readers typically have a range of only a couple of meters. By contrast, a Sensize child tracker transmits reliably over 50–100 meters, providing far broader and more continuous visibility.
While it is sometimes possible to install RFID infrastructure at a few key sites, there is no practical way to deploy it everywhere. A typical retail supply chain includes thousands of locations, often operated by different companies. The cost of visiting all these sites to install, integrate, and maintain readers is prohibitive, which limits RFID’s usefulness as a wide-area tracking technology.
The same limitations apply to batteryless Bluetooth tag systems. The cost of purchasing, deploying, and maintaining the required reader infrastructure destroys the business case.
Parent/child networking removes this barrier entirely. Sensize trackers do not require expensive reading gates, permissions from third-party IT departments, site visits for maintenance, or any of the costs and complexities associated with fixed infrastructure. The parent trackers, mounted directly on the assets, do all the work.
Collaborative networking
In a Sensize parent/child network, every parent tracker can collect data from every child tracker, regardless of who deployed it. The collected data is then routed securely to the owner of the asset.
A typical retail store, distribution center or factory contains thousands of reusable assets owned by multiple companies. Some will already have Sensize trackers; others will add them over time. Parent trackers from all deployments work together, creating shared visibility across every corner of the supply chain.
No single company needs to carry the full burden of coverage. The result is lower deployment costs and faster, more accurate tracking data for everyone.
Reliable asset tracking for logistics operations
Quality is key to getting the very best out of your trackers. That’s why we test our trackers for a range of environments and risk factors including low and high temperatures, water resistance and proofing, battery life and more.
These tests ensure that our clients are getting the very best in tracking technology.
Whether you take one of our off-the-shelf solutions or we work with you to create a completely bespoke tracker, we take the time to understand your needs and recommend the most cost-effective solution for you.
Our trackers
TR1.5 Low Profile Connected Data Logger
The TR1.5 is a robust, long-lasting data logger with cellular connectivity. Designed for supply chain environments, it captures precise location data, movement/shocks, in-store customer activity (eg. footfall), and temperature.
Additionally, it functions as a mobile access point for Sensize BLE based Dot trackers, with a single TR1.5 capable of uploading data from thousands of Dots.
When integrated with the Sensize network backend, it enables efficient, long-term monitoring of a wide range of assets.
Physical Characteristics
- Dimensions: 150 mm x 85 mm x 45 mm
- Rating: IP65 Waterproof
- Fixing: Supplied fitted with 3M self-adhesive mounting tape suitable for most surfaces. Can also be fixed with screws
Key Features
- Connectivity: LTE & 2G for the best possible worldwide coverage. 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi supported to enable connection to local network if this is available
- Bluetooth: High sensitivity Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio with a range of 50 m to 100 m
- Location Engine: Hybrid technology location engine that fuses inputs from sensors and multiple radios to provide accurate location, even in challenging environments
- Sensors: Accelerometer and Temperature sensor. Additional sensors (light, humidity etc.) can be connected using BLE
- Local storage: Onboard flash memory capable of storing at least one year’s worth of data in case of network interruptions
Battery
- Chemistry: Replaceable Lithium Thionyl Chloride Battery Pack
- Battery life: up to 8 years (depending on configuration)
AP1.3 Access Point
The AP1.3 is a versatile Access Point (AP) designed to collect data from Sensize Dots and other Bluetooth trackers. Ideal for use in vehicles, warehouses, and retail locations, it offers a truly ‘Stick and Go’ solution.
Equipped with its own power source, location technology, and cellular network connection, the AP automatically self-locates when installed and begins collecting data. It seamlessly tracks pallets, RPCs, cages, totes, and FLCs fitted with low-cost Sensize Dot (BLE) trackers.
With its extra-large battery, the AP delivers effortless installation, maintenance-free operation and a long service life for reliable data collection.
Physical Characteristics
- Dimensions: 150 mm x 85 mm x 45 mm
- Rating: IP65 Waterproof
- Fixing: Supplied fitted with 3M self-adhesive mounting tape suitable for most surfaces. Can also be fixed with screws
Key Features
- Connectivity: LTE & 2G for the best possible worldwide coverage. 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi supported to enable connection to local network if this is available
- Bluetooth: High sensitivity Bluetooth Low Energy radio with a range of 50 m to 100 m
- Location Engine: Hybrid technology location engine that fuses inputs from sensors and multiple radios to provide accurate location, even in challenging environments
- Sensors: Accelerometer and Temperature sensor. Additional sensors (light, humidity etc.) can be connected using Bluetooth
- Local storage: Onboard flash memory capable of storing at least one year’s worth of data in case of network interruptions
Battery
- Chemistry: Replaceable Lithium Thionyl Chloride Battery Pack
- Battery life: 5 years (depending on configuration)
DT1.5 Dot Child Tracker
Sensize DTv1.5 is a long battery life, low-cost tracker with Bluetooth technology.
Its low-profile enclosure makes it easy to attach to pallets, roll cages, totes, and nestable or foldable plastic crates.
DTv1.5 is part of Sensize’s Parent/Child tracking architecture and – when used in a system with Sensize Access Points, Cellular Trackers, Scanners and Gateways – offers a low-cost, highly effective way to track and monitor assets such as pallets, roll cages and reusable plastic crates.
Physical Characteristics
- Product Varient: DT1.5 Child Tracker
- Weight: 19 g
- Dimensions: 103 mm x 25 mm x 8 mm
- IP Rating: IP67 Dust ingress/Waterproof
- Material: Polycarbonate Plastic
- Temperature rating: Continuous operation at -30°C to 60°C. Extended periods at temperature extremes may affect the battery life. Short periods at higher/lower temperatures are acceptable
- FIxing: Double-sided adhesive mounting tape. Fixing holes separated by 100 mm suitable for M5 screws or plastic/metal rivets
Key Features
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth Smart v4
- Wireless range: 50 m to 100 m
- Sensors: Temperature sensor
Battery
- Battery life: 5 years
- Battery Chemistry: CR (LiMnO2)
Real-time tracking
Getting real oversight of your operations means seeing all of your assets in real-time. Our trackers let you know their precise location wherever they are in the world.
10-year battery life
We know asset downtime can slow operations way down. That’s why are trackers don’t need charging and have batteries that last up to 10 years.
Weather and temperature resistant
Assets can spend weeks in cold storage, or travel in the warmest weather conditions – we make sure tracking never gets interrupted.
Pressure and drop resistant
Accidents happen on any supply chain – whether assets are getting run over with a forklift or dropped, we make sure our trackers stay functional.
The Sensize Portal
Everything comes together in the Sensize Portal. This online platform can be accessed from any device connected to the internet.
It gives you full visibility of your supply chain, so you can monitor tracked assets for location and temperature, as well as leaks, dwell time and more.
This will help you understand your supply chain better. Know exactly how your containers, assets and goods move. Generate valuable insights for cost saving, faster cycles and new revenue streams.
Get in touch
Is your business looking to streamline its logistics to reduce unnecessary cost? Or are you looking to reach new sustainability targets?
Here at Sensize, we support a range of organizations who have all found our tracking system invaluable to their operations.
Complete the form and one of our team will get in touch to see how we can support you.