Ossia, a specialist in wireless power, has announced a collaboration with Sensata-Xirgo Technologies to create the Cota-powered Trailer Tracking Yard Management Solution. The solution aims to solve the problem of misplaced trailers and containers at large distribution centers that serve major retailers and logistics company hubs.
Xirgo’s Cota-powered asset trackers contain a GPS tracker that charges wirelessly inside a Xirgo Cota wireless charging enclosure. The tracker’s magnetic legs hold it in place for easy deployment on incoming trailers, and trackers from outgoing trailers are placed back in the charging station for recharging. Depending on the variant of GPS tracker selected, the battery can last for several weeks while stationary in the yard. Each tracker is equipped with an accelerometer to ‘wake’ the unit on motion. For trailers that are continually moving, the trackers can be set to ping up to every 30 minutes for ‘real-time’ accuracy.
In a pilot program at a busy distribution center, Xirgo’s Cota-powered asset trackers and charging stations demonstrated the potential to save at least 1,400 hours per year in labor costs by accurately locating trailers without the need for human intervention. Additionally, depending on the size of the distribution center, the solution can save on costs by ensuring incoming trailers receive the correct trailer location at entry and eliminating the need to re-park and unhitch trailers that were connected in error.
“We’re excited to work with an innovator like Xirgo to bring Cota Real Wireless Power to market in this excellent use case, which is also a great proof point for other wirelessly powered asset tracking applications,” said Doug Stovall, CEO of Ossia. “Retailers and logistics operations can potentially save millions per year while keeping workers safer and more productive. That demonstrates the value of wireless power.”
“Ossia’s Cota technology is FCC approved for commercial use and is the best-in-class wireless power solution, so we are pleased to partner with the company to deliver the Cota-enabled asset tracker and charging station solution to the logistics sector,” said Shawn Aleman, Vice President and General Manager at Sensata-Xirgo. “This solution will transform distribution center asset tracking.”
About Ossia
Ossia Inc. is leading the world on what is possible with wireless power. Ossia’s flagship Cota technology redefines wireless power by safely delivering remote, targeted energy to devices at a distance. Ossia’s Cota technology is a patented smart antenna technology that automatically keeps multiple devices charged without any user intervention and enables an efficient and truly wire-free, powered-up world that is always on and always connected. Ossia is headquartered in Bellevue, Washington.
About Sensata-Xirgo
Sensata-Xirgo Technologies is a leading provider of innovative, full-featured, application-specific wireless IoT communication devices. An expansive product line facilitates best-in-class solutions for numerous markets and verticals. With comprehensive in-house engineering capabilities in all key development disciplines, Sensata-Xirgo consistently delivers compelling solutions to companies in search of ways to become more competitive, improve operational efficiencies, and unlock new revenue streams. In conjunction with our partners, Sensata-Xirgo has provided world-class solutions in the realm of telematics, fleet management, heavy equipment, asset tracking, usage-based driving, high-risk vehicle finance, cold chain, and rental applications.