Project Description

Client Overview

iTrace is a technology-driven company specializing in real-time temperature tracking solutions for perishable goods. Their clients include logistics providers, food distributors, and supply chain managers who require precise monitoring of temperature-sensitive shipments during transit.

Problem Statement

Managing temperature-sensitive shipments posed a significant challenge for logistics companies. Traditional monitoring methods lacked real-time tracking capabilities, making it difficult to detect temperature breaches promptly. Clients needed a robust, automated solution providing continuous monitoring, real-time alerts, and easy access to shipment data via a web-based interface.

Proposed Solution

iTrace Tracking Application was developed to provide end-to-end monitoring of perishable food shipments. The system integrates with the iTrace temperature tracker, leveraging cellular network connectivity to transmit real-time data. The solution includes a web-based platform for shipment tracking, alert notifications, and comprehensive reporting.

Implementation

  • Server-Side Development: A Java-based backend with MySQL was implemented to handle shipment data, device communication, and alert processing.

  • Device Communication: A Device Communication Server (DCS) was built to facilitate data exchange between temperature trackers and the server.

  • Web-Based Application: A responsive web application was developed with a RESTful API, enabling users to create shipments, monitor temperature fluctuations, and manage system configurations.

  • Alert Mechanism: Automated alerts were set up to notify stakeholders via email, SMS, and in-app notifications when temperature deviations were detected.

Key Features & Innovations

  • New Shipment Management: Users can launch shipments through the web app using pre-defined templates for efficiency.

  • Real-Time Shipment Tracking: Shipments are continuously monitored, with live updates on temperature status and location.

  • Interactive Visualization: A detailed shipment dashboard features a temperature history chart synchronized with a GPS map for precise tracking.

  • Advanced Search & Filtering: Users can search for shipments based on multiple criteria such as alerts, shipment dates, locations, and devices.

  • Comprehensive Reporting: Performance reports provide insights into historical shipment data, helping businesses optimize logistics operations.

  • User & Device Management: Admins can manage user preferences, access control, and device settings efficiently.

  • Help & Training Support: Integrated help screens and training videos guide users through key functionalities.

Results & Impact

  • Enhanced Visibility: Real-time monitoring significantly improved visibility into shipment conditions, reducing the risk of spoilage.

  • Proactive Issue Resolution: Automated alerts allowed stakeholders to take immediate corrective actions, minimizing losses.

  • Operational Efficiency: Streamlined shipment management and reporting reduced manual tracking efforts, improving overall efficiency.

  • Improved Compliance: The solution helped businesses adhere to stringent food safety and transportation regulations.

  • Skills Used

      Languages
    • C#

    • Build, Deployment, Source Control & Project Mgmt Tools
    • Git

    • Back End
    • Java