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Visibility and remote connectivity can enhance cargo security. Effective secu- rity devices and visibility are comple- mentary technologies: security devices are more valuable when device condi- tion data combines with real-time loca-tion and mobile communications; andvisibility networks produce higher returns on investment (ROI) when they enable security benefits as well as cargo management efficiencies. PHYSICAL SECURITYToday users may choose among many cargo security devices, but all involve some trade-offs between capability and cost. Classic metal strap seals can atbest indicate a tamper event. Higher strength barrier seals?cables andbolts?add some protection againstentry, as do keeper bars and strong shielded locks. Like your house locks, none of those devices would stand up to a motivated professional thief with time and resources. In addition, no stand-alone device can warn users about a tamper attempt or break-in until a per-son notices the device is damaged or missing. Electronic seals (e-seals) andother RFID-equipped devices can com- municate after-the-fact when they pass within range of a reader. Only devices with mobile communications capabili-ties can offer in-the-moment reports of tampering or forced entry. An emerging class of container security couples theapproaches of barriers and tracking bycombining a global visibility systemwith a locking mechanism of sufficient resilience to slow an attack and enable coordinated responses. One of these solutions is theGeoLok?, developed by the TrakLok Corporation. The GeoLok? provides for hardened physical security, retain- ing both doors. Tampering with the cargo will initiate an alert from the GeoLok while it deters and delays any intrusion attempt reporting status infor-mation and alerts to the TrakLok web portal. TrakLog can uniquely fuse information from specific assets with transportation routes, political bound-aries, topography, traffic, threat, and advisory warnings, etc. which allows for route optimization, predictive deliv- ery, predictive maintenance, and other advanced logistics applications. USING GEOGRAPHY AND TIME TO ADD SECURITY Successful security programs containmultiple layers. Since supply chains aredistributed across space and time, secu-rity devices with robust electronics and communications use space and time toadd additional security layers.Geofences are virtual fences of lati-tudes, longitudes and vectors in a com- puter mapping data base; carriers andshippers use geofences and real-timeposition reports to identify cargos that are out of route, that have arrived at des- tination or a secure storage area. Inaddition, mobile/global communica-tions and routing algorithms can identi-fy late shipments. The best products combine these attributes to limit door opening to specific locations and times. When well-implemented, only the rightperson, at the right place, at the righttime can access cargo?all while visi- bility technologies provide real-time alerts and alarms to those who need toknow. Encompassing the above features, the GeoLok, in addition to providing tough physical security and superior visibility, is also a time and location lock. This ensures the chain-of-custody remainssecure, from origin of the shipment toits end destination. By providing a time-definite and controlled chain-of- custody, TrakLok?s technologies help adopters improve product integrity, ensure product authenticity, and protect their client?s brand name. THE VALUE OF CARGO SECURITY TECHNOLOGYShippers, carriers and other business- es buy security equipment and servicesin order to improve security. Absent regulatory mandates or business requirements from major customers orinsurers, security systems are imple-mented or not in response to traditionalbusiness considerations: Will an invest- ment provide a return on investment (ROI) sufficient to justify committing capital and/or support corporate goalssuch as brand differentiation or limiting liability? ROI is the most critical metric for commercial adoption of new securi- ty technologies. Therefore, the combi- nation of security and visibility is a nat-ural evolutionary path for the trans- portation industry to stop losses,improve operational processes, provide insurance incentives, and customer service driving ROI. The combination of security and visibility provides a compelling value proposition. Those tools are the new class of strong con- tainer locking devices equipped with robust communications and sensor capabilities. Now older and wiser, you understand why mom was so adamant about keeping that door closed. Just like the shipping industry, she was con- cerned with intruders and costs. When it comes to cargo security, the benefits of keeping the door closed are clearer still. www.traklok.com www.maritimeprofessional.com Maritime Professional 47 The AuthorsEric L. Dobsonhas 20 years of busi-ness and technical with GeographicInformation Systems (GIS) and wire- less technologies in government,telecommunications, RFID, and assettracking industries. Dr. Dobson is TrakLok Corporation?s Chief Executive Officer. Michael Wolfe is the Principal of theNorth River Consulting Group. He is a leading expert on the interplay between intermodal freight system operations, tracking technologies,supply chain productivity, security and business economics. His clientsinclude technology developers, usersand investors plus public and interna-tional agencies, non-profit organiza- tions and standards bodies. MP #3 (34-49):MP Layouts 8/17/2011 4:31 PM Page 47