This invention relates generally to methods and apparatus for managing a transportation system, and more specifically to methods and apparatus for generating and exchanging data to manage the transportation system.

Abstract: Systems, devices, methods, and programs disclosed herein provide a solution for monitoring and tracking assets by utilizing wireless communications. A representative system for monitoring assets includes a remote monitoring station (RMS) and a network of identification (ID) tags. Each ID tag is coupled to an asset and is configured to wirelessly communicate with other ID tags in the network within a predetermined proximity. Each tag is also configured to relay communications from other ID tags so that a communication path is established between the RMS and any ID tag in the network, either directly or via other ID tags.

Abstract: A method of forming an ad hoc hierarchical communication network involves associating a plurality of wireless transceivers with articles, ... A network organization routine of the wireless transceivers operates to establish the hierarchical network based on the transceivers' class designations, resulting in a logical network organization that provides efficiencies for asset tracking. ...The wireless transceivers may include a query handling routine in communication with a memory of the transceiver for serving as a dynamic distributed hierarchical database system.