Overview
ISO 10368:2006 - Freight thermal containers: Remote condition monitoring defines the information, interfaces and message formats that allow central monitoring and control systems (CMCS) from one carrier or terminal to interoperate with remote communications devices (RCDs) fitted to refrigerated/thermal containers. The standard covers message protocols, data‑logging formats and physical-layer requirements for both low data rate (LRCD) and high data rate (HRCD) power‑line communication over refrigeration machinery power distribution systems. Its protocols are intended to be forward‑compatible with current and future ISO‑compatible transmission techniques.
Key topics and technical requirements
- System architecture and components
- Definitions and roles for MMU (Master Monitoring Unit), MDCU (Multiple Data Rate Central Control Unit), HDCU/LDCU, and RCD (sRCD/iRCD).
- Typical configuration limits (one MMU + one MDCU per system).
- Message protocols & performance
- Standardized enquiries, commands and acknowledgement / “Not able” replies required from all RCDs.
- Mandatory enquiries include identification number (ISO container format: 4‑letter prefix + 7‑digit suffix), porthole container/number changes, return and supply air temperatures (expressed in °C to one decimal e.g. −30.0 to +38.0), and RCD manufacturer/type (ISO‑registered ID).
- Data‑rate classifications
- Examples: LRCD (e.g., ~1 200 baud) and HRCD (e.g., ~19 200 baud). Both must coexist on the same power‑line network without mutual interference.
- Physical and compatibility requirements
- Physical-layer parameters (frequency, modulation, baud, synchronization, power density and filtering) for low and high data‑rate links are specified to ensure interoperability across vendors.
- Patent and implementation notes
- The standard notes possible patent claims for low/high data rate systems and identifies contacts (e.g., Thermo King, Adaptive Networks) for licensing information.
Applications and who uses it
- Cold‑chain logistics operators, refrigerated container manufacturers and lease companies implement ISO 10368 to enable vendor‑neutral remote condition monitoring, alarm reporting and remote control.
- Port terminals and carriers use it to integrate container refrigeration telemetry with terminal management and central monitoring systems.
- System integrators and IoT suppliers adopt the protocol for telemetry gateways that bridge power‑line RCDs to cloud and on‑premise CMCS platforms.
- Benefits include standardized data‑logging, improved interoperability, consistent temperature monitoring, reduced cargo loss risk and simplified multi‑vendor fleet management.
Related standards
- ISO 1496‑2:1996 - series 1 freight containers: thermal container specifications
- ISO 9711‑2 - container information telex data transmission
Keywords: ISO 10368:2006, freight thermal containers, remote condition monitoring, RCD, MMU, MDCU, HRCD, LRCD, powerline communication, data‑logging formats, message protocols.