U.S. patent application number 11/180796 was filed with the patent office on 2005-11-03 for closed loop asset management process.
This patent application is currently assigned to Barca, L.L.C., a Texas corporation. Invention is credited to Vernon, William Earl.
Application Number | 20050246342 11/180796 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 21841316 |
Filed Date | 2005-11-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050246342 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vernon, William Earl |
November 3, 2005 |
Closed loop asset management process
Abstract
A method and system for managing assets used in business is
disclosed. A central computer database has records of tracked items
identified by a unique identifying code. A communications link is
provided between a scanner and the central computer database at
each point in a cycle of change in status of the item. The code is
scanned or otherwise given to the database when the item status is
changed and the information scanned is transmitted to the central
computer database. This arrangement provides users real-time
sharing of relevant information such as order status, stocking
location, notifications, or any other special instructions. The
unique identifier number is physically placed on the item wherever
possible. The unique identifier is unique for all items tracked by
the system. No two parts of different classes or within the same
class possesses the same unique identification.
Inventors: |
Vernon, William Earl;
(Parker, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FISH & RICHARDSON PC
P.O. BOX 1022
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55440-1022
US
|
Assignee: |
Barca, L.L.C., a Texas
corporation
|
Family ID: |
21841316 |
Appl. No.: |
11/180796 |
Filed: |
July 13, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11180796 |
Jul 13, 2005 |
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10028055 |
Dec 21, 2001 |
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6922687 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 ;
707/999.009 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10S 707/99931 20130101;
Y10S 707/959 20130101; Y10S 707/99945 20130101; Y10S 707/919
20130101; G06Q 10/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
707/009 |
International
Class: |
G06F 007/00 |
Claims
1-21. (canceled)
22. A system for managing physical assets, the system comprising: a
computer database to track statuses of physical assets based on a
unique code embedded in a machine scannable identifying label
attachable to the physical assets; a plurality of scanners located
in different geographic locations throughout the system, the
scanners capable of reading the unique identifying codes and for
sending status of the physical assets during management of the
physical assets over a communications link between the plurality of
scanners and the computer database.
23. The system of claim 22 wherein when a status of a physical
asset changes during management of the physical asset the unique
identifying label attached to the asset is scanned by one of the
plurality of scanners and the unique identifying code is
transmitted over the communications link to the computer
database.
24. The system of claim 22 wherein location information is
transmitted over the communications link to the computer database
along with the unique identifying code every time the status of the
physical asset changes.
25. The system of claim 22 wherein the unique identifying code
assigned to a particular physical asset is associated with a unique
record stored in the computer database.
26. The system of claim 25 wherein the record comprises information
specific to the physical asset.
27. The system of claim 22 wherein the identifying label attached
to a physical asset is scanned every time the physical asset
changes geographic location.
28. The system of claim 27 wherein changes geographic location of
the physical asset correspond to changes in statuses of the
physical asset.
29. The system of claim 22 wherein changes geographic location of
the physical asset correspond to changes in statuses of the
physical asset.
30. The system of claim 22 further comprising a database server
connected to the central computer database for facilitating
communication between a user and the computer database.
31. The system of claim 22 wherein the location of the physical
asset is updated in real-time to the central computer database.
32. The system of claim 22 wherein the communications link is
wireless.
33. The system of claim 22 wherein the communications link includes
the Internet.
34. The system of claim 22 wherein a vendor system is connected to
the computer database over the communications link allowing the
vendor to store information about a particular physical asset in
the database.
35. A method of asset management, the method comprising: assigning
physical assets to be tracked unique identifying codes; providing
the unique identification codes assigned to physical assets in
identifying labels; attaching the identifying label to the physical
assets; scanning the unique codes using a plurality of scanners
that are located in a plurality of different geographic locations
to transmit status update information and the unique identifying
codes over a communications link to a central computer database
when statuses of the physical assets change over the course of a
cycle of change in status.
36. The method of claim 35 wherein the unique identification codes
are unique for all assets to be tracked.
37. The method of claim 35 wherein the unique identification codes
are unique for all assets to be tracked with no two assets
belonging to different classes of physical assets and no two assets
belonging to the same class of physical assets having the same
identifying code.
38. The method of claim 35 further comprising: storing status
changes in a central computer database.
39. The method of claim 35 further comprising: storing status
changes in a central computer database having a plurality of
records, with each record being associated with a particular
physical asset and being identified by the unique identifying code
associated with the asset, with the record including information
specific to the asset.
40. The method of claim 35 wherein the central computer database
provides real-time sharing of the information stored in the records
of the central computer database.
41. The method of claim 39 further comprising: transmitting
information stored in the record corresponding to the asset from
the central computer database over the communications link in
response to the central computer database's receipt of the status
update information and unique identifying code.
42. The method of claim 35 wherein the status of a physical asset
is at selected from the group consisting of installed at a customer
location, inventory, disposed of, and being repaired.
43. The method of claim 35 further comprising: transmitting status
update information and the unique identifying code over the
communications link to a central computer database upon scanning
the unique identifying label at each of the plurality of geographic
locations; and transmitting information stored in the record
corresponding to the asset, from the central computer database over
the communications link in response to receipt of the status update
information and unique identifying code
44. The method of claim 35 wherein the status of a physical asset
includes the location of the asset.
45. The method of claim 35 wherein the geographic locations
correspond to at least one of an installation location, a
maintenance location, and a disposal location.
46. The method of claim 35 wherein scanning the unique identifying
label attached to physical assets occurs when a current status of
the physical asset changes over the course of a cycle of change in
status.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] This invention relates to automated managing of physical
assets.
[0002] Managing customer premise equipment is a major challenge for
many industries, particularly for those firms who have multiple
service locations. Most customer premise equipment service
providers, for instance, lack the information necessary to
accurately quantify the costs associated with lost and stolen
inventory, multiple shipments of parts, excessive inventory of
field spares, repeat visits to customer sites caused by ineffective
use of field stock inventory, billing errors, tracking of upgrades
and warranty issues and lost future sales due to customer
dissatisfaction caused by failing to meet existing service
obligations.
[0003] One approach to managing customer premises equipment is a
so-called open-loop control system. An open-loop system is a
control mechanism that does not provide a feedback loop to its
users during the process. A water treatment system that tests water
as it flows through a meter, but does not use the information
gained to adjust the process, is one example of an open-loop
system.
[0004] Another example of an open-loop system is a private-package
shipper that tracks a shipment of parts from a manufacturer to a
depot through delivery to a customer's site. However, the open-loop
nature of this system does not allow for feedback during the
process, e.g., the customer cannot change his mind about the
destination of a package once the shipper receives the package.
Moreover, once delivered, the tracking system shuts down and
collects no further information on that shipment. Thus, this
open-loop tracking system is temporal in nature and cannot tell
what happens to a specific package after delivery. All a customer
knows is that a quantity of parts were delivered to a known address
by a certain date.
SUMMARY
[0005] According to an additional aspect of the present invention,
a system for managing physical assets, includes a computer database
that tracks physical assets based on a machine scannable
identifying label attachable to physical assets. The system also
includes a scanner capable of reading the identifying labels and a
communications link between the at least one scanner and the
computer database. In the system the identifying label is scanned
by the at least one scanner and the identification information is
transmitted over the communications link to the computer
database.
[0006] According to an additional aspect of the present invention,
a method of asset management includes providing a central computer
database having records of tracked items identified by a unique
identifying code. The method also includes providing a
communications link between a scanner and the central computer
database. Whenever the status of the item changes, the machine
scannable label is scanned when the item status is changed and that
information is transmitted to the central computer database.
[0007] This invention, provides a technique that links together
components of a business method. By providing a digital link
between these various components, the invention can significantly
increase productivity by lowering inventory carrying costs,
reducing nonproductive service calls, decreasing returns of
non-defective inventory, tracking warranty and service information,
and improving customer retention and so forth.
[0008] One or more aspects of the invention may provide one or more
of the following advantages.
[0009] Advantages from the closed loop asset management system
include providing real time information. Such real-time information
includes real-time location tracking information for parts,
real-time delivery dates for parts in route and real-time inventory
status for centralized distribution centers, receiving stations,
and field service. Additionally, the inventor can also provide
real-time service order status, billing information, dispatch
status, identification tracking and warranty information and
tracking. Other features and advantage are possible.
[0010] Any situation where it is economically desirable to track
specific units is a potential closed-loop asset management
application. One example is new cars. Cars currently come with a
unique vehicle identification number (VIN). Typically, separate bar
codes are added during the shipping and receiving phase. The actual
VIN could be scanned into a closed-loop system and then tracked for
the rest of the vehicle's useful life. The VIN could be scanned at
each point in the distribution process, e.g., dealer prep and
stocking, sale, service work, warranty issues, re-sales, disposal
and other identified useful points. Even the engine, transmission,
body parts, and so on could be individually tracked. Examples of
other applications categories include vendor/customer premise
equipment service-provider/customer partnership, field service
support, centralized inventory database, depot support, field
dispatch, Web-based planning and forecasting system, automatic part
processing, and disposition of defective parts The invention may be
used beneficially with other asset classes than those described
below.
[0011] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a closed loop asset management system
architecture.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a flow chart depicting a unique identifier
process.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a record.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a logistics asset management
process.
[0016] FIGS. 5A and 5B are block diagrams of an implementation of a
closed loop asset process.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a closed loop asset management
process procurement process.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a closed loop asset management system
install process.
[0019] FIGS. 8A-8C are diagrams of a closed loop asset management
spares replenishment process.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a closed loop asset management
Customer Premises Repair/Change Process.
[0021] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a closed loop asset management
system Depot Product Return Process.
[0022] FIG. 11 is a diagram of a closed loop asset management
Centralized Distribution Center Return Process.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] Closed Loop Asset Management Process
[0024] Referring to FIG. 1, an architecture 10 for a closed loop
asset management process that collaboratively aligns and integrates
supply chain and business process architectures to optimize
business efficiency is shown. The closed loop asset management
process architecture 10 includes a unique identifier process 12, a
centralized digital database system 14, a logistical asset
management network 16, logistical asset management process 17.
[0025] Each asset to be monitored receives a serialized barcode
number during the unique identifier process 12. The bar code number
is used to produce an electronic signature for the asset. The
closed loop asset management process scans each barcode, along with
all other relevant information on that asset, into the centralized
digital database 14 (CDD). The central database 14 interfaces to
other components in the process through a logistical asset manger
process network 16. The logistical asset management network and
process 16 includes a communication network 16a and a physical
process 16b that provides feedback and interfaces to components of
the closed loop asset management process architecture 10. At each
point in the logistic pipeline, the logistical asset management
process 16b scans the electronic signature of each uniquely
identified asset into the CDD 14. The logistical asset management
network and process 16 as part of scanning, encodes each digital
signature with a status update. The CDD 14, in turn, allows users
19 of the closed loop asset management process architecture 10 to
achieve real-time sharing of all relevant information such as order
status, stocking location, notifications, or any other special
instructions as required. Users 19 of the closed loop asset
management process architecture 10 are represented by stations that
interface with the unique identifier process 12 and CDD 14, via the
logistical asset management network 16a and process 16b. Such users
include manufacturers, repairs technicians, depots, shipping,
configuration and test, warehouse customer order systems, and
receiving. This results in a closed-loop process because the system
10 feeds data back to each of the users who can use this data to
optimize management of the physical assets on a real-time
basis.
[0026] Unique Identifier Number
[0027] Referring to FIG. 2, the unique identifier process 12
(hereinafter UIP) identifies 12a which specific product classes
deserve tracking with the remaining products being treated as
unidentified commodity items. Unit cost, relative scarcity, and
frequency of repair are just a few of the variables that the
customer can choose as cutoff points for determining which products
warrant tracking under the closed loop asset management process
architecture.
[0028] After selecting 12a, which product classes justify tracking,
for each unit of each class that deserves tracking 12b, the UIP
assigns 12c a unique identifier number, which is physically placed
on the item wherever possible. Based on current technology, the
best business practice for assigning a unique identifier number is
a serialized bar code that can be later read by a scanning device,
such as a bar code scanner. Other implementations in the future may
include smart chips or other information storage and reading
technologies.
[0029] Following the assignment 12c of a unique identifier number
to each part, the UIP reads 12d the serialized barcode number into
a CDD 14. In the typical case, a record is produced and stored in
the CDD 14. The record is identified by the unique identifier and
includes any relevant manufacturer's data, such as revision
information, serial number, and other part specific data as may be
appropriate in a given application. Associating the manufacturer's
information with the serialized barcode number, as opposed to
manual data entry, minimizes data error attributable to human
entry. The UIP validates the initial input with a second scan, and
the system provides immediate feedback if corrective action is
needed.
[0030] Centralized Digital Database
[0031] Referring to FIG. 3, the process 10 uses the scanned unique
identifier numbers to provide records 25 in the database 14. The
records 25 can include information such as customer, technical,
warehouse, sales, location, manufacturer, parts life cycle,
warranty, status changes, repair data, and any other desirable data
as a required by a specific application all associated with the
unique identifier. The assignment of a unique identifier number to
each product is a key component of the closed loop asset management
process architecture 10 because the Centralized Digital Database 12
(CDD) uses this unique value to track the item throughout its life
cycle. The tight integration of this data by the CDD 14 enables the
closed loop asset management process architecture 10 to fully
leverage the resulting data in CDD 14 across all channels of
operation and communication. This tight integration also results in
integrated operational and analytical systems, such as customer
response system, technical assistance system, inventory management
system, supply and production systems, transportation management
system, warehouse management system, and equipment tracking
function. The CDD 14 need not be physically central. The CDD 14 can
be distributed over a large geographical area so long as there is
high-speed reliable communication between constituent parts of the
Centralized Digital Database.
[0032] It should be noted that the unique identifier is unique for
all items tracked by the system. Thus, unlike serial numbers, part
numbers and the like no two parts of different classes will possess
the same unique identification. In addition, for all items of a
class of items that will be tracked, each of those items will also
have a unique identification. No two items in the class of items
will share the same identification.
[0033] Logistical Asset Management Process Network
[0034] Referring to FIG. 4, to implement a closed loop inventory
business method, the closed loop asset management process 10
includes the logistical asset management network 16a and process
16b. The logistical asset management network 16a and process 16b
act together as a feedback system that allows for the tracking of
orders. The logistical asset management network 16a and process 16b
also provides real time data on which identified products were
installed at a client location, the status of each unique product
while being used on the customer's premises, and knowledge
concerning the ultimate disposition of each product.
[0035] Aspects of the logistical asset management network 16a
includes an electronic data interchange network 32 that links
multiple computer systems 34 in order to track the status and usage
history, via the unique identifier numbers, of multiple products in
various locations on a real-time basis. Such a network 32 can be
implemented by various technologies, including TCP/IP connections,
wide area network, local area network, and wireless
technologies.
[0036] In practice, the logistical asset management process 16b has
multiple components. These components will be constantly evolving
as the closed loop asset management process architecture 10 uses
knowledge gained to improve system efficiency. However, an
embodiment of the logistical asset management network 16a and
process 16b, includes three data-exchange points: installation 17a,
maintenance 17b, and disposal 17c. At each point in the
closed-loop, the logistical asset management process 16b users have
either tethered and/or wireless scanners (part of the electronic
interchange 32) to transmit the status of each unique serialized
barcode, which is physically attached to the product to the CDD 14
for processing. The CDD 14, in turns, provides real-time and
transparent information on the status of each part of the
integrated supply chain. Each time the status of a previously
uniquely identified product changes, the barcode is scanned and the
logistical asset management process 16b transmits this updated
information to the CDD 14, which, in turn, uses this new
information to provide real-time knowledge to the users of the
closed loop asset management process architecture 10.
[0037] Referring to FIG. 5A, 5B, an implementation 40 of the closed
loop asset management process 16b is shown. This implementation
includes a central distribution center, the system 16a, depots for
staging delivery, and field service employee. The process 16b
starts 42a with an order for a product 42, which is processed by
the CDD, 14 and the UID, 12. The CDD 14 processes 42b this to a
central distribution point, that picks, scans and tags the product
42c. The CDD 14 also scans 42d the product, and stages the product
for shipping. The product is scanned 42e to shipper and the depot
& dispatch are notified 42f of the shipment. The depot scans
42g the product upon receipt and dispatch is notified 42h of
product arrival. Dispatch is requested 42i to determine if delivery
is needed 42j. If yes, the depot coordinates 42k delivery a field
service employee. The depot contacts 42l a delivery vendor and
depot scans 42m the product to the delivery vendor. The delivery
vendor scans 42n product to the customer and FSE. The FSE installs
42o the product. If no delivery is needed, the FSE picks up the
product 42p and installs 42o the product. In any event, the FSE
scans 42q the product to customer inventory, and the process
determines 42r if it is surplus inventory. If yes, the FSE scans
42s the product to personal inventory and returns 42t excess
product to depot. The depot scans 42u the product upon receipt and
determines 42v the status of the part. The status is used to
determine destination for the product. If unopened it is returned
to inventory 42w. If bad or used, depot stages product for shipping
42x, depot scans 42y product to shipper and central receiving scans
42z product upon receipt. The product goes to a repair process
42aa, and afterwards the product is scanned 42bb and moved to
stocking location and inventory 42w. At inventory, the CDD and
system are updated with location and status of the product. In
addition, at each point that the product is scanned the CDD is
updated, so information pertaining to the location of the product
is also current and can be shared with all users.
[0038] Installation Feedback Loop
[0039] Referring to FIG. 6, a typical closed loop asset management
process procurement process 50 is shown. Here, a customer places 52
an order with a manufacturer. Usually the order is placed
electronically, for new equipment using a collaborative
replenishment software system (not shown) that accesses data
warehoused in the CDD 14. This action generates 54 an equipment
order to a manufacturer, who subsequently ships 56 the ordered
goods to the customer. When the goods are received 58, at the
manufacturer's location or at a separate Material Stocking Location
(MSL), logistical asset management network and process 16'
executes.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 7, one example of the logistical asset
management process 16b using the network 16a for an install process
is shown. This implementation of logistical asset management
network and process 16b includes an order facility 62a, central
distribution 62b, configuration and test 62c and the system 10. In
addition depots 62d are used along with field service 62e and a
customer facility 62f.
[0041] At each stage, whether remote or local, the logistical asset
management network and process receiving system 16a conveys the
location and status of the each uniquely identified product, as
opposed to a generic shipping unit, to the CDD 14. This information
is conveyed using logistical asset management network and process
16 over links may be hard wired, a dial-up network, a wireless
system or any other technique of reliably conveying the
information. Each time the logistical asset management network and
process receiving system 16a handles an identified product, it is
scanned, e.g., initial entry, pick, pack, staged for shipment, and
scanned to shipper and all transactions are all tracked in the
CDD.
[0042] When a customer is ready for an install 64a, the customer
electronically submits a work order request to the CDD 14
requesting delivery. The CDD 14 verifies the specific request
against the master workorder. If approved, the CDD 14 reviews its
real-time inventory and field stock to determine the most
cost-effective shipping location for filling the order. Once the
CDD 14 selects the best stocking location to pick from, the CDD 14
issues a shipping order to the appropriate logistical asset
management network and process partner (e.g., a material stocking
location (MSL), depot, field service vehicle). The CDD 14 searches
all available inventory when making this decision. Availability
inventory includes items ordered, but not yet shipped by the
manufacturer, products assigned a serialized barcode, but still
stocked at a central warehouse, and serialized products in transit.
Also available inventory includes serialized products at a remote
storage location, serialized products stored on a specific field
service vehicle, unused serialized products stocking at a different
customer's location, and repaired or no-trouble-found serialized
products ready for re-install. Thus, instead of looking only at
newly-issued parts, such as would be the case in an open-loop
system, the closed loop asset management process architecture uses
the intelligence gained via its CDD 14 to fill orders in the most
optimal manner.
[0043] Once the CDD 14 determines the best fit for a specific
order, it sends 64b a pick order to an appropriate logistical asset
management network and process 64c for configuration and testing at
a stocking location 16b. A logistical asset management network and
process stocking location 16b can be for example a warehouse a
depot, or a field service vehicle. At the selected stocking
location 16b the product is scanned and assigned to order pending.
At the stocking location 16b the order can be verified and made
ready to be shipped 62d. The stocking location 16 is also where the
unique product is sent to a staging area where a carrier scans the
product out for delivery. Again, the scanning process updates the
CDD 14 on the status of each uniquely identified product at that
stage. The CDD 14 notifies the appropriate logistical asset
management network and process receiving location 16a of the
priority status of the incoming order.
[0044] The shipment 62d to the customer's premises either goes
directly to the customer, to another MSL, to a third-party depot,
or directly to a field service vehicle. In each case, the mechanics
of the transaction are similar. The carrier delivers each unique
product to the predetermined logistical asset management network
and process stocking location 16b, which verifies address,
signature, and scans out each product from the carrier's manifest.
The logistical asset management network and process stocking
location 16b uses the serialized barcode to scan in each uniquely
identified product and its storage location into the CDD as
received. If the interim stocking location changes, the responsible
party transmits this information to the CDD.
[0045] After receiving notice 62e from the CDD dispatch order
system (not shown) that requested products are available the depot
scans 62f the products in and notifies field service 62g. A field
service employee, e.g., an engineer, technician, etc., travels 62h
to the logistical asset management network and process stocking
location 16b and picks up 62i the products assigned to the order.
At the logistical asset management network and process stocking
location 16b the products are scanned out 62j as having been
received by the field service employee.
[0046] The field service employee scans (not shown) in the products
to his field-stocking inventory and proceeds to the customer's
premises. After installing and verifying the products, the field
service employee scans out 62k the products from his field stock as
having been delivered and installed at the customer site. The field
service employee's scanner transmits this information directly to
the CDD either using a landline or, if within range, a wireless
equipment tracking system (not shown).
[0047] As described, the installation feedback loop is one of at
least three gateways for updating the closed loop asset management
process architecture 10. As the uniquely identified products move
from the UIP station to a stocking location 16b to a field service
vehicle 16c to the customer's premises 16d, the logistical asset
management network and process system 16 each product is scanned in
and out at each station along the way. This feedback provides a
closed-loop system instead of an open-loop system.
[0048] Maintenance Feedback Loop
[0049] FIGS. 8A and 8B shows a spares replenishment process 70. A
field service employee needs a part to complete a work assignment
72. The field service employee checks his assigned rolling
inventory in his service vehicle 74. If the part is available, the
field service employee installs and scans the item from the
assigned rolling inventory to customer site inventory 76.
[0050] If the part is not on the service vehicle, i.e. not
available in rolling inventory, the field service employee requests
78 the item from the system 10 via wireless equipment if within
range, or uses a dial-up system using conventional phone service if
not. The system 10 searches 80 deployed inventories for item. If
not found locally the logistic asset management initiates shipment
from a Centralized Distribution Center (CDC) or other deployed
inventory to a local logistical asset management network and
process Depot 16b.
[0051] When ready, the logistic asset management process updates
the Centralized Digital Database order status that equipment is
available at the logistical asset management network and process
Depot 16b. The logistical asset manger process 16 dispatches the
field service employee to the logistical asset management network
and process depot who picks up equipment 82. The logistical asset
management network and process depot 16b scans the part to the
field service employee, and finally, the field service employee
installs and scans equipment to customer site inventory 74.
[0052] The CDD automatically initiates the replacement of the used
inventory 84. If field service employee inventory was used,
replacement equipment will be made available at the logistical
asset management network and process depot to refill truck
inventory. The Centralized Digital Database prepares a restock
request that assigns to specific field service employee and
transmits field request to logistical asset management network and
process depot 16b.
[0053] At the warehouse to which the order was placed the order is
picked, and barcode scanned. The part is configured, tested and the
product is shipped. The logistical asset management network and
process depot are notified that the part has been shipped 88. At
the logistical asset management network and process depot the
product is scanned in receipt of product, and the product is staged
for pick-up. The field service employee arrives at logistical asset
management network and process depot and picks up the part, which
is scanned out to a field service employee's personal inventory and
logistics asset management field request.
[0054] Bad parts are returned 90 to the logistical asset management
network and process depot 16b and scanned in and labeled as bad.
The logistical asset management network and process depot ships the
bad parts to a warehouse which receives the part, and ships parts
to be repaired off premises or repairs them in its own facility.
Once repaired, the part is again bar coded, scanned and put back
into available inventory. A summary of this process is shown in
FIG. 8C.
[0055] FIG. 9 shows a summary of a Customer Premises Repair/Change
Process. An order for a unit 92 is submitted and the order is
transmitted by logistic management process 16b to the logistic
asset management process, which receives the order and verifies
availability. If the part is available as truck stock (i.e. in an
field service employee's service vehicle) or at the local
logistical asset management network and process depot, the logistic
asset management process notifies the dispatch system of part
availability. If the part is not locally available, the Centralized
Distribution Center (CDC) picks and bar codes the part 94,
configures, tests and certifies revision levels 96, packs, and
ships the equipment order 98. The system 10 notifies the dispatch
system of the shipment 100. The logistical asset management network
and process depot scans parts upon receipt 112 updating location to
the system 10.
[0056] The system 10 updates the dispatch system order status that
equipment is available at the depot 114. Thereupon, the system
dispatches a field service employee to the depot to pick up
equipment 116. At the depot the parts are scanned to the field
service employee 120. The field service employee installs and scans
equipment to customer site inventory 122. The wireless equipment
tracking system records equipment assignment and transmits this
information back to the Centralized Digital Database 14.
[0057] If there are extra or unused parts, they are returned to the
depot per the return to depot process described above. Similarly,
defective parts are returned to the depot 122 by the field service
employee. The depot scans in the defective parts 126 and ships them
to a warehouse 128. The warehouse either repairs the parts
internally, or ships the part out for repair 130. Upon completion
of repairs (and return of parts shipped out for repair) the
warehouse barcodes, sans and puts away the part 132.
[0058] Disposal Feedback Loop
[0059] FIG. 10. shows a logistical asset management network and
process depot product return process 150. A field service employee
(field service employee) returns to a logistical asset management
network and process depot and delivers units to be returned 152 to
the logistical asset management network and process depot which
scans in the parts 154 updating the Centralized Digital Database
14.
[0060] The logistical asset management network and process depot
16b scans in defective, disposable, or excess parts and clears
field service employee (field service employee) and completes the
field request. The logistical asset management network and process
depot scans items and stages a disposal bag 156 for pick up by
shipping contractor 158.
[0061] The logistical asset management network and process depot
transmits scanned information to Centralized Digital Database via a
wireless tracking system, e.g., personal digital assistants and the
like, which update product, equipment, and services Inventory
records. The Contract Shipper picks up the disposal bag 160 and
delivers to Centralized Receiving 162.
[0062] If additional field service employee truck stock was used,
this information will have already been transmitted to the
Centralized Digital Database 15 and replacement equipment will have
been stocked and ready to refill the field service employee's truck
stock. (not shown). The Centralized Digital Database 15 prepares a
restock request 164 that assigns to specific field service employee
and transmits field request to logistical asset management network
and process depot, which stages product 166 for delivery to a field
service employee. The logistical asset management network and
process depot pulls product and scans out to a field service
employee's personal inventory stock 168 and field request.
[0063] FIG. 11 shows a Centralized Distribution Center Return
Process 170. Centralized receiving scans in the receipt of a return
authorization tagged equipment 172 and scans out to return control
updating the Centralized Digital Database (Centralized Digital
Database).
[0064] Return control scans in receipt of return authorization tag
equipment 174 and based on business requirements (1) testing
intervals (2) manufactures repair (3) disposal, the product is
scanned out updating the Centralized Digital Database 14.
[0065] Diagnostic Testing scans in product 176 and determines the
reason(s) for failure and records this in the Centralized Digital
Database 15 as "No-Trouble Found," "Repair" or
"Disposal.""No-Trouble Found" parts are scanned to centralized
receiving for restocking updating the Centralized Digital Database
182. Repaired parts are refurbished 178 and then scanned out to
Centralized Receiving for restocking as refurbished inventory 180
updating the Centralized Digital Database. 14. Disposed parts are
scanned out to the asset disposal contractor updating the
Centralized Digital Database 14. The logistic asset management
process electronically transmits 184 the scanned Disposal
information CDD. Other information may be required as is
appropriate for a particular application.
[0066] The closed loop asset management process can give requisite
information to field service employee so that dispatched service
calls can be closed on an initial visit because the field service
employee will have the correct parts needed to complete a job. With
ready information it avoids the tendency of maintaining excess
field service inventory. With prior techniques many field service
employees keep unused parts on their service vehicle as an ad hoc
safety stock, instead of returning them to a material stocking
location inventory. This closed loop asset management process
enables accountability for each part. The result is avoiding an
inventory stockpile that inflates a firm's inventory investment or
does not get charged to a customer when eventually used. It also
minimizes maintaining obsolete inventory or inventory that may be
illegally sold to a gray market vendor. It also avoids assets being
overvalued on the a company's financial statements because the
accounting system can now allocate dollar costs to spare parts
inventory and also track use or disposition of specific parts.
[0067] This also solves problems associated with No-Trouble-Found
(NTF) inventory. NTF inventory occurs when a field service employee
pulls a suspected defective part, but subsequent testing determines
it to be functional. With specific tracking of each suspected
defective part, it is possible to provide feedback to the field
service employee regarding his or her initial determination.
Moreover, while the specific part may not be defective, there may
be other issues unique to that specific installation. Providing the
ability to backtrack a NTF part to a specific installation, the
Customer Premise Equipment service provider can possible determine
the true cause of the initial problem.
[0068] One or more embodiments of the invention have been
described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various
modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the
invention. For example, a closed loop asset management system may
be beneficially implemented and used to track automobile
manufacturing and sales. The closed loop asset management system
may be implemented with a variety of communications means, and for
a variety of assets to be tracked. Accordingly, other embodiments
are within the scope of the following claims.
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