U.S. patent application number 14/977335 was filed with the patent office on 2016-04-21 for supply chain management system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Hussmann Corporation. Invention is credited to Dennis G. Gipson, Manish G. Gupta, Michael J. Higgins, Brian Hostetler, John Roche.
Application Number | 20160110683 14/977335 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39691080 |
Filed Date | 2016-04-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160110683 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gupta; Manish G. ; et
al. |
April 21, 2016 |
SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Abstract
A method of transporting commodities in a supply chain
management system including a supply chain. The method includes
accessing by one or more members of the supply chain a database via
a network, transporting a commodity through the supply chain on a
transport device using a transportation system, and monitoring
characteristics of the supply chain associated with the commodity
using a sensor and a controller associated with the sensor. The
method also includes acquiring data that is representative of the
characteristics of the supply chain from the sensor and that
includes expected conditions associated with the commodity; and
retrieving from the database over the network via an input device a
predicted shelf life of the commodity that is based on the acquired
data.
Inventors: |
Gupta; Manish G.; (St.
Louis, MO) ; Higgins; Michael J.; (Weldon Spring,
MO) ; Roche; John; (Ballwin, MO) ; Gipson;
Dennis G.; (Chesterfield, MO) ; Hostetler; Brian;
(Chesterfield, MO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Hussmann Corporation |
Bridgeton |
MO |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
39691080 |
Appl. No.: |
14/977335 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12125734 |
May 22, 2008 |
9218585 |
|
|
14977335 |
|
|
|
|
60940231 |
May 25, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/332 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 10/0832 20130101;
G06Q 10/06393 20130101; G06Q 10/087 20130101; G06Q 10/06316
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 10/08 20060101
G06Q010/08 |
Claims
1. A method of transporting commodities in a supply chain
management system including a supply chain, the method comprising:
accessing by one or more members of the supply chain a database via
a network; transporting a commodity through the supply chain on a
transport device using a transportation system; monitoring
characteristics of the supply chain associated with the commodity
using a sensor and a controller associated with the sensor;
acquiring data representative of the characteristics of the supply
chain from the sensor, the acquired data including expected
conditions associated with the commodity; and retrieving from the
database over the network via an input device a predicted shelf
life of the commodity that is based on the acquired data.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising retrieving the
predicted shelf life that is one of a specific expiration date and
a period of time in which the commodity is predicted to remain
viable.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a report
including the predicted shelf life using the controller;
communicating the report to the database via the network using the
controller; and accessing the report via the network.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising associating a data
storage device with the commodity via the database; and assigning
the sensor to the data storage device.
5. The method of claim 4, further comprising encoding the date on
which the predicted shelf life is encoded into the data storage
device.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising substantially
continuously acquiring the data representative of the
characteristics of the supply chain from the sensor; and updating
the shelf life prediction based on the most recent data acquired by
the sensor.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing a scanner in
communication with the database via the network for retrieving the
predicted shelf life over the network.
8. The method of claim 1, further comprising associating a data
storage device with the commodity via the database; and encoding
the predicted shelf life into the data storage device.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the acquiring step further
includes acquiring data representative of one or both of historical
data and real-time data associated with the supply chain.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the acquired data further
includes one or both of a historical condition of the commodity and
a near-real time sensed condition of the commodity, the method
further comprising automatically altering conditions of the
commodity within the supply chain in response to the acquired data
via an asset monitoring system without direct human
intervention.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein the expected conditions are
based on one or both of environmental conditions and a location of
the commodity that impact future commodity conditions.
12. The method of claim 1, further comprising redirecting the
commodity within the supply chain from an original destination to
another destination via the network based on the acquired data.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein redirecting the commodity
within the supply chain includes one or more of delaying shipment
of the commodity via the network, returning the commodity to a
previous destination in the supply chain, and routing the commodity
to a destination different from an original destination of the
commodity.
14. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating an
automated signal in response to the acquired data exceeding
predetermined parameters; and redirecting the commodity within the
supply chain in response to the automated signal.
15. A method of transporting commodities in a supply chain
management system including a supply chain, the method comprising:
at least one member device of the supply chain accessing a database
via a network; supporting one or more commodities with a transport
device; transporting the transport device through the supply chain
using a transportation system; assigning a sensor to the transport
device supporting the commodities; relating the sensor to the
commodities via a data storage device; sensing a condition of the
commodities via the sensor and generating a signal indicative of
the commodity condition; identifying information related to the
commodities supported by the transport device via the data storage
device; acquiring data related to identification of the commodities
from the sensor via a controller; distributing the signal
indicative of the commodity condition and the acquired data over
the network via the controller; communicating the signal and the
acquired data to the database; monitoring the commodities
throughout the supply chain via the network; managing one or both
of storage and transport of the commodities through the supply
chain via the transportation system based on the signal and the
acquired data communicated to the database; implementing process
controls associated with the transportation system via the network
to determine criteria associated with one or both of storage and
transport of the commodities in the supply chain for managing
storage or transport of the commodities within predetermined
conditions during storage or transport of the commodities through
the supply chain, the process controls including one or both of
work flow and qualitative measurement related to the commodities;
communicating the criteria determined by the process controls to
the database; and maintaining the commodities within the
predetermined conditions based on the criteria determined by the
process controls and communicated to the database.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising relating the sensor
to the commodities when the commodities are prepared for transport
through the supply chain.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein identifying the information
related to the commodities includes determining at least one of an
identity of the commodities, weather conditions during harvest of
the commodities, and manufacturing conditions during production of
the commodities.
18. The method of claim 15, further comprising associating the data
storage device to a predetermined quantity of commodities;
transmitting the acquired data to the data storage device;
identifying the commodities using the data storage device;
assigning the sensor to the data storage device; and acquiring data
related to the commodities from the sensor via the data storage
device.
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising linking the sensor
to the data storage device; and communicating the link between the
sensor and the data storage device to the database.
20. The method of claim 15, further comprising determining criteria
associated with loading the commodities into a transport vehicle
using the process controls; implementing the loading criteria to
arrange the commodities for transport in the transport vehicle; and
dynamically monitoring loading of the commodities into a commodity
compartment of the transport vehicle via the controller using at
least one electronic curtain in the commodity compartment.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 60/940,231 filed May 25, 2007, and U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/125,734 filed May 22, 2008 (now U.S. Pat.
No. 9,218,585), the entire contents of each of which are hereby
incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to a supply chain management
system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a
supply chain management system that tracks and monitors products,
personnel, and assets in a supply chain, and that is accessible
over a network by one or more members.
[0003] Supply and demand commodity chains seek to provide high
quality goods to end consumers through management and coordination
of services between various participants in the commodity chain.
Some products (e.g., food, paint, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, etc.)
need to be shipped or transported under predetermined conditions
(e.g., temperature, humidity, etc.) to maximize freshness or
quality of the product. These products may also be time-sensitive,
necessitating quick delivery to an end destination or receiver
(e.g., retail store, restaurant, etc.) where an end user (e.g.,
consumer) may purchase the products. Often, products are shipped
over long distances, and can be transferred by land, sea, and/or
air in order to reach the retail center within a desired amount of
time. In some instances, storage of the products within the
commodity chain is necessary to await the next stage in the supply
chain. In some commodity chains, the products are not monitored
during storage, which can result in damage to or loss of the
products.
SUMMARY
[0004] In one construction, the invention provides a method of
transporting commodities in a supply chain management system
including a supply chain. The method includes providing a database
and a network in communication with the database. The database is
accessible by at least one member of the supply chain via the
network. The method also includes providing a container and
supporting one or more commodities using the container for
transport through the supply chain, assigning at least one sensor
to the commodities supported by the container, and sensing at least
one condition of the commodities using the sensor and generating a
signal indicative of the at least one commodity condition. The
method also includes identifying information related to the
commodities supported by the container, acquiring data related to
identification of the information related to the commodities from
the sensor, distributing the signal indicative of the at least one
commodity condition and the acquired data over the network, and
storing the signal and the acquired data in the database. The
method also includes monitoring the commodities throughout the
supply chain via the network, and managing at least one of storage
and transport of the commodities through the supply chain based on
the signal and the acquired data.
[0005] In another construction, the invention provides a method
that includes providing a database and a network in communication
with the database. The database is accessible by one or more
members of the supply chain via the network. The method also
includes transporting a commodity through the supply chain,
monitoring characteristics of the supply chain associated with the
commodity using at least one sensor, providing a controller in
communication with the database and the sensor via the network, the
controller including a shelf life prediction algorithm, acquiring
data representative of the characteristics of the supply chain from
the sensor, the acquired data including at least one of historical
data, current data, and expected conditions, and storing the
acquired data in the database. The method also includes predicting
a shelf life of the commodity using the shelf life prediction
algorithm based on the data acquired from the sensor, storing the
predicted shelf life of the commodity in the database, providing an
input device in communication with the database via the network,
and retrieving the predicted shelf life from the database over the
network via the an input device.
[0006] In yet another construction, the invention provides a method
that includes providing a transportation system that includes a
process control system that has process controls for managing the
commodities during at least one of storage and transport of the
commodities through the supply chain, implementing the process
controls of the process control system, and determining criteria
associated with at least one of storage and transport of the
commodities in the supply chain using the process controls. The
method also includes maintaining the commodities within
predetermined conditions based on the criteria determined by the
process controls, arranging the commodities for transport based on
the determined criteria, and moving the arranged commodities
through the supply chain using the transportation system.
[0007] In yet another construction, the invention provides a method
that includes providing a database and a network in communication
with the database. The database includes predetermined conditions
that are associated with one or more commodities to be transported
through the supply chain, and is accessible by one or more members
of the supply chain via the network. The method also includes
assigning at least one sensor to the commodities, monitoring at
least one condition of the commodities using the sensor,
communicating data representative of the at least one commodity
condition to the database via the network, and storing the
communicated data in the database. The method also includes
providing a process control system including process controls,
implementing the process controls to determine one or more
operating parameters associated with at least one storage and
transport of the commodities in the supply chain, and managing the
at least one commodity condition throughout the supply chain based
on the stored data and the predetermined operating parameters. The
method also includes monitoring assets of the supply chain using
the process controls, managing the assets via the network,
monitoring personnel management in the supply chain using the
process controls, managing the personnel management via the
network, managing the commodities during at least one of storage
and transport in the supply chain based on the predetermined
operating parameters, and maintaining the commodities within the
predetermined conditions.
[0008] In yet another construction, the invention provides a method
of trading commodities in a supply chain that includes providing a
database and a network in communication with the database. The
network includes a plurality of members of the supply chain, and
the database is accessible by one or more of the plurality of
members via the network. The method also includes moving
commodities through the supply chain, assigning at least one sensor
to the commodities, and monitoring at least one condition of the
commodities using the sensor. The method also includes
communicating data representative of the at least one commodity
condition to the database via the network, storing the data in the
database, implementing a trading system via the network, and
trading commodities within the supply chain using the trading
system.
[0009] In yet another construction, the invention provides a method
of operating a supply chain management system including a supply
chain. The method includes providing a database and a network in
communication with the database. The network includes a plurality
of members of the supply chain and an online access system, and the
database is accessible by one or more of the plurality of members
via the network. The method also includes moving one or more
commodities through the supply chain, assigning at least one sensor
to the commodities, and monitoring at least one condition of the
commodities using the sensor. The method also includes
communicating data representative of the at least one condition of
the commodities to the database via the network, storing the data
in the database, enabling access to the database by a consumer via
the online access system, and tracking in near real-time at least
one of a history and a predicted shelf life of the commodities
using the online access system.
[0010] Aspects of the invention will become apparent by
consideration of the detailed description and accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic flow chart of an exemplary commodity
management system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] Before any constructions of the invention are explained in
detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in
its application to the details of construction and the arrangement
of components set forth in the following description or illustrated
in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other
constructions and of being practiced or of being carried out in
various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and
should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including,"
"comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to
encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as
well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise,
the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and
variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and
indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further,
"connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or
mechanical connections or couplings.
[0013] FIG. 1 shows a commodity management system 10 used to
monitor and control various aspects of products or goods or
perishable commodities in a supply chain from creation to final
distribution. The management system 10 is accessible by various
members 15 of the supply chain that are associated with the
products to be shipped and received. The members 15 include
suppliers, packaging and processing centers, transportation
systems, distribution centers, and receivers (e.g., retail store,
restaurant, etc.). In some constructions, the members 15 can also
include auditors, and brokers or financial institutions (e.g.,
insurance company, bank, etc.). In other constructions, other
ancillary participants can be members 15 (e.g., customs and
quarantine authorities, freight forwarders, exporters, importers,
government agencies, consolidators, terminal operators, ground
handlers, ramp handlers, emergency services, information providers,
depot operators, port authorities, manufacturers, consumers, etc.).
The quantity and types of members 15 listed above are not
exhaustive, and other participants of the management system 10
considered.
[0014] The management system 10 includes a network 20, a product or
commodity monitoring system 25, a data center or database 30, and a
process control system 35. The network 20 is in communication with
each member 15, the product monitoring system 25, and the database
30 to provide communication between various components of the
management system 10. The network facilitates acquisition and
distribution of information or data related to products in the
supply chain. The information can include sensed conditions of the
products in the supply chain, instructions or other communications
from and/or to one or more members 15, or communications from the
database 30. The network 20 can include a completely wireless
system, or alternatively, a combination of wireless and wired
system components.
[0015] The product monitoring system 25 is associated with the
products or commodities to be shipped between members 15, and is in
communication with the database 30 via the network 20. The product
monitoring system 25 includes one or more sensors 40 and a reader
45. The sensors 40 are assigned to the products to monitor time
sensitive data, such as environmental conditions of the product and
the surrounding atmosphere (e.g., temperature, humidity,
shock/vibration, light, radiation, other atmospheric conditions
such as ethylene content, etc.). The sensors 40 also can store
product information (e.g., price, date of purchase, date and
location of inception/harvest, weather conditions, environmental
conditions, etc.) and monitor the location of the products. In some
constructions, the sensors 40 can be located adjacent the products
or directly attached to the products.
[0016] The sensors 40 are in communication with the readers 45 over
the network 20, and are defined by active or semi-active or passive
or semi-passive radio frequency identification ("RFID") sensors or
transponders that retrieve and store information related to the
products in the supply chain. The active RFID sensors 40 include a
long-lasting internal power source that can generate a signal to
the reader 45 over relatively long distances (e.g., 300 feet). The
semi-active RFID sensors 40 are battery-assisted sensors that
detect parameters of the product, and have the ability to power
down (e.g., a sleep mode) to conserve battery power. The passive
RFID sensors 40 draw power from the readers 45. In other
constructions, other sensors can be used to sense parameters of the
product (e.g., ultra-high frequency sensors, etc.).
[0017] Each reader 45 is in communication with one or more of the
sensors 40 to receive and process the sensed data according to
parameters established by the members 15. The reader 45 can be in
wireless or wired communication with the sensors 40, and can be
separate or integrated with the sensors 40. An antenna (not shown)
can be used to communicate the data from the sensors 40 to the
reader 45.
[0018] The database 30 is in two-way communication with at least
some of the members 15 via the network 20 such that the members 15
can input predetermined parameters or conditions into the database
30 (e.g., product characteristics, environmental parameters, etc.),
and retrieve data from the database 30. In other words, the members
15 who are in two-way communication with the database 30 have read
access to the database 30 and are able to manipulate data in the
database 30. Communications between other members 15 and the
database 30 may be one-way communications (i.e., the members 15
have read-only access to the database 30).
[0019] The database 30 is programmed with initial setpoint values
or predetermined conditions for a particular product based on the
predetermined conditions. These predetermined conditions can
include a minimum temperature, a maximum temperature, an acceptable
humidity range, and maximum shock or vibration that can be
adequately sustained by the products. The database 30 also can
include additional predetermined conditions (e.g., other
atmospheric conditions, light, etc.). based on the type of product
to be shipped.
[0020] A controller or microprocessor 50 is in communication with
the database 30 and the readers 45 via the network 20 to receive
one or more signals from the readers 45 that are indicative of the
sensed or monitored data, and to deliver the sensed signals to the
database 30 for storage and retrieval. In some constructions, the
product monitoring system 25 and the process control system 35 are
incorporated into the controller 50. The controller 50 is further
in communication with the database 30 to compare the sensed
conditions of the products with the predetermined conditions stored
in the database 30 to determine whether the products are within the
predetermined parameters established by the members 15.
[0021] The controller 50 includes application software that uses
data collected from the sensors 40 to determine an approximate
shelf life of the product. The application software is accessible
by the members 15 via the network 20, and includes one or more
shelf life prediction algorithms 55 to analyze product historical
data, current data, and future or expected conditions that may
impact the product, and to establish an estimated or approximate
shelf life for the product. The historical data can include
environmental conditions present during harvesting such as weather
patterns, temperature, humidity, and the like. The expected
conditions are based on the environmental conditions, the location,
and other data associated with the product that can be used to
accurately predict future product conditions. In some
constructions, additional algorithms 60 can be used to determine
other important factors or characteristics related to the
product.
[0022] The controller 50 also includes a response system 65 that
generates an automated signal or alarm to each appropriate member
15 with a particular interest in the shipped product in response to
sensed conditions that exceed the predetermined conditions. The
automated signal can trigger configurable responses including, but
not limited to, delaying shipment of the product to determine
possible damage to the product in response to the out-of-range or
adverse condition. The automated signal generated by the controller
50 can also deliver instructions to various members 15 regarding
whether the product should be returned, or whether the product can
continue within the supply chain to be delivered to the
receiver.
[0023] The management system 10 illustrated in FIG. 1 shows members
15 such as the suppliers (e.g., grower, manufacturer, etc.), the
packaging and processing centers, the transportation systems (e.g.,
truck and trailer, airlines, railroads, ship, etc.), the
distribution centers, and the receivers linked to each other and to
the database 30 via the network 20. Generally, the network 20 links
the members 15 of the management system 10 to each other and to the
database 30 to enable communication between the members 15 and the
database 30, and between the members 15. As discussed in detail
below, the network 20 facilitates communication of product data and
decision-making between members 15 in the management system 10. The
network 20 further enables control and monitoring of the products,
the process of product delivery, and the personnel within the
management system 10 to assure adherence to specific criteria and
to optimize product quality.
[0024] In operation, the network 20 is in communication with the
product monitoring system 25 and the database 30 to provide
communication between components of the product monitoring system
25, between the product monitoring system 25, the database 30, and
the controller 50, and between the members 15. The sensors 40 sense
various parameters of the products in the supply chain and deliver
signals indicative of the sensed parameters to the readers 45 over
the network 20. The readers 45 read the sensed parameters from the
sensors 40, and process the data according to the parameters
established by the members 15. Each reader 45 communicates
respective signals indicative of the sensed parameters to the
controller 50. The signals received by the controller 50 are stored
as data in the database 30 and compared with the predetermined
conditions to determine whether an out-of-range condition
exists.
[0025] The controller 50 can initiate the response system 65 to
generate a corresponding alarm to one or more members 15, and to
delay or return the product, if necessary, in response to a sensed
out-of-range condition. In some constructions, the controller 50
can operably determine a response to the sensed conditions and can
communicate the response to the database 30 and/or to the members
15. In other constructions, the database 30 can operably determine
a response to the sensed conditions received from the readers 45
and the controller 50, and can communicate the response to the
members 15 via the network 20.
[0026] The controller 50 determines the shelf life and other
expected characteristics of the product based on the sensed
conditions and prior, historical conditions stored in the database
30 using the shelf life prediction algorithms 55 and/or the
additional algorithms 60. The shelf life information associated
with particular products is stored in the database 30 and is
accessible by members 15 via the network 20. The predicted shelf
life can be a specific date on which the product is expected to
expire, or alternatively, the shelf life can be a period of time in
which the product is predicted to remain viable. In some
constructions, the controller 50 can automatically generate a
report containing the shelf life information. The controller 50 can
also generate reports containing the shelf life information in
response to requests from members 15. In these constructions,
additional information can be included in the reports (e.g., sensed
conditions of the product, product information, product location,
historical data, etc.).
[0027] Often, products are stored and/or transported on pallets or
other storage and shipment devices (e.g., packages, containers,
consignment for transport, etc.). A unique sensor 40 is assigned to
each pallet or a group of pallets to identify the products on the
pallet or pallets. For example, the sensor 40 can be assigned to a
particular pallet by the supplier when the product is harvested or
manufactured. Alternatively, the sensor 40 can be assigned to the
pallet when the product is prepared for shipment or transport from
the supplier to other members 15 in the supply chain. The supplier
or another member 15 can input the identity of the product and any
other related information (e.g., weather conditions during harvest,
manufacturing conditions, etc.) into the sensor 40 when the sensor
40 is assigned to particular product. In some constructions, each
sensor 40 can be assigned to a particular type of product and/or
package and/or container and/or consignment for transport.
[0028] In some constructions, a data storage device or bar code 42
can be assigned to each product on a pallet or in a container to
store static information related to the product. Generally, the bar
codes 42 are two-dimensional bar codes that include information
related to the origins of the product on which the bar code is
affixed (e.g., directly to the product or on product packaging,
etc.), and other relevant information. In other constructions, the
bar codes 42 may include other data storage devices (e.g., RFID
tags, etc.). Hereinafter, the term "bar code" shall be used to
represent all such data storage devices and shall not be construed
to limit the invention's application solely to two-dimensional
static bar codes. The information can be downloaded or input or
encoded in the bar code 42 at any point in the supply chain, and
further can be attached to the products at any point in the supply
chain (e.g., by a farmer, manufacturer, etc.). For example, the
information may be encoded in the bar code 42 when the product is
harvested or manufactured.
[0029] One sensor 40 may be assigned to one or a plurality of bar
codes 42 associated with a corresponding number of products on a
pallet. In some constructions, more than one sensor 40 may be
assigned to a particular bar code 42. Some bar codes 42 are no
longer associated with the assigned sensor 40 after the products
are separated from the pallet with which the sensor 40 is in
communication. Generally, the data or information collected by the
sensor 40 that is related to the removed bar coded product is
nested or stored in the database 30, and is associated or linked in
the database 30 with the assigned bar code 42 that is now separated
from the sensor 40. As a result, the conditions or parameters
sensed by the sensors 40 can be associated or linked to the bar
code(s) 42 via the database 30, and can be recalled by one or more
members 15.
[0030] When the sensor 40 is assigned to the bar code 42 on a
particular product, the assignment information between the sensor
40 and the bar code 42 is stored in the database 30 for retrieval
by the members 15. For example, when products are initially placed
in the supply chain, one or more sensors 40 are assigned to the bar
code 42 corresponding to a particular product. When a product is
separated from the first assigned sensor 40, one or more additional
sensors 40 may be used to sense conditions and parameters
associated with the product. The sensed information, as discussed
above, is stored in the database 30. In order for the stored
information related to a particular product to be recalled by one
or more members 15, the additional sensors 40 are also assigned to
the bar code 42.
[0031] Each bar code 42 is a static information storage system that
includes information related to the corresponding product as of the
date on which product information was entered or encoded in the bar
code 42. The conditions to which the product is subjected to after
the information is encoded in the bar code 42 are generally not
included in the information stored in the bar code 42. In some
constructions, writable or rewritable bar codes may be used to
allow additional information to be encoded in the bar code 42.
Generally, the information that is encoded in the bar code 42
allows substantial information related to the product, including
historical information, to be accessed via the database 30. The
association between the sensors 40 and the bar codes 42 in the
database 30 allows the receiver to better manage inventory, and
allows an end user or consumer to make a more reliable purchasing
decision.
[0032] Each bar code 42 represents or identifies a particular
product to which the bar code 42 is associated. The bar code 42 may
include only an identifier, or may include a part of or a complete
history of the product from the product's inception or harvest,
including environmental conditions, the time period between
inception and delivery to the receiver, and other parameters that
are measured by the corresponding sensor 40. Each bar code 42
provides a link within the database 30 to information related to
the product that was sensed by one or more sensors 40, and to
information related to the shelf-life of the product for access by
a consumer or a receiver.
[0033] In some constructions, the shelf life information may be
accessible by accessing the database 30. For example, when a
consumer purchases a package of apples with the bar code 42 affixed
to the package, the consumer or the receiver can use an input
device or bar code scanner to scan the bar code 42 and determine
the estimated shelf life for the apples. Alternatively, a user can
input the number or label associated with the bar code 42 to
determine the estimated shelf life. The scanner is in communication
with the database 30 via the network 20 so that the information
sensed by the sensors 40 and assigned to the bar code 42, and
therefore assigned the bar coded product, can be accessed using the
bar code 42. As a result, product information gathered throughout
the supply chain can be accessible using the bar codes 42 as an
identifier within the database 30.
[0034] In other constructions, the shelf life information may be
directly encoded in the bar code 42, and can include the date on
which the information from the sensor 40 was encoded in the bar
code 42. The consumer can calculate the remaining shelf life based
on this encoded date. Alternatively, the bar code scanner may be
programmed to calculate the remaining shelf life based on the
information scanned from the bar code 42.
[0035] The readers 45 communicate with the sensors 40 to capture
information or data related to the products (e.g., product type,
conditions of the product, etc.) and to deliver the information to
the database 30 via the network 20. The algorithms 55, 60 used by
the controller 50 measure the quality of the products by estimating
or predicting the shelf-life of the products as well as other data
related to the products. Communication of product information from
the readers 45 to the database 30 occurs throughout the shipping
process to provide up-to-date, near real-time data regarding the
quality of the products. The sensors 40 are read by the reader 45
continually or at predetermined intervals. The controller 50 uses
the algorithms 55, 60 to update the shelf-life calculations based
on the most recent data, and stores the updated calculations in the
database 30.
[0036] The process control system 35 includes predetermined process
controls and monitoring procedures 70, personnel management 75,
security monitoring systems 80, and product monitoring systems 85.
The predetermined process controls 70, the personnel management 75,
the security monitoring systems 80, and the product monitoring
systems 85 are implemented within the management system 10 at each
step in the supply chain to regulate the quality of the product to
be delivered to the receivers.
[0037] Generally, the process controls 70 include work flow,
timing, and qualitative measurements of the products. The suppliers
(e.g., farmers or growers, manufacturers, etc.) implement the
process controls 70 to provide a product that has relatively high
quality to the receiver. A farmer can use certified processes to
effectively manage the harvest of perishables from a farm. A
manufacturer can use certified processes to produce products that
have dependable, homogenous features or characteristics (e.g.,
consistent paint color, chemical composition, etc.). Auditors or
other similar personnel can be used to conduct random audits and to
post findings or audit reports in the database 30 for access by
other members 15 in the management system 10. The information in
the audit findings can be reviewed by appropriate members 15 to
establish conformity with standard operating procedures that were
previously agreed upon by each member 15.
[0038] The packaging and processing centers include the process
controls 70 to regulate products received from the supplier.
Similar to the supplier, the packaging and processing centers can
be subjected to audits by auditors to determine whether the
processes conform to established operating procedures. The
determinations by the auditors are entered into the database 30,
and can be viewed by enabled members 15.
[0039] The process controls 70 implemented by the transportation
systems can be used to determine how products should be arranged
during shipment to maintain parameters of the goods within the
predetermined conditions stored in the database 30. For example, a
certified process can be implemented to establish certain criteria
or operating parameters regarding how pallets of products are
loaded onto a truck or other transport vehicle. The certified
process prevents products from being loaded in a way that reduces
airflow around the product, which can cause the environmental
conditions of the products to differ from the predetermined
conditions, and which may impact the shelf life of the product.
[0040] In some constructions, electronic curtains (e.g., laser
curtains, radio frequency curtains, etc.) can be installed in the
shipping compartment (e.g., container, cargo hold, etc.) of the
transport vehicle. The electronic curtains can be dynamically
implemented based on the product being transported to ensure
adequate regulation of the product conditions and to avoid any
variations from the desired predetermined conditions. The products
are loaded into the shipping compartment such that a constant,
unbroken electronic curtain is maintained. The management system 10
can deliver a message or report to an operator of the vehicle that
indicates whether the electronic curtain has been broken. Based on
the parameters of the process controls 70, the products cannot be
shipped to a subsequent destination until all electronic curtains
have been maintained.
[0041] The distribution centers can utilize the process controls 70
to direct loading and unloading products from the transport
vehicles. The process controls 70 also regulate storage of the
products in warehouses or other storage areas. Similar to the
process controls 70 discussed above with regard to the suppliers
and the transportation systems, the process controls 70 include
processes to audit the distribution centers so that the
distribution centers within the management system 10 are in
compliance with standard operating procedures. The results or
findings of the audits are stored in the database 30 (e.g., as
audit reports) for future reference by members 15 of the management
system to facilitate training and certification of products and
assets (e.g., refrigeration systems, heating systems, etc.) in the
supply chain.
[0042] The process controls 70 may also be used to monitor product
loads (e.g., individual pallets, transport units, etc.) that are
left unattended by the transportation systems. For example, the
sensors 40 or other sensors may include an audio and/or visual
alarm that communicates a detrimental condition affecting the
products on which the sensors 40 are affixed. The sensors 40 can
send out the alarm directly (e.g., to the area surrounding the
products), or through the network 20 to one or more members 15 via
the controller 50 and the database 30 similar to the alarms
generated by the response system 65. In some constructions, the
alarm can be generated by the sensors 40 when the sensors 40 have
not been read by the readers 45 for a predetermined period of time.
In other constructions, the alarm may be generated by the sensors
40 when the sensors 40 detect adverse conditions (e.g., high
temperature, low humidity, high humidity, etc.) adjacent to the
products that are being monitored.
[0043] The personnel management 75 is similar for each member 15
with access to the management system 10, and regulates access to
the products and/or facilities, and to information related to the
products through an access control system controlled by the
controller 50. The access control system stores information related
to each member 15 (e.g., certifications, employee information,
etc.) in the database 30 to regulate access to the products and
information related to the products. The access control system
provides dynamic scheduling of personnel to allow changes to or
modification of personnel access privileges to the products and/or
facilities (e.g., access to some but not all bays at a warehouse,
etc.) in the supply chain. Personnel access privileges are
maintained in the database 30 for access by members 15 with
appropriate credentials.
[0044] Generally, the personnel management 75 generates reminders
or alarms related to re-certifications and training for each member
15 based on the information stored in the database 30. The members
15 are trained and certified such that the products are handled in
each phase of the supply chain according to predetermined operating
parameters that are defined by the process control system 35. With
regard to the suppliers, personnel can be certified to harvest or
produce products according to the corresponding predetermined
operating parameters. With regard to the processing centers and
distribution centers, personnel can be certified to handle,
process, and store products according to associated predetermined
operating parameters. Transportation systems personnel can be
trained and certified to control loading and unloading of products
from the transport vehicles, and to maintain the products at the
desired predetermined conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air
quality, etc.).
[0045] The training and certification reminders are delivered to
respective members 15 based on a predetermined schedule. For
example, the reminders can be delivered to members 15 thirty days
prior to expiration of certification. The personnel management 75
also includes controls that propose future training and
re-certification processes to the members 15 so that certification
of each member 15 can be effectively maintained. In some
constructions, the personnel management 75 can also include an
automated time and attendance system to calculate the time that
particular personnel have worked with or handled the products. The
personnel management 75 uses the information gathered by the time
and attendance system to determine payroll consequences, and to
calculate the cost associated with the products (e.g., harvesting,
manufacturing, storing, shipping, moving, etc.).
[0046] In some constructions, the personnel management 75 can
schedule certain personnel for predetermined tasks based on
configurable requirements. Generally, these requirements are based
on the products that are being handled. The personnel management 75
matches products with personnel who have skill sets that are
appropriate for handling or dealing or testing the products. The
personnel management 75 may also include other relevant information
(e.g., labor agreement rules, overtime policies, personnel
information, etc.) that is relevant to the predetermined tasks. For
example, when a shipment of meat arrives at a distribution center,
the personnel management 75 can schedule one or more meat
inspectors or meat quality control personnel to inspect the
products and to make a determination as to the product condition.
In this example, the personnel management 75 does not schedule
fruit or vegetable inspectors or related quality control personnel.
The personnel management 75 can result in substantial cost savings
related to personnel, including, but not limited to, overtime costs
and down time.
[0047] The security monitoring system 80 generally relates to
security of the facility or transport vehicle containing the
products so that the products are not subjected to adverse
conditions that reduce the shelf life or quality of the products.
The facilities of suppliers, processing centers, and distribution
centers are secured using video surveillance, access systems, and
security personnel. In some constructions, additional security
monitoring features may be used to secure the products. Similar to
other processes in the management system 10, the security
monitoring system 80 operates based on predetermined operating
parameters established by one or more members 15 via the process
control system 35, or by other entities (e.g., customs officials,
etc.). The facilities are periodically certified to ensure
compliance with the predetermined operating procedures. Facilities
that have been certified are considered "trusted" or "secure"
facilities.
[0048] The security monitoring system 80 utilized by the
transportation systems includes monitoring systems within the
shipping process that are integral to maintaining the products at
the predetermined conditions (e.g., refrigeration systems, heating
systems, humidity systems, air quality control systems,
vibration-resistance systems, etc.). Access to components or assets
of these systems by certified personnel is restricted using the
access control system to ensure that predetermined operating
parameters related to the systems are followed. An electronic
verification system is incorporated into the security monitoring
system 80 to allow operation of the components by designated or
authorized personnel.
[0049] The assets can include electronic controls that generate
alarms in response to violation of one or more predetermined
operating procedures or conditions. The electronic controls also
can generate alarms in response to the assets not operating in a
desired state. Generally, the alarms are delivered to the
controller 50 and the database 30 for corrective action to address
the alarm condition. For example, a refrigeration unit on a truck
can be used to maintain the products within a desired temperature
range. Sensors 40 attached to or adjacent the products can detect
hot spots or cold spots that may affect the shelf-life or quality
of the products. As discussed above, the parameters measured by the
sensors 40 are stored in the database 30. In response to the
signals indicative of a hot spot or cold spot, the controller 50
delivers instructions to the electronic controls of the associated
system asset to correct the undesired condition of the products
(e.g., increase or decrease the temperature). If the component
fails to correct the undesired condition, the controller 50
notifies the operator or manager of the transport vehicle to
initiate corrective actions. These corrective actions can include
repair or replacement of defective components, or other actions
(e.g., returning the vehicle for maintenance).
[0050] The security monitoring system 80 for the transportation
system also can include video surveillance to protect and secure
the products being shipped within the carriers or vehicles. The
security monitoring system 80 operates based on predetermined
operating procedures or parameters established by one or more
members 15, or by other entities (e.g., customs officials, etc.).
The vehicles or carriers are periodically certified to ensure
compliance with the predetermined operating parameters. Vehicles
that have been certified are considered "trusted" or "secure"
vehicles that are suitable for carrying products under the
management system 10 and through the supply chain, and can receive
expedited clearance at control points to facilitate quicker
shipment of the products being carried through the supply
chain.
[0051] The asset monitoring system 85 is in communication with the
product monitoring system 25 to observe and control various product
conditions throughout shipment of the product from the suppliers to
the receivers. In some constructions, the asset monitoring system
85 is in communication with the database 30 to monitor and control
product conditions. The suppliers track information related to
producing the products using the asset monitoring system 85. For
example, a grower can monitor environmental conditions (e.g.,
weather patterns, ambient temperature, humidity, etc.) after the
products have been harvested. The processing centers, the
distribution centers, and the transportation system also track
information related to product storage and transport at various
points along the supply chain using the asset monitoring system 85.
As discussed above, the data can be acquired by the asset
monitoring system 85 through the product monitoring system 25
continuously or at predetermined intervals.
[0052] In some constructions (e.g., when product conditions are
sensed at predetermined intervals), one or more members 15 can
manually request product information or data from the product
monitoring system 25 using the asset monitoring system 85 at any
time during shipment of the product through the supply chain. The
acquired data is stored in the database 30 for access by
appropriate members 15 over the network 20, and can be used by the
appropriate members 15 to selectively alter the conditions to which
the product is subjected.
[0053] In other constructions, product conditions can be
automatically altered using the asset monitoring system 85 without
direct human intervention. In these constructions, the asset
monitoring system 85 is a smart asset system that allows automatic
control of product conditions by the assets within the supply chain
(e.g., display cases, merchandisers, transport units, warehouse
storage units, etc.) based on historical and near-real time sensed
conditions without direct initiation by the members 15. These
assets can monitor product conditions throughout the supply chain
using the asset monitoring system 85, and can control the
conditions of the product by selectively varying the conditions to
which the product is being subjected to optimize the quality of the
product.
[0054] At least some of the members 15, and in some constructions
any member 15, in the supply chain have access to near real-time
product data, and can make logistics decisions based on the data
stored in the database 30. Logistics decisions can include whether
the products should be abandoned, whether the vehicle and the
products in the vehicle should be routed to a destination different
from the original destination (e.g., to increase sales of the
products), and whether the products should be returned to a
particular member 15 in the supply chain. Additional logistical
decisions that can be made by certain members 15 (e.g., processing
centers, distribution centers, etc.) include inventory management
(e.g., first-to-expire products shipped out first), and arrangement
of replacement delivery to avoid out-of-stock products at the
receivers.
[0055] Generally, the members 15 determine measurable and
controllable parameters to monitor and regulate based on the type
of product to be shipped. These parameters are stored in the
database 30 for access by members 15 to facilitate comparison of
the parameters with existing processes, and for future retrieval
and updates. The stored parameters can affect the process controls
70, the access control systems, the security monitoring systems 80,
as well as other systems in the management system 10. For example,
instead of a first product in, first out ("FIFO") business
practice, members 15 can utilize a first product expiring, first
out ("FEFO") business practice to ensure customer satisfaction and
optimization of profit margins.
[0056] The management system 10 provides automated contingency
planning within the supply chain. The data collected throughout the
supply chain that is stored in the database 30 allows members 15 to
optimize inventory turns and profitability and to avoid supply
bottlenecks. For example, when inventory turns are relatively slow
at one or more receivers, products can be redirected during
shipment to other receivers who have quicker or higher product
inventory turns. Similarly, harvesters, manufacturers, and other
members 15 can utilize the management system 10 to optimize
profitability by supplying certain products to receivers who return
the highest profit margins. Within the management system 10,
product shipments can be redirected at any point in the supply
chain to members 15 who may be able to return a higher return on
investment for a particular product.
[0057] The management system 10 also provides the members 15 with
the capability of closely monitoring food safety by providing
detailed and effective quality control. By tracking products
throughout the supply chain, members are better able to determine
what product loads may need to be quarantined. The management
system 10 facilitates better communication of the location of
recalled products, and the member 15 who is in charge of the
location at which the recalled products are located. The database
30 also provides information regarding the origins of the recalled
products that allows quarantines to be more effectively and
knowledgeably applied to limit additional adverse consequences.
[0058] The management system 10 also allows trading products (e.g.,
commodities) based on information collected from the time of the
product's creation (e.g., harvest, manufacture). A trading system
(not shown) such as a board of trade can be implemented by the
management system 10 based on indicators within the supply chain
(e.g., the shelf life prediction algorithms 55). The trading system
includes products that are being shipped to a member 15 (e.g.,
broker, etc.) located in the supply chain, but who may not be an
end destination such as a receiver. The trading system allows the
broker to purchase products from a producer (e.g., a farmer or
manufacturer), and to sell the products to bidders in a futures
market based at least in part on product conditions monitored
during the progress of the products through the supply chain. For
example, the price of agricultural products can be set based on
environmental conditions and other conditions in existence during
and after the growing season. The receivers and other members 15
can bid on the products through the management system 10 and the
trading system to secure or acquire the desired quantity and
quality of products from the brokers. The trading system can be
adapted to provide very accurate product price controls based on
the extensive product information collected by the management
system 10, and allows members 15 to deliver high quality goods to
receivers and/or consumers who pay a premium price for such
goods.
[0059] In some constructions, the management system 10 can be
accessible by consumers through an online access system so that the
consumers can track the history and shelf life of one or more
products. In these constructions, the database 30 is available to
consumers through the online access system via a network (e.g., the
Internet). The consumers can obtain access through the online
access system to a website that allows the consumers to check for
receivers who have certain products with desirable characteristics.
The online access system can include a detailed history of the
product from the product's inception to delivery to the receiver
based on product information stored in the database 30. The online
access system may also extend the availability of near real-time
data for products by incorporating refrigerated display case
temperatures at receiver locations while the product is on display.
The members 15 can monitor and control access to the online access
system to optimize the flow of goods from the source of the
products to the receivers.
[0060] The products and personnel associated with the products are
monitored and controlled throughout the supply chain to ensure
delivery of high quality products to the receivers. The management
system 10 monitors and controls each step in the supply chain to
prioritize products and people in the process, and to effectively
manage products within the supply chain. The management system 10
utilizes the network 20 to seamlessly track products throughout the
supply chain, and to assist the decision-making process of members
15 with regard to the products at various spots in the supply
chain. Certified processes, people, and facilities enable
transportation and delivery of products effectively and quickly by
minimizing delays at various points within the supply chain. The
management system 10 also effectively tracks information related to
the products from harvest and manufacture to receivers, and stores
the information in the database 30 for access by the members 15.
The database 30 retains the historical and real-time data for each
product in the supply chain and tracked by the asset monitoring
system.
[0061] Various features and advantages of the invention are set
forth in the following claims.
* * * * *