Apparatus and method for automatically allocating the time of assets

Abstract

A method for automatically allocating the time of an asset is disclosed. Such a method includes tracking proximity of a first asset relative to a second asset. The first asset may include, for example, a work order or one or more individuals. The second asset may include, for example, a piece of equipment, a room, or a work area. The method determines a duration of time the first asset is deemed to be proximate the second asset. In accordance with the duration of time, the method automatically allocates time of the second assert to at least one of the first asset, an entity associated with the first asset, and a project associated with the first asset. A corresponding system and computer program product are also disclosed herein.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent No. 62 / 011,664 filed on Jun. 13, 2014 and entitled “Systems and Methods for Automating Allocations, for Automating and Incentivizing Business Processes, and for Cooperative Networking of Businesses and Individuals”; U.S. Provisional Patent No. 62 / 015,996 filed on Jun. 23, 2014 and entitled “Wireless Beacon Hardware and Systems Platform”; and U.S. Provisional Patent No. 62 / 087,124 filed on Dec. 2, 2014 and entitled “Wireless Asset Management System”.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The invention relates to systems and methods for wirelessly tracking, managing, and controlling assets; automating allocations; and facilitating cooperative networks of businesses.[0004]2. Background of the Invention[0005]Allocating and managing / using allocations in business operations of all kinds has historically involved a mix of manual and automated processes: workers in production plants, hospitals, law...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a system and method for wirelessly tracking, managing, and controlling assets, as well as automating allocations. The technical effects of the invention include improved systems and methods for automatically allocating time to projects, tracking the proximity of assets to their location, and automatically determining allocations of time and use. The invention also includes methods for facilitating transactions between businesses and updating accounting platforms. Overall, the invention provides more efficient and effective management of assets and improved tracking and allocation capabilities.

Problems solved by technology

Some existing systems may allow for automatic allocations, but only in a very limited sense.

Operations of all sizes must deal with these problems, and larger and more complex operations are subject to larger and more complex errors, which frequently are addressed by adding layers of control / management, each with its own share of manual allocation processes and their accompanying problems and inefficiencies.

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