Integration of Radio Frequency Identification Technology in Product Management

Abstract

In some embodiments, a product management system includes: at least one receiving location configured to receive a product associated with at least one smart device, the at least one smart device being encoded with a unique identification code. The product management system further includes a reader system configured to: receive a first signal transmitted from the at least one smart device; determine a time measurement; determine the status of the product at least in part based on the time measurement; and transmit a second signal based on the status of the product. The product management system further includes at least one display associated with the product and configured to: receive the second signal from the reader system; and generate a visual indication of the status of the product at least in part based on the second signal.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 899,560, filed on September 12, 2019, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The subject matter of the present invention relates to the management of objects, such as but not limited to commercial products. More specifically, the subject matter of the present invention relates to the integration of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology into a product management system for commercial products. Background Art

[0004] Products in a retail environment, such as food products, may go through multiple stages with critical timing during processing and packaging. For food products, timing can affect proper taste and quality.

[0005] For example, pork belly may go through one or more of the processes of brining, pressing, and smoking before being made into sliced bacon for purchase. Some systems also include a storage stage during which partially prepared food products are placed in a cooler or other storage facility as part of the production process. In the case of a brined / smoked food item, the amount of time spent in the storage facility can be crucial because it may be necessary to store the item for a minimum amount of time (e.g., to make the meat firm enough to slice). For example, if stored for more than three days, the meat may become only grind - quality - only, provided that it has not spoiled to the point of having to be disposed of as waste. In another example, fruits and vegetables may go through many stages (harvesting, cleaning, cooking, etc.) before reaching the consumer's table, and the duration in each stage is important for preventing unnecessary spoilage.

[0006] Although freshness is of utmost importance, waste can still occur due to a lack of proper tracking at various stages of food preparation. For example, a container holding a food product may be placed in a location within a storage facility without being properly identified or tracked. In a facility where large quantities of food products are moved in and out, facility operators may easily simply grab what is most convenient rather than what is in the correct queue. Even though some traditional systems may use location tracking, operators may still inadvertently pick up newer items, allowing older items to expire. Therefore, improvements are still possible compared to traditional systems. Summary of the Invention

[0007] There are many aspects of the subject matter of the present invention, which can be embodied, either alone or together, in the devices and systems described and claimed below. These aspects can be used alone or in combination with other aspects of the subject matter described herein, and the description of these aspects together is not intended to exclude: the use of these aspects alone, or the protection of these aspects alone, or the protection of these aspects in different combinations as recited in the scope of the appended claims of the present invention herein.

[0008] In one aspect, a product management system includes: at least one receiving location configured to receive a product associated with at least one smart device, the at least one smart device being encoded with a unique identification code. The product management system further includes a reader system configured to: receive a first signal transmitted from the at least one smart device; determine a time measurement; determine the status of the product at least in part based on the time measurement; and transmit a second signal based on the status of the product. The product management system further includes at least one display associated with the product and configured to: receive the second signal from the reader system; and generate a visual indication of the status of the product at least in part based on the second signal.

[0009] In various embodiments, the at least one smart device may be attached to a container that includes the product. The system may determine a time measurement by evaluating when the first signal is received from the at least one smart device. The system may determine a time measurement by evaluating data stored by the at least one smart device. The system may be configured to identify at least three different product states, at least one of the at least three different product states including: a holding state in which the product should be held for an additional period of time before further processing. At least one of the product states may include: ready for processing a first food product. At least one of the product states may include: ready for processing a second food product. Processing the first food product may include: cutting the product. The first food product may include bacon, and the second food product may include bacon bits. The management system may include a cooler. The at least one smart device may include a radio frequency identification device.

[0010] In various embodiments, at least one of the radio frequency identification devices may be encoded with information about the product, where the product is a food product. The information about the product may include at least one of time and date information. The reader system may include: a database configured to store the unique identification code and associate the unique identification code with the information about the product. The display may include at least one of: a plurality of lights of different colors, each color of light associated with a different condition of the food product; a display configured to alternately display a plurality of lights of different colors, each color associated with a different state of the product; and a screen configured to generate different images, each image indicating a different state of the product. The reader system may be configured to: track the movement of the food product associated with the smart device at least in part based on the reception of the signal from the smart device by different readers at different times.

[0011] In another aspect, a method of managing a product may include: using a reader system, receiving a first signal from a smart device encoded with a unique identification code; determining a time measurement; determining the state of the product at least in part based on the time measurement; and transmitting a second signal indicating the state of the product. The method further includes: using at least one display associated with the product, receiving the second signal; and generating a visual indication of the state of the product at least in part based on the second signal.

[0012] In various embodiments, the smart device may be attached to a container that includes the product. Additionally, determining the time measurement may include: evaluating when the first signal is received from the at least one smart device. Determining the time measurement may also include: evaluating the data stored by the smart device. Determining the status may include identifying at least one of three different product statuses, at least one of the three different product statuses being: a holding status in which the product should be held for an additional period of time before further processing. At least one of the product statuses may include: ready to process a first food product. At least one of the product statuses may include: ready to process a second food product.

[0013] In various embodiments, processing the first food product may include: cutting the product. The first food product may include bacon, and the second food product may include bacon chunks. The reader system may be used in conjunction with a cooler. The smart device may include a radio frequency identification device. The radio frequency identification device may be encoded with information about the product, where the product is a food product. The information about the product may include at least one of time and date information. The method may include: using a database to store the unique identification code and associate the unique identification code with the information about the product.

[0014] In various embodiments, the at least one display may include at least one of the following (e.g., one of the following or a combination of the following items): 1) multiple lights of different colors, each color of light associated with a different condition of the food product; 2) a device configured to alternately display multiple lights of different colors, each color associated with a different state of the product; and 3) a screen configured to generate different images, each image indicating a different state of the product. The method may include: tracking the movement of the food product associated with the smart device at least in part based on the reception of the signal from the smart device by different readers at different times. The reader system may further include a plurality of low-power devices, and the first signal may be received by using at least one of the devices. The method may include: associating the product with a receiving location at the facility by using the smart device encoded with a unique identification code. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 and Figure 2 are top plan views of a product management system according to various embodiments.

[0016] Figure 3A 、Figure 3B and Figure 3C illustrate example display formats according to various different embodiments.

[0017] Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 4C illustrate an example receiving location or several portions of the receiving location according to various different embodiments.

[0018] Figure 5 is a block diagram of an example computer system according to various different embodiments.

[0019] Figure 6 is an illustrative schematic diagram of a computer program product according to various different embodiments. Detailed Description

[0020] It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure, and these embodiments can be embodied in various different forms. Therefore, the specific details disclosed herein should not be construed as restrictive, but only as the basis for the scope of the invention claimed and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to variously utilize the present disclosure in almost any appropriate manner.

[0021] The present disclosure includes systems and methods that can contribute to the rapid identification and positioning of products. For example, some example systems can use radio frequency identification devices to assist in locating products and determining product status based on time measurement. Status indicators can be used to display to an operator, personnel, or other users: the status or location of a specific product or group of products determined based on the radio frequency identification device 28 and the time measurement. For some additional embodiments, different indicators can display different statuses. Such status indicators can be used to facilitate processing, manufacturing, storage, commerce, or other processes.

[0022] Figure 1 illustrate elements of a management system 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure. In Figure 1 embodiments, the product management system 10 includes at least one repository or storage space 11, such as but not limited to at least a portion of a warehouse, a food storage facility, a food processing facility, a clothing store, a grocery store, or another commercial space. The nature of the storage space 11 can vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0023] In some embodiments, the storage space 11 may include a cooler or a part thereof. In other examples, the storage space 11 may include or be a part of a warehouse having certain temperature or humidity requirements (such as being maintained within a certain temperature range). Additionally, in various embodiments, the size of the storage space 11 may be designed to allow a forklift operator to drive a forklift carrying the product container 32 in and out of the storage space 11, such as along Figure 1 the path specified by the arrow in

[0024] While some embodiments of the present disclosure discuss the use of the product management system 10 in a food-based environment, it is important to note that the present disclosure is not limited to such an environment. For example, the present disclosure can be used in any type of "first in, first out" scenario where timing is emphasized, such as but not limited to pharmaceuticals, medical devices, perishable items, consumer items with expiration dates, and seasonal items. Examples of perishable items may include toothpaste, cosmetics, and contact lenses. Seasonal items may include clothing associated with fashion trends or limited periods during which utility may persist, holiday-type items or devices that are more useful during a particular period and less useful during other periods. Examples of such seasonal items or other devices may include lawn mowers, skiing equipment, and snow blowers. The present disclosure also contemplates that the product management system 10 of the present disclosure can be used in conjunction with adhesive storage and / or label storage facilities.

[0025] In various embodiments, the storage space 11 includes one or more receiving locations 12. If the storage space 11 includes multiple receiving locations 12 (such as Figure 1 ), then the receiving locations 12 may all be the same, or two or more of the receiving locations 12 may differ in configuration.

[0026] The receiving location 12 may represent a single product container 32, such as a reservoir, bin, or tote. The receiving location 12 may also represent locations such as part or all of a hanging location (such as for meat or clothing), a shelving location, a floor space, a table space, or a rack space. Thus, the receiving location 12 may represent the location of an individual product 14 or product container 32, or a larger space or structure for holding multiple products 14, or a reservoir or bin each configured to hold multiple products 14. Accordingly, the at least one receiving location 12 may include any type of storage unit having a perimeter and an area (see Figures 4A to 4C ).

[0027] In some embodiments, each receiving location 12 is configured to receive one or more gaylord containers, which can be a bulk container for loading multiple items and suitable for transportation by pallet and forklift. An exemplary gaylord container can have a height ranging between 24 inches and 48 inches. Exemplary gaylord containers can have length and width dimensions similarly ranging between 36 inches and 48 inches, with exemplary dimensions including 36"x36", 40"x40", 40"x48", or 48"x48". The length and width dimensions provided above can correspond to standard pallet dimensions, and other dimensions are also possible. Gaylord containers can be made of plastic, metal, cardboard, or other materials.

[0028] The product management system 10 can further include at least one display 18. In the illustrated embodiment, each receiving location 12 includes an associated display 18, but the relative number of receiving locations 12 and displays 18 can vary in various embodiments. For example, the product management system 10 can include a plurality of receiving locations 12 and one display 18.

[0029] The at least one display 18 can be an LCD, LED, or any type of display or light known in the art. For example, the display 18 can include at least one of the following (e.g., one of the following or a combination of the following): a light, a flashing light, or a panel of multiple lights having the same color or different colors. The display screen 18 can also include an LED or LCD screen for displaying pictures, videos, numbers, barcodes, QR codes, or other images.

[0030] Each product 14 or group of products 14 placed in the receiving location 12 can include or be associated with at least one associated smart device, such as a radio frequency identification device 28, an NFC device, an EPC device, Device 30 or UPC device, the at least one associated smart device can be of various different configurations. For example, the radio frequency identification device 28 can be directly attached to the product 14 or attached to the package or outer box containing the product 14. The at least one radio frequency identification device 28 can be encoded with a unique identification code to specifically identify the product 14 associated therewith, such as but not limited to food. The radio frequency identification device 28 can be further encoded with additional information, and the additional information can include but not limited to information about the product, such as time, date, and batch information. In one embodiment, the product management system 10 includes a database configured to store the unique identification codes of various products 14 or product containers 32 passing through the storage space 11. The database can associate each unique identification code with information about the product 14, including time and / or date information. In one embodiment, the database can be used in association with a specific type of software that facilitates the processing and / or accommodation of information and data. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the information obtained from the radio frequency identification device 28 associated with at least one product can be used in a blockchain to trace the origin of the product.

[0031] In various different embodiments, the radio frequency identification device 28 associated with the product 14 can be read by one or more parts of the reader system 24. The configuration of the reader system 24 can vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. According to some embodiments and as Figure 1 shown, the reader system 24 can include: at least one overhead radio frequency identification reader 16, which can be an overhead unit located at one or more specific locations within the storage facility 1. The location can be centralized within the storage space 11 or distributed within the storage space 11 in the case of using multiple overhead radio frequency identification readers 16. In some embodiments in which the overhead radio frequency identification reader 16 is employed, the reader system 24 can include the RAIN radio frequency identification gateway of Impinj, Inc. in Seattle, Washington.

[0032] In various embodiments, the one or more overhead radio frequency identification (RFID) readers 16 may be configured to: transmit a signal to the RFID device 28 associated with the product 14 within the storage space 11 and receive a return signal transmitted from each RFID device 28 within its range. The reader system 24 or the overhead RFID reader 16 may be configured to use multiple antennas to triangulate the signal, thereby determining the location of the RFID device 28 from which the return signal it receives originated. By identifying the location of the RFID device, the reader system 24 is also able to: determine the receiving location 12 where the product 14 or the product container 32 is located based on the physical measurement of the distance from the overhead reader 16 to the various receiving locations 12 within the storage space 11. The reader system 24 may also be configured to track the movement of the product 14 or the product container 32 through the storage space 11, such as by periodically or continuously determining - when one or more products 14 are moved through the storage space 11 - the location of the RFID tags associated with the one or more products 14. If a near field device is used as the smart device, a mobile phone or other types of mobile readers known in the art may be used as part of the reader system 24. The reader system 24 may further include: a portal reader 26, which may be used to identify and track the movement of one or more products 14 and their associated RFID tags through doorways into and out of the storage space 11.

[0033] Reader system 24 can determine the status of product 14 based at least in part on time in one or more time metrics. For example, reader system 24 can obtain the time of entry into storage space 11 from portal reader 26 or overhead reader 16. When using portal reader 26, when a particular radio frequency identification tag is first detected, the system can determine that the associated product 14 has entered storage space 11. Similarly, if overhead reader 16 is used to determine the entry time, when a radio frequency identification tag is first detected, reader system 24 can determine that the detected time is the time when one or more associated products 14 first entered storage space 11. In other embodiments, the time metric is based on data provided by or stored in the radio frequency identification tag, such as the initial slaughter date, the initial meat processing date, the date of completion of marinating, the fruit or vegetable harvest date, the creation date or the manufacturing date. The date provided by the radio frequency identification tag can be compared with the current time metric of reader system 24 when it receives a signal from the radio frequency identification tag, such as to determine whether a time limit regarding freshness has elapsed. In other embodiments, the radio frequency identification tag or other smart device can include other data (such as for the sale of consumer goods or clothing items), such as the initial release date, the appropriate season of use or the date range of use, the type of clothing, the manufacturer identification or the clothing size.

[0034] Reader system 24 can include one or more computer components (such as databases, servers, computers, computer processors, and memories), and the one or more computer components can be used to perform the operations disclosed herein (see Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). The time of detection can be based on the moment when each return signal is first received from a particular radio frequency identification device. If overhead radio frequency identification reader 16 is provided with a built-in chronograph function, overhead radio frequency identification reader 16 itself can determine the moment when the return signal is received. Otherwise, some other component of reader system 24 (such as a server) can determine the moment when the return signal is received. Similarly, if overhead radio frequency identification reader 16 is configured with an "on board" application program that is locally loaded into its reader memory, the processing unit of overhead radio frequency identification reader 16 can perform data evaluation. In some other embodiments, some other component of reader system 24 (such as a server) can analyze the return signal or determine the moment when the signal is received.

[0035] The state of Product 14 can depend on the type of Product 14 being considered and the passage of time. For example, in a pork processing plant, four states can be utilized, including: 1) Not yet ready to be cut; 2) Ready to be cut for a first purpose; 3) Ready to be used for a second purpose; 4) Expired. Depending on the specific Product 14 involved and based on the available data, there may be additional or fewer states. For example, some other embodiments can determine the state based on surface temperature measurement or internal temperature measurement of Product 14, the source of the product, or the type of meat.

[0036] In various different embodiments, the first state of "Not yet ready to be cut" can apply to Product 14, such as a pork belly that has recently been brought into storage space 11 for chilling, for example, at a temperature between 20°F and 40°F, or in some embodiments between 24°F and 30°F, or between 24°F and 26°F. The pork belly may have recently completed processing (such as salting) and may still need to be chilled to achieve an ideal texture for cutting. Without such chilling, the pork belly may be less suitable for cutting due to one or more of its softness and slipperiness, each of which can be improved by chilling for a period of time. The first duration can be between 0 and 18 hours, or up to 1 day, 2 days, or 3 days.

[0037] The second state of "Ready to be cut for a first purpose" can include cutting the pork or pork belly for bacon, pork chops, ribs, or other uses. The pork or pork belly can be in the second state starting from the end of the first state and lasting for another 1 day, 2 days, or 3 days.

[0038] The third state of "Ready to be used for a second purpose" can apply to cutting or grinding the pork or pork belly for bacon chunks or other uses, such as soup, animal feed, fertilizer, or other uses. In some embodiments, additional state categories can apply to one or more of these additional categories. For example, after Product 14 is no longer suitable for making bacon chunks, it can still be used for soup the next day and for animal feed or fertilizer within five (5) days. The pork or pork belly can be in the third state starting from the end of the first state and lasting for another one (1) day, two (2) days, three (3) days, five (5) days, or seven (7) days.

[0039] The fourth state of "Expired" can be implemented after all viable uses are no longer applicable. At this stage, the operator may only need to dispose of Product 14. The fourth state can start after the end of the third state. In cases where additional useful states are envisioned, the fourth state can start after the end of these additional useful states.

[0040] In some other embodiments, the reader system 24 may operate using three states. For example, if the product 14 has not been stored in the storage space 11 for a long enough time, the radio frequency identification reader system may assign a first condition or state to the product 14 (which may be an "unready" condition). If the product 14 has been stored in the storage space 11 for a long enough time and is ready to be removed from the storage space 11, the radio frequency identification reader system may assign a second condition or state to the product 14 (which may be a "ready" condition). If the product 14 has been stored in the storage space 11 for a time longer than a specified maximum duration, the radio frequency identification reader system may assign a third condition or state to the product 14 (which may be a "scrap" state).

[0041] For some other embodiments related to clothing or other consumer products, the "not yet ready" state may apply to products that have been manufactured but not yet approved for public release. For example, clothing, products, automobiles, electronic devices, game consoles, computers, or games on a computer or game console may have a specific date for intended public release and may be required to be stored until that date. For consumer products, generally, an "interested" or "not interested" state may apply to specific consumers based on some data such as consumer groups, past purchase history of similar or related items, purchase wish lists, clothing (such as shoe) sizes, manufacturers, seasonality, or sales status. Other criteria may also apply.

[0042] For single food items placed in a freezer storage, an "available" or "not available" or "fresh" or "not fresh" state may apply, depending on how many hours, days, weeks, or months the food item has been stored. Depending on the type of food placed in the freezer, the recommended maximum storage time may vary between 1 and 24 months and may have an upper limit at 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, or 24 months. Example food states may be divided according to the duration in the freezer and the maximum recommended period for that food type. For example, a cow carcass may be allowed to be stored in the freezer for up to 1 year, and some states such as "early", "mid-term", and "near expiration" may be applied to cow carcasses stored in the freezer for up to 4, 8, and 12 months, respectively. A cow carcass stored for more than 12 months may be given an "expired" state.

[0043] The operation of the display 18 can be determined based on the specific state of one or more products 14. For example, after determining the state of the product 14, the radio frequency identification reader system can transmit a signal to: the display 18 associated with the receiving location 12 holding the product 14. Then, the display 18 can provide a visual indication of the state of the product 14 in the associated receiving location 12 to the personnel. The configuration of the display screen 18 and the nature of the information presented on the display screen 18 can vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0044] In some embodiments, the display 18 includes: a plurality of lights of different colors (e.g., red, green, and yellow), and each color of light is associated with a different state of the product 14. In another embodiment, the display 18 includes: lights configured to alternately display a variety of different colors, and each color is associated with a different state of the product 14. In yet another embodiment, the display 18 is provided as a screen configured to generate different images, and each image indicates a different state of the product 14.

[0045] In various different embodiments, the display 18 can also provide numbers or text either in addition to the displayed color or in the case where there is no specific color indicating the state. The numbers can be used as a countdown to show the remaining time (in minutes, hours, or days) of a specific state. Alternatively, the numbers can be used as a counter to show the time elapsed in the current state. The text can be used to explain or describe the current state, the time to the next state, the next state that will occur, or other useful information, such as the type of the product 14 currently being tracked at the specific receiving location 12.

[0046] Regardless of the specific configuration of the display 18, it can help inform the personnel whether the product 14 is ready to be taken out of the storage space 11 or how the product 14 can currently be best used, thereby reducing the likelihood of improper handling of the product 14. For example, if the display 18 is configured as a light stack, a yellow light can indicate to the personnel that the product 14 is still fresh but needs to "stay" further or remain in the storage space 11. A dark green light can indicate to the staff that the product 14 is ready to be taken out of the storage space 11, for example, for a first use. In the case where one or more additional states are used, a light green light or other colors can be used to indicate that the product 14 is available for a second use. A red light can indicate to the personnel that the product 14 has expired and will be disposed of as waste. Different colors or signals can also be provided for the above states, and additional colors can be used if other states are also used.

[0047] In some embodiments, the display 18 can be used within or near the storage space 11 to display a table as follows: how many products 14 or product containers 32 are in each given state within one or more receiving locations 12. For example, in some embodiments, if a receiving location 12 is a lane or aisle, the display 18 for that receiving location can indicate that the aisle includes four product containers 32 in a first state, ten product containers 32 in a second state, five containers in a third state, and two product containers 32 in a fourth state. Alternatively, the display 18 can be used to summarize the contents of the storage space 11 by using text, numbers, and / or colors to identify the number of products 14 or product containers 32 in each state within each receiving location 12.

[0048] It should be understood that the operations, images, and systems described are merely example approaches. Other approaches can be employed to signal the status or condition of the products 14 in the storage space 11 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0049] In some other embodiments, for example, in Figure 2 , the product management system 10 can employ a plurality of radio frequency identification (RFID) readers 20 instead of a single overhead RFID reader 16. In Figure 2 embodiments, each RFID reader 20 is positioned near and / or coupled to a different one or more of the plurality of receiving locations 12. Each RFID reader 20 is configured to receive return signals emitted from the RFID devices 28 within its corresponding receiving location 12, rather than all of the RFID devices 28 in the storage space 11. For example, in Figure 2 embodiments, one of the RFID readers 20 is configured to interact with the RFID devices 28 of the products 14 housed within any receiving location 12 on the left side of the storage space 11 (such as part A), and another RFID reader 20 is configured to interact with the RFID devices 28 of the products 14 housed within any receiving location 12 on the right side of the storage space 11 (such as part B). Although Figure 2 shows two RFID readers 20, it should be understood that any number of RFID readers 20 can be employed, and the RFID readers 20 can have various different positions within the storage space 11. All of the RFID readers 20 of the RFID reader system can be similarly configured, or at least two of all the RFID readers 20 can be differently configured.

[0050] In some embodiments, the RFID reader 20 is configured to receive a return signal from an RFID device 28 located at its corresponding receiving position. The reader system 24 can use one or more time measurements to determine the status of each product 14 or product container 32, as described above. The reader system 24 can then transmit a signal to the display screen 18 associated with the receiving position 12 where the product 14 associated with the RFID device 28 is located, to provide a visual indication of the status of the associated product 14, as described above. If the product 14 moves from a position within the range of one of the RFID readers 20 to a position within the range of another RFID reader 20 among the RFID readers 20, the reader system 24 can maintain tracking of the position where the RFID device 28 associated with the product 14 was last "seen", thereby tracking the movement of the product 14 in the storage space 11.

[0051] In some embodiments, the reader 22 provides additional tracking capabilities for determining the position or movement of one or more products 14, product containers 32, personnel, vehicles, or other devices. Each reader 22 can have a range of up to 4 meters and can be used individually or in combination with other readers 22 to identify the position and / or movement of the device 30.

[0052] For example, Figure 2 shown is a reader system 24 that includes and is capable of communicating with a plurality of low-power readers 22 located at one or more positions within the storage space 11. The reader 22 can be configured to identify the device 30 that appears within the range and can identify the angle of arrival of the incoming signal, which in turn can allow for real-time triangulation or position estimation of the nearby device 30. For example, the reader 22 can be located at a doorway or other position within the range of movement, thereby allowing for the detection or tracking of the device 30. The reader 22 can be arranged to provide full coverage of an area for continuous tracking, or they can be located at some key points to allow tracking of the moments of entry and exit from a specific area. The reader 22 can be arranged to provide full coverage of an area for continuous tracking, or they can be located at some key points to allow tracking of the moments of entry and exit from a specific area.

[0053] Radio Frequency Identification and The combination with the technology can provide additional benefits, such as enabling the operation of a real-time location system that can continuously monitor each receiving location 12 and the product 14 in the receiving location 12. For example, one or more products 14 or product containers 32 may include radio frequency identification devices 28 or devices 30. The system can track based on the most recent sensor readings, and priority can be given to the radio frequency identification reader 20 or reader 22. In other words, for the readings that occur in one system or the other within a given time period, one system or the other may be selected as the preferred for handling conflicts, possibly based on reliability or accuracy. In some embodiments, the radio frequency identification reader 20 may be given priority.

[0054] In some embodiments, the material handling equipment may be provided with a radio frequency identification reader 20 and used in a system for equipment location within a facility. Thus, the system can not only track and trace food products but also track how personnel work in the facility in accordance with the movement of food products. Personnel tracking may include monitoring the time required to complete a given task, which can provide a basis for improving the workflow.

[0055] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the product management system 10 can be used in an agricultural product and / or meat processing environment. For example, grocery stores, shippers, and growers of agricultural products attach great importance to the freshness and quality of products. In another embodiment, the product management system 10 can be used to manage products in the fashion industry, which involves significant changes in the value or utility of goods over different time periods. For example, the popularity of any given style can change over a period of weeks or months, and seasonal changes regularly alter whether a particular clothing item is useful or inappropriate.

[0056] Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B and Figure 3C are diagrams of the display formats of example displays 18 according to various different embodiments. The display formats of these displays 18 can be used for: physical signs operated by lights, display monitors presenting images generated by a computer processor, or user interfaces for smart phones, tablets, or computers.

[0057] Figure 3A may represent a stack of lights composed of four lights placed side by side, representing different status indicators. As shown, Figure 3A includes a first status indicator light 104A, a second status indicator light 106A, a third status indicator light 108A, and a fourth status indicator light 110A. The number of status indicators can be between 1 and 20, and additional status indicators can be used as needed, depending on the number of statuses being tracked. Figure 3AThe display 118A can be composed of four independent lights or a screen that can display an image of four independent lights. In some embodiments, the display 118A can include a single light (e.g., an LED, a fluorescent lamp, or an incandescent lamp) or a screen (e.g., an LED or an LCD), and the single light or screen operates to light up in different colors to represent different states. Figure 3A The display 118A can be mounted or suspended on a wall, a shelf, a floor, a ceiling, a product container 32, a product 14, or a pole or other support. In some other embodiments, the stack of lights can include lights or display images arranged vertically, circularly, irregularly, in a ring arrangement, nested, and / or in other arrangements.

[0058] Figure 3B It includes a display 118B that identifies a receiving location 112B and a series of status indicators at that receiving location. Figure 3B It includes a first set of status indicators 104B that show how many individual items (such as product 14 or product container 32) are in a first state. The displayed number can correspond to the number of radio frequency identification devices at the receiving location 112B determined by real-time positioning, and each radio frequency identification device 28 can in turn correspond to a product 14, a product container 32, or another associated individual item or group of items. Similarly, a second set of status indicators 106B, a third set of status indicators 108B, and a fourth set of status indicators 110B can show the number of products 14 or product containers 32 at the receiving location 112B and in a second state, a third state, or a fourth state respectively.

[0059] Figure 3C It includes a display 118C that includes a receiving location group 112C listing a group of receiving locations 12. These receiving locations 12 can be grouped together for various reasons. For example, the receiving location group 112C can include all individual items (e.g., radio frequency identification devices 28, devices 30, products 14, and / or product containers 32) within the storage space 11. Other groupings can be based on individual items associated with a specific radio frequency reader 20, a specific operator, or a specific type of product 14. For example, the types of products 14 can be grouped by meat type, clothing type, toy type, brand name, manufacturer, size range, weight range, or other categories.

[0060] Figure 3CThe first group of status indicators 104C, the second group of status indicators 106C, the third group of status indicators 108C, and the fourth group of status indicators 110C are also included. These status indicators can respectively indicate the number of items in the first state, the second state, the third state, or the fourth state in the receiving position group 112C and the corresponding receiving position 12. Similarly, the number of states and corresponding status indicators can vary in different embodiments.

[0061] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C An example receiving location 212A or portions of a receiving location 12 are shown according to various embodiments. For example, Figure 4A Shown is floor space or rows of items designated for product containers 232A (such as gaylord boxes) that can be transported via pallets. Each gaylord box can contain multiple products 214A (such as pork bellies) that may require refrigeration before being cut for various uses.

[0062] Each receiving location 212A may be associated with a display 218A including a first status indicator 204A, a second status indicator 206A, a third status indicator 208A, and a fourth status indicator 210A. The corresponding status indicator may be illuminated depending on the status of the product 214A in the product container 232A.

[0063] Figure 4B A receiving position 212B is shown for receiving suspended or suspended items. As shown, Figure 4B A product container 232B (such as a hook or hanger) is included to hang a product 214B (such as an article of clothing). In other embodiments, the hung product 214B may include meat for refrigeration or freezing. Figure 4B A separate status indicator 234B is also included.

[0064] In some embodiments, a single status indicator 234B with one color or display pattern may be sufficient to direct a user or operator to a given location. For example, a user looking for a specific size item may need to limit their search to reduce the time spent looking for a specific item of clothing. Whether through direct user input from a salesperson, user selection through an application, or automatic means (such as by obtaining a status indicator 234B from a user ID card (e.g., a radio frequency identification device 28 or The product management system 10 can then be informed of the specific size items that are suitable for a specific user by manually inputting or automatically (e.g., via an overhead RFID reader 16 and / or Reader 22) identifies the user's location. Then, product management system 10 may be able to highlight, spotlight, or otherwise identify products 14 that meet the "present" and "correct size" status criteria.

[0065] In some other embodiments, each status indicator 234B may have a different display format for presenting different statuses. For example, for the above scenario, various status indicators that a user may be interested in may include sales status, type of clothing, and proper fit. The range of types of clothing may include outerwear, footwear, tops, children's clothing, or other categories.

[0066] The signals provided by each status indicator 234B may include using different colors for different status indicators and may also vary in frequency. For example, for a user interested in properly sized shoes on sale, based on the status of product 14 and the "presence" of product 14 near the user, a yellow light may be given to the appropriate item. The status indicator 234B may glow continuously, may blink, or may change the blink speed based on the proximity of the user to product 14. Other variables that may change based on status and / or proximity may include: brightness, warmth, temperature, or other lighting characteristics. Correspondingly, product 14 that does not meet the user's criteria or other each status indicator 234B at the receiving location may also change in order to provide a contrast for the user, such as by dimming or changing to a darker color.

[0067] Figure 4C An embodiment is shown in which multiple products 14 (such as folded clothes) may be stacked at receiving location 212C (such as on a shelf). Figure 4C Including a first status indicator 204C, a second status indicator 206C, a third status indicator 208C, and a fourth status indicator 210C. These status indicators may be mounted on the ceiling or on the bottom of another shelf and may serve to highlight, spotlight, or otherwise identify products 14 that a consumer may be interested in. Contact Figure 4B The status, color, and lighting variables described may also apply to Figure 4C the products 14 and systems.

[0068] Figure 5A functional block diagram of an example system (i.e., computer system 300) is provided, which can be used to process the signals and / or perform the operations described in this disclosure. The computer system 300 is configured to execute computations, processes, operations, and / or functions associated with a program or algorithm. In one aspect, certain processes and steps discussed herein are implemented as a series of instructions (e.g., software program) that reside within a computer-readable storage unit and are executed by one or more processors of the computer system 300. When executed, these instructions cause the computer system 300 to perform specific actions and exhibit specific behaviors as described herein.

[0069] The computer system 300 may include an address / data bus 302 configured to communicate information. In addition, one or more data processing units (such as processor 304 (or multiple processors)) are coupled to the address / data bus 302. The processor 304 is configured to process information and instructions. In one aspect, the processor 304 is a microprocessor. Alternatively, the processor 304 may be a different type of processor, such as a parallel processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic array (PLA), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0070] The computer system 300 is configured to utilize one or more data storage units. The computer system 300 may include a volatile memory unit 306 (e.g., random access memory (RAM), static RAM, dynamic RAM, etc.) coupled to the address / data bus 302, where the volatile memory unit 306 is configured to store information and instructions for the processor 304. The computer system 300 may further include a non-volatile memory unit 308 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, etc.) coupled to the address / data bus 302, where the non-volatile memory unit 308 is configured to store static information and instructions for the processor 304. Alternatively, the computer system 300 may execute instructions retrieved from an online data storage unit, such as in "cloud" computing. In one aspect, the computer system 300 may further include one or more interfaces, such as interface 310, coupled to the address / data bus 302. The one or more interfaces are configured to enable the computer system 300 to connect to other electronic devices and computer systems through the interfaces. The communication connections implemented through the one or more interfaces may include wired (e.g., serial cable, modem, network adapter, etc.) and / or wireless (e.g., wireless modem, wireless network adapter, etc.) communication technologies.

[0071] In one aspect, computer system 300 may include an input device 312 coupled to address / data bus 302, wherein the input device 312 is configured to communicate information and command selections to processor 100. According to one aspect, input device 312 is an alphanumeric input device that may include alphanumeric keys and / or function keys, such as a keyboard. Alternatively, input device 312 may be an input device other than an alphanumeric input device. In one aspect, computer system 300 may include a cursor control device 314 coupled to address / data bus 302, wherein the cursor control device 314 is configured to communicate user input information and / or command selections to processor 100. In one aspect, cursor control device 314 is implemented using a device such as a mouse, trackball, track pad, optical tracking device, or touch screen. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in one aspect, cursor control device 314 is directed and / or enabled by input from input device 312 (such as in response to the use of special keys and keystroke commands associated with input device 312). In another aspect, cursor control device 314 is configured to be directed or indicated by voice commands.

[0072] In one aspect, computer system 300 may further include one or more optional computer-usable data storage devices coupled to address / data bus 302, such as storage device 316. Storage device 316 is configured to store information and / or computer-executable instructions. In one aspect, storage device 316 is a storage device such as a magnetic or optical disk drive (e.g., hard disk drive (HDD), floppy disk, compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD)). According to one aspect, display device 318 is coupled to address / data bus 302, wherein display device 318 is configured to display video and / or graphics. In one aspect, display device 318 may include a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), field emission display (FED), light emitting diode (LED), plasma display, or any other display device suitable for displaying video and / or graphic images as well as user-identifiable alphanumeric characters.

[0073] The computer system 300 described herein is an example computing environment in accordance with one aspect of the present invention. However, this non-limiting example of the computer system 300 is not strictly limited to one computer system. For example, one aspect proposes that the computer system 300 represents a type of data processing analysis that can be used in accordance with the various different aspects described herein. In addition, other computing systems can also be implemented. In fact, the spirit and scope of the present technology are not limited to any single data processing environment. Thus, in one aspect, one or more operations of the various aspects of the present technology are controlled or implemented using computer-executable instructions (such as program modules) executed by a computer. In one embodiment, such program modules include: routines, programs, objects, components, and / or data structures that are configured to perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. In addition, one aspect proposes that one or more aspects of the present technology are implemented by leveraging one or more distributed computing environments, such as in cases where tasks are performed by remote processing devices connected via a communication network, or in cases where various program modules are located on local and remote computer storage media including memory storage devices.

[0074] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a computer program product (i.e., a storage device) is depicted. The computer program product is depicted as a floppy disk 300 or an optical disc 302 (such as a CD or DVD). However, as previously mentioned, a computer program product generally represents computer-readable instructions stored on any compatible non-transitory computer-readable medium. The term "instructions" as used in connection with the present invention generally represents a set of operations to be performed on a computer and can represent fragments of an entire program or separate, separable software modules. Non-limiting examples of "instructions" include computer program code (source code or object code) and "hard-coded" electronic components (i.e., computer operations programmed into a computer chip). "Instructions" are stored on any non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as a computer's memory or on a floppy disk, CD-ROM, and flash drive. In either of these cases, the instructions are encoded on a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0075] It should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative of some applications of the principles of the subject matter of the present invention. Many modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter (including combinations of features separately disclosed or claimed herein). For these reasons, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above description, but rather as set forth in the appended claims of the invention, and it should be understood that the claims of the invention can be directed to features of the present invention, including combinations of features separately disclosed or claimed herein.

Claims

1. A product management system, comprising: at least one receiving location configured to receive a product associated with at least one smart device, the at least one smart device being encoded with a unique identification code and attached to a container including the product; a reader system configured to: receive a first signal transmitted from the at least one smart device, determine a time measurement by evaluating when the first signal from the at least one smart device is received, determine the status of the product based on the time measurement and the unique identification code of the information associated with the product, and transmit a second signal based on the status of the product; and at least one display associated with the product and configured to: receive the second signal from the reader system and generate a visual indication of the status of the product based at least in part on the second signal; wherein the system is configured to identify at least three different product statuses, the at least three different product statuses including: a hold status in which the product should be held for an additional period of time before further processing; ready for processing a first food product; ready for processing a second food product, where according to the time measurement, the product is no longer used as the first food product and the second food product is different from the first food product.

2. The management system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one smart device is attached to a container including the product.

3. The management system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the system determines the time measurement by evaluating when the first signal from the at least one smart device is received.

4. The management system according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the system determines the time measurement by evaluating the data stored by the at least one smart device.

5. The management system according to claim 1, wherein processing the first food product includes: cutting the product.

6. The management system according to claim 1, wherein the first food product includes bacon and the second food product includes bacon chunks.

7. The management system according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the management system further includes a cooler.

8. The management system according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the at least one smart device includes a radio frequency identification device.

9. The management system according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the radio frequency identification devices is encoded with information about the product, where the product is a food product.

10. The management system according to claim 9, wherein the information about the product includes at least one of time and date information.

11. The management system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the reader system includes: a database configured to store the unique identification code and associate the unique identification code with the information about the product.

12. The management system according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the display includes at least one of the following: Multiple lights of different colors, each color of light being associated with a different condition of the food product; A device configured to alternately display lights of multiple different colors, each color being associated with a different state of the product; and A screen configured to generate different images, each image indicating a different state of the product.

13. The management system according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein, The reader system is configured to: track the movement of the food product associated with the smart device, at least in part based on the reception of the signal from the smart device by different readers at different times.

14. The management system according to claim 13, further comprising a plurality of low-power devices disposed at different positions within the facility. wherein, The at least one of the devices is configured to receive the first signal.

15. A method of managing a product, comprising: Using a reader system to receive a first signal from a smart device, the smart device being encoded with a unique identification code and attached to a container including the product; Determining a time measurement by evaluating when the first signal is received from the at least one smart device, determining the state of the product based on the time measurement and the unique identification code of the information associated with the product, and transmitting a second signal indicating the state of the product; and Using at least one display associated with the product to receive the second signal and generating a visual indication of the state of the product, at least in part based on the second signal; wherein determining the state of the product includes identifying at least three different product states, the at least three different product states including: A holding state in which the product should be held for an additional period of time before further processing; Ready for processing a first food product; Ready for processing a second food product, according to the time measurement, the product is no longer used as the first food product, and the second food product is different from the first food product.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The smart device is attached to a container including the product.

17. The method according to any one of claims 15-16, wherein, Determining the time measurement includes: evaluating when the first signal is received from the at least one smart device.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15-17, wherein, Determining the time measurement includes: evaluating the data stored by the smart device.

19. The method according to claim 15, wherein, Processing the first food product includes: cutting the product.

20. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The first food product includes bacon, and the second food product includes bacon chunks.

21. The method according to any one of claims 15-20, wherein, The reader system is used in combination with a cooler.

22. The method according to any one of claims 15-21, wherein, The smart device includes a radio frequency identification device.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein, The radio frequency identification device is encoded with information about the product, wherein the product is a food product.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein, The information about the product includes at least one of time and date information.

25. The method according to any one of claims 15-24, further comprising: using a database to store the unique identifier and associate the unique identifier with the information about the product.

26. The method according to any one of claims 15-25, wherein, the at least one display includes at least one of the following: a plurality of lights of different colors, each color of light being associated with a different condition of the food product; one configured to alternately display a plurality of lights of different colors, each color being associated with a different state of the product; and one configured to generate different images, each image indicating a different state of the product.

27. The method according to any one of claims 15-26, further comprising: tracking the movement of the food product associated with the smart device at least in part based on the reception of the signals from the smart device by different readers at different times.

28. The method according to claim 27, wherein, The reader system further includes a plurality of low-power devices disposed at different locations within the facility, wherein the first signal is received by using at least one of the devices. devices, wherein the first signal is received by using the at least one of the devices.

29. The method according to any one of claims 15-28, further comprising: associating the product with a receiving location at the facility by using the smart device encoded with the unique identifier.

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