Method for managing the storage of elements placed on a collecting member and management system for elements placed on a collecting member

Abstract

A method for managing the storage of elements placed on collection means in a storage area, comprising: determining an identification code from the identification code of the RFID tags on a given collection means; determining an estimated position of each of the RFID tags; determining an estimated value of the geometric quantities of the collection means from the estimated positions; comparing the estimated values with the real values, thereby obtaining corresponding results; determining the position of the collection means from the estimated positions and said results; storing the position of the collection means in association with the identification code; when a request signal is received from a workstation, selecting at least one element from at least one of the first and second parameters associated with each of said elements; identifying the collection means on which the selected at least one element is placed from the selected at least one element and one of said associations stored; generating a response signal. A management system for elements placed on collection means is also described.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for managing the storage of elements placed on a collection component.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a management system for placing elements on a collection component. Background Technology

[0003] Tires for wheels typically include a carcass structure comprising at least one carcass ply with corresponding opposing end flaps engaging a corresponding annular anchoring structure, commonly referred to as a "bead wire." The bead wire is integrated into a region commonly referred to as a "bead," the inner diameter of which substantially matches the tire's so-called "fitting diameter" for mounting the tire to a corresponding mounting rim. The tire also includes a crown structure comprising at least one belt strip located radially outward relative to the carcass ply, and a tread strip radially outward of the belt strip. A so-called elastomeric material "liner" may be inserted between the tread strip and the one or more belt strips, the properties of which are adapted to provide a stable bond between the one or more belt strips and the tread strip. Additionally, corresponding sidewalls of the elastomeric material are applied to the side surfaces of the carcass structure, each extending from one of the side edges of the tread strip to a corresponding annular bead anchoring structure. In tubeless tires, the carcass ply is internally coated with an elastomeric material, preferably a butyl elastomer material, which is commonly referred to as the "inner liner" and has optimal air tightness and extends from one bead to another.

[0004] The term "elastomeric material" refers to a composite comprising at least one elastomeric polymer and at least one reinforcing filler. Preferably, the composite further comprises additives such as crosslinking agents and / or plasticizers. Due to the presence of the crosslinking agent, the material can be crosslinked by heating to form the final product.

[0005] A tire's "component" or "structural component" refers to any part of the tire that performs a specific function, or a portion thereof. Tire components include, for example: inner liner, inner liner, sidewall inserts, bead wires, filler inserts, wear-resistant ply, sidewall, one or more carcass plies, one or more belt plies, tread belt, tread belt liner, liner belt inserts, etc., or portions thereof. In traditional tire manufacturing, each of these can often be referred to as a "semi-finished product."

[0006] The “structural” characteristics of a component are those related to the type of the component (when different component types exist) and / or its structure.

[0007] For example, in the case of tire components, the structural features of an element can indicate that it is a belt strip made of cords of a given material arranged in a given orientation (thus distinguishing the element from bead wires, carcass plies, tread strips, etc.).

[0008] The “geometric” characteristics of an element are those related to the shape and / or size of the element.

[0009] For example, the geometry of a component may indicate that it has a parallelepiped shape and a given length, width, and height. If one of the shape and / or dimensions is not important (or does not need to be specified), the geometry of the component may only include those that are of actual interest.

[0010] The term "collecting components" refers to a frame capable of supporting multiple components. Preferably, the frame is mounted on wheels or rollers. More preferably, the frame is provided with one or more platforms. On each platform, for example, green molds, components / semi-finished products, etc., can be placed. For example, 3 to 5 green molds can be placed on each platform.

[0011] An "RFID tag" is an identification device equipped with a memory and a transceiver module. The memory stores at least one identification code unilaterally associated with the RFID tag. The transceiver module operates based on RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology.

[0012] A "passive RFID tag" is an RFID tag that, when queried by an RFID reading system, responds by transmitting data contained in its own memory. Preferably, a passive RFID tag does not have a battery or its own power source; it is powered by radiation emitted by the RFID reading system.

[0013] An "RFID reading system" is one or more devices configured to communicate with one or more RFID tags via RFID technology. Preferably, the RFID reading device is configured to transmit reading signals at regular intervals. When an RFID tag receives such a reading signal, it responds by transmitting data contained in its own memory.

[0014] The "reading area" of an RFID reading system is a spatial area in which the reading signal emitted by the RFID reading system can be transmitted to the RFID tag, so that the RFID tag can respond to the reading signal.

[0015] In some industrial environments, such as in the production of wheel tires, the plant includes storage areas suitable for temporarily receiving components to be used during subsequent processing steps.

[0016] For example, the component may be a semi-finished product to be subsequently assembled during the construction process, and / or may be a green mold that is stored before undergoing molding and curing processes.

[0017] The aforementioned components can be supported by collecting members. Each collecting member preferably supports multiple components.

[0018] EP 2 345 941 A1 describes a system for managing equipment used in the processing of natural stone. The system includes a server configured to process data and manage a central database, and terminals distributed across the equipment, each terminal connected to the server and including a corresponding antenna. The system further includes RFID tags that are readable by the antennas, can be applied to blocks or slabs of natural stone, and include information identifying the block or slab. Finally, the system includes workstations, each workstation including at least one corresponding terminal associated with it. At least a first workstation in the system includes at least two RFID tags that can be applied to opposite sides of a tray provided for transporting the block. The two tags store codes therein identifying which side of the tray the tag is applied to, such that the terminal associated with the station is arranged to determine the position of the block on the tray by means of an identification code read from one of the two tags using the antenna.

[0019] US 2013 / 0060520 A1 describes a method for determining the gauge and inclination of a railway track at a given location. The method includes providing a railway trolley comprising a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, an RFID reader, a gauge sensor, and an inclination sensor, and positioning the railway trolley at the location on the railway track. The method further includes querying one or more RFID tags positioned along the railway track and using the processor to determine a fixed position associated with each of the one or more RFID tags. The method further includes using the processor to determine the position of the railway trolley relative to the fixed position associated with each of the one or more RFID tags, and determining the gauge and inclination of the railway track at the location of the trolley. Summary of the Invention

[0020] The applicant observed that in tire production, components supported by pulleys or more generally by collection components must typically be used in a certain order, determined by geometric / structural reasons (due to the needs of the production process and / or because the size / characteristics of certain components prevent them from being used later, some components must be installed / used before others) and / or time-related reasons (components must be used within a given timeframe of their manufacturing date, therefore "older" components must be used earlier than "newer" components of the same type).

[0021] For example, the use of elements on the collection component may need to be managed according to predefined logic, such as "FIFO" logic (First-In-First-Out), which means that the element that first enters the storage area must be the first element to be used in the next process, or "FEFO" logic (First-Expired-First-Out), which means that the element with the most recent expiration date must be the first element to be used in the next process.

[0022] The applicant observed that failure to adhere to the logical and time-related order of use of the components supported by the collection components could have adverse consequences for the quality of the final product (which is not manufactured in the designed production sequence and / or manufactured using components that are too “new” or too “old”) and also for the efficiency of the equipment (if the components are not used in the correct logic and time, some of them will expire without being used and will have to be discarded).

[0023] Therefore, the applicant has recognized that in order to properly manage the order of use of the components supported by the collection components in the storage area, it is necessary to accurately identify and locate each collection component and correlate such data with the information required to identify the individual components and their characteristics.

[0024] As the applicant understands, when it is necessary to supply components with certain characteristics to workstations operating downstream of the storage area, the location of the collection components and the information associated with each component are used.

[0025] Therefore, the applicant has discovered that by installing multiple RFID tags at known distances from each other on each collection component, and by utilizing the knowledge of such distances to obtain more reliable information than that which could be obtained by a unique estimate of the location of the RFID tags, the location of each collection component can be determined in a sufficiently precise and accurate manner, provided by an RFID reading system located in the storage area and configured to detect and read the tags.

[0026] More specifically, the applicant has discovered that the location of each collection component can be determined by: estimating the location of each of the RFID tags by an RFID reading system, calculating the estimated distance between the individual RFID tags based on such an estimate, and comparing the estimated distance with the prior-known actual distance. Based on this comparison (which indicates the accuracy of the estimation of the RFID tag locations provided by the RFID reading system), the location of each collection component is then reliably calculated. Furthermore, the association between each collection component and the element it supports is stored, and thus each element is associated with information regarding at least time and / or logic, according to which each element must be used. In this way, upon receiving a request signal from a workstation operating downstream of the storage area, one or more elements that need to be supplied to that workstation can be selected, and thus the collection component that must be brought to the vicinity of such workstation can be identified.

[0027] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for managing the storage of elements placed on a collection member in a storage area.

[0028] Preferably, it is envisioned that a plurality of collection components be positioned in the storage area.

[0029] Preferably, it is envisioned that one or more elements are placed on each of the collecting components.

[0030] Preferably, each element is envisioned to be associated with a first parameter.

[0031] Preferably, each element is envisioned to be associated with a second parameter.

[0032] Preferably, each element is envisioned to be associated with at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter.

[0033] Preferably, the first parameter is envisioned to represent the structural features of the element.

[0034] Preferably, the first parameter is envisioned to represent the geometric features of the element.

[0035] Preferably, the first parameter is envisioned to represent the structural and geometric features of the element.

[0036] Preferably, the second parameter is envisioned to represent a possible time interval for the use of the element.

[0037] Preferably, it is envisioned that the association between each of the collecting components and one or more elements placed on the collecting components is stored.

[0038] Preferably, it is envisioned that at least two RFID tags be installed on each collection component.

[0039] Preferably, each RFID tag is associated with an identification code.

[0040] Preferably, each RFID tag is installed on the collection component at a corresponding, defined location.

[0041] Preferably, it is envisioned that one or more corresponding geometric quantities are identified for each collecting component.

[0042] Preferably, the geometric quantities are assumed to be correlated with the determined location of the RFID tag.

[0043] Preferably, it is envisioned that the true value of each of the geometric quantities is stored.

[0044] Preferably, it is envisioned that at least one RFID reading system be provided in the storage area.

[0045] Preferably, it is envisioned that the corresponding reading area is associated with the RFID reading system.

[0046] Preferably, when a given collection component is in the corresponding reading area, it is envisioned that the identification code of the RFID tag installed on the given collection component is read by the RFID reading system.

[0047] Preferably, it is envisioned that an identification code be determined for the given collection component.

[0048] Preferably, it is envisioned that the identification code of the given collection component is determined based on one or more identification codes of the RFID tag.

[0049] Preferably, it is envisioned that the estimated location of each of the RFID tags of the given collection component is determined.

[0050] Preferably, it is envisioned that an estimated value of the geometric quantity is determined.

[0051] Preferably, it is envisioned that the estimated value of the geometric quantity is determined based on the estimated location of each of the RFID tags in the given collection component.

[0052] Preferably, it is envisioned that the estimated value is compared with the true value to obtain the corresponding result.

[0053] Preferably, it is envisioned that the location of the given collecting component is determined.

[0054] Preferably, the location of the given collection component is determined based on the estimated location of the RFID tag of the given collection component and the result.

[0055] Preferably, a location is envisioned for storing the given collection components.

[0056] Preferably, the location of the given collection component is envisioned to be stored in association with the identification code of the given collection component.

[0057] Preferably, it is envisioned that at least one of the elements be selected.

[0058] Preferably, it is envisioned that at least one of the elements is selected upon receiving a request signal.

[0059] Preferably, the request signal is assumed to originate from a workstation.

[0060] Preferably, the workstation is envisioned to be adapted to process one or more of the components.

[0061] Preferably, it is envisioned that the at least one element among the elements is selected based on at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter associated with each of the elements.

[0062] Preferably, it is envisioned that a collection member on which at least one of the selected elements is placed is identified.

[0063] Preferably, it is envisioned that a collection member on which at least one of the selected elements is placed is identified based on at least one of the selected elements.

[0064] Preferably, it is envisioned that a collection member identifies, based on one of the stored associations, at least one of which has a selected element placed on it.

[0065] Preferably, it is envisioned that a response signal is generated.

[0066] Preferably, the response signal is envisioned to include an indication of the location of the identified collection member on which at least one of the selected elements is placed.

[0067] The applicant believes that the usage strategy envisioned for the elements placed on the collection components can therefore be correctly and accurately applied because the location of the collection components is determined in an accurate and reliable manner, and the association between each collection component and useful information about each element is maintained.

[0068] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a system for managing elements placed on a collection component in a storage area.

[0069] Preferably, a plurality of collection components are used to be positioned in the storage area.

[0070] Preferably, one or more elements are used.

[0071] Preferably, each element is envisioned to be associated with a first parameter.

[0072] Preferably, each element is envisioned to be associated with a second parameter.

[0073] Preferably, each element is envisioned to be associated with at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter.

[0074] Preferably, the first parameter is envisioned to represent the structural features of the element.

[0075] Preferably, the first parameter is envisioned to represent the geometric features of the element.

[0076] Preferably, the first parameter is envisioned to represent the structural and geometric features of the element.

[0077] Preferably, the second parameter is envisioned to represent a possible time interval for the use of the element.

[0078] Preferably, a memory is used.

[0079] Preferably, the memory is envisioned to store the association between each of the collecting components and one or more elements placed on the collecting components.

[0080] Preferably, it is envisioned that at least two RFID tags be installed on each collection component.

[0081] Preferably, each RFID tag is associated with a corresponding identification code.

[0082] Preferably, each RFID tag is installed on the collection component at a corresponding, defined location.

[0083] Preferably, the memory is envisioned to store the actual values ​​of one or more geometric quantities for each collecting component.

[0084] Preferably, the geometric quantities are envisioned to be associated with the collecting components.

[0085] Preferably, the geometric quantity is assumed to be related to the determined location of the RFID tag.

[0086] Preferably, an RFID reading system is used.

[0087] Preferably, the RFID reading system is located in the storage area.

[0088] Preferably, the corresponding reading area is associated with the RFID reading system.

[0089] Preferably, the RFID reading system is configured to read the identification code of an RFID tag mounted on a given collection component when the given collection component is in the corresponding reading area.

[0090] Preferably, the RFID reading system is configured to determine the estimated location of each of the RFID tags installed on the given collection component.

[0091] Preferably, a processor is used.

[0092] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be associated with the RFID reading system.

[0093] Preferably, the processor is configured to determine the identification code of the given collection component.

[0094] Preferably, the processor is configured to determine the identification code of the given collection component based on one or more identification codes of the RFID tag of the given collection component.

[0095] Preferably, the processor is conceived to be configured to determine an estimate of the geometric quantity.

[0096] Preferably, the processor is configured to determine an estimate of the geometry based on the estimated location of each of the RFID tags of the given collection component.

[0097] Preferably, the processor is configured to compare the estimated value with the true value to obtain a corresponding result.

[0098] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to determine the location of the given collection component.

[0099] Preferably, the processor is configured to determine the location of the given collection component based on the estimated location of the RFID tag of the given collection component and the result.

[0100] Preferably, the processor is configured to store the location of the given collection component in the memory.

[0101] Preferably, the processor is configured to store the location of the given collection component in association with the identification code of the given collection component in the memory.

[0102] Preferably, the processor is configured to receive request signals.

[0103] Preferably, the request signal is assumed to originate from a workstation.

[0104] Preferably, the workstation is envisioned to be adapted to process one or more of the components.

[0105] Preferably, the processor is configured to select at least one of the elements.

[0106] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to select at least one of the elements based on the first parameter associated with each of the elements.

[0107] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to select at least one of the elements based on the second parameter associated with each of the elements.

[0108] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to select at least one of the elements based on at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter associated with each of the elements.

[0109] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to identify a collection member on which at least one of the selected elements is placed.

[0110] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to identify a collection member on which at least one of the selected elements is placed, based on the at least one of the selected elements.

[0111] Preferably, the processor is envisioned as a collection component that identifies, based on one of the stored associations, at least one on which a selected element is placed.

[0112] Preferably, the processor is configured to generate a response signal.

[0113] Preferably, the response signal is envisioned to include an indication of the location of the identified collection member on which at least one of the selected elements is placed.

[0114] According to at least one of the above aspects, the present invention may have at least one of the following preferred features.

[0115] Preferably, the geometric quantity is envisioned to include the distance between the RFID tags.

[0116] Preferably, it is envisioned that the estimated location of the given collection component is calculated.

[0117] Preferably, it is envisioned that the estimated location of the given collection component is calculated based on the estimated location of each of the RFID tags of the given collection component.

[0118] Preferably, the location of the given collection component is determined based on the estimated location.

[0119] Preferably, it is envisioned that the location of the given collection component is determined based on the result.

[0120] Preferably, the following steps are to be repeated: - Determine the estimated location of each of the RFID tags in the given collection component; - Determine the estimated value of the geometric quantity based on the estimated location of each of the RFID tags in the given collection component; - The estimated value is compared with the true value to obtain the corresponding result.

[0121] Preferably, it is envisioned that a first time series of values ​​be obtained for the estimated location.

[0122] Preferably, it is envisioned that values ​​for a second time series are obtained from the results.

[0123] Preferably, the location of the given collection component is determined based on the values ​​of the first time series.

[0124] Preferably, the location of the given collection component is determined based on the values ​​of the second time series.

[0125] Preferably, it is envisioned that a third time series of values ​​be calculated for the estimated location of the given collection component.

[0126] Preferably, it is envisioned that the values ​​of the third time series are calculated based on the values ​​of the first time series for the estimated location of the given collection component.

[0127] Preferably, it is envisioned that the location of the given collection component is determined based on the values ​​of the third time series.

[0128] Preferably, the location of the given collection component is determined based on the values ​​of the second time series and the values ​​of the third time series.

[0129] Preferably, it is envisioned that a corresponding weight is calculated for each value in the third time series.

[0130] Preferably, the corresponding weights are calculated based on the corresponding values ​​in the second time series.

[0131] Preferably, it is envisioned that the location of the given collection component is determined by combining each value in the third time series with a corresponding weight.

[0132] Preferably, the request signal is envisioned to contain information related to at least one element to be processed.

[0133] Preferably, it is envisioned that at least one of the elements is selected based on information contained in the request signal.

[0134] Preferably, it is envisioned that the at least one element among the elements is selected based on information contained in the request signal and at least one of the first and second parameters associated with each of the elements.

[0135] Preferably, it is envisioned that the position of the given collection component is also determined based on the position of other collection components.

[0136] Preferably, it is assumed that the locations of the other collecting components have been previously determined.

[0137] Preferably, the storage area is envisioned to be divided into multiple storage areas.

[0138] Preferably, each storage area is designed to receive one collection component at a time.

[0139] Preferably, it is envisioned that the identification code of the given collection component is associated with one of the storage areas.

[0140] Preferably, it is envisioned that the identification code of the given collection component is associated with one of the storage areas based on the location of the given collection component.

[0141] Preferably, it is envisioned that a corresponding unambiguous code is associated with each element.

[0142] Preferably, in order to store the association between each collection component and one or more elements placed on the collection component, it is envisioned that one or more unambiguous codes associated with one or more elements placed on the collection component are associated with the identification code of each collection component.

[0143] Preferably, it is envisioned that at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter is associated with each single-meaning code.

[0144] Preferably, each of the collecting components is envisioned to have a generally rectangular outline in a plan view.

[0145] Preferably, the RFID tag is envisioned to be mounted on the side of the generally rectangular outline.

[0146] Preferably, it is envisioned that four RFID tags be installed on each collection component.

[0147] Preferably, it is envisioned that an RFID tag be installed on each collection component at each vertex of the generally rectangular outline.

[0148] Preferably, the identification codes of the RFID tags installed on the collecting components are envisioned to have equal parts.

[0149] Preferably, it is envisioned that the same portion of the identification code of the RFID tag installed on each collection component is not present in the RFID tags installed on other collection components.

[0150] Preferably, it is envisioned that the identification code of each collection component corresponds to an equal portion of the identification code of the RFID tag installed on the collection component.

[0151] Preferably, the estimated location of the RFID tag of the given collection component is determined by the RFID reading system.

[0152] Preferably, the geometric quantity includes the distance between the RFID tags.

[0153] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to calculate the estimated location of the given collection component.

[0154] Preferably, the processor is configured to calculate the estimated location of the given collection component based on the estimated location of each of the RFID tags of the given collection component.

[0155] Preferably, it is envisioned that the position of the given collecting component is determined based on the estimated position.

[0156] Preferably, it is envisioned that the location of the given collecting component is determined based on the result.

[0157] Preferably, the RFID reading system is configured to repeatedly determine the estimated location of the RFID tag of the given collection component over time.

[0158] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to repeatedly perform the operation of determining an estimate of the geometric quantity over time.

[0159] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to repeatedly perform the operation of determining an estimate of the geometry based on the estimated location of each of the RFID tags of the given collection component over time.

[0160] Preferably, the processor is configured to repeatedly perform the operation of comparing the estimated value with the true value over time to obtain the corresponding result.

[0161] Preferably, the processor is configured to obtain a first time series of values ​​for the estimated position.

[0162] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to obtain a second time series of values ​​for the result.

[0163] Preferably, the processor is configured to determine the location of the given collection element based on the values ​​of the first time series.

[0164] Preferably, the processor is configured to determine the location of the given collection element based on the values ​​of the second time series.

[0165] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to calculate values ​​for a third time series for the estimated location of the given collection component.

[0166] Preferably, the processor is configured to calculate a third time series of values ​​based on the values ​​of the first time series for the estimated location of the given collection element.

[0167] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to determine the location of the given collection component based on the values ​​of the third time series.

[0168] Preferably, the processor is configured to determine the location of the given collection component based on the values ​​of the second time series and the values ​​of the third time series.

[0169] Preferably, the processor is configured to calculate a corresponding weight for each value in the third time series.

[0170] Preferably, the processor is configured to calculate a corresponding weight for each value in the third time series based on the corresponding value in the second time series.

[0171] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to determine the location of the given collection element by combining each value in the third time series with a corresponding weight.

[0172] Preferably, the request signal is envisioned to contain information related to at least one element to be processed.

[0173] Preferably, the processor is configured to select at least one of the elements based on information contained in the request signal.

[0174] Preferably, the processor is configured to select at least one element from the elements based on information contained in the request signal and at least one of the first and second parameters associated with each of the elements.

[0175] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to also determine the position of the given collection component based on the previously determined positions of other collection components.

[0176] Preferably, the storage area is envisioned to be divided into multiple storage areas.

[0177] Preferably, each storage area is designed to receive one collection component at a time.

[0178] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to associate the identification code of the given collection component with one of the storage areas.

[0179] Preferably, the processor is configured to associate the identification code of the given collection component with one of the storage areas based on the location of the given collection component.

[0180] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to associate one or more unambiguous codes associated with one or more elements placed on the collection member with the identification code of each collection member.

[0181] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to associate one or more unambiguous codes associated with one or more elements placed on the collection member with an identification code of each collection member, so as to store the association between each collection member and one or more elements placed on the collection member.

[0182] Preferably, the processor is configured to associate the first parameter with each single code.

[0183] Preferably, the processor is configured to associate the second parameter with each single-meaning code. Attached Figure Description

[0184] Further features and advantages will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred, but non-limiting, embodiments of the invention. The description is provided with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are also provided by way of non-limiting example, in which: Figure 1 A block diagram of the management system according to the present invention is shown; Figure 2 schematically shown Figure 1 A side view of the collection components used in the system; Figure 3 Show Figure 2 A plan view of the collection components; Figure 4 Show Figure 1 A part of the system during operation; Figures 5 to 8 Show Figure 1 The data used in the system; Figure 9 schematically shown Figure 1 A possible operating state of a part of the system; and Figures 10a to 10b Showing the representative by Figure 1 The flowchart of the system operations performed. Detailed Implementation

[0185] In the following description, multiple units of any kind A, B, C, D, E, ..., N (e.g., RFID tags, identification codes, true values, geometric quantities, estimated locations, positions, estimates, etc.) are comprehensively indicated by using the AN designation.

[0186] Referring to the accompanying drawings, 1 generally illustrates a management system according to the invention for placing elements on a collection member in a storage area SA.

[0187] Management system 1 can be used, for example, in tire production equipment. However, it is envisioned that management system 1 can also be used in other environments, preferably in industrial environments, and in any environment where it is necessary and / or advantageous to manage the components placed on the collection components in an accurate and efficient manner.

[0188] The management system 1 includes multiple collection components to be located in the storage area SA.

[0189] Preferably, each collection component TR is associated with a corresponding identification code XID, which will be described further below.

[0190] Preferably, the storage area SA is divided into multiple storage zones SZ. Each storage zone SZ is adapted to receive one collection member TR at a time. In other words, when a storage zone SZ is occupied by one collection member, it is virtually impossible to locate an additional collection member in the same storage zone SZ, i.e., it is impossible for another collection member to occupy a significant portion of the storage zone SZ.

[0191] Preferably, each storage area SZ is associated with the coordinates of its defined location. For example, such as Figure 1 As schematically illustrated, each storage area SZ may have a generally rectangular shape, the position of which is related to the positions of its four vertices. Preferably, the management system 1 stores the positions of each storage area SZ in the memory M, which will be further described below.

[0192] When using management system 1, one or more components E should be arranged in advance as appropriate.

[0193] Place component E on the collection component TR. One or more components E can be placed on each collection component TR. Figure 2 ).

[0194] Each element E is associated with at least one parameter. Preferably, each element E is associated with at least one of a first parameter P1 and a second parameter P2.

[0195] The first parameter P1 represents the structural and / or geometric features of component E.

[0196] For example, in the case of tire components, structural features can indicate that the tire component is a belt strip made of cords of a given material arranged in a given orientation (thereby distinguishing the element from bead wires, carcass plies, tread strips, etc.).

[0197] For example, the geometric features of a component may indicate that the component has a parallelepiped shape and a certain length, width, and height. If one of the shape and / or dimensions is not important (or does not need to be specified), the geometric features of the component may only include those that are of actual interest.

[0198] The second parameter P2 represents the possible time interval for the use of the corresponding element E. More specifically, element E must be used within a given time interval: it cannot be used earlier than a given time (e.g., the first date) and / or it cannot be used later than another given time (e.g., the second date).

[0199] The availability range of component E may depend on the fact that the characteristics of component E that make it suitable for use change over time. For example, when component E is a green tire, it cannot be used, i.e., it cannot undergo curing and molding processes, either when it is "too new" or when it is "too old". Otherwise, the resulting finished tire will not have the required structural and functional characteristics and may have to be discarded.

[0200] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that only the first parameter P1 is used. In this case, preferably, the usage time of element E is not important. What is important is the structural / geometric characteristics of each element E.

[0201] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that only the second parameter P2 is used. In this case, preferably, from a structural / geometric point of view, the elements E are substantially equivalent or interchangeable, and what matters is the time they are used.

[0202] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that both the first parameter P1 and the second parameter P2 are used. Therefore, when using element E, structural / geometric features and the possible time intervals of use must be taken into account.

[0203] Preferably, each element E is associated with a corresponding monogram ID. Such a monogram ID can be applied to, for example, a barcode or RFID tag attached to the element E.

[0204] Figure 6 The diagram schematically illustrates the logical association between each element E (identified by the corresponding unambiguous code ID) and the corresponding first and / or second parameters P1, P2.

[0205] As described above, the management system 1 includes a memory M.

[0206] The memory M stores the association between each of the collecting components and one or more elements E placed on such collecting components TR.

[0207] Figure 5 A table schematically illustrates the logical association between each collection component TR (identified by the corresponding identification code XID) and one or more components E placed on it (each identified by the corresponding single-meaning code ID).

[0208] Preferably, when each collecting component TR is loaded with the corresponding element E, the filling... Figure 5 The table.

[0209] Preferably, the memory M also stores the association between each element E and the corresponding first and / or second parameters P1, P2.

[0210] At least two RFID tags are installed on each collection component TR. Preferably, four RFID tags T1-T4 are installed on each collection component TR. Figure 3 ).

[0211] Each RFID tag T1-T4 is installed on the collection component TR at a corresponding designated location.

[0212] Preferably, each collecting component TR has a generally rectangular outline in the plan view. RFID tags T1-T4 can be mounted on the sides of such a generally rectangular outline. For example, one RFID tag can be mounted on each side or at each vertex of the generally rectangular outline. However, it is contemplated that RFID tags can be positioned in other ways, as long as they are compatible with the processing described below.

[0213] For each collection component TR, one or more geometric quantities D1-D6 are defined, which are related to the positions of the corresponding RFID tags T1-T4.

[0214] Preferably, the distance between the individual RFID tags T1-T4 installed on the collection component TR can be considered.

[0215] For example, in the case of four RFID tags T1-T4, the following situation can be considered: - The first distance D1 between the first RFID tag T1 and the second RFID tag T2; - The second distance D2 between the second RFID tag T2 and the third RFID tag T3; - The third distance D3 between the third RFID tag T3 and the fourth RFID tag T4; - The fourth distance D4 between the fourth RFID tag T4 and the first RFID tag T1; - The fifth distance D5 between the first RFID tag T1 and the third RFID tag T3; - The sixth distance D6 between the second RFID tag T2 and the fourth RFID tag T4.

[0216] For example, if RFID tags T1-T4 are located at the vertices of the approximate rectangular outline of the collecting component TR, then the sides and diagonals of such an outline can be considered.

[0217] In other embodiments, it is envisioned that only the edges or diagonals of such a contour are considered.

[0218] Alternatively, other characteristics of the collection component TR can be considered, such as the fact that the collection component TR is essentially impossible (or in any case unlikely) to be laterally positioned relative to the storage area SZ. In other words, it is possible to a priori assume two distances (e.g., Figure 3 In the schematic diagram, D2 and D4 must be greater than the other two distances ( Figure 3 (D1 and D3 in the schematic diagram).

[0219] Each RFID tag T1-T4 is associated with a corresponding identification code TID1-TID4.

[0220] Preferably, the identification codes TID1-TID4 of the RFID tags T1-T4 installed on the collecting component TR have equal portions that are not present in the RFID tags installed on other collecting components. The identification code XID of the collecting component TR can correspond to such equal portions, and in particular can be defined by such equal portions.

[0221] Specifically, during the initial setup phase, the identification codes TID1-TID4 of the RFID tags T1-T4 installed on a collection component can be written so that they are all equal except for one bit (e.g., the last bit). As described above, the common code portion of the RFID tags defines the identification code XID of the collection component TR. In one embodiment, the identification codes TID1-TID4 of each RFID tag T1-T4 are defined according to the technical specifications of the GS1 standard.

[0222] Preferably, the device operating the management system 1 is equipped with a dedicated station for writing RFID tags: after the RFID tag has been installed on the collection component TR and before the collection component TR is used to support the element E, the collection component TR is brought to the dedicated station. Here, as described above, the identification codes TID1-TID4 are written to the corresponding RFID tags TID1-TID4. In this way, the RFID tags and the collection component will be correctly identified and distinguished during use. When the step of writing the RFID tag is completed, the collection component can be used, for example, it can be brought to the loading area to receive one or more elements E.

[0223] Preferably, the RFID tags T1-T4 installed on each collection component TR are passive RFID tags. The applicant believes that this can therefore limit the cost of the components used and facilitate the installation and use of the RFID reading system 100, as will be described below.

[0224] Preferably, the RFID tags T1-T4 installed on the collecting component TR are, for example, UHF (ultra-high frequency) RFID tags manufactured and used in accordance with ISO / IEC 18000-63:2015.

[0225] For each collecting component TR, the memory M stores the true values ​​RV1-RV6 of each of the geometric quantities D1-D6 associated with the collecting component TR and related to the determined position of the RFID tags T1-T4.

[0226] Figure 7 The diagram schematically illustrates the logical relationship between each collection component TR (identified by the corresponding identification code XID) and the actual values ​​RV1-RV6 of the associated geometric quantities D1-D6.

[0227] If the RFID tags are positioned in roughly the same location on all collecting components TR, it is envisioned that the true values ​​RV1-RV6 can be stored for all collecting components TR at once.

[0228] The management system 1 includes an RFID reading system 100.

[0229] The RFID reading system 100 is located in the storage area SA.

[0230] The corresponding reading area RA is associated with the RFID reading system 100.

[0231] The RFID reading system 100 is configured to read the identification codes TID1-TID4 of the RFID tags T1-T4 installed on the collecting member TR when the collecting member TR is in the corresponding reading area RA.

[0232] Preferably, according to the ISO / IEC 18000-63:2015 standard, the RFID reading system 100 includes and utilizes RAIN (Radio Frequency Identification) technology.

[0233] From a practical point of view, the RFID reading system 100 is configured to continuously—or periodically—transmit reading signals, for example, at a interval between approximately once per second and approximately once every three seconds. If no collecting element is present in the reading area RA, the reading system will not receive a response. Conversely, if one or more collecting elements are present in the reading area RA, the corresponding RFID tags will be powered by the reading signal and will be able to respond by providing their own identification codes. For simplicity, we will hereby consider a given collecting element TR' (equipped with corresponding RFID tags T1'-T4', such as...) present in the reading area RA. Figure 4 (The situation is illustrated schematically in the diagram). When there are more collection components in the reading area RA, the following description applies to each of them.

[0234] The RFID reading system 100 is also configured to determine the estimated location EP1-EP4 of each of the RFID tags T1'-T4' installed on a given collection member TR' present in the reading area RA.

[0235] Preferably, the RFID reading system 100 is equipped with multiple antennas spatially distributed according to a predetermined scheme. In this way, by receiving signals emitted by each RFID tag T1-T4 from different locations, the location of the signals can be determined, thereby calculating the estimated locations EP1-EP4.

[0236] The RFID reading system 100 is configured to cover all areas of interest (storage areas SZ) of the storage area SA with its reading area RA. If desired, the RFID reading system 100 is envisioned to consist of multiple transmitting / reading modules spatially distributed to completely cover the storage area SA. Each module is preferably equipped with multiple antennas (e.g., 64 antennas) to determine the estimated location of RFID tags entering its reading area.

[0237] The applicant observed that the antenna of the RFID reading system 100 can be positioned at a height of, for example, approximately 4-5 meters; each module can have a range of approximately 90-100 meters. 2 The read area. Based on these indicators, the number of modules that need to be installed can be estimated according to the size of the storage area SA.

[0238] The management system 100 includes a processor 200 associated with the RFID reading system 100.

[0239] Preferably, the processor 300 is configured to determine the identification code XID of a given collection component TR' based on one or more of the identification codes TID1-TID4 of the RFID tags T1'-T4'; as previously described, the identification code XID of the collection component can be defined by the common portion of the identification codes TID1-TID4 of the RFID tags T1'-T4' installed on such a collection component; after reading the identification codes TID1-TID4 of the RFID tags T1'-T4' of a given collection component TR', the identification code XID of the collection component TR' can be determined unilaterally.

[0240] From a practical point of view, the processor 300 can verify the existence of RFID tags T1'-T4', and then, based on even just one of the identification codes TID1-TID4, it can determine the identification code XID of a given collection component TR' by simply removing the last bit from one of the identification codes TID1-TID4 of the RFID tags T1'-T4'.

[0241] Preferably, the processor 300 is configured to perform preliminary verification of the presence / readability of a minimum number of RFID tags on a collection element TR. In particular, to ensure that subsequent processing activities will provide sufficiently reliable results, the processor 300 verifies, for example, that at least two (or at least three or at least four) RFID tags on a given collection element TR' respond to a read signal.

[0242] By determining the identification code XID of a given collection component TR', the processor 300 can prepare and update the inventory of collection components existing in the storage area SA.

[0243] More specifically, a list of collection components existing in storage area SA (preferably in memory M) is maintained. Preferably, the corresponding location within storage area SA is associated with each collection component included in the list. Once the identification code XID of a given collection component TR' has been determined, it is compared with the codes already included in the list. If the identification code XID is already included, it means that the given collection component TR' is already in storage area SA. Conversely, if the identification code XID is not included in the list, it means that the given collection component TR' has just been located in storage area SA. Then, processor 300 adds the identification code XID of the given collection component TR' to the list.

[0244] Preferably, the operation required to calculate the position XP of a given collection component TR' is performed only when the given collection component TR' has just been located in the storage area SA, that is, when its identification code XID has just been added to the storage list. In other words, the operation to calculate the position of a given collection component TR' is performed when the position of such a collection component is not stored in the inventory list.

[0245] Preferably, the processor 300 is configured to determine the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 of geometric quantities D1-D6 based on the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of each RFID tag T1'-T4' of the given collection component TR' (preferably obtained by the RFID reading system 100 as described above); for example, the corresponding estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 can be calculated based on the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of the RFID tags T1'-T4' of the given collection component TR' (represented as a pair of Cartesian coordinates in a common reference frame) and by applying known mathematical methods (e.g., the Pythagorean theorem, analytic geometry formulas, etc.).

[0246] As described above, the geometric quantities D1-D6 can correspond to the distances between RFID tags T1'-T4' of a given collection component TR'. Based on the estimated locations EP1-EP4, the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 can be easily obtained.

[0247] Preferably, the processor 300 is configured to compare the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 with the corresponding true values ​​RV1-RV6 to obtain the corresponding result Y; the acquisition of such result Y will be described in more detail below.

[0248] Preferably, the processor 300 is configured to determine the position XP of a given collection element TR' based on the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of the RFID tags T1'-T4' of the given collection element TR' and the result Y.

[0249] Preferably, the processor 300 is configured to store the location XP of a given collection element TR' in association with the corresponding identification code XID in the memory M.

[0250] As described above, imagine calculating the result Y based on a comparison between the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 and the corresponding true values ​​RV1-RV6. Such a comparison can be performed, for example, by one or more subtraction operations, to evaluate the difference between each estimated value EV1-EV6 and the corresponding true value RV1-RV6.

[0251] In this way, the accuracy of the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 compared to the true values ​​RV1-RV6 can be determined.

[0252] Preferably, a result Y is determined, which generally represents all estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 (determined at a certain moment, as will be further explained below). In other words, a single result Y is calculated from the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 determined at a certain moment.

[0253] For example, in the case of four RFID tags T1'-T4', the following formula can be used:

[0254] in: -Δ1 is the difference between EV1 and RV1; EV1 and RV1 are the estimated and actual values ​​of the distance D1 between the first RFID tag T1' and the second RFID tag T2', respectively; -Δ2 is the difference between EV2 and RV2; EV2 and RV2 are the estimated and actual values ​​of the distance D2 between the second RFID tag T2' and the third RFID tag T3', respectively; -Δ3 is the difference between EV3 and RV3; EV3 and RV3 are the estimated and actual values ​​of the distance D3 between the third RFID tag T3' and the fourth RFID tag T4', respectively. -Δ4 is ​​the difference between EV4 and RV4; EV4 and RV4 are the estimated and actual values ​​of the distance D4 between the fourth RFID tag T4' and the first RFID tag T1', respectively. -Δ5 is the difference between EV5 and RV5; EV5 and RV5 are the estimated and actual values ​​of the distance D5 between the first RFID tag T1' and the third RFID tag T3', respectively. -Δ6 is the difference between EV6 and RV6; EV6 and RV6 are the estimated and actual values ​​of the distance D6 between the second RFID tag T2' and the fourth RFID tag T4', respectively; -B i Let B be a Boolean value associated with the i-th RFID tag (where "i" can vary between 1 and 4 if four RFID tags exist), and indicate the detection of the presence of such a tag: in practice, if an estimate of the location of the i-th RFID tag is not available, then B... i The value will be zero, and if such an estimate is available, then B... i The value will be 1.

[0255] Each subtraction operation in the denominator constitutes a comparison between the estimated value EVk and the corresponding actual value RVk, where k can vary between 1 and 6.

[0256] As can be observed, when the estimated value EV1-EV6 is close to the true value RV1-RV6 (i.e., the corresponding difference is relatively small), the resulting value of Y is higher because the denominator is a smaller number. Conversely, when the estimated value EV1-EV6 is far from the true value RV1-RV6 (i.e., the corresponding difference is relatively large), the resulting value of Y is lower because the denominator is a larger number.

[0257] In short, the result Y represents the accuracy of the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 relative to the corresponding true values ​​RV1-RV6.

[0258] By combining the estimated locations EP1-EP4 of RFID tags T1'-T4', the result Y is used to determine the location XP of a given collection component TR'.

[0259] In one embodiment, the result Y can be used to individually evaluate each estimated location EP1-EP4. In other words, based on the result Y and each estimated location EP1-EP4, the true location of each RFID tag T1'-T4' can be calculated. Based on such true locations, the location XP of a given collection component TR' is then calculated. For example, based on the true locations of the RFID tags, the geometric center (in a plan view) of a given collection component TR' is determined, and such geometric center is considered to be the location XP of the given collection component TR'.

[0260] In one embodiment, the estimated position XL of a given collection component TR' is first calculated based on the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of RFID tags T1'-T4'.

[0261] For example, the following formula can be used:

[0262] in: -EPi x The x-coordinate representing the general estimated location EPi; -EPi y The ordinate of EPi represents the general estimated location; -XL x and XL y These represent the x and y coordinates of the estimated position XL, respectively.

[0263] Then, the position XP of a given collection component TR' is determined based on the estimated position XL and the result Y. For example, based on the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of RFID tags T1'-T4', the estimated position of the geometric center (in a plan view) of a given collection component TR' is calculated. Such an estimated position of the geometric center is considered to be the estimated position XL of the given collection component TR'. The estimated position XL, processed using the result Y, thus allows the position XP of the given collection component TR' to be obtained.

[0264] The above calculation for Y is essentially “static,” that is, it involves a single moment—that is, the moment when the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of the RFID tags T1'-T4' and the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 of the quantities D1-D6 of a given collection component TR' are determined.

[0265] Preferably, the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of RFID tags T1'-T4' and the resulting Y are determined repeatedly over time.

[0266] In particular, it is preferable to repeat the following operations: - The estimated location EP1-EP4 of each of the RFID tags T1'-T4' of a given collection component TR' is determined by the RFID reading system 100; - Determine the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 of the geometric quantities D1-D6 based on the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of each of the RFID tags T1'-T4' of the given collection component TR'; - Compare the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 with the true values ​​RV1-RV6 to obtain the corresponding result Y.

[0267] In this way, the values ​​of the first time series S1 for the estimated positions EP1-EP4 and the values ​​of the second time series S2 for the result Y are obtained.

[0268] From a practical point of view, the RFID reading system 100 performs readings and subsequent processing activities to estimate the location of RFID tags at a given periodicity (e.g., from once per second to once every three seconds). Therefore, for each estimated location EP1-EP4, the processor 300 obtains a set of values ​​detected over time. This set of values ​​for such estimated locations is collectively designated as the values ​​of a first time series S1.

[0269] The values ​​of the first time series S2 are calculated based on a series of estimated positions EP1-EP4 of RFID tags T1'-T4'. Specifically, starting with the estimated positions EP1-EP4 involving the same time, estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 are calculated and compared with the corresponding true values ​​RV1-RV6. In practice, this can involve, for example, calculating the value of the timely detection result Y for each estimated position EP1-EP4 using formula (i) above.

[0270] Preferably, a third time series S3 is calculated based on the values ​​of the first time series S1 for the estimated location XL of a given collection component TR'. For example, for each set of values ​​in the first time series S1, the location of the given collection component TR' is estimated, where the values ​​of the first time series S1 are detected at approximately the same time and correspond to the estimated locations EP1-EP4 of RFID tags T1'-T4' at that time. Thus, a set of values ​​for the estimated location XL of a given collection component TR' is obtained, which defines the values ​​of the third time series S3.

[0271] Preferably, the values ​​of the third time series S3 include a set of values ​​VS3. Each value VS3 represents the estimated position XL of a given collection component TR' at a given time.

[0272] To determine the location XP of a given collection component TR', a weight W3 is calculated for each value VS3 in the third time series S3.

[0273] Each weight W3 is determined based on one or more corresponding values ​​from the second time series S2. For example, each weight W3 may correspond to the result Y at a given time.

[0274] Therefore, the position XP of a given collection component TR' can be determined by combining each value VS3 in the third time series S3 with the corresponding weight W3.

[0275] For example, let's assume a series of times t1-tN.

[0276] For each time tj (j is between 1 and N), determine the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of RFID tags T1'-T4'. In this way, consider all times t1-tN to form the values ​​of the first time series S1.

[0277] The estimated positions EP1-EP4 (i.e., the values ​​constituting the first time series S1) determined at each time tj are used to calculate the corresponding estimated position XL of a given collection component TR'. Each estimated position XL is associated with the corresponding time tj.

[0278] The estimated positions EP1-EP4 (i.e., the values ​​constituting the first time series S1) determined at each time tj are also used to obtain the corresponding result Y, for example, according to the formula above. The series of results Y (each associated with a corresponding time tj) forms the value of the third time series S3.

[0279] Then, the position XP of a given collection component TR' can be determined, for example, by the following equation:

[0280] in: -XL t XL represents the estimated position at time t, and therefore represents the general value VS3 in the third time series S3. -Y t Y represents the result at time t, and therefore represents the weight W3 associated with the estimated position involving the same time t. -N represents the number of time points to consider.

[0281] In light of the foregoing, the applicant observes that, typically, the position XP of a given collection component TR' is calculated based on the values ​​of the first time series S1 and the second time series S2, i.e., based on the detection of estimated positions EP1-EP4 and the result Y. More specifically, as previously stated, the value of the third time series S3 is calculated based on the values ​​of the first time series S1, and then the position XP of the given collection component TR' is obtained using the values ​​of the second time series S2 as well.

[0282] In one embodiment, the result Y is not used as a weight for the estimated position XL, but can instead be used to identify the most accurate one among the estimated positions XL. Then, the position XP of the given collection member TR' is aligned with such the most accurate estimated position XL.

[0283] Preferably, the position XP of the given collection component TR' is represented as a pair of Cartesian coordinates x, y in a reference system predefined for the storage region SA.

[0284] Advantageously, the coordinates representing location XP are compared with the coordinates representing one or more storage areas SZ. In this way, it can be determined which storage area SZ a given collection component TR' is located in.

[0285] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that the identification code XID of a given collection component TR' is associated with one of the storage areas SZ, so as to remember the storage area SZ where the given collection component TR' is located.

[0286] Preferably, the position XP of a given collection component TR' is also determined based on the previously determined positions XP1, XP2, ..., XPz of other collection components. For example, the following situation may occur: the management system 1 has stored collection components TRa, TRb, TRc located in storage areas SZ1, SZ3, and SZ4 respectively with a certain degree of reliability. Figure 9 The location of the given collection component TR' is determined by the fact that the theoretically calculated location XP does not correspond precisely to any storage area, but rather partially overlaps with the storage area SZ3 occupied by the collection component TRb. Since storage area SZ2 is empty, and specifically, it is the only available storage area around the theoretical location XP of the given collection component TR', the management system 1—specifically, the processor 300—determines to locate the given collection component TR' in storage area SZ2.

[0287] Advantageously, the location XP determined for each collection element TR is associated with a corresponding reliability value. Such a reliability value is derived directly from the result Y (in the case of individual detections over time) or from the values ​​included in the second time series S2. In practice, the reliability value can be expressed as a percentage at which the location XP calculated for a given collection element TR truly represents the actual location of that collection element.

[0288] When determining the position XP of a given collection component TR' based on the previously determined positions XP1, XP2, ..., XPz of other collection components, a reliability value can be conveniently used. If any conflict occurs (e.g., for two different collection components at approximately the same position), the processor 300 is configured to use the reliability value to assign the most probable position to each collection component.

[0289] In practice, for all collection components TR that are brought to the reading region RA, the processing described herein with reference to a general given collection component TR' is performed.

[0290] Using the method described above, each collection component TR existing in the storage area SA can be identified and its location XP can be determined.

[0291] This information proved useful when it was necessary to use element E, which was supported by the collecting component TR.

[0292] Specifically, imagine that processor 300 receives a request signal REQ from workstation 200.

[0293] Workstation 200 is suitable for processing one or more components E.

[0294] For example, when component E is a green mold, workstation 200 can be a molding or curing station.

[0295] Preferably, workstation 200 belongs to the same device as storage area SA.

[0296] Preferably, the request signal REQ contains information related to at least one element E to be processed.

[0297] In particular, the request signal REQ can represent a specific characteristic of the element E requested by workstation 200, which makes it possible to distinguish an element E (or at least a class of elements E) from other elements present in storage area SA.

[0298] In the case of a live tire, the workstation 200 may include details such as the model and / or size of the tire (the workstation 200 is configured to process the tire) in the request signal REQ.

[0299] The processor 300 compares the information contained in the request signal REQ with the first parameter P1 associated with each element E.

[0300] Once at least one possible element is identified that corresponds to the content indicated in the request signal REQ, the processor 300 reads the second parameter P2 associated with such at least one possible element.

[0301] Based on the time represented by parameter P2, processor 300 selects the most suitable component Ex—for example, the component closest to its expiration date—and uses it advantageously. Figure 5 The table shown schematically identifies the collection component TRx where such elements are located.

[0302] Finally, the processor 300 generates a response signal RESP, which includes an indication of the location XP of the identified collection component TRx.

[0303] Therefore, in short, based on at least one of the first and second parameters P1, P2 associated with each element E, and preferably also based on any information contained in the request signal REQ, the processor 300 selects element Ex from those elements present in the storage area SA.

[0304] The applicant observed that it might be necessary to use both the first parameter P1 and the second parameter P2 in the following situations: - If element E can be used at any time without any time restriction, then the second parameter P2 is not needed; therefore, for each element E, Figure 6 The table shown will only contain the unambiguous code ID and the first parameter P1; -If all components E are substantially identical and must be selected solely based on their age / expiration date, then for each component E, Figure 6 The table will only contain the unambiguous code ID and the second parameter P2. In this case, the request signal REQ may not contain any specific information about the element to be processed, because, as mentioned above, all elements E are essentially interchangeable in this case.

[0305] The response signal RESP is preferably sent to the receiver device 400.

[0306] For example, the receiver device 400 may be a visualization device 400 that can be operated by an operator for retrieving the identified collection component TRx and bringing it to the workstation 200.

[0307] In one embodiment, where the transport of the collected component is automated, for example by means of a so-called AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), the receiver device 400 can be a transport device, such as an AGV, so that the transport device can autonomously reach the identified collected component TRx and transport it to workstation 200. In the same context, the receiver device 400 can be a control device that generates a corresponding command for the AGV upon receiving a response signal RESP.

[0308] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that an operation is performed to examine and extract the identified collection component TRx.

[0309] In fact, the processor 300 knows the identification code XID of the identified collection component TRx and the list of collection components in the storage area SA (referred to as "inventory").

[0310] Therefore, after a period of time since the generation of the response signal RESP, the processor verifies that the identified collection member TRx—preferably only such an identified collection member TRx—is missing from the list of collection members in the storage area SA.

[0311] If the identified collection element TRx is still in the list, and if another collection element is missing without a retrieval instruction being issued for that other collection element, the processor 300 will generate a notification / alarm signal.

[0312] Figures 10a to 10b An illustrative flowchart illustrating an example of the operations performed to determine the location XP of a given collection component TR'.

[0313] At box 1000, initialize the counter. This counter will later be used to count the detections performed and to evaluate the appropriate time to calculate the position XP of a given collection element TR'. For example, the counter value can initially be set to zero.

[0314] At box 1010, the given collection component TR' is located in the reading area RA. From this moment on, the tags T1'-T4' of the given collection component TR' can be detected by the RFID reading system 100.

[0315] At box 1020, after reading the signal, the RFID reading system 100 receives the response from the RFID tags T1'-T4' and then detects the identification codes TID1'-TID4'.

[0316] At box 1030, the number of RFID tags that have been read for a given collection component TR' is checked. If the number is greater than or equal to a predefined minimum (e.g., two, three, or four), the process continues to box 1040.

[0317] Otherwise, the process returns to the upstream of block 1020 for further detection.

[0318] At box 1040, the identification code XID of a given collection component TR' is determined based on the identification codes TID1'-TID4'. As mentioned above, the identification code XID of a given collection component TR' can be consistent with the common part of the identification codes TID1'-TID4' of RFID tags T1'-T4'.

[0319] At box 1050, the estimated positions EP1-EP4 of RFID tags T1'-T4' are calculated. Preferably, such estimated positions EP1-EP4 are calculated by the RFID reading system 100.

[0320] At box 1060, the estimated location XL of the given collection component TR' is calculated. Specifically, the estimated location XL is calculated based on the estimated locations EP1-EP4 of RFID tags T1'-T4'. For example, the estimated location XL can be calculated using the above-described relations (ii) and (iii).

[0321] At box 1070, the counter's count value is increased, preferably by 1.

[0322] At box 1080, verify whether N estimated locations XL have been calculated so that the location XP of a given collection component TR' can be calculated. The number N can correspond to, for example, the expected number of values ​​in the second time series S2 (related to the result Y).

[0323] If not, the loop returns to the upstream of box 1020 to further detect RFID tags T1'-T4', further calculate estimated positions EP1-EP4, and further calculate estimated position XL.

[0324] Conversely, if it is verified at box 1080 that N estimated positions XL have been calculated, then at box 1090, the process continues to calculate the estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 of the geometric quantities D1-D6 based on the estimated positions EP1-EP4. This calculation is performed for each set of estimated positions EP1-EP4 determined at the same time. In fact, for each set of estimated positions EP1-EP4 belonging to a given time, the system calculates the estimated position XL of the given collection member TR' and a corresponding set of estimated values ​​EV1-EV6 of the geometric quantities D1-D6.

[0325] At box 1100, the estimated values ​​EP1-EP4 are compared with the corresponding true values ​​RV1-RV6, and at box 1110, the corresponding weights W3, i.e., the result Y of the comparison just performed, are calculated.

[0326] Preferably, the operation indicated in boxes 1090-1110 is performed by using the above relation (i).

[0327] At box 1120, the position XP of a given collection member TR' is obtained at box 1130 by preferably combining each value V3 of the estimated position XL with the corresponding weight W3 using formula (iv).

[0328] The applicant observed that the same result could also be obtained by using different time sequences.

[0329] In one embodiment, verification of the number of tests performed may also occur at a later time, for example after one of blocks 1090-1120.

[0330] It should be noted that, for simplicity, a single processor 300 is referred to in the above description. The applicant points out, however, that within the scope of this invention, two or more processors (whether integrated into a single device or distributed across different devices) can be used to perform the described operations. Similarly, the memory M can be implemented as one or more storage devices that are suitably associated with one or more processors in use.

[0331] In view of the above, the method of the present invention can be applied to the tire manufacturing process.

[0332] Preferably, the management system of the present invention can be applied to tire production equipment.

[0333] Specifically, element E can be a fetus.

[0334] The green embryo is placed in storage area SA.

[0335] One or more fetuses are placed on each collection component TR.

[0336] Workstation 200 is preferably a molding and curing station. Workstation 200 processes green tires to obtain finished tires.

[0337] Workstation 200 generates the signal REQ to request one or more elements E, i.e. one or more embryos, to be processed.

[0338] The request signal REQ is generated, for example, by a control unit associated with or incorporated into workstation 200; for example, the request signal REQ may be generated at the end of the molding and curing operation, when the finished tire has been removed and workstation 200 is ready to process another green tire.

[0339] Preferably, a request signal REQ is received from the processor 300.

[0340] Based on the above description, the processor 300 then identifies a collection component TRx on which the element Ex corresponding to the request signal REQ is placed.

[0341] Then, the identified collection component TRx is brought to workstation 200; the selected component Ex is loaded into workstation 200.

[0342] Preferably, the device includes one or more transport devices for bringing the component Ex to the workstation 200.

[0343] In one embodiment, the transport device may substantially comprise an identified collection component TRx, which is carried to workstation 200 by means of manual operation by an operator or by means of motorized equipment.

[0344] In one embodiment, the transport device may include an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle), as previously described, which is configured to automatically bring the identified collection component TRx and thus the selected element Ex to workstation 200.

[0345] Workstation 200 processes component Ex, i.e. green tire, by performing molding and curing operations to obtain the finished tire.

Claims

1. A method for managing the storage of elements placed on a collection component in a storage area (SA), the method comprising: Provide multiple collection components (TRs) to be located in the storage area (SA); One or more elements (E) are placed on each of the collection members (TR), each element being associated with at least one of a first parameter (P1) representing the structural and / or geometric features of the element and a second parameter (P2) representing the possible time interval of use of the element; Store the association between each of the collecting components (TR) and one or more elements (E) placed on the collecting component (TR); At least two RFID tags (T1-T4) are installed on each collection component (TR), each RFID tag (T1-T4) is associated with an identification code (TID1-TID4), and each RFID tag (T1-T4) is installed on the collection component at a corresponding defined location; For each collection component (TR), one or more corresponding geometric quantities (D1-D6) associated with the determined location of the RFID tag (T1-T4) are identified, and the true value (RV1-RV6) of each of the geometric quantities (D1-D6) is stored. At least one RFID reading system (100) is provided in the storage area (SA), and a corresponding reading area (RA) is associated with the RFID reading system (100); When a given collection member (TR') in the collection member (TR) is in the corresponding reading area (RA), the RFID reading system (100) reads the identification code (TID1'-TID4') of the RFID tag (T1'-T4') installed on the given collection member (TR'). The identification code (XID) of the given collection component (TR') is determined based on one or more identification codes (TID1'-TID4') of the RFID tag (T1'-T4'). The method includes performing the following operations: a. Determine the estimated location (EP1-EP4) of each of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') of the given collection component (TR'); b. Determine the estimated values ​​(EV1-EV6) of the geometric quantities (D1-D6) based on the estimated positions (EP1-EP4) of each of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') of the given collection component (TR'). c. Compare the estimated values ​​(EV1-EV6) with the true values ​​(RV1-RV6) to obtain the corresponding result (Y); The method includes performing the following operations: Based on the estimated location (EP1-EP4) of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') of the given collection component (TR') and the result (Y), determine the location (XP) of the given collection component (TR'). The location (XP) of the given collection component (TR') is stored in association with the identification code (XID) of the given collection component (TR'). When a request signal (REQ) is received from a workstation (200) suitable for processing one or more of the elements (E), at least one element (Ex) of the elements (E) is selected according to at least one of the first parameter (P1) and the second parameter (P2) associated with each of the elements (E). Based on the selected at least one element (Ex) and one of the stored associations, identify the collection member (TRx) on which the selected at least one element (Ex) is placed. Generate a response signal (RESP) containing an indication (XP) of the location of the identified collection member (TRx) on which the selected at least one element (Ex) is placed.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The geometric quantities (D1-D6) include the distance between the RFID tags (T1-T4).

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising calculating an estimated location (XL) of the given collection component (TR') based on the estimated locations (EP1-EP4) of each of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') of the given collection component (TR'), wherein, The location (XP) of the given collection component (TR') is determined based on the estimated location (XL) and the result (Y).

4. The method according to claim 3, comprising: Repeat operation ac to obtain the values ​​of the first time series (S1) for the estimated positions (EP1-EP4) and the values ​​of the second time series (S2) for the result (Y); The location (XP) of the given collection component (TR') is determined based on the values ​​of the first time series (S1) and the second time series (S2).

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising calculating a third time series (S3) value for the estimated position (XL) of the given collection member (TR') based on the value of the first time series (S1).

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The location (XP) of the given collection component (TR') is determined based on the values ​​of the second time series (S2) and the third time series (S3).

7. The method of claim 6, comprising: For each value (VS3) in the third time series (S3), a corresponding weight (W3) is calculated based on the corresponding value in the second time series (S2). The location (XP) of the given collection element (TR') is determined by combining each value in the third time series (S3) with the corresponding weight (W3).

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The request signal (REQ) contains information related to at least one element (E) to be processed, wherein the at least one element (Ex) among the elements (E) is selected based on the information contained in the request signal (REQ).

9. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining the position (XP) of the given collection member (TR') based on the previously determined positions (YP1, YP2, ..., YPz) of other collection members.

10. The method according to claim 1, comprising: The storage area (SA) is divided into multiple storage zones (SZ), each storage zone being adapted to receive one collection component (TR) at a time. Based on the location (XP) of the given collection component (TR'), the identification code (XID) of the given collection component (TR') is associated with one of the storage areas (SZ).

11. The method of claim 1, further comprising associating a corresponding single-meaning code (ID) with each element (E).

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The association between each collection component (TR) and one or more elements (E) placed on the collection component (TR) includes: One or more single-meaning codes (IDs) associated with one or more elements (E) placed on the collection member (TR) are associated with the identification code (XID) of each collection member (TR).

13. The method of claim 11 or 12, further comprising associating at least one of the first parameter (P1) and the second parameter (P2) with each single-meaning code (ID).

14. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the collecting components (TR) has a generally rectangular outline in a plan view, wherein the RFID tags (T1-T4) are mounted on the sides of the generally rectangular outline.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, Four RFID tags (T1-T4) are mounted on each collection member (TR), with one RFID tag (T1-T4) at each vertex of the generally rectangular outline.

16. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The identification codes (TID1-TID4) of the RFID tags (T1-T4) installed on the collection component (TR) have equal parts that are not present in the RFID tags installed on other collection components, wherein the identification code (XID) of the collection component corresponds to the equal parts.

17. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The estimated location (EP1-EP4) of the RFID tag (T1'-T4') of the given collection component (TR') is determined by the RFID reading system (100).

18. A management system for components placed on a collection member in a storage area (SA), the management system (1) comprising: To locate multiple collection components (TRs) within the storage area (SA); One or more elements (E), each element (E) being associated with at least one of a first parameter (P1) representing the structural and / or geometric features of the element (E) and a second parameter (P2) representing the possible time intervals of use of the element (E); A memory (M) stores the association between each of the collecting members (TR) and one or more elements (E) placed on the collecting member (TR); At least two RFID tags (T1-T4) are installed on each collection component (TR), each RFID tag (T1-T4) is associated with a corresponding identification code (TID1-TID4), and each RFID tag (T1-T4) is installed on the collection component (TR) at a corresponding defined location. For each collection component (TR), the true value (RV1-RV6) of each of one or more geometric quantities (D1-D6) associated with the collection component (TR) and related to the defined location of the RFID tag (T1-T4) is stored in the memory (M). An RFID reading system (100) is located in the storage area (SA), and a corresponding reading area (RA) is associated with the RFID reading system (100); The RFID reading system (100) is configured to read the identification codes (TID1'-TID4') of RFID tags (T1'-T4') installed on the given collection member (TR) when the given collection member (TR') is in the corresponding reading area (RA), and the RFID reading system (100) is configured to determine the estimated position (EP1-EP4) of each of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') installed on the given collection member (TR'). Processor (300), which is associated with and configured to: The identification code (XID) of the given collection component (TR) is determined based on one or more identification codes (TID1'-TID4') of the RFID tag (T1'-T4') of the given collection component (TR'). Based on the estimated location (EP1-EP4) of each of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') of the given collection component (TR'), the estimated values ​​(EV1-EV6) of the geometric quantities (D1-D6) are determined. The estimated values ​​(EV1-EV6) are compared with the true values ​​(RV1-RV6) to obtain the corresponding result (Y). Based on the estimated location (EP1-EP4) of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') of the given collection component (TR') and the result (Y), determine the location (XP) of the given collection component (TR'). The location (XP) of the given collection component (TR') is stored in the memory (M) in association with the identification code (XID) of the given collection component (TR'); Receive a request signal (REQ) from a workstation (200), the workstation being adapted to process one or more of the elements (E); At least one element (Ex) of the elements (E) is selected based on at least one of the first parameter (P1) and the second parameter (P2) associated with each of the elements (E). Based on the selected at least one element (Ex) and one of the stored associations, identify the collection member (TRx) on which the selected at least one element (Ex) is placed. Generate a response signal (RESP) containing an indication (XP) of the location of the identified collection member (TRx) on which the selected at least one element (Ex) is placed.

19. The management system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The geometric quantities (D1-D6) include the distance between the RFID tags (T1-T4).

20. The management system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The processor (300) is configured to calculate the estimated position (XL) of the given collection member (TR') based on the estimated position (EP1-EP4) of each of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') of the given collection member (TR'), wherein the position (XP) of the given collection member (TR') is determined based on the estimated position (XL) and the result (Y).

21. The management system according to claim 20, characterized in that: The RFID reading system (100) is configured to repeatedly determine the estimated location (EP1-EP4) of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') of the given collection element (TR') over time. The processor (300) is configured to repeat the following operations over time: - Determine the estimated values ​​(EV1-EV6) of the geometric quantities (D1-D6) based on the estimated positions (EP1-EP4) of each of the RFID tags (T1'-T4') of the given collection component (TR'). - Compare the estimated values ​​(EV1-EV6) with the true values ​​(RV1-RV6) to obtain the corresponding results (Y). Thus, the values ​​of the first time series (S1) for the estimated positions (EP1-EP4) and the values ​​of the second time series (S2) for the result (Y) are obtained; The processor (300) is configured to determine the position (XP) of the given collection element (TR') based on the value of the first time series (S1) and the value of the second time series (S2).

22. The management system according to claim 21, characterized in that, The processor (300) is configured to calculate the value of a third time series (S3) for the estimated position (XL) of the given collection member (TR') based on the value of the first time series (S1).

23. The management system according to claim 22, characterized in that, The processor (300) is configured to determine the position (XP) of the given collection element (TR') based on the value of the second time series (S2) and the value of the third time series (S3).

24. The management system according to claim 23, characterized in that, The processor (300) is configured to perform the following operations: For each value (VS3) in the third time series (S3), the corresponding weight (W3) is calculated based on the corresponding value in the second time series (S2); The location (XP) of the given collection element (TR') is determined by combining each value in the third time series (S3) with the corresponding weight (W3).

25. The management system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The request signal (REQ) contains information relating to at least one element (E) to be processed, wherein the processor (300) is configured to also select the at least one element (Ex) among the elements (E) based on the information contained in the request signal (REQ).

26. The management system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The processor (300) is configured to determine the position (XP) of the given collection element (TR') based on the previously determined positions (YP1, YP2, ..., YPz) of other collection elements.

27. The management system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The storage area (SA) is divided into multiple storage zones (SZ), each storage zone being adapted to receive one collection component (TR) at a time. The processor (300) is configured to associate the identification code (XID) of the given collection element (TR') with one of the storage areas (SZ) based on the location (XP) of the given collection element (TR').

28. The management system according to claim 18, characterized in that, Associate the corresponding single-meaning code (ID) with each element (E).

29. The management system according to claim 28, characterized in that, In order to store the association between each collection member (TR) and one or more elements (E) placed on the collection member (TR), the processor (300) is configured to associate one or more single-meaning codes (IDs) associated with one or more elements (E) placed on the collection member (TR) with the identification code (XID) of each collection member (TR).

30. The management system according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, The processor (300) is configured to associate at least one of the first parameter (P1) and the second parameter (P2) with each single code (ID).

31. The management system according to claim 18, characterized in that, Each of the collecting components (TR) has a generally rectangular outline in a plan view, wherein the RFID tags (T1-T4) are mounted on the sides of the generally rectangular outline.

32. The management system according to claim 31, characterized in that, Four RFID tags (T1-T4) are mounted on each collection member (TR), with one RFID tag (T1-T4) at each vertex of the generally rectangular outline.

33. The management system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The identification codes (TID1-TID4) of the RFID tags (T1-T4) installed on the collection component (TR) have equal parts that are not present in the RFID tags installed on other collection components, wherein the identification code (XID) of the collection component corresponds to the equal parts.

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