Systems and methods for digital triggers and digital twins

Abstract

In some embodiments, a computer processor-based method using at least one processor and at least one non-volatile computer-readable memory is disclosed. The method includes associating a first component and a first unique identifier with at least one of a plurality of digital twins of a final product, the first unique identifier corresponding to a first digital trigger. The method further includes updating at least one digital twin based on evolution relating to the first component and at least as part of a product manufacturing process. The method also includes associating at least one of the plurality of digital twins with a product and a second unique identifier corresponding to a second digital trigger. The method may further include providing data related to trust conditions.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing of related patent applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 904,245, filed September 23, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0003] For some conventional systems, information about a product's history or validity may be unavailable, outdated, incomplete, or inaccurate. For example, aside from believing that the printed brand name is accurate, a consumer may not be able to verify whether a garment is genuine or counterfeit. In other examples, consumers may find it difficult to verify the veracity of a seller's claims regarding quality (such as the presence of organic ingredients), correct delivery, or the fact that the product is new, or to verify the authenticity of a product purchased from an intermediary.

[0004] While there may be some standard verification systems based on enterprise-wide certification (such as those by regulatory organizations), such systems may not provide accurate or timely information in specific situations (such as at a particular product level). Furthermore, false claims based on only simple certifications may exist with such systems.

[0005] Therefore, conventional systems can be improved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Several aspects of this subject matter are described and claimed below, which may be included individually or together in the described devices and systems. These aspects may be used alone or in combination with other aspects of the subject matter described herein, and the description of these aspects is not intended to exclude their use alone or to claim their use alone or in the various combinations that may be listed in the appended claims.

[0007] In some embodiments, a computer processor-based method using at least one processor and at least one non-volatile computer-readable memory includes associating a first component and a first unique identifier with at least one of a plurality of digital twins of a set of products, wherein the first unique identifier corresponds to a first digital trigger.

[0008] In some embodiments, the method further includes updating at least one digital twin based on evolutions relating to the first component and at least as part of the commodity manufacturing process.

[0009] In other embodiments, the method further includes associating at least one of the plurality of digital twins with a product and a second unique identifier, the second unique identifier corresponding to a second digital trigger. The method also includes providing data relating to trust conditions applicable to the first component and the final product in response to a first communication initiated based on the second digital trigger.

[0010] The at least one digital trigger can be any digital trigger known in the art. In some embodiments, the at least one digital trigger is selected from one or more of the following: RFID devices, barcodes, QR codes, etc. Devices, BLE devices, NFC devices, image-recognizable, sound-recognizable, and wireless transmission devices.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first component can be used to form a product, and the evolution includes changing the manufacturing process of the component. In some embodiments, the trust conditions may include allocation factors, including one or more of the following: manufacturer identity, production authorization, distributor authorization, regional authorization, new production status, pre-sale, recall status, and repair confirmation.

[0012] In some embodiments, the trust conditions may include at least one process factor, including one or more of the following: organic process verification, fair labor verification, fair trade verification, charitable support verification, relationship verification, food standard verification, production step verification, and cold chain verification.

[0013] In some embodiments, the trust conditions may include at least one component factor, including one or more of the following: component material confirmation, allergen confirmation, organic component confirmation, non-GMO confirmation, antibiotic-free confirmation, free range confirmation, recyclable material confirmation, and component confirmation.

[0014] The evolution may include various events. In some embodiments, the evolution includes at least one of the following events: a production step involving the first component, a production step involving a product derived from the first component, and a production step involving the commodity. In some embodiments, the evolution includes: 1) incorporating the first component into a group; and 2) creating a group identifier associated with the group. In some embodiments, the evolution includes separating the first component from the group. The evolution may include connecting the second digital trigger to the commodity.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first and second digital triggers are the same trigger. In other embodiments, the first and second digital triggers are of the same trigger type. In other embodiments, the first and second digital triggers are of different trigger types. In other embodiments, the digital twin can be updated via target product evolution based on a second communication (initiated based on at least one of the first and second digital triggers).

[0016] In some embodiments, the method includes determining the context of the first communication. The content of the conditional data can be determined based on the context. The context may include one or more of the following: consumer identity, manufacturer identity, distributor identity, and retail environment.

[0017] The components may vary. In some embodiments, the components include at least one of the following: materials, parts, equipment, ingredients, food, and animals.

[0018] The consumer products may vary. In some embodiments, the consumer products include at least one of the following: clothing, agricultural products, beverages, food, meat products, machinery, chemicals, textiles, electrical appliances, vehicles, tools, electronic devices, furniture, medical devices, toys, games, books, protective equipment, medicines, bandages, masks, pharmaceuticals, and vaccines.

[0019] In some embodiments, the method may further include selecting a digital twin verification protocol upon receiving a second communication (initiated based on a read of at least one of the first and second digital triggers). The method may include providing a user interface for the brand owner. In some embodiments, upon receiving the second communication (initiated based on a read of at least one of the first and second digital triggers), the user interface may display information related to the digital twin. In some embodiments, the method may include providing a user interface that allows the brand owner to select a protocol to view information related to the digital twin without receiving communication from the digital triggers.

[0020] In some embodiments, the digital twin system includes a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium and a processor connected to the storage medium. According to instructions stored on the storage medium, the processor can associate a first component and a first unique identifier with at least one of a plurality of digital twins of a set of end products, the first unique identifier corresponding to a first digital trigger. The processor can also update at least one digital twin based on evolution related to the first component and at least as part of the product manufacturing process. The processor can also associate at least one of the plurality of digital twins with a product and a second unique identifier, the second unique identifier corresponding to a second digital trigger. In response to a first communication initiated based on the second digital trigger, the processor can also provide data related to trust conditions applicable to the first component and the end product. The first and second digital triggers are trigger types including one or more of the following: RFID devices, barcodes, QR codes, etc. Devices, BLE devices, NFC devices, image-recognizable, sound-recognizable, and wireless transmission devices.

[0021] In some embodiments, the system may further include an access device capable of reading at least one of the first and second digital triggers and initiating communication (received by at least one computer processor) based on the reading.

[0022] In some embodiments, a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium includes software instructions that, when executed, a computer processor can associate a first component and a first unique identifier with at least one of a plurality of digital twins of a final product, the first unique identifier corresponding to a first digital trigger. The storage medium further includes instructions that allow the processor to update at least one digital twin based on evolution relating to the first component and at least as part of a product manufacturing process. The storage medium further includes instructions that allow the processor to associate at least one of the plurality of digital twins with a product and a second unique identifier, the second unique identifier corresponding to a second digital trigger. The storage medium further includes instructions that, in response to a first communication initiated based on the second digital trigger, the processor can provide data relating to trust conditions applicable to the first component and the final product. The first and second digital triggers are trigger types including one or more of the following: RFID devices, barcodes, QR codes, etc. Devices, BLE devices, NFC devices, image-recognizable, sound-recognizable, and wireless transmission devices. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a digital twin system in some embodiments.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of different aspects of the digital twin system described in some embodiments.

[0025] Figure 3 A block diagram illustrating the evolution of various products in some embodiments.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the trust condition verification process in some embodiments.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the verification of information involving additional data sources in some embodiments.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary computer system in each embodiment.

[0029] Figure 7 The diagram shows the schematic of the computer program product in each embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Detailed embodiments of the present invention are listed herein as needed; however, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the invention and the invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, the specific details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting the invention, but are merely intended as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis to guide those skilled in the art in using the invention in almost any suitable manner. The terms "one or more of a, b, and c", "at least one or more of a, b, and c", and "at least one of a, b, or c" refer to a, b, c, or combinations thereof, including 1) one or more a and one or more b; 2) one or more b and one or more c; 3) one or more a and one or more c; 4) one or more a; 5) one or more b; or 6) one or more c.

[0031] In various embodiments, a digital twin system enables one or more entities, such as manufacturers, distributors, retail entities, or consumers, to better track or otherwise understand key information related to a particular consumer product. This information may relate to trust conditions, such as whether the consumer product is genuine or counterfeit, whether it is certified organic, or whether it contains specific ingredients. In other embodiments, key information may relate to retail or brand stories, care instructions, recall information, or other data. In various embodiments, information related to the consumer product can be accessed, updated, or provided by one or more entities through one or more digital triggers. In some embodiments, the type of digital triggers used by the system is unknown. In other embodiments, the system may operate differently depending on the specific type of digital trigger used and / or depending on environmental conditions or context. Additional information regarding the various embodiments is discussed in more detail below.

[0032] Exemplary Digital Twin Systems and Methods

[0033] Figure 1 The components of an exemplary digital twin system in some embodiments are shown. The digital twin system 10 includes an electronic data storage system 12 and may include one or more of the following: an access device 14 and one or more digital triggers 16 (which can be read from and / or communicated with by one or more access devices 14).

[0034] Each digital trigger can be one or more trigger types, including RFID devices, barcodes, QR codes, etc. The device includes BLE devices, NFC devices, identifiable images, identifiable sounds, and wireless transmission devices. Identifiable images may include brand names, slogans, product shapes, microscopic textures, ink stains, colorless dyes, color-changing dyes, UV-Vis images, thermal images, chemically sensitive images or dyes, magnetic inks, or other visible or hidden markings. Identifiable features may also include invisible markings or markings that are visible in certain circumstances. The RFID device may include one or more of the following: low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), and ultra-high frequency (UHF) devices.

[0035] In some embodiments, the system may include at least one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more digital triggers. One or more access devices 14 may correspond to the type of trigger used in the digital twin system 10, and therefore may include one or more of the following: a QR code reader, a barcode scanner, an RFID reader, etc. Readers, BLE readers, NFC readers, image recognition systems, audio recognition systems, magnetic sensing systems, and wireless transceivers (for communicating with electronic devices via wireless frequencies).

[0036] System 10 further includes Goods 18, namely, the body of the digital twin 20 stored in the electronic data storage system 12. For example, Goods 18 may include components, materials, food, ingredients, or commodities. Examples of goods may include one or more of the following: clothing, food, machinery, chemicals, textiles, electrical appliances, vehicles, tools, electronic devices, furniture, medical devices, toys, games, books, protective equipment, medicines, bandages, masks, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, or consumer goods for purchase or use by consumers. Food may include one or more of the following: vegetables, fruits, beverages, meat products, dairy products, seafood, or fish products. Furthermore, components may include a good used in the production or assembly of another good. For example, a piece of cloth, a bag of supplies, a box of parts, or a piece of chemicals may be a good used as part of the production of another good (such as a garment or an electronic device). Additionally, a shirt or a pair of trousers may be a good sold as a separate item as part of a complete set. The final product may be a good sold or intended for consumer use, such as through one or more operations including production, inclusion, shipment, and retailer display.

[0037] Each digital twin 20 may include an electronic record associated with a specific product (e.g., an item 18). In some embodiments, a digital twin 20 may be associated with two or more items 18, such as within a container or as a group of items 18 transported together.

[0038] In various embodiments, the electronic data storage system 12 may store at least one digital twin 20a-20d (collectively referred to herein as digital twin 20), but may host a database comprising multiple digital twins 20. The electronic data storage system 12 is adapted to store at least one data twin 20 and (preferably) is used to communicate with the access device 14. For example, the electronic data storage system 12 may be configured as a cloud storage system, a database, or a more traditional local storage device (e.g., one or more computer hard drives operating using one or more computer processors).

[0039] The digital twin 20 stored by the electronic data storage system 12 may include a plurality of entries 22a-22d (collectively referred to herein as entry 22), which may contain information relating to item 18 and / or digital trigger 16. At least one entry 22 contains at least one unique identifier corresponding to digital trigger 16. In various embodiments, the unique identifier is also obtained by the access device 14 when reading digital trigger 16. Thus, digital twin 20 can be uniquely paired with digital trigger 16. By associating digital trigger 16 with the unique identifier, digital twin 20 can also be paired with item 18.

[0040] Unique Identifier

[0041] In various other embodiments, the digital trigger 16 and / or the digital twin 20 may have multiple unique identifiers. For example, different unique identifiers may be associated with different wireless communication protocols or different types of information (related to the same item 18 and / or the corresponding digital trigger 16). For example, as... Figure 2 As shown, an entry 22 of the digital twin 20 may include information related to the brand of the product 18 or its expiration date, product inventory unit (“SKU”), production / plant management information, product attributes / details, blockchain records, directed acyclic graph (DAG) records, distributed ledger tracking events, tracking / tracing verification, ownership, and events.

[0042] In other embodiments, one or more digital triggers 18 may be associated with a unique identifier, and multiple digital triggers 18 may be associated with a single item 18. For example, a single item 18 may be associated with two or more of the following: a QR code, an RFID device, and a UHF tag, or any combination of two or more of the same or different types of digital triggers 16 listed above. Associating an item 18 with multiple digital triggers 18 improves the ability of manufacturers, distributors, consumers, or other entities to interact with at least one digital trigger 16 using a more convenient access device 14.

[0043] Data can be entered into entry 22 automatically (e.g., via signals from sensors associated with product 18) or manually (e.g., by an operator using access device 14 to input information related to product 18). The data may include one or more trust conditions, such as allocation factors, process factors, and / or ingredient factors. Exemplary allocation factors may include one or more of the following: manufacturer identity, production authorization, distributor authorization, territorial authorization, new production status, pre-sale, recall status, and repair confirmation. Exemplary process factors may include one or more of the following: organic process confirmation, fair labor confirmation, fair trade confirmation, charitable support confirmation, relationship confirmation, food standard confirmation, production step confirmation, and cold chain confirmation. Exemplary ingredient factors may include one or more of the following: component material confirmation, allergen confirmation, organic ingredient confirmation, non-GMO confirmation, antibiotic-free confirmation, free range confirmation, recyclable material confirmation, and ingredient confirmation. Data entered into entry 22 regarding trust conditions may also indicate that the information regarding the trust condition is unknown, ambiguous, or confirmed unreliable. For example, if the system cannot automatically determine the information, it may assign a null value or an undetermined status to the entry.

[0044] The data may also relate to the evolution of Goods 18 (such as components, materials, or ingredients) as it undergoes various operations such as production, cooking, shipping, storage, refrigeration, registration, association with a unique identifier, and / or other processes. These various evolutionary operations may result in one or more transformations and / or modifications to Goods 18 until the Goods are created, delivered, and purchased.

[0045] Access device

[0046] Access device 14 may include one or more components of computer system 400 (see...) Figure 6 Access device 14 can serve as an intermediary between electronic data storage system 12 and digital trigger 16. In other embodiments, access device 14 is not required as an intermediary; digital trigger 16 can interact directly with electronic data storage system 12. Access device 14 can communicate with both electronic data storage system 12 and digital trigger 16, or only with electronic data storage system 12 or only with digital trigger 16.

[0047] Access device 14 can communicate with electronic data storage system 12 and / or one or more digital triggers 16. In some embodiments, access device 14 includes a "smart device" (such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone) that can communicate with other devices or networks via Wi-Fi, cellular communication, or Bluetooth. The access device may further include a camera, a processor, and software used as an image recognition device, such as for recognizing barcodes, QR codes, brand names, pre-registered images, people, or other images.

[0048] Access device 14 can communicate with electronic data storage system 12 and / or digital trigger 16 via wired or wireless communication. In various embodiments, access device 14 may be incorporated into electronic data storage system 12. For example, electronic data storage system 12 may be a computer hard disk drive or include a computer hard disk drive, and access device 14 may be a peripheral device connected to the computer or include peripheral devices connected to the computer, such as a barcode reader.

[0049] Although Figure 1A single access device 14 is shown; however, multiple access devices can communicate with a single electronic data storage system 12. This may include different access devices 14 for different digital twins 20 and / or different access devices 14 for the same digital twin 20 (each access device uses the same or different unique identifier to access the digital twin 20). For example, different entities and / or entity types may have access to the digital twin 20 at different times or at different access levels. For example, some exemplary entities may include programmers or administrators, brand owners, and end consumers. Tasks may be assigned to the programmers or administrators with digital identities, namely, creating the digital twin 20 and / or populating one or more entries 22. The brand owner may access the digital twin 20 to monitor the performance and status of the product 18 (which can be used to improve production and / or factory management). Furthermore, limited access rights may be granted to end users to access the digital twin 20 to register or transfer ownership of the product 18 and view certain information about the product 18 (e.g., verifying whether the product 18 was produced by the brand owner).

[0050] The access device 14 may vary for different entities. For example, the access device 14 for a programmer may include a barcode reader and / or a smart device that can communicate with the electronic data storage system 12 and the digital trigger 16. The access device 14 for a brand owner may include a computer or smart device that can only communicate with the electronic data storage system 12. Furthermore, the access device 14 for an end user may include a smartphone that can communicate with the electronic data storage system 12 and the digital trigger 16.

[0051] In various embodiments, the access device 14 includes a user interface 24 and a reader 26 (e.g., such as...). Figure 1 (As shown). Depending on the user type, user interface 24 (also shown) Figure 2 The user interface 24 can grant users different capabilities and access rights. For example, the programmer's user interface 24 enables the programmer to create a digital twin 20, while allowing other users to track ownership of the product 18 and record events and states throughout the product 18's lifecycle. In an exemplary embodiment, the user interface 24 may include a touchscreen (e.g., the screen of a smartphone or tablet) that the user can press and otherwise operate to perform various activities within the user interface 24 (which may include software programs or mobile applications 28 supported by appropriate middleware 30, such as...). Figure 2 (As shown). In another exemplary embodiment, the user interface 24 may include a screen, which a user can interact with using a peripheral device such as a computer mouse.

[0052] Reader 26 enables access device 14 to interact with electronic data storage system 12 and / or digital trigger 16. Although Figure 1 Access device 14 is shown together with single reader 26; however, it should be understood that single access device 14 may include multiple readers 26, especially when access device 14 may communicate with electronic data storage system 12 and access device 14 using different communication protocols or triggering technologies.

[0053] Digital trigger 16 can communicate with access device 14, but can also communicate directly with electronic data storage system 12. As described above, digital trigger 16 is encoded with an optional serialized unique identifier to distinguish it from digital triggers 16 associated with different goods 18. The identifier can take any suitable form, such as an Electronic Product Code (“EPC”), chip ID, short ID, or unique URL pointer (typically such as...). Figure 2 (As shown at position 32 in the diagram). In addition to the aforementioned identifier, the digital trigger 16 may be encoded with additional data, such as information about the manufacturer of the digital trigger 16.

[0054] Digital trigger

[0055] The digital trigger 16 can communicate with the access device 14 and / or the electronic data storage system 12 in either a passive or active manner. The term "passive" means that the digital trigger 16 does not include an antenna or similar means for transmitting signals, but relies entirely on the access device 14 or the electronic data storage system 12 to transmit (i.e., "scan") signals to the digital trigger 16. The term "active" means that the digital trigger 16 includes an antenna or similar means for transmitting signals, regardless of whether it first receives signals from the electronic data storage system 12 or the access device 14.

[0056] In various embodiments, the digital trigger 16 includes a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode. In another embodiment, the digital trigger 16 includes a near-field communication (“NFC”), remote frequency identification (“RFID”), or Bluetooth Low Energy (“BLE”) tag or other wireless communication tag (typically such as… Figure 2(As shown at point 34 in the diagram). In some embodiments, if the digital trigger 16 is configured as a wireless communication tag, its chip or integrated circuit may include limited writable memory or no writable memory, or may store limited information, such as pointers only, thus further reducing the cost of the digital trigger 16 and the cost of the digital twin system 10, thereby creating a digital twin 20 for a lower-cost product 18 in a more practical way. A single electronic data storage system 12 may store digital twins 20 associated with different configurations of the digital trigger 16, rather than just storing digital twins 20 associated with only one type of digital trigger 16 (e.g., only digital trigger 16 configured as an RFID tag).

[0057] The nature of the digital trigger 16 (i.e., the protocol it uses when communicating) determines the nature of the reader 26 of the associated access device 14. Therefore, if the digital trigger 16 includes a barcode, the reader 26 is capable of reading the barcode; if the digital trigger 16 includes an RFID tag, the reader 26 may include an RFID reader. Some systems may include smartphones or other smart devices familiar with multiple communication protocols and / or triggering technologies, while other embodiments may include an access device 14 capable of communicating using only one protocol (e.g., a one-dimensional barcode reader).

[0058] Figure 1 The digital twin system 10 may include additional components. For example, in addition to the digital trigger 16, the item 18 may include one or more sensors that can provide additional information about the item 18 to the digital twin 20 separately.

[0059] Exemplary User Interface

[0060] In a more specific manner, a user can interact with the digital twin system 10, and a programmer's user interface 24 provides a "Create Digital Twin" menu item, enabling the programmer to create a digital twin 20 in the electronic data storage system 12. This may include allowing the programmer to select the brand of a digital trigger 16 (to be paired with the digital twin 20) or a product 18 (to which the digital trigger 16 is associated). The user interface 24 also allows the programmer to select the nature of the digital trigger 16 or the product 18. The programmer can then scan the digital trigger 16 using access device 14 (which may or may not be associated with product 18 at the time of scanning). The unique identifier of the digital trigger 16 can be automatically entered into the appropriate entry 22 of the digital twin 20, and the user interface 24 may optionally indicate to the programmer that the digital twin 20 has been successfully created and paired with the digital trigger 16. If any additional data is encoded for the digital trigger 16 and transferred to the digital twin 20 after scanning the digital trigger 16, it can also be transferred from the digital trigger 16 to the digital twin 20. In addition to automatically inputting data into the electronic data storage system 12 via the scanning digital trigger 16, the user interface 24 provides programmers with the option to manually input data (such as brand owner information) into the digital twin 20 via the user interface 24.

[0061] User interface 24 may include a "Add Event to Digital Twin" menu item, enabling users to provide event data to digital twin 20. For example, user interface 24 for a brand owner may include a list of events experienced by digital trigger 16 and / or product 18, such as shipment, receipt at port of import, receipt at retail location, etc. After an event occurs, the user selects the appropriate event from the list. If the event has an associated location (e.g., port of import location or retail location), user interface 24 also allows the user to enter such information. After selecting an event (and optionally, location), the user can use access device 14 to scan digital trigger 16, thereby updating the digital twin 20 paired with digital trigger 16 to include the event and (if applicable) the location. User interface 24 may display to the user that the event has been successfully added to digital twin 20.

[0062] User interface 24 may also include a “Verify Digital Twin” menu item, enabling the user to verify digital twin 20. Upon selecting such a menu item, the user can scan digital trigger 16 to cause user interface 24 to display information contained within digital twin 20. The nature of this information may differ; for example, the information provided to the user by the brand owner's user interface 24 may differ from that provided by the end-user's user interface 24. Alternatively, the digital twin system 10 may be appropriately configured so that the user can simply scan digital trigger 16 to retrieve information from digital twin 20 without selecting the “Verify Digital Twin” menu item. In one embodiment, while access to and viewing of the brand owner's proprietary information requires selecting the “Verify Digital Twin” menu item and then scanning digital trigger 16, simply reading or scanning digital trigger 16 allows access to and display of more general information or value-added services (e.g., information of interest to the end user) from digital twin 20 on user interface 24. User interface 24 may include additional or alternative functionalities.

[0063] Exemplary evolution

[0064] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the evolution of goods 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, and 116 in certain embodiments. Each good can be associated with a corresponding unique identifier and a digital twin 20 of the final product (e.g., consumer product 216). One or more of goods 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, and 114 may be identical to good 18. Each good may undergo various processes or operations before creating the consumer product 116 associated with a particular digital twin 20.

[0065] Among other possible operations, operations 120, 122, 124, 226, 128, 130, and 132 may include one or more production or food processing operations, such as mixing, heating, cooling, shaping, cutting, printing, joining, welding, extruding, stamping, forming, sewing, weaving, lateral movement, or rotation. In other embodiments, product evolution may involve food processing operations, ingredient combinations, packaging, and / or transportation and delivery. For example, a baking operation may involve mixing multiple ingredients, baking, and removing from a cookware.

[0066] When combining two or more items 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, and 116, certain exemplary operations may occur. For example, two products (such as a tracksuit top and bottom) may be connected together and sold as a unit. Operations performed on each product may include connecting it to other corresponding products or placing it in place when connected to another product. In another example, it may be necessary to collect multiple components of grouped products to form a transport unit or retail unit. A retail unit may include a set of tools, a puzzle, a model, a set of furniture, or a meal. A transport unit may include placement in a container or on a pallet. Operations on each part may include transferring it to a grouping location, placing it at a transfer location for other parts, or connecting it to one or more other items.

[0067] Before, during, or after an evolution, digital triggers associated with a corresponding commodity 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, or 116 and / or a corresponding process can be read to confirm the evolution that has occurred or otherwise register the state of the corresponding commodity in the electronic data storage system 12.

[0068] exist Figure 3 In this embodiment, goods 102 and 104 are combined together through operations 120 and 122, respectively, to form goods 106. Goods 106, 108, and 110 are combined together through operations 124, 126, and 128, respectively, to form goods 112. Goods 112 and 114 are combined together through operations 130 and 132, respectively, to form consumer goods 116. Consumer goods 116 may be part of a group of 118 consumer goods that are otherwise identical, each consumer good being associated with a different corresponding digital twin 20. In some embodiments, one or more goods 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, and 114 may be used to form two or more of the group 118 of said consumer goods 116.

[0069] Verify trust conditions

[0070] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the trust condition verification process in some embodiments. Figure 4 This includes manufacturers 200, distributors 202, retail entities 204, and consumers 206. Figure 4It also includes goods 218a, 218b, 218c and 218d, manufacturer identity 208a, distributor identity 208b, retailer identity 208c and consumer identity 208d, access devices 214a, 214b, 214c, 214d, user identities 224a, 224b, 224c, 224d, and readers 226a, 226b, 226c, 226d. In various embodiments, one or more goods 18, 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114 and 116 may be the same as one or more of goods 218a, 218b, 218c and 218d.

[0071] exist Figure 4 In one embodiment, goods 218a may be received by manufacturer 200, who will perform one or more operations (see...). Figure 3 This allows product 218a to evolve into product 218b. In various embodiments, product 218a may include one or more of a digital trigger 216a (e.g., a first digital trigger) and a digital trigger 216b (e.g., a second digital trigger) or other digital triggers. In other embodiments, manufacturer 200 may add a second digital trigger 216b to product 218a.

[0072] In various embodiments, manufacturer 200 may connect two or more types of digital triggers to a single item 218a. These include two or more of the following: barcodes, QR codes, NFC tags, etc. Alternatively, BLE tags and RFID tags may be used. Each digital trigger can be associated with a unique identifier, and the manufacturer can pair multiple unique identifiers with the digital twin 20 of the product 218a and the final product 218c. The RFID tag may be easier for the manufacturer 200 to read, while one or more of the QR code, NFC tag, Bluetooth, or BLE tag may be easier for the distributor 202, retailer 204, or consumer 206 to read.

[0073] Manufacturer 200 receiving goods 218a and performing one or more of the following operations (e.g., connecting digital triggers, performing production steps) may include manually or automatically causing reader 226a of access device 214a to read one or more digital triggers 216a, 216b associated with goods 218a or 218b, which may initiate one or more communications with electronic data storage system 12.

[0074] Through the communication, data can be provided to the electronic data storage system 12. This data may include information relating to one or more of the manufacturer's identity 208a, product 218a, and one or more operations performed by the manufacturer (which may cause product 218a to evolve into product 218b). This data and / or product 218a may be further associated with a digital twin 20 of a consumer product (e.g., product 208c). For example, components such as raw materials, parts, fabrics, threads, dyes, or chemicals received by manufacturer 200 may be associated with multiple end products (e.g., consumer products) made using said components. Thus, one component (such as a large quantity of fabric or chemicals) may be associated with one, ten, fifty, or more end products. For example, a digital twin 20 of a shirt, garment, or fabric (not yet created) may be associated with the fabric or chemicals used to create said shirt, garment, or fabric during the production phase.

[0075] Goods 218b may be received by distributor 208b, who will perform various operations to evolve goods 218b into goods 218c. These operations may also include automatically or manually causing the reader 226b of access device 214b to read one or more digital triggers 216a, 216b, 216c associated with goods 218b or goods 218c, which in turn may result in data being provided to electronic data storage system 12. This data may include information relating to distributor identity 208b, goods 218b, and one or more operations performed by the distributor. This data and / or goods 218b may be further associated with a digital twin 20 of a consumer product (e.g., goods 208c).

[0076] Goods 208c may be received by retailer 204, who will receive, store, and sell goods 218c to consumers such as consumer 206. Retailer 204 may have a retailer identity 208c. One or more operations of the retailer may also include automatically or manually causing reader 226c of access device 214c to read one or more digital triggers 216a, 216b, 216c, 216d associated with goods 218c, which in turn may result in data being provided to electronic data storage system 12. This data may include information relating to distributor identity 208b, consumer identity 208c, goods 218b, and one or more operations performed by the distributor. This data and / or goods 218b may be further associated with a digital twin 20 of the consumer product (e.g., goods 208c).

[0077] Data Access

[0078] In various embodiments, before, during, and after a purchase, consumer 206 can use access device 214 (e.g., a smartphone) to read one or more digital triggers 216a, 216b, 216c, 216d associated with the consumer product (e.g., item 208c, the final product). By reading one or more digital triggers 216a, 216b, 216c, 216d, access device 214 can initiate communication with electronic data storage system 12.

[0079] Depending on the access history, consumer 206 may access some or all of the digital twins 20 and / or some or all of the related data through electronic data storage system 12. For example, the consumer may receive data relating to one or more of the following: trust conditions related to the consumer product, manufacturer 200, distributor 202, retailer 204, manufacturer identity 208a, distributor identity 208b, and retailer identity 208c, goods 218a, 218b, and 218c, and actions performed by manufacturer 200, distributor 202, and retailer 204 in connection with the production of the consumer product available to consumer 206. Such data may include the relevant time, date, and location of various operations and / or entities. Such data may also include relevant staff information regarding personnel involved in the production, assembly, transportation, and sale of the consumer product. For example, such data may be further anonymized by providing employee numbers instead of other identifying information.

[0080] In various embodiments, based on the data, consumer 206 can verify products such as whether a garment is genuine, whether a meal is organic, whether food contains allergens, whether the product manufacturer complies with fair labor, environmental or other standards, or whether the consumer product should be recalled.

[0081] In some embodiments, consumer 206 can read the same digital trigger 16 used by the manufacturer or distributor, such as an embedded RFID tag or a QR code printed on the consumer product, its packaging, or a label. In this case, electronic data storage system 12 can provide consumer 206 with information different from that provided by the manufacturer or distributor. For example, manufacturer 200 can receive production instructions after scanning a QR code, while consumer 206 can receive marketing messages from manufacturer 200 or retailer 204. Electronic data storage system 12 can automatically provide different information based on the identities 208a, 208b, 208c, 208d associated with the access devices used by the relevant entities. In other embodiments, different digital triggers 216a, 216b, 216c, 216d can be associated with different information provided to different entities with different capabilities or devices (e.g., RFID devices and QR code readers).

[0082] Data validation or other analysis

[0083] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the verification of information involving additional data sources in each embodiment. Figure 5 This includes product 318, digital triggers 316a, 316b, 316c, access device 314, user interface 324, reader 326, network 352, electronic data storage system 312, network 354, and additional data source 350. In various embodiments, one or more products 18, 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 218a, 218b, 218c, and 218d may be identical to one or more products 318.

[0084] In some embodiments, when an entity uses the reader 326 of the access device 314 to read one or more digital triggers 316a, 316b, 316c, reading one or more digital triggers 316a, 316b, 316c enables the entity to initiate communication with the electronic data storage system 312 via the network 352 to provide or retrieve data.

[0085] In some embodiments, to update trust confirmations or otherwise provide data about trust conditions, the electronic data storage system 312 may communicate with an additional data source 350 via network 354 using data provided as the result of readings of one or more digital triggers 316a, 316b, 316c. The additional data source 350 may represent additional computing resources managed by a third party, such as those used for trust factor authentication. For example, the additional data source 350 may contain data capable of verifying whether a manufacturer meets fair labor standards based on identity information provided as the result of readings of one or more digital triggers 316a, 316b, 316c and / or information relating to one or more goods 18, 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 218a, 218b, 218c, 218d and 318.

[0086] Exemplary computer system

[0087] Figure 6 A block diagram is provided illustrating an example of a system (e.g., computer system 400) that can be used to process signals and / or perform the operations described in this invention. Computer system 400 can perform calculations, processes, operations, and / or functions related to a program or algorithm. In one aspect, certain processes and steps discussed in this invention are implemented in the form of a series of instructions (e.g., software programs) residing in computer-readable storage and executed by one or more processors of computer system 400. As described in this invention, upon execution, the instructions enable computer system 400 to perform specific operations and exhibit specific behaviors.

[0088] Computer system 400 may include an address / data bus 402 for transmitting information. Furthermore, one or more data processing units (such as a processor 404 or multiple processors) may be connected to the address / data bus 402. Processor 404 can process information and instructions. On one hand, processor 404 is a microprocessor. Alternatively, processor 404 may be a different type of processor, such as a parallel processor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), programmable logic array (PLA), complex programmable logic controller (CPLD), or field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0089] Computer system 400 may utilize one or more data storage units. Computer system 400 may include volatile storage units 406 (e.g., random access memory (“RAM”), static RAM, dynamic RAM, etc.) connected to address / data bus 402, wherein volatile storage units 406 may store information and instructions for processor 404. Computer system 400 may further include non-volatile storage units 408 (e.g., read-only memory (“ROM”), programmable ROM (“PROM”), erasable programmable ROM (“EPROM”), electrically erasable programmable ROM (“EEPROM”), flash memory, etc.) connected to address / data bus 402, wherein non-volatile storage units 408 may store static information and instructions for processor 404. Alternatively, computer system 400 may execute instructions retrieved from online data storage units (such as “cloud” computing). On one hand, computer system 400 may also include one or more interfaces, such as interface 410, connected to address / data bus 402. The one or more interfaces enable the computer system 400 to connect to other electronic devices and computer systems. The communication interfaces implemented by the one or more interfaces may include wired (e.g., serial cable, modem, network adapter, etc.) and / or wireless (e.g., wireless modem, wireless network adapter, etc.) communication technologies.

[0090] On one hand, the computer system 400 may include an input device 412 connected to an address / data bus 402, wherein the input device 412 may transmit information and command selections to the processor 100. According to one aspect, the input device 412 is an alphanumeric input device such as a keyboard, and may include alphanumeric keys and / or function keys. Alternatively, the input device 412 may be an input device other than an alphanumeric input device. On one hand, the computer system 400 may include a cursor control device 414 connected to an address / data bus 402, wherein the cursor control device 414 may transmit user input information and / or command selections to the processor 100. On one hand, the cursor control device 414 may be implemented using a device such as a mouse, trackball, touchpad, optical tracking device, or touchscreen. Notwithstanding the foregoing, on one hand, the cursor control device 414 is guided and / or activated by input in the input device 412, such as in response to commands using special keys and key sequences associated with the input device 412. On another aspect, the cursor control device 414 may be guided or directed by voice commands.

[0091] On one hand, the computer system 400 may further include one or more optional computer-usable data storage devices, such as storage device 416, connected to the address / data bus 402. Storage device 416 may store information and / or computer-executable instructions. On one hand, storage device 416 is a disk or optical disc drive (e.g., a hard disk drive (“HDD”), floppy disk, optical disc read-only memory (“CD-ROM”), digital versatile optical disc (“DVD”)). According to one aspect, display device 418 is connected to the address / data bus 402, wherein display device 418 may display video and / or graphics. On one hand, display device 418 may include a cathode ray tube (“CRT”), liquid crystal display (“LCD”), field emission display (“FED”), light-emitting diode (“LED”), plasma display, or any other display device suitable for displaying video and / or graphic images and user-recognizable alphanumeric characters.

[0092] The computer system 400 provided by this invention is an example computer environment conforming to one aspect. However, the non-limiting example of computer system 400 is not strictly limited to computer systems. For example, one aspect specifies that computer system 400 represents a type of data processing analysis that can be used according to the various aspects described in this invention. Furthermore, other computing systems may also be implemented. Indeed, the spirit and scope of the present invention are not limited to any single data processing environment. Thus, in one aspect, one or more operations of various aspects of the present invention are controlled or implemented using computer-executable instructions (such as program modules) executed by a computer. In one embodiment, such program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, and / or data structures capable of performing specific tasks or implementing specific abstract data types. Furthermore, one aspect specifies that one or more aspects of the present invention are implemented by utilizing one or more distributed computing environments, such as performing tasks by remote processing devices connected via a communication network, or as if the various program modules reside in local and remote computer storage media (including memory storage devices).

[0093] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a computer program product (i.e., a storage device). The computer program product is described as a floppy disk 500 or an optical disk 502, such as a CD or DVD. However, as mentioned above, the computer program product generally represents computer-readable instructions stored on any compatible non-transitory computer-readable medium. In this invention, the term "instruction" generally refers to a set of operations performed on a computer, which may represent a part of a whole program or a separate, separable software module. Non-limiting examples of "instruction" include computer program code (source code or object code) and "hard-coded" electronic devices (i.e., computer operations encoded into a computer chip). The "instruction" is stored on any non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as in the computer's memory or on a floppy disk, CD-ROM, and flash drive. In either case, the instructions are encoded on a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0094] It will be understood that the above embodiments illustrate some applications of the principles of this subject matter. Various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit or scope of the claimed subject matter (including features individually disclosed or claimed by the present invention). For these reasons, the scope of the invention is not limited to the foregoing description, but rather as set forth in the following claims, and it should be understood that the claims are applicable to features of the invention, including features individually disclosed or claimed by the present invention.

Claims

1. A computer processor-based method using at least one processor and at least one non-volatile computer-readable memory, the method comprising the steps of: Associating a first component and a first unique identifier with at least one of a set of digital twins of a final product, wherein the first unique identifier corresponds to a first digital trigger; Update at least one digital twin based on evolutions related to the first component and at least as part of the commodity production process; At least one of the plurality of digital twins is associated with a product and a second unique identifier, the second unique identifier corresponding to a second digital trigger; as well as In response to a first communication initiated based on the second digital trigger, data relating to trust conditions applicable to the first component and the final product is provided. Wherein, the first digital trigger and the second digital trigger are trigger types including one or more of the following: RFID devices, barcodes, QR codes, etc. Devices, BLE devices, NFC devices, image-recognizable, sound-recognizable, and wireless transmission devices; The evolution includes at least one of the following events: a production step involving the first component, a production step involving a product derived from the first component, and a production step involving the commodity.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The product is formed using the first component, and the evolution includes changing the manufacturing process of the component.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The trust conditions include allocation factors, including one or more of the following: manufacturer identity, production authorization, distributor authorization, regional authorization, new production status, pre-sale, recall status, and repair confirmation.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The trust conditions include at least one process factor, including one or more of the following: organic process verification, fair labor verification, fair trade verification, charitable support verification, relationship verification, food standard verification, production process verification, and cold chain verification.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The trust criteria include at least one component factor, including one or more of the following: component material confirmation, allergen confirmation, organic component confirmation, non-GMO confirmation, antibiotic-free confirmation, free range confirmation, recyclable material confirmation, and component confirmation.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The evolution includes: Include the first component in a group; and Create a group identifier associated with the group.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The evolution includes separating the first component from a set.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The evolution includes connecting the second digital trigger to the product.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The first digital flip-flop and the second digital flip-flop are the same flip-flop.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The first digital trigger and the second digital trigger are of the same trigger type.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The first digital trigger and the second digital trigger are different trigger types.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The digital twin is updated through target product evolution based on a second communication, which is initiated based on at least one of the first and second digital triggers.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1-12, further comprising: Determine the background of the first communication. The content of the conditional data is determined based on the background.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The background includes one or more of the following: consumer identity, manufacturer identity, distributor identity, and retail environment.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein, The components include at least one of the following: materials, parts, equipment, ingredients, food, and animals.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein, The consumer goods include at least one of the following: clothing, agricultural products, beverages, food, meat products, machinery, chemicals, textiles, electrical appliances, vehicles, tools, electronic equipment, furniture, medical devices, toys, games, books, protective equipment, medicines, bandages, masks, pharmaceuticals, and vaccines.

17. The method according to any one of claims 1-16, further comprising, upon receiving the second communication, selecting a digital twin verification protocol, the second communication being initiated based on a read of at least one of the first digital trigger and the second digital trigger.

18. The method according to any one of claims 1-17, further comprising providing a user interface for the brand owner, which, upon receiving a second communication, can display information relating to the digital twin, the second communication being initiated based on a read of at least one of the first and second digital triggers.

19. The method according to any one of claims 1-18, further comprising providing a user interface that enables a brand owner to select a protocol to view information relating to the digital twin without receiving communications from the digital trigger.

20. A digital twin system, comprising: Non-volatile computer-readable storage; A processor connected to the memory and capable of performing the following operations according to instructions stored in the memory: Associating a first component and a first unique identifier with at least one of a set of digital twins of a final product, wherein the first unique identifier corresponds to a first digital trigger; Update at least one digital twin based on evolutions related to the first component and at least as part of the commodity production process; At least one of the plurality of digital twins is associated with a product and a second unique identifier, the second unique identifier corresponding to a second digital trigger; as well as In response to communication initiated based on the second digital trigger, data relating to trust conditions applicable to the first component and the final product is provided. Wherein, the first digital trigger and the second digital trigger are trigger types including one or more of the following: RFID devices, barcodes, QR codes, etc. Devices, BLE devices, NFC devices, image-recognizable, sound-recognizable, and wireless transmission devices; The evolution includes at least one of the following events: a production step involving the first component, a production step involving a product derived from the first component, and a production step involving the commodity.

21. The system of claim 20, further comprising an access device capable of reading at least one of the first digital trigger and the second digital trigger, and initiating communication received by at least one computer processor based on the reading.

22. The system according to any one of claims 20-21, wherein, The product is formed using the first component, and the evolution includes changing the manufacturing process of the component.

23. The system according to any one of claims 20-22, wherein, The trust conditions include allocation factors, including one or more of the following: manufacturer identity, production authorization, distributor authorization, regional authorization, new production status, pre-sale, recall status, and repair confirmation.

24. The system according to any one of claims 20-22, wherein, The trust conditions include at least one process factor, including one or more of the following: organic process verification, fair labor verification, fair trade verification, charitable support verification, relationship verification, food standard verification, production process verification, and cold chain verification.

25. The system according to any one of claims 20-24, wherein, The trust criteria include at least one component factor, including one or more of the following: component material confirmation, allergen confirmation, organic component confirmation, non-GMO confirmation, antibiotic-free confirmation, free range confirmation, recyclable material confirmation, and component confirmation.

26. The system according to claim 20, wherein, The evolution includes: Include the first component in a group; and Create a group identifier associated with the group.

27. The system according to any one of claims 20-26, wherein, The evolution includes separating the first component from a set.

28. The system according to any one of claims 20-27, wherein, The evolution includes connecting the second digital trigger to the product.

29. The system according to any one of claims 20-28, wherein, The first digital flip-flop and the second digital flip-flop are the same flip-flop.

30. The system according to any one of claims 20-28, wherein, The first digital trigger and the second digital trigger are of the same trigger type.

31. The system according to any one of claims 20-28, wherein, The first digital trigger and the second digital trigger are different trigger types.

32. The system according to any one of claims 20-31, wherein, The digital twin is updated through target product evolution based on a second communication, which is initiated based on at least one of the first and second digital triggers.

33. The system according to any one of claims 20-32, further comprising: Determine the background of the first communication. The content of the conditional data is determined based on the background.

34. The system according to claim 33, wherein, The background includes one or more of the following: consumer identity, manufacturer identity, distributor identity, and retail environment.

35. The system according to any one of claims 20-34, wherein, The components include at least one of the following: materials, parts, equipment, ingredients, food, and animals.

36. The system according to any one of claims 20-35, wherein, The consumer goods include at least one of the following: clothing, agricultural products, beverages, food, meat products, machinery, chemicals, textiles, electrical appliances, vehicles, tools, electronic equipment, furniture, medical devices, toys, games, books, protective equipment, medicines, bandages, masks, pharmaceuticals, and vaccines.

37. The system according to any one of claims 20-36, further comprising, upon receiving the second communication, selecting a digital twin verification protocol, the second communication being initiated based on a read of at least one of the first digital trigger and the second digital trigger.

38. The system according to any one of claims 20-37, further comprising providing a user interface for the brand owner, which, upon receiving a second communication, can display information relating to the digital twin, the second communication being initiated based on a read of at least one of the first and second digital triggers.

39. The system according to any one of claims 20-38, further comprising providing a user interface that enables a brand owner to select a protocol to view information relating to the digital twin without receiving communications from the digital trigger.

40. A non-volatile computer-readable storage medium comprising software instructions that, when executed, enable a computer processor to perform the following operations: Associating a first component and a first unique identifier with at least one of a set of digital twins of a final product, wherein the first unique identifier corresponds to a first digital trigger; Update at least one digital twin based on evolutions related to the first component and at least as part of the commodity production process; At least one of the plurality of digital twins is associated with a product and a second unique identifier, the second unique identifier corresponding to a second digital trigger; as well as In response to communication initiated based on the second digital trigger, data relating to trust conditions applicable to the first component and the final product is provided. Wherein, the first digital trigger and the second digital trigger are trigger types including one or more of the following: RFID devices, barcodes, QR codes, Devices, BLE devices, NFC devices, image-recognizable, sound-recognizable, and wireless transmission devices; The evolution includes at least one of the following events: a production step involving the first component, a production step involving a product derived from the first component, and a production step involving the commodity.

Images