Automatic material checking method

Through the automatic inventory method combining RFID tags and UHF induction antennas, data processing is performed using cloud service management systems and encryption algorithms, solving the problems of cumbersome manual operations, long inventory time and insufficient data processing in the existing technology, and achieving efficient and accurate inventory of materials.

CN119670791APending Publication Date: 2025-03-21THREE GORGES ZHUJIANG POWER GENERATION CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202411841519.2
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-12-13
Publication Date
2025-03-21

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing material inventory system requires manual operation, long inventory time and insufficient data processing, resulting in inaccurate inventory data, affecting operational efficiency and cost control.

Method used

The automatic inventory method combined with RFID tags and UHF induction antenna is adopted to realize remote inventory instruction sending and data collection through the cloud service management system, and the AES-256 encryption algorithm and hash table deduplication processing is used to generate disk profit and loss records and compare them with the original inventory data.

Benefits of technology

It reduces manual operations, improves inventory efficiency, shortens inventory time, improves the accuracy of inventory data, and reduces labor costs and operational risks.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention provides an automatic material checking method. The automatic material checking method comprises the following steps: binding unique RFID tags on all to-be-checked materials; at least one UHF induction antenna is installed at a preset position in a warehouse or a storage area, and the antenna covers the whole storage area; creating a checking order through the management system and sending a remote checking instruction to the RFID reader-writer; after the RFID reader-writer receives a remote checking instruction, the UHF induction antenna is started to read tag data; the RFID reader-writer is used for transmitting the collected label data to the central system; the central system performs duplicate removal processing on the collected data to ensure that each material is counted only once; and according to the de-duplicated data, automatically generating a full-inventory and insufficient-inventory record, comparing the full-inventory and insufficient-inventory record with the original inventory data, and outputting a final inventory report. Through automatic induction and data collection, manual operation is reduced, the checking efficiency is improved, the labor cost is reduced, the checking time is shortened, and the working efficiency is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of logistics and warehousing management, and in particular to an automatic material inventory method. Background Art

[0002] In modern logistics and warehousing management, material inventory is a basic task to ensure the accuracy of inventory data and the smooth operation of the supply chain. The traditional manual inventory method is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also prone to errors, resulting in inaccurate inventory data, affecting the company's operational efficiency and cost control. In recent years, with the application of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, the efficiency of material management has been significantly improved. However, there are still some problems with the existing RFID inventory system: Manual operation is required: Existing systems usually require administrators to manually operate readers to perform inventory, which increases workload and reduces inventory efficiency.

[0003] Long inventory counting time: Traditional RFID inventory counting systems need to read each tag multiple times during the inventory counting process to ensure data accuracy, resulting in a long inventory counting time.

[0004] Inadequate data processing: The existing system is relatively simple in processing data after collection, and does not effectively utilize data deduplication and analysis, which may lead to inaccurate inventory results. Summary of the invention

[0005] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the present invention provides a method for automatic inventory of materials. In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions: A material automatic inventory method comprises the following steps: Bind a unique RFID tag to all materials to be counted, the RFID tag having a unique serial number and a preset storage area for storing basic information of the materials; Install multiple UHF induction antennas in the warehouse or storage area, which are distributed in a grid pattern with overlapping coverage areas between each antenna; Creating an inventory checklist through a cloud-based management system that has a user authentication module so that only authorized users can initiate inventory checks; The management system sends a remote inventory command to at least one RFID reader, wherein the command includes an inventory range and a time window task parameter; After receiving the remote inventory command, the RFID reader starts the corresponding UHF sensing antenna to read the tag data. The reading process is carried out according to the predetermined frequency. and power Set execution, where the frequency The following relationship is satisfied: ; in is the speed of light, is the wavelength, is the modulation coefficient, For time, is the modulation period; The RFID reader transmits the collected tag data to the central system, and the AES-256 encryption algorithm is used during the transmission; The central system deduplicates the collected data, using a hash table structure to quickly find and remove duplicates. The deduplication algorithm is based on the following formula: ; in, is a hash function, is the label data, is the data length, is a prime number, is the hash table size; Automatically generate inventory surplus and shortage records based on deduplicated data and compare them with the original inventory data to output the final inventory report; After the inventory is completed, the central system automatically backs up all the original data and processing results of this inventory.

[0006] Furthermore, the RFID tag also includes one or more additional information fields for storing additional attribute information of the material, the additional attribute information including production date, batch number, shelf life, supplier information, quality inspection status, and the additional information fields can be updated in batches through the RFID reader when the materials are put into storage, and the update process uses a differential encoding mechanism to reduce the amount of data transmission.

[0007] Furthermore, the UHF sensing antenna is mounted on a bracket with adjustable height and angle, and the bottom of the bracket is equipped with an anti-vibration and shock-absorbing device to adjust the position of the antenna according to different types of materials and shelf layouts.

[0008] Furthermore, the data transmission between the RFID reader and the central system supports wired connection and wireless communication protocols. At the same time, the reader has a built-in SIM card slot for remote data transmission via a mobile cellular network.

[0009] Furthermore, the central system is also equipped with an anomaly detection module, which can identify and mark RFID tags that have not been read within a predetermined time, prompting the administrator to check for problems such as damaged tags, missing materials or obstructions. The anomaly detection module is also equipped with an alarm mechanism. When the number of anomalies exceeds the set threshold, it will trigger a text message or email to notify the relevant responsible person.

[0010] Furthermore, the central system also includes a historical data analysis module for analyzing the trend of changes in previous inventory data to assist in predicting future material demand and management decisions. The module can generate visual charts to intuitively display material flow, inventory turnover rate, and loss rate indicators. The prediction model uses the Markov chain Monte Carlo method, and the transition probability matrix The definition is as follows: ; in, From the state Transfer to state The number of times.

[0011] Furthermore, a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor are embedded in the RFID tag, and the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor monitor the environmental conditions around the materials in real time, and upload the temperature and humidity data to the central system through the RFID reader to monitor the storage conditions of the materials.

[0012] Furthermore, the central system integrates an enterprise resource planning system, a supply chain management system and a transportation management system, automatically updates the inventory information of the logistics system, automates the management of materials from procurement, warehousing, storage to delivery, and supports API interface docking.

[0013] Furthermore, the RFID reader is equipped with a mobile power supply device, which allows the reader to continue working for at least 24 hours in the event of a power outage, and the mobile power supply device has a power monitoring function. When the power is lower than the set threshold, it will automatically switch to low power mode and issue an alarm to remind maintenance personnel to replace the battery or charge it.

[0014] Furthermore, the RFID tag is designed to be reusable. A programmable chip is provided inside the tag. The information on the tag is updated through a dedicated device. The internal circuit of the tag is provided with a self-diagnosis function. When a fault occurs in the internal circuit of the tag, a warning signal is sent to the reader by changing the characteristics of the tag reflection signal. The self-diagnosis logic uses fuzzy control theory, and the diagnostic accuracy is high. Determined by the following formula: ; in, is the membership function, is the measured value, and is the threshold parameter.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: 1. Through automatic sensing and data collection, manual operations are reduced, inventory efficiency is improved, and labor costs are reduced; 2. Through systematic data collection and processing, the need for multiple readings of a single tag is reduced, inventory time is shortened, and work efficiency is improved; 3. The system processes data through a cumulative deduplication algorithm, which improves the accuracy of inventory results and can quickly generate inventory reports, providing more reliable data support; 4. Embed temperature and humidity sensors to monitor the environmental conditions around materials in real time, ensure the safe storage of sensitive materials, and extend the shelf life of materials; 5. Designed as a reusable RFID tag, it reduces long-term operating costs and has a self-diagnosis function, which facilitates timely maintenance and improves system reliability. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The technical solution of the present invention is further described below in conjunction with embodiments.

[0017] The present invention provides a material automatic inventory method, comprising the following steps: Bind a unique RFID tag to all materials to be counted, the RFID tag having a unique serial number and a preset storage area for storing basic information of the materials; Install multiple UHF induction antennas in the warehouse or storage area, which are distributed in a grid pattern with overlapping coverage areas between each antenna; Creating an inventory checklist through a cloud-based management system that has a user authentication module so that only authorized users can initiate inventory checks; The management system sends a remote inventory command to at least one RFID reader, wherein the command includes an inventory range and a time window task parameter; After receiving the remote inventory command, the RFID reader starts the corresponding UHF sensing antenna to read the tag data. The reading process is carried out according to the predetermined frequency. and power Set execution, where the frequency The following relationship is satisfied: ; in is the speed of light, is the wavelength, is the modulation coefficient, For time, is the modulation period; The RFID reader transmits the collected tag data to the central system, and the AES-256 encryption algorithm is used during the transmission; The central system deduplicates the collected data, using a hash table structure to quickly find and remove duplicates. The deduplication algorithm is based on the following formula: ; in, is a hash function, is the label data, is the data length, is a prime number, is the hash table size; Automatically generate inventory surplus and shortage records based on deduplicated data and compare them with the original inventory data to output the final inventory report; After the inventory is completed, the central system automatically backs up all the original data and processing results of this inventory.

[0018] By introducing a dynamic frequency adjustment mechanism, the success rate and stability of RFID tag reading are improved, especially in complex electromagnetic environments such as large warehouses or multi-layer shelf layouts. In addition, the application of the cloud service management system makes inventory operations more convenient, and the secure user authentication module ensures the security of the system.

[0019] In this embodiment, the intelligent algorithm includes giving priority to the shelves to be placed that are closest to the warehouse entrance. Specifically, by calculating the distance between each shelf to be placed and the warehouse entrance, And select the minimum value: ;in, Indicates The distance between the shelf to be placed and the warehouse entrance. The nearest cargo space to the warehouse entrance is selected first, which reduces the handling distance and time, further improves the operation efficiency, reduces the workload of the handling personnel, and can significantly improve the work efficiency, especially in large-scale warehouses.

[0020] For the additional information field and differential coding of the RFID tag, the RFID tag also includes one or more additional information fields for storing additional attribute information of the material, including production date, batch number, shelf life, supplier information, quality inspection status, and the additional information field can be updated in batches by the RFID reader when the material is put into storage, and the update process uses the differential coding mechanism to reduce the amount of data transmission. The application of differential coding greatly reduces the amount of data transmission, reduces communication costs, and speeds up data update speed, which is particularly suitable for scenarios where information needs to be updated frequently, such as inventory management of fast-moving consumer goods.

[0021] In order to enable the antenna to adapt to different storage environments, enhance the flexibility and robustness of the system, and ensure high-precision material sensing even under harsh conditions, the UHF sensing antenna is installed on a bracket with adjustable height and angle. The bottom of the bracket is equipped with an anti-vibration and shock-absorbing device to adjust the position of the antenna according to different types of materials and shelf layouts.

[0022] In order to enable the system to operate stably in various network environments, the data transmission between the RFID reader and the central system supports wired connection and wireless communication protocols. At the same time, the reader has a built-in SIM card slot for remote data transmission through a mobile cellular network. This is especially true in remote areas or places with poor network infrastructure. This not only improves the applicability of the system, but also enhances emergency response capabilities.

[0023] The central system is also equipped with an anomaly detection module, which can identify and mark RFID tags that have not been read within a predetermined time, prompting the administrator to check for damaged tags, missing materials or obstructions. The anomaly detection module is equipped with an alarm mechanism. When the number of anomalies exceeds the set threshold, it will trigger a text message or email to notify the relevant responsible person. It is given by the following Bayesian formula: ; in Indicates that the tag has not been read. Indicates that an abnormal situation exists. The Bayesian formula is used to evaluate the possibility of an abnormality, helping the system to more accurately identify potential problems. The application of the anomaly detection module can promptly detect and handle problems in the inventory process, reduce the risk of human negligence, and improve the accuracy and reliability of inventory. The alarm mechanism ensures that managers can respond quickly and take necessary measures.

[0024] Furthermore, the central system also includes a historical data analysis module for analyzing the trend of changes in previous inventory data to assist in predicting future material demand and management decisions. The module can generate visual charts to intuitively display material flow, inventory turnover rate, and loss rate indicators. The prediction model uses the Markov chain Monte Carlo method, and the transition probability matrix The definition is as follows: ; in, From the state Transfer to state This method can simulate complex inventory change processes and provide more accurate demand forecasts.

[0025] The historical data analysis module combined with the Markov Chain Monte Carlo method provides powerful forecasting and decision support tools to help managers better understand warehouse operations, optimize inventory management and procurement plans, and reduce inventory costs and waste.

[0026] In this embodiment, a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor are embedded in the RFID tag, and the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor monitor the environmental conditions around the materials in real time, and upload the temperature and humidity data to the central system through the RFID reader to monitor the storage conditions of the materials. The application of embedded sensors enables the system to monitor the storage environment of materials in real time to ensure the safety and quality of sensitive materials. The application of entropy weight method improves the scientificity and accuracy of environmental condition assessment, and helps to take timely measures to improve storage conditions.

[0027] In this embodiment, the central system is integrated with the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, the supply chain management system (SCM) and the transportation management system (TMS), which can automatically update the inventory information of the logistics system and realize the automated management of the entire process of materials from procurement, warehousing, storage to delivery. In addition, the system supports API interface docking with other business systems to promote seamless integration of information flow.

[0028] In order to ensure the continuity of inventory work, the RFID reader is equipped with a mobile power supply device, which allows the reader to continue working for at least 24 hours in the event of a power outage. The mobile power supply device has a power monitoring function. When the power is lower than the set threshold, it will automatically switch to low power mode and issue an alarm to remind maintenance personnel to replace the battery or charge it.

[0029] In order to reduce the cost of long-term operation, the RFID tag is designed to be reusable. A programmable chip is installed inside the tag, and the information on the tag is updated through special equipment. The tag shell is made of environmentally friendly materials, which is waterproof, dustproof and corrosion-resistant. It is suitable for various harsh environments and prolongs the service life of the tag. The internal circuit of the tag is equipped with a self-diagnosis function. When the internal circuit of the tag fails, it sends a warning signal to the reader by changing the characteristics of the tag reflection signal. The self-diagnosis logic uses fuzzy control theory, and the diagnostic accuracy is high. Determined by the following formula: ; in, is the membership function, is the measured value, and is the threshold parameter.

[0030] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solution of the present invention rather than to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that the technical solution of the present invention can be modified or replaced by equivalents without departing from the purpose and scope of the technical solution of the present invention, which should be included in the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A material automatic inventory method, characterized in that: The following steps are involved: Bind a unique RFID tag to all materials to be counted, the RFID tag having a unique serial number and a preset storage area for storing basic information of the materials; Install multiple UHF induction antennas in the warehouse or storage area, which are distributed in a grid pattern with overlapping coverage areas between each antenna; Creating an inventory checklist through a cloud-based management system that has a user authentication module so that only authorized users can initiate inventory checks; The management system sends a remote inventory command to at least one RFID reader, wherein the command includes an inventory range and a time window task parameter; After receiving the remote inventory command, the RFID reader starts the corresponding UHF sensing antenna to read the tag data. The reading process is carried out according to the predetermined frequency. and power Set execution, where the frequency The following relationship is satisfied: ; in is the speed of light, is the wavelength, is the modulation coefficient, For time, is the modulation period; The RFID reader transmits the collected tag data to the central system, and the AES-256 encryption algorithm is used during the transmission; The central system deduplicates the collected data, using a hash table structure to quickly find and remove duplicates. The deduplication algorithm is based on the following formula: ; in, is a hash function, is the label data, is the data length, is a prime number, is the hash table size; Automatically generate inventory surplus and shortage records based on deduplicated data and compare them with the original inventory data to output the final inventory report; After the inventory is completed, the central system automatically backs up all the original data and processing results of this inventory.

2. The method for automatic inventory counting of materials according to claim 1, characterized in that: The RFID tag also includes one or more additional information fields for storing additional attribute information of the material, the additional attribute information including production date, batch number, shelf life, supplier information, and quality inspection status, and the additional information fields can be updated in batches through the RFID reader when the materials are put into storage, and the update process uses a differential encoding mechanism to reduce the amount of data transmission.

3. The method for automatic inventory counting of materials according to claim 1, characterized in that: The UHF sensing antenna is installed on a bracket with adjustable height and angle. The bottom of the bracket is equipped with an anti-vibration and shock-absorbing device to adjust the position of the antenna according to different types of materials and shelf layouts.

4. The method for automatic inventory counting of materials according to claim 1, characterized in that: The data transmission between the RFID reader and the central system supports wired connection and wireless communication protocols. At the same time, the reader has a built-in SIM card slot for remote data transmission through a mobile cellular network.

5. The method for automatic inventory counting of materials according to claim 1, characterized in that: The central system is also equipped with an anomaly detection module, which can identify and mark RFID tags that have not been read within a predetermined time, prompting administrators to check for damaged tags, missing materials or obstructions. The anomaly detection module is also equipped with an alarm mechanism. When the number of anomalies exceeds the set threshold, it will trigger a text message or email to notify the relevant responsible person.

6. The method for automatic inventory counting of materials according to claim 1, characterized in that: The central system also includes a historical data analysis module for analyzing the changing trends of previous inventory data to assist in predicting future material demand and management decisions. The module can generate visual charts to intuitively display material flow, inventory turnover rate, and loss rate indicators. The prediction model uses the Markov chain Monte Carlo method, and the transition probability matrix The definition is as follows: ; in, From the state Transfer to state The number of times.

7. The method for automatic inventory counting of materials according to claim 1, characterized in that: A temperature sensor and a humidity sensor are embedded in the RFID tag, and the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor monitor the environmental conditions around the materials in real time, and upload the temperature and humidity data to the central system through the RFID reader to monitor the storage conditions of the materials.

8. The method for automatic inventory counting of materials according to claim 1, characterized in that: The central system integrates the enterprise resource planning system, supply chain management system and transportation management system, automatically updates the inventory information of the logistics system, automates the management of materials from procurement, warehousing, storage to delivery, and supports API interface docking.

9. The method for automatic inventory counting of materials according to claim 1, characterized in that: The RFID reader is equipped with a mobile power supply device, which allows the reader to continue working for at least 24 hours in the event of a power outage. The mobile power supply device has a power monitoring function. When the power is lower than the set threshold, it will automatically switch to low power mode and issue an alarm to remind maintenance personnel to replace the battery or charge it.

10. The method for automatic inventory counting of materials according to claim 1, characterized in that: The RFID tag is designed to be reusable. A programmable chip is installed inside the tag. The information on the tag is updated through a dedicated device. The internal circuit of the tag is equipped with a self-diagnosis function. When the internal circuit of the tag fails, a warning signal is sent to the reader by changing the characteristics of the tag reflection signal. The self-diagnosis logic uses fuzzy control theory, and the diagnostic accuracy is high. Determined by the following formula: ; in, is the membership function, is the measured value, and is the threshold parameter.