Inventory management system

Abstract

The inventory monitoring system preferably includes a computer monitoring device and a plurality of containers. The computer monitoring device includes a computer, software, a transceiver, and a display device. Software programs preferably include compliance tracking, event report replacement alerts, video training, log generation, remote inventory check for each bin, listing of items to be ordered next year, and provisioning agency alerts. Each container preferably includes a storage bin, a bin transceiver, a microcontroller, a battery, a position sensor, a switch sensor, an article tracking sensor, at least one identity monitoring device, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a low charge indicator. A plurality of items are stored in a plurality of containers. The storage bin preferably includes a lock cover. The microcontroller will also periodically test all sensors connected thereto.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the management of items and, more particularly, to an inventory management system that tracks items removed from or added to a plurality of containers. Background Art

[0002] Important items often need to be stored in secure containers. It would be useful to track when important items are removed from or added to secure containers. Hall et al. Patent No. 7,038,585 discloses a cargo lock and monitoring device and process. Pleshek et al. Patent No. 9,704,000 discloses a mobile RFID container and distribution method. Kemp Patent No. 10,592,861 discloses an active shooter response system for initiating a silent alarm and deploying tactical tools.

[0003] Accordingly, there is a clear need in the art for an inventory management system that tracks items removed from or added to a plurality of containers. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides an inventory management system that tracks items removed from or added to multiple containers. The inventory management system preferably includes a computer monitoring device and multiple containers. The computer monitoring device includes a suitable computer, a monitoring software program (software program), a transceiver, and a display device. The software program preferably includes compliance tracking, event reporting and replacement alerts, video training, reporting, log generation, remote inventory checks for each storage bin, a list of items to be ordered for the next year, and supply regulator alerts. The software program is preferably capable of wireless updates. Event reporting occurs when a storage bin is opened, closed, an item is removed from a bin, an item is inserted into a bin, a bin is moved, or any other event related to the bin. After the bin is closed, a microcontroller counts all marked items in the bin and sends an inventory list to the software program. The inventory list can be sent to a responsible person to place orders for missing items or items that are about to expire. The software program provides links to training videos on how to use each item in the bin and practical training on how to deal with specific scenarios, such as how to use a tourniquet. A log is generated when a storage box is opened, closed, moved, an item is removed from a storage box, and an item is inserted into a storage box. The log also provides the items contained in each storage box. All information in the computer can be accessed through the display device.

[0005] Regulatory alerts are monitored by a software program to ensure compliance with regulations or regulatory compliance. The software program can send maintenance notifications regarding the storage box to address a maintenance issue. The computer can be portable, such as in a vehicle. The software monitoring program is installed on the computer. A transceiver is connected to the computer's input and output ports.

[0006] Each container preferably includes a storage box, a box transceiver, a microcontroller, a battery, a location sensor, a switch sensor, an item tracking sensor, a plurality of tagged items; at least one identity monitoring device, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a cellular sensor, and a low-battery indicator. The location sensor preferably provides tracking via GPS or cellular. The storage box can be a cabinet, a box, or any other suitable storage enclosure. A magnetic sensor can be used for the switch sensor. Wireless communication between the transceiver and the box transceiver is achieved via Wi-Fi, Power over Ethernet (PoE), or cellular communication between the transceiver and a cloud API. The transceiver's antenna is preferably located inside or outside the storage box. If the tagged items in the storage box are located close to each other, a second antenna may be required. The storage box preferably includes a locking lid. However, the storage box can be integrated into a secondary container, such as a cargo container. The lid can be locked using a key lock, a combination lock, a microcontroller-controlled combination lock, an eye scan, a fingerprint reader, a swipe card, or any other suitable lock. The microcontroller remains in the storage box. The box transceiver is located in the storage box and connected to the microcontroller. The microcontroller or box transceiver should be able to store data on the SD card if the connection is lost. The data on the SD card should be able to be deleted remotely.

[0007] A position sensor is connected to the microcontroller to periodically transmit the location of the storage bin. A switch sensor is also connected to the microcontroller. When the lid is opened or closed, the switch sensor sends a signal to the computer. However, if receiving data is not required, a transmitter can be used instead of the bin transceiver. The microcontroller also periodically tests all connected sensors. Reports on the sensor status and events are sent to the software program.

[0008] A software monitoring program tracks the expiration date of the items in each container (if required). A tracking device is attached to each item that may have an expiration date. For example, pills may be placed in a sleeve, and the sleeve may be labeled. The tracking device may be a low-power RFID tag. However, preferably, the tracking device is Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Ultra-Wideband (UWB). An item tracking sensor is connected to a microcontroller and senses when an item is removed from the storage box, transmitting a message to a computer via a transceiver. However, the storage box can be hardwired to the microcontroller. A battery monitoring system can be used to monitor the battery charge level. A low battery condition is transmitted to the computer. The battery is preferably rechargeable and replaceable. At least one identity monitoring device includes a camera, a facial recognition device, a fingerprint reader, and a dedicated login via a card reader. Preferably, the electronics in the storage box operate in low-power mode when the lid is closed and are powered at full power when the lid is opened. The camera can be mounted inside or outside the storage box.

[0009] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an inventory management system that tracks items removed from or added to a plurality of containers.

[0010] These and additional objects, advantages, features and benefits of the present invention will become apparent from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an inventory monitoring system according to the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a software program of an inventory monitoring system according to the present invention.

[0013] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a container of an inventory monitoring system according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Referring now to the drawings, in particular Figure 1 , which shows an inventory monitoring system 1. The inventory monitoring system 1 preferably includes a computer monitoring device 10 and a plurality of containers 12. The computer monitoring device 10 preferably includes a suitable computer 14, a monitoring software program (software program) 16, a transceiver 18 and a display device 20. Figure 2The software program 16 preferably includes compliance tracking 22, event report replacement alerts 24, video training 26, log generation 28, remote inventory checks 30 for each storage bin, a list of items to be ordered for the next year 32, supply regulator alerts 34, a recent event history 35, and a list of multiple containers (container list) 37. The software program 16 is preferably capable of wireless updates. The computer 14 can be portable, such as placed in a vehicle. The software program 16 is installed on the computer. The transceiver 18 is connected to the input and output ports of the computer 16. However, the connection between some or all of the multiple containers 12 and the computer monitoring device 10 can be hardwired.

[0015] All information in the computer 14 is accessible through the display device 20. The software program 16 includes a user interactive screen 25 that provides links for displaying on the display device 20 compliance tracking 22, event report replacement alerts 24, video training 26, log generation 28, remote inventory checks of each storage bin 30, a list 32 of items to be ordered for the next year, supply regulator alerts 34, a recent event history 35, and a list 37 of containers.

[0016] refer to Figure 3 Each container preferably includes a storage bin 36, a bin transceiver 38, a microcontroller 40, a battery 42, a position sensor 44, a switch sensor 46, an item tracking sensor 48, at least one identity monitoring device 54, a weight scale 55, a temperature sensor 56, a humidity sensor 58, a battery charge sensor 60, and a cellular sensor 63. A plurality of items 50 are retained in the storage bin 36. An event reporting alarm 24 is generated when the storage bin 36 is opened, closed, an item is removed from the storage bin 36, an item is added to the storage bin 36, the storage bin 36 is moved, or any other event related to the storage bin 36. After the storage bin 36 is closed, the microcontroller 40 will count all tagged items 50, 52 in the storage bin 36 and generate an inventory list 62, which is sent to the software program 16. Alternatively, the software program 16 will track all items 50, 52 added to and removed from the storage bin 36 and generate an inventory list 65. The inventory list 62, 65 can be sent to the responsible person by email to place an order for missing items or items that are about to expire. Orders for replenishing items are preferably linked to each specific container and are taken when the ordered items are received. A video recorder 67 is preferably connected to the microcontroller 40.

[0017] The software program 16 provides links to training videos 26 on how to use the items 50, 52 in the storage bins 36 and actual training on how to respond to specific scenarios. For example, how to use Cobra Cuffs to restrain an individual. The logged-in user accessing each video is preferably tracked. A log 28 is generated when a storage bin 36 is opened; closed; moved; removed from; and inserted into. The log 28 also provides information on the items contained in each bin. Regulatory alerts 34 are monitored by the software program 16 to ensure compliance with government regulations and regulatory compliance.

[0018] Software program 16 can send maintenance notifications 64 regarding storage bin 36 to address a maintenance issue. A container list 37 provides information about each of the plurality of containers 12. Each listed container includes clickable links that provide information about the current contents; the UDI; the type; the organization, department, or mission; the physical location; at least one photo of the container; and the status of that particular container. Each item in the current contents can be clicked to display the batch number and expiration date. A history of events for each container can also be accessed by clicking on the link.

[0019] Storage box 12 can be a cabinet, box, or any other suitable storage enclosure. A magnetic-type sensor or similar device can be used to switch sensor 46. Wireless communication between transceiver 18 and box transceiver 12 is achieved via Wi-Fi, Power over Ethernet (PoE), or cellular communication between the transceiver and a cloud API. Antenna 39 of box transceiver 38 is preferably located inside or outside storage box 36. If the tagged items 50 and 52 in storage box 36 are located close to each other, a second antenna 41 may be required. Storage box 36 preferably includes a locking lid or door. However, storage box 36 can be integrated into a secondary container (such as a cargo container). The lid can be locked with a locking device (such as a key lock, combination lock, microcontroller-controlled combination lock, eye scan, fingerprint reader, slide card, or any other suitable lock). The microcontroller remains in the storage box. Box transceiver 38 is located in storage box 36 and connected to microcontroller 38. If the connection is lost, microcontroller 40 or box transceiver 38 should be able to store data on an SD card. The data on the SD card should be able to be remotely deleted through the software program 16. The SIM card 43 is connected to the microcontroller 40 to provide real-time updates to the microcontroller 40.

[0020] A position sensor 44 is connected to the microcontroller 40 to periodically transmit the position of the container 12. A switch sensor 46 is also connected to the microcontroller 40. The switch sensor 46 sends a signal to the computer 14 when the lid is opened or closed. However, if receiving data is not required, a transmitter can be used instead of the bin transceiver 38. The bin transceiver 38 and the transmitter are wireless communication devices. The microcontroller 40 also periodically tests the functionality of all sensors connected to it. A sensor report 66 regarding the status of the sensors is sent to the software program 16. Regulatory reports 68 are preferably provided. Regulatory reports 68 preferably include a complete FDA log for each container; a usage report with financial implications; an expired item report for future planning and budgeting; and a missing item and order history report. The software program 16 automatically creates reports 75 on inventory usage and items to be reordered.

[0021] The software program 16 tracks the expiration date of the items 50 in each container 12 (if required). Preferably, each item 50 includes a tracking device, such as a unique device identifier (UDI) for each item that may have an expiration date. For example, pills can be placed in a sleeve, and the sleeve can be labeled. The tracking device can be a low-power RFID tag. However, preferably, the tracking device is Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Ultra-Wideband (UWB). An item tracking sensor 48 is connected to the microcontroller 40 and senses when one of the items 50 is removed from the storage bin and transmits a message to the computer 14 via the bin transceiver 38. A battery charge sensor 60 can be used to monitor the charge level of the battery 42. A low battery status of the battery 42 is transmitted to the computer 16. Preferably, the battery 42 is rechargeable and replaceable. The identity monitoring device 54 preferably includes a camera 57, a facial recognition device, a fingerprint reader, and a dedicated login via a card reader. The camera 57 may also include a built-in video recording device. A weight scale 55 is connected to the microcontroller 40. Scale 55 allows items 50 to be weighed and the weight transmitted to computer 14 for relative measurement and event recording. Preferably, the electronic components in storage box 36 operate in a low power mode when the lid is closed and are powered at full power when the lid is opened. Camera 57 can be mounted inside or outside storage box 36.

[0022] While particular embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects, and it is therefore intended by the appended claims to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An inventory monitoring system comprising: a plurality of containers, each of said containers comprising a wireless communication device, a battery, a switch sensor, and an item tracking sensor; a computer capable of wirelessly communicating with the plurality of containers, the item tracking sensors transmitting data regarding items removed from the plurality of containers to the computer, wherein any items removed from the plurality of containers are automatically reordered; as well as a software program installed on the computer, the software program receiving the data from the plurality of containers, the software program storing a list of items removed from and added to each of the plurality of containers, wherein the software program provides a report on each of the plurality of containers upon user request.

2. The inventory monitoring system of claim 1 , further comprising: A display device is connected to the computer, the display device enabling a user to communicate with the software program.

3. The inventory monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein: The software program provides access to training videos of items stored in the plurality of containers.

4. The inventory monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein: The software program generates a report when a container of the plurality of containers is opened and when a container of the plurality of containers is not closed.

5. The inventory monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein: The software program provides a maintenance notification when at least one container of the plurality of containers requires maintenance.

6. The inventory monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein: The software program provides sensor reports for the plurality of sensors in the plurality of containers.

7. A remote container for securely storing a plurality of items, comprising: a storage box having a cover door; a microcontroller located in the storage box; a wireless communication coupled to the microcontroller for transmitting data regarding the storage bin and a plurality of items within the storage bin; an item tracking sensor for tracking a plurality of items having unique device identifiers, the item tracking sensor being coupled to the microcontroller; a switch sensor for determining whether the cover door is open or closed, the switch sensor being connected to the microcontroller; an identity monitoring device for monitoring the identity of a person attempting to access items in the storage bin, the identity monitoring device being connected to the microcontroller; and A battery is provided for powering the microcontroller, wherein the microcontroller is accessible by an auxiliary device.

8. The remote container for securely storing a plurality of items of claim 7, further comprising: A location sensor is provided for providing a geographic location of the remote container.

9. The remote container for securely storing a plurality of items of claim 7, further comprising: A battery charge sensor is used to determine a charge level of the battery.

10. The remote container for securely storing a plurality of items of claim 7, wherein: The microcontroller is capable of generating a list of the plurality of items in the storage bin having unique device identifiers.

11. The remote container for securely storing a plurality of items of claim 7, further comprising: At least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor is included in the storage box, and the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor are connected to the microcontroller.

12. The remote container for securely storing a plurality of items of claim 7, further comprising: A locking device for locking the cover to the storage box.

13. The remote container for securely storing a plurality of items of claim 7, further comprising: A locking device for locking the cover to the storage box.

14. An inventory monitoring system comprising: a plurality of containers, each of the containers comprising a wireless communication device, a battery, a switch sensor, and an item tracking sensor, the plurality of containers storing a plurality of items having unique device identifiers; a computer capable of wirelessly communicating with the plurality of containers, the item tracking sensor transmitting data regarding the plurality of items removed from the plurality of containers to the computer; as well as a software program installed on the computer, the software program receiving the data from the plurality of containers, the software program storing a list of items removed from and added to each of the plurality of containers, wherein the software program provides a report on each of the plurality of containers upon user request.

15. The inventory monitoring system of claim 14, further comprising: A display device is connected to the computer, the display device enabling a user to communicate with the software program.

16. The inventory monitoring system of claim 14, wherein: The software program generates a report when a container of the plurality of containers is opened and when a container of the plurality of containers is not closed.

17. The inventory monitoring system of claim 14, wherein: The software program checks regulatory websites for updates and provides alerts about new regulations.

18. The inventory monitoring system of claim 14, wherein: The video recorder is used to record data about a container of the plurality of containers.

19. The inventory monitoring system of claim 14, wherein: The software program provides sensor reports for the plurality of sensors in the plurality of containers.

20. The inventory monitoring system of claim 14, wherein: The inventory monitoring system of claim 14 is capable of tracking the location of the plurality of containers.

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