Bale wrap and bale identification system for an agricultural harvester

Abstract

The present invention relates to bale wrap and a bale identification system for an agricultural harvester. The bale wrap includes a bale wrap substrate and a plurality of bale identifiers arranged on or within the bale wrap substrate. The bale identifiers are arranged in a plurality of patterns, each pattern formed by a set of two or more bale identifiers, each pattern extending along a length of the bale wrap equal to a minimum bale circumference, and the patterns not overlapping one another along the length of the bale wrap. Further, each pattern is different from an adjacent pattern such that when a section of the bale wrap having that pattern and the adjacent pattern is wrapped around a bale having the minimum bale circumference, each bale identifier in the set of bale identifiers of that pattern does not overlap any bale identifier in the set of bale identifiers of the adjacent pattern.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to bundled goods and bundle identification systems for agricultural harvesters. Background Technology

[0002] Agricultural harvesters are used to harvest crops (e.g., cotton or other natural materials). For example, an agricultural harvester may include a harvesting platform with row units configured to harvest crops from the field. The harvester may also include an air-assisted conveying system configured to move crops from the row units to a collector. The crops can then be fed into a baler via the conveying system. As a further example, the harvester may include a pick-up mechanism configured to feed crops from the ground to the baler. The baler compresses the crops into bales to facilitate storage, transport, and handling. For example, a round bale baler compresses the crops into round bales within the baling chamber, resulting in bales of desired size and density. After bale formation, the bale can be wrapped with bale wrapping material to secure the crops within the bale and substantially maintain its shape. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some embodiments, the bundle includes a bundle substrate and a plurality of bundle identifiers disposed on or within the bundle substrate. The bundle identifiers are arranged in a variety of patterns, each pattern being formed by a set of two or more bundle identifiers, each pattern extending along the length of the bundle equal to the minimum bundle circumference, and these patterns do not overlap each other along the length of the bundle. Furthermore, each pattern differs from adjacent patterns such that when a segment of the bundle having that pattern and adjacent patterns is wrapped around a bundle having the minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier in that pattern's set of bundle identifiers will not overlap with any bundle identifier in the set of bundle identifiers of the adjacent pattern.

[0004] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bale identification system for an agricultural harvester includes a scanner configured to point towards an area outside the harvester. The scanner is configured to scan the bale identifier of the bale package when a section of bale packages including a bale identifier is arranged around the bale in the field. Additionally, the scanner is configured to output a signal indicating a corresponding bale code, wherein the corresponding bale code corresponds to the bale identifier. The bale identification system also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the scanner, wherein the controller includes a processor and a memory. The controller is configured to receive the signal indicating the corresponding bale code and associate the bale with the corresponding bale code. Attached Figure Description

[0005] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals always denote the same parts, wherein:

[0006] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of an agricultural harvester with a crop transport assembly and a baler.

[0007] Figure 2 It is possible Figure 1 Schematic diagrams of embodiments of crop transport assemblies, balers, and baling and handling systems used in agricultural harvesters;

[0008] Figure 3 It is possible Figure 1 A block diagram of an embodiment of a bundle recognition system used in an agricultural harvester;

[0009] Figure 4 It can be made by Figure 3 A schematic side view of an embodiment of a bundle identification system that identifies wrapped bundles;

[0010] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a bundled package that can be arranged around a bundle, wherein the bundled package includes portions that can be made of... Figure 3 The bundle identification system scans the bundle identifier;

[0011] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a bundled package that can be arranged around a bundle, wherein the bundled package includes components that can be made of... Figure 3 The bundle identification system scans the bundle identifier; and

[0012] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a bundle of parcels that can be arranged around a bundle, wherein the bundle of parcels includes portions that can be made of... Figure 3 The bundle identification system scans the bundle identifier. Detailed Implementation

[0013] One or more specific embodiments of this disclosure will now be described. To provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation may be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer’s specific goals, such as conforming to system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that such development work can be complex and time-consuming, but it remains a routine task of design, manufacture, and production for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0014] When describing elements of the various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more of that element. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive, meaning that there may be other elements besides those listed. Any examples of operating parameters and / or environmental conditions do not exclude other parameters / conditions of the disclosed embodiments.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of an agricultural harvester 10 (e.g., a harvester, agricultural harvester) having a crop transport assembly 11 and a baler 12. The agricultural harvester 10 is configured to harvest crops (e.g., cotton) from a field and form the crops into bales 14 (e.g., agricultural bales). In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a harvesting table 16 with row units configured to harvest crops from the field. Additionally, the crop transport assembly 11 of the agricultural harvester 10 includes an air-assisted conveying system 18 configured to move crops from the row units of the harvesting table 16 to a collector assembly of the crop transport assembly 11. The crop transport assembly 11 also includes a conveying system configured to convey crops from the collector assembly to the baler 12 (e.g., an agricultural baler). The baler 12 is supported by and / or mounted within or on the chassis of the agricultural harvester 10. The baler 12 can form the crop 20 into a round bale 14. However, in other embodiments, the baler of the harvester can form the crop into a square bale, a polygonal bale, or other suitable bales. After the crop 20 is formed into a bale 14, the baling system of the harvester 10 wraps the bale with a section of baling material to secure the crop 20 within the bale 14 and substantially maintain the shape of the bale 14.

[0016] After the bale 14 is wrapped, the bale discharge system of the baler 12 discharges the bale to the bale transporter 22 of the bale transporter system 24. The bale transporter 22 supports the bale 14 (e.g., when the baler is forming a subsequent bale). Furthermore, the bale transporter system 24 is configured to unload the bale 14 onto the field surface. For example, one or more actuators of the bale transporter system 24 can drive the bale transporter 22 downwards so that the bale 14 can roll onto the field surface. After the bale 14 is unloaded, one or more actuators of the bale transporter system 24 can drive the bale transporter 22 to a position configured to receive subsequent bales or to a storage (e.g., source) position.

[0017] In some embodiments, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a bale identification system with a scanner configured to point towards an area outside the harvester 10. The scanner is configured to scan the bale identifier of the bale package when a section of bale package including a bale identifier is arranged around the bale in the field (e.g., after the bale has been unloaded from the bale transporter system 24). The scanner is configured to output a signal indicating a corresponding bale code, and the corresponding bale code corresponds to the bale identifier. The bale identification system also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the scanner. The controller includes a processor and a memory, and is configured to receive the signal indicating the corresponding bale code and associate the bale with the corresponding bale code. Thus, the bale identification system can identify bales in the field (e.g., after the bale has been unloaded from the bale transporter system).

[0018] Figure 2 It is possible Figure 1 This diagram illustrates embodiments of the crop transport assembly 11, the baler 12, and the baler transport system 24 used within an agricultural harvester 10. As previously described, the harvesting table 16 of the agricultural harvester 10 includes row units configured to harvest crops 20 (e.g., cotton, hay, straw, forage) from the field. Furthermore, an air-assisted conveying system 18 is configured to move the crops 20 from the row units of the harvesting table 16 to the collector assembly 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the air-assisted conveying system 18 includes a conveying air source 28 configured to output a conveying airflow through one or more pipes 30. Each pipe 30 receives crops 20 (e.g., cotton) from the harvesting table 16, and the conveying airflow output by the conveying air source 28 drives the crops through one or more pipes 30 from the harvesting table 16 to the collector assembly 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the crop transport assembly 11 includes a screw conveyor 32 configured to distribute crops 20 (e.g., cotton) laterally across the collector assembly 26 (e.g., intersecting with the downward movement of the crops through the collector assembly). In the illustrated embodiment, the crop transport assembly 11 includes two screw conveyors 32. However, in other embodiments, the crop transport assembly may include more or fewer screw conveyors (e.g., 0, 1, 3, 4, or more).

[0019] In the illustrated embodiment, the conveying system 34 of the crop transport assembly 11 includes a first conveyor belt (e.g., a conveyor belt) 36 configured to move crops 20 from the collector assembly 26 to the baler 12. The first conveyor belt 36 is configured to rotate in a first rotational direction such that the crop contact surface of the first conveyor belt 36 moves toward the baler 12. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the conveying system 34 includes a second conveyor belt 38 located on the side of the crop 20 opposite to the first conveyor belt 36, and the second conveyor belt 38 is configured to cooperate with the first conveyor belt 36 to move the crop 20 from the collector assembly 26 to the baler 12. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the conveying system 34 includes an agitator roller 40 located upstream of the second conveyor belt 38. The agitator roller 40 is configured to agitate the crops 20 entering the pair of opposing conveyor belts, thereby enhancing the uniformity of crop distribution through the pair of opposing conveyor belts.

[0020] In the illustrated embodiment, the baling machine 12 includes a plurality of rollers 42 that support and / or drive the rotation of one or more conveyor belts 44. For example, one or more rollers 42 engage one or more conveyor belts 44, enabling the one or more conveyor belts 44 to move along a path defined by the rollers 42 and the bundles 14. The one or more rollers 42 are driven to rotate via a conveyor belt drive system (e.g., including one or more electric motors, one or more hydraulic motors, one or more pneumatic motors, etc.). The one or more conveyor belts 44 circulate around the path defined by the rollers 42 and the bundles 14. The movement of the one or more conveyor belts 44 captures crop 20 from the conveying system 34 and pulls the crop 20 into a cavity 48, in which the crop 20 gradually accumulates to form the bundles 14.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the baling machine 12 includes a tension arm 50 configured to establish tension within one or more conveyor belts 44. As the crop 20 accumulates within the cavity 48, the crop 20 exerts a force on the one or more conveyor belts 44, causing a first portion 52 of the bundle 14 encircling the one or more conveyor belts 44 to expand. Simultaneously, the dimensions of a second portion 54 (e.g., a serpentine portion) of the one or more conveyor belts 44 decreases. Thus, the second portion 54 of the one or more conveyor belts 44 provides an increased conveyor belt length for the expanding first portion 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 54 of the one or more conveyor belts 44 is established by a fixed roller 42 (e.g., a roller fixed to the housing / frame of the baling machine 12) and a roller 42 coupled to the tension arm 50, which is pivotable relative to the fixed roller 42 (e.g., relative to the housing / frame of the baling machine 12). Thus, as the crop 20 accumulates within the cavity 48, the tension arm 50 is driven to rotate, thereby reducing the dimensions of the second portion 54 and allowing the first portion 52 to expand.

[0022] Once the bundle 14 reaches the desired size, the bundling system 56 wraps the bundle 14 with a section of bundling material 58 from the existing bundling material assembly 59 to secure the crop within the bundle 14 and generally maintain the shape of the bundle 14, such as the circle shown in the illustrated embodiment. The bundling material 58 may include a plastic film, organic film, mesh, a series of stranded rope segments, or any other suitable structural form of substrate. The bundling material 58 can be fed into contact with the bundle 14 using one or more rollers and / or one or more conveyor belts of the bundling material feed assembly. One or more rollers and / or one or more conveyor belts drive the bundling material 58 toward a starting roller 60 (e.g., a bundling material feeder). The starting roller 60 is configured to rotate to feed the bundling material 58 into the cavity 48 of the baler 12 at a feed position 62, thereby driving the bundling material 58 into contact with the bundle 14. The bundling material 58 is held between the bundle 14 and one or more conveyor belts 44. Therefore, the rotation of the bundle 14 pulls the bundled package 58 around the bundle 14, thereby wrapping the bundle 14. After the bundle 14 is wrapped, the bundle 14 is discharged from the baler 12, and the process of forming subsequent bundles can be initiated. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the starting roller 60 is configured to feed the bundled package 58 into the cavity 48, in other embodiments, the agricultural harvester may include another suitable bundled package feeder configured to feed the bundled package into the cavity. For example, in some embodiments, the agricultural harvester may include a movable package guide (e.g., a duckbill) configured to engage the bundled package when it is in a first position and to move to a second position to feed the bundled package into the cavity in a feeding position.

[0023] In some embodiments, during harvesting, the conveyor system 34 and the baler 12 can be periodically activated to transfer crop 20 from the collector assembly 26 to the baler 12 and form bales 14. For example, as the combine harvester 10 moves through the field, crop 20 can accumulate within the collector assembly 26. After a selected duration, the conveyor system 34 can be activated to transfer crop 20 from the collector assembly 26 to the baler 12. For example, the conveyor system 34 can move crop 20 to the baler 12 at a much faster rate than the air-assisted conveyor system 18 moves crop 20 into the collector assembly 26. Simultaneously with the activation of the conveyor system 34, the baler 12 can be activated to begin the bale-forming process, as described above. After another selected duration, the conveyor system 34 and the baler 12 can be deactivated to allow the collector assembly 26 to collect additional crop 20. In some embodiments, the conveyor system 34 and the baler 12 can be activated four or five times to bring the bale 14 to the desired size. As previously described, once the bale reaches the desired size, the baling system 56 wraps the bale 14 with the baling material 58. Because the conveyor system 34 and the baler 12 are activated periodically, the agricultural harvester 10 can utilize less energy during the harvesting process (e.g., compared to running the conveyor system and baler continuously).

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a baling assembly storage compartment 64 configured to hold a plurality of baling assemblies 66. In some embodiments, each baling assembly 66 includes an axle and baling material arranged around the axle to form a roll of baling material. However, in other embodiments, the axle may be omitted, and the baling material of the baling assembly may be arranged in a roll (e.g., having a hollow area at the center). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the agricultural harvester includes a baling assembly transport system configured to move the baling assemblies 66 from the baling assembly storage compartment 64 (e.g., at the bottom of the baling assembly storage compartment 64) to a use position 67. The baling assemblies in the use position 67 become in-use baling assemblies 59, and as described above, the baling material 58 of the in-use baling assembly 59 is fed to contact the bundle 14 to wrap the bundle 14.

[0025] Bundle assemblies 66 can be loaded into bundle assembly storage compartment 64 via an opening in the top of the bundle assembly storage compartment 64. For example, a crane can move the bundle assemblies 66 from the ground to the bundle assembly storage compartment 64 by lifting them upwards, moving them above the opening in the top of the bundle assembly storage compartment, and lowering them into the bundle assembly storage compartment. Alternatively, in some embodiments, bundle assemblies can be manually loaded into the bundle assembly storage compartment. While in the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a bundle assembly storage compartment 64 configured to hold multiple bundle assemblies 66, in other embodiments, the bundle assembly storage compartment may be configured to hold a single bundle assembly. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundle assembly storage compartment may be omitted. In such embodiments, bundle assemblies (e.g., existing bundle assemblies) can be directly loaded into the use position (e.g., manually, by a crane, etc.).

[0026] Each bundle 14 is wrapped with a section of bundle wrapping material 58 from an existing bundle wrapping assembly 59. In some embodiments, the bundle wrapping material 58 of each bundle wrapping assembly is segmented, wherein each segment of the bundle wrapping material corresponds to a specific section configured to wrap the bundle. In some embodiments, the segmented bundle wrapping material includes multiple bundle wrapping material segments and weakened sections, each bundle wrapping material segment being configured to wrap a specific bundle, and each weakened section being located between adjacent bundle wrapping material segments to facilitate separation of the bundle wrapping material segments. In such embodiments, in response to determining that a weakened section of the bundle 58 is located between the axial / central hollow region of the existing bundle assembly 59 and the bundle 14, the bundling system 56 controls the braking system to establish tension in the weakened section of the bundle 58. This tension is sufficient to separate the first segment of the bundle arranged around the bundle 14 from the second segment of the bundle 58 arranged around the axial / central hollow region of the existing bundle assembly 59, thereby facilitating the completion of the bundling process and the discharge of the bundled bundle. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundles 58 of each bundle assembly are continuous. In such embodiments, in response to determining that the interface between the end of the first segment and the beginning of the second segment is located at the cutting system (e.g., by identifying a cutting position indicator on the bundle), the bundling system 56 controls the cutting system to separate the first segment arranged around the bundle 14 from the second segment arranged around the axial / central hollow region of the existing bundle assembly 59, thereby facilitating the completion of the bundling process and the discharge of the bundled bundle.

[0027] Furthermore, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a bale discharge system in a bale transporter 22 configured to discharge bales 14 from the baler 12 into a bale transporter system 24. In some embodiments, the bale discharge system includes one or more actuators configured to drive the swing arm 70 of the baler 12 upward from the bale forming position (illustrated) to the bale discharge position. As the swing arm 70 rotates upward toward the bale discharge position, rollers 42 coupled to the swing arm 70 move one or more conveyor belts located at the rear of the baler 12, thereby creating a gap large enough for the wrapped bale to leave the cavity 48 of the baler. Additionally, tension within one or more conveyor belts 44 established by the tension arm 50 causes the conveyor belts to push the wrapped bale out of the cavity 48 as the swing arm 70 rotates upward. Thus, as the swing arm 70 rotates upward from the bale forming position (illustrated) to the bale discharge position, the wrapped bale is discharged from the cavity 48 of the baler 12. While the above discloses a bundle discharge system having one or more actuators configured to drive the swing arm 70 to rotate, in some embodiments, the bundle discharge system may include any other suitable device configured to discharge the bundle from the cavity, such as one or more actuators configured to drive a door located at the rear of the strapping machine to open.

[0028] Additionally, the baler 22 of the baler transport system 24 is configured to receive the bale 14 from the baler 12 as it is discharged from the baler 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the baler transport system 24 includes a hydraulic cylinder 72 coupled to the baler 22 and a ramp 74 coupled to the chassis of the harvester 10. The hydraulic cylinder 72 is configured to drive the baler 22 from the illustrated receiving position to the unloading position. When the baler is in the illustrated receiving position, the baler 22 can receive the bale 14 from the baler 12 (e.g., via the ramp 74) and support the bale 14 (e.g., for transport to the desired unloading position). Furthermore, the hydraulic cylinder 72 is configured to drive the baler 22 downwards, such that the distal end 75 of the baler is positioned at or near the field surface. As the baler 22 rotates downwards, the bale 14 supported by the baler 22 can roll down the baler 22 onto the field surface. After bale 14 is unloaded, hydraulic cylinder 72 can drive bale transporter 22 back to the illustrated receiving position to receive subsequent bales 14. Furthermore, in some embodiments, hydraulic cylinder 72 can drive bale transporter 22 upward from the illustrated receiving position to a transport position (e.g., the origin position), thereby reducing the length of the agricultural harvester during harvesting operations. While in the illustrated embodiment, bale transporter system 24 includes a single hydraulic cylinder 72, in other embodiments, bale transporter system may include multiple hydraulic cylinders and / or one or more other suitable types of actuators, such as one or more pneumatic cylinders, one or more electric linear actuators, one or more other suitable types of actuators, or combinations thereof.

[0029] As described in detail below, the bundle 58 includes a bundle substrate and a plurality of bundle identifiers disposed on or within the bundle substrate. In some embodiments, each bundle identifier includes an image, such as a barcode, a quick response (QR) code, a data matrix, etc. Additionally, each bundle identifier includes data indicating a bundle code, thereby facilitating the identification of wrapped bundles in the field. In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a bundle identification system 76 configured to scan bundle identifiers and associate bundles with corresponding bundle codes corresponding to the scanned bundle identifiers. As described in detail below, the bundle identification system 76 includes one or more scanners configured to point towards an area outside the agricultural harvester 10. Each scanner is configured to scan the bundle identifiers of the bundle 58 when a section of the bundle is arranged around the bundle in the field. The scanners are configured to output a signal indicating a corresponding bundle code corresponding to the scanned bundle identifier. Additionally, the bundle identification system 76 includes a controller communicatively coupled to the scanners. The controller includes a processor and a memory, and is configured to receive signals indicating corresponding bundle codes and associate bundles with the corresponding bundle codes. Therefore, the bale identification system can identify bales in the field (e.g., after the bales have been unloaded from the bale transporter system 24).

[0030] In the illustrated embodiment, the bale identification system 76 includes a first scanner 78 and a second scanner 80. The first scanner 78 is coupled to the frame of the harvester 10 and is positioned above the second scanner 80. The first scanner 78 can be pointed downwards into the field, enabling it to scan the bale identifier on the top of the wrapped bale on the field floor (e.g., after the bale has been unloaded from the bale transporter system 24). The second scanner 80 is coupled to the bale transporter 22 of the bale transporter system 24. Thus, the second scanner 80 is positioned below the first scanner 78. The second scanner 80 can be pointed rearwards, enabling it to scan the bale identifier on the front side of the wrapped bale on the field floor (e.g., after the bale has been unloaded from the bale transporter 24). Therefore, while the bale is in the field, the bale identification system 76 can scan bale identifiers at multiple locations on the wrapped bale. Although in the illustrated embodiment the first scanner 78 is coupled to the frame of the harvester and positioned above the second scanner 80, in other embodiments, the first scanner may be located at another suitable location on the harvester. Furthermore, although in the illustrated embodiment the second scanner 80 is coupled to the bale carrier 22, in other embodiments the second scanner may be located at another suitable location on the agricultural harvester. Additionally, although in the illustrated embodiment the bale identification system 76 includes two scanners, in other embodiments the bale identification system may include more or fewer scanners.

[0031] While this document discloses bale identification systems and bale packages for agricultural harvesters having a harvesting platform, air-assisted conveying system, collector, and conveying system, in some embodiments, the bale identification system and / or any bale package disclosed herein may be used in another suitable type of agricultural harvester. For example, in some embodiments, the agricultural harvester may include a pickup mechanism configured to feed crop from the ground to the baler. In such embodiments, the harvesting platform, air-assisted conveying system, collector, and conveying system may be omitted.

[0032] Figure 3 It is possible Figure 2 A block diagram of an embodiment of a bale identification system 76 used within a baler. As described in detail below, a bale package 58 includes a bale package substrate 82 and a plurality of bale identifiers 84 disposed on or within the bale package substrate 82. In some embodiments, each bale identifier 84 includes an image, and each bale identifier 84 includes data indicating a bale code. Furthermore, as previously described, each scanner is pointed at an area outside the agricultural harvester 10, and each scanner is configured to scan the bale identifier 84 of the bale package 58 when a section 86 of the bale package 58 is arranged around the bale 14 in the field. Each scanner is configured to output a signal indicating a corresponding bale code, and the corresponding bale code corresponds to the bale identifier 84. Each scanner may include any one or more suitable devices suitable for scanning bale identifiers. In embodiments where each bale identifier includes an image (e.g., a barcode, QR code, data matrix), the scanner may include an optical scanner. For example, in some embodiments, at least one scanner may include a camera configured to monitor one or more other suitable parameters associated with the operation of the agricultural harvester, in addition to scanning the bale identifiers. As used in this article, the corresponding bundle code for a bundle identifier refers to a bundle identifier that includes data indicating the corresponding bundle code.

[0033] As shown, the first scanner 78 of the bale identification system 76 is coupled to the frame of the agricultural harvester 10 and is pointed downwards into the field, enabling it to scan the bale identifier 84 on the top of the wrapped bale on the field surface (e.g., after the bale has been unloaded from the bale transporter system 24). Additionally, a second scanner 80 is coupled to the bale transporter 22 of the bale transporter system 24 and is pointed rearwards, enabling it to scan the bale identifier 84 on the front side of the wrapped bale on the field surface (e.g., after the bale has been unloaded from the bale transporter 24). In some embodiments, the bale identifiers may be placed close to each other, allowing at least one scanner to scan multiple bale identifiers. While the bale identification system 76 includes two scanners in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the bale identification system may include more or fewer scanners. For example, in some embodiments, the bale identification system may include only the first scanner, or the bale identification system may include only the second scanner.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle identification system 76 includes a controller 88 communicatively coupled to a first scanner 78 and a second scanner 80. In some embodiments, the controller 88 is an electronic controller with circuitry configured to receive one or more signals from one or more scanners indicating one or more corresponding bundle codes. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 88 includes a processor 90, such as a microprocessor, and a memory device 92. The controller 88 may also include one or more storage devices and / or other suitable components. The processor 90 can be used to execute software, such as software for identifying bundle 14. Furthermore, the processor 90 may include multiple microprocessors, one or more "general purpose" microprocessors, one or more application-specific microprocessors and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or some combination thereof. For example, the processor 90 may include one or more Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) processors.

[0035] Memory device 92 may include volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM). Memory device 92 may store various types of information and may be used for various purposes. For example, memory device 92 may store processor-executable instructions (e.g., firmware or software) for execution by processor 90, such as instructions for identifying bundle 14. One or more storage devices (e.g., non-volatile storage devices) may include ROM, flash memory, hard disk drives, or any other suitable optical, magnetic, or solid-state storage media, or combinations thereof. One or more storage devices may store data, instructions (e.g., software or firmware for identifying bundle 14), and any other suitable data.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle identification system 76 includes a user interface 94 communicatively coupled to a controller 88. The user interface 94 is configured to receive input from an operator and provide information to the operator. The user interface 94 may include any one or more suitable input devices for receiving input, such as a keyboard, mouse, one or more buttons, one or more switches, one or more knobs, one or more other suitable input devices, or combinations thereof. Additionally, the user interface 94 may include any one or more suitable output devices for presenting information to the operator, such as one or more speakers, one or more indicator lights, one or more other suitable output devices, or combinations thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface 94 includes a display 96 configured to present visual information to the operator. In some embodiments, the display 96 may include a touchscreen interface configured to receive input from the operator.

[0037] Controller 88 is configured to receive one or more signals from one or more scanners indicating one or more corresponding bale codes. Additionally, controller 88 is configured to associate bale 14 with one or more corresponding bale codes. Thus, bale identification system 76 can identify bales in the field (e.g., after the bale has been unloaded from bale transporter system 24). In the illustrated embodiment, bale identification system 76 does not include scanners pointing to bales inside the agricultural harvester (e.g., inside the baler, inside the bale transporter). Therefore, bale identification system 76 cannot identify bales during baling (e.g., during bundling) or when they are on the bale transporter.

[0038] As described in detail below, in some embodiments, bundle identifiers 84 are arranged in multiple patterns on the bundled package 58. Each pattern is formed by a set of two or more bundle identifiers 84, and each pattern extends along the length of the bundled package equal to the minimum bundle circumference. Furthermore, these patterns do not overlap each other along the length of the bundled package, and the bundle identifiers in each set of bundle identifiers include data indicating a common bundle code. Thus, for a bundle with a minimum bundle circumference, one or two sets of bundle identifiers are located outside the wrapped bundle. In some embodiments, the controller 88 of the bundle identification system 76 is configured to associate the bundle 14 with a previous bundle code and a subsequent bundle code, in addition to associating the bundle 14 with the bundle code corresponding to the scanned bundle identifier. The previous bundle code corresponds to the previous bundle identifier (e.g., the bundle identifier in the previous set of bundle identifiers), and the subsequent bundle code corresponds to the subsequent bundle identifier (e.g., the bundle identifier in the subsequent set of bundle identifiers). Therefore, if a bundle identifier including the scanned bundle identifier and the bundle identifier of the preceding group are located outside the wrapped bundle, the bundle can be identified by scanning either the bundle identifier in the preceding group during subsequent bundle identification. Conversely, if a bundle identifier including the scanned bundle identifier and the bundle identifier of the following group are located outside the wrapped bundle, the bundle can be identified by scanning either the bundle identifier in the preceding group during subsequent bundle identification.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the bale identification system 76 includes a bale sensor assembly 98 communicatively coupled to a controller 88. The bale sensor assembly 98 is configured to monitor one or more characteristics of the bale 14 before it is discharged from the agricultural harvester 10. For example, the bale sensor assembly 98 may include a weight sensor configured to monitor the weight of the bale, a humidity sensor configured to monitor the moisture content of the crop within the bale, a size sensor configured to monitor the diameter of the bale, one or more other suitable sensors, or a combination thereof. The bale sensor assembly 98 is configured to output a signal indicating one or more characteristics of the bale, and the controller 88 is configured to determine bale information for the bale, wherein the bale information includes one or more characteristics of the bale. Although the bale identification system 76 includes the bale sensor assembly 98 in the illustrated embodiment, the bale sensor assembly may be omitted in other embodiments.

[0040] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to establish a database including entries for each bale. As previously described, when the bale is in the field (e.g., after the bale has been unloaded from the bale handling system), a scanner scans the bale identifier of the bale wrapping section arranged around the bale. The scanner outputs a signal indicating the corresponding bale wrapping code corresponding to the bale identifier, and the controller 88 receives the signal indicating the corresponding bale code and associates the bale with that corresponding bale code. The controller 88 can then add an entry to the database for that bale, where the entry includes the bale code. Thus, the controller 88 establishes a database of one entry per bale, where each entry includes the corresponding bale code. Furthermore, in embodiments where the controller 88 associates the bale with the previous bale code and the next bale code, as described above, the controller 88 also adds the previous bale code and the next bale code to the entry. Thus, the controller 88 establishes a database of one entry per bale, where each entry includes the corresponding bale code, the previous bale code, and the next bale code. Additionally, in embodiments where the bale identification system 76 includes a bale sensor assembly 98, the controller can also include bale information for each bale in the corresponding entry.

[0041] In some embodiments, controller 88 may instruct user interface 94 to present information from a database on display 96. For example, controller 88 (e.g., in response to user input) may instruct display 96 of user interface 94 to present the database in tabular form. The table may have rows corresponding to entries in the database, and the table may have columns corresponding to information within the entries. For example, in some embodiments, columns may include one or more bundle codes (e.g., only the corresponding bundle code, or the corresponding bundle code, the previous bundle code, and the subsequent bundle code), while in some embodiments, bundle information may also be included.

[0042] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundle identification system may include a transceiver communicatively coupled to the controller and configured to output a wireless signal indicating a database. The wireless signal indicating the database may be received by a remote system via the corresponding transceiver, and the database may be stored on the remote system. The remote system may include a scanner configured to scan bundle identifiers. Thus, the remote system may scan bundle identifiers of bundled packages arranged around a bundle, and the database enables the remote system to identify the bundle based on the bundle code corresponding to the scanned bundle identifier. Additionally, in some embodiments, the controller may output the signal indicating the database to the remote system via a wired connection (e.g., the remote system may be temporarily connected to the bundle identification system via a wired connection). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundle identification system may include a removable media writer communicatively coupled to the controller and configured to write the database into a removable medium. In such embodiments, the remote system may include a removable media reader configured to read the removable medium, thereby providing the database to the remote system. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller is configured to output (e.g., via a corresponding transceiver) a wireless signal indicating a database to a remote server (e.g., a cloud-based server, etc.), and the remote server can receive the wireless signal (e.g., via a corresponding transceiver) and store the database. In such embodiments, the remote system can receive the wireless signal indicating the database from the remote system (e.g., via a corresponding transceiver).

[0043] Figure 4 It can be made by Figure 3 A schematic side view of an embodiment of a bundled bundle 100 identified by a bundle recognition system. As shown, the bundled bundle 100 includes a crop bundle 14 and a section 86 of bundle wrapping material 58 arranged around the bundle 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle wrapping material section 86 extends three times around the circumference of the bundle 14, thereby forming three layers of bundle wrapping material 58 on the bundle 14. However, in other embodiments, the bundle wrapping material section may form more or fewer layers of bundle wrapping material on the bundle (e.g., 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more layers). For example, in some embodiments, the bundle wrapping material section may extend five times around the circumference of the bundle, thereby forming five layers of bundle wrapping material on the bundle.

[0044] As previously described, the bundle 58 includes a substrate 82 and a plurality of bundle identifiers 84 disposed on or within the bundle substrate 82. In some embodiments, each bundle identifier 84 includes an image disposed on the bundle substrate 82. For example, the image may be printed directly on the bundle substrate 82, or the image may be printed onto an adhesive label affixed to the bundle substrate 82. Furthermore, in some embodiments, each bundle identifier 84 may include an image disposed within the bundle substrate 82. For example, the image may be etched or engraved into the bundle substrate 82. The image may include any suitable image that can be scanned by a suitable scanner (e.g., barcode, QR code, data matrix, etc.).

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle identifiers 84 are arranged in multiple patterns, each pattern being formed by a group of two or more bundle identifiers 84. Furthermore, each pattern extends along the length of the bundle 58, which is equal to the minimum bundle circumference, and these patterns do not overlap each other along the length of the bundle. Additionally, each group of bundle identifiers 84 includes data indicating a common bundle code. Thus, for a bundle with a minimum bundle circumference, one or two groups of bundle identifiers are located outside the wrapped bundle 100.

[0046] In the embodiment illustrated, bundle 14 has a minimum bundle diameter D. M This results in the minimum bundle perimeter. For example, in some embodiments, the minimum bundle diameter D MThe minimum bundle circumference is 4 feet (e.g., 1.22 m). Therefore, the minimum bundle circumference is 12.56 feet (e.g., 3.83 m), and the length of each pattern of the bundle identifier 84 is 12.56 inches (e.g., 3.83 m). In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle 58 is continuous. Therefore, each end of the bundle segment 86 can be cut along any portion of the corresponding pattern. As a result, one or two sets of bundle identifiers can be located outside the wrapped bundle 100, while the remaining sets of bundle identifiers of the bundle segment 86 are arranged below the outermost layer of the bundle segment 86. In the illustrated embodiment, the first group of bundle identifiers 84 are arranged in a first pattern on the first portion 102 of the bundled package section 86, the second group of bundle identifiers are arranged in a second pattern on the second portion 104 of the bundled package section 86, the third group of bundle identifiers are arranged in a third pattern on the third portion 106 of the bundled package section 86, and the fourth group of bundle identifiers are arranged in a fourth pattern on the fourth portion 108 of the bundled package section 86. Dashed lines 110 indicate the interfaces between the portions. The patterns within these portions may be the same or different from each other. As shown, a portion of the fourth portion 108 and a portion of the third portion 106 of the bundled package section 86 forms the outer peripheral surface of the wrapped bundle 100. Therefore, the third group of bundle identifiers 84 and the fourth group of bundle identifiers 84 can be scanned by the scanner of the bundle identification system. Additionally, the second group of bundle identifiers 84 and the first group of bundle identifiers 84 may be at least partially obscured by the bundled package substrate 82 arranged on the first and second groups of bundle identifiers 84. Therefore, the first group of bundle identifiers 84 and the second group of bundle identifiers 84 may not be scanned by the scanner of the bundle identification system.

[0047] The controller of the bundle identification system is configured to associate bundle 14 with the bundle code corresponding to the scanned bundle identifier, as well as with the previous bundle code and the next bundle code. The previous bundle code corresponds to the previous bundle identifier 84 (e.g., the bundle identifier in the previous group of bundle identifiers), and the next bundle code corresponds to the next bundle identifier 84 (e.g., the bundle identifier in the next group of bundle identifiers). For example, if the bundle identifier 84 of the third group is scanned, the controller associates bundle 14 with the bundle code corresponding to the bundle identifier 84 of the third group, the bundle code corresponding to the bundle identifier 84 of the second group, and the bundle code corresponding to the bundle identifier 84 of the fourth group. Thus, bundle 14 can be identified by scanning any bundle identifier 84 of the third group or any bundle identifier 84 of the fourth group, which are bundle identifiers 84 located on the outer periphery of the wrapped bundle 100. The bundle identifiers 84 of the second group may not be scanned because these bundle identifiers are at least partially obscured by the bundle wrapping substrate 82. Furthermore, if the bundle identifier 84 of the fourth group is scanned, the controller associates bundle 14 with the bundle code corresponding to the bundle identifier 84 of the fourth group, the bundle code corresponding to the bundle identifier 84 of the third group, and the bundle code corresponding to the bundle identifier 84 of the fifth group. Thus, bundle 14 can be identified by scanning any bundle identifier 84 of the third group or any bundle identifier 84 of the fourth group, which are bundle identifiers located on the outer periphery of the wrapped bundle 100. Bundle identifiers 84 of the fifth group may not be scanned because these bundle identifiers are at least partially obscured by the bundle wrapping substrate segments arranged around subsequent bundles.

[0048] As previously described, the bundled packaging substrate 82 is in the form of a plastic film, an organic film, a mesh, a series of stranded rope segments, or any other suitable structure. In some embodiments, the bundled packaging substrate 82 is substantially opaque (e.g., greater than 90% opaque). In such embodiments, the bundling identifier 84 located beneath at least one layer of the bundled packaging section 86 may be substantially or completely obscured by the bundled packaging substrate 82. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundled packaging substrate 82 may be translucent. In such embodiments, the bundling identifier 84 located beneath at least one layer of the bundled packaging section 86 may be partially obscured by the bundled packaging substrate 82.

[0049] As previously described, the bundle identifier 84 in each bundle identifier group includes data indicating a common bundle code. In some embodiments, each bundle identifier may also include data indicating a corresponding bundle identifier code. In such embodiments, each bundle identifier may be uniquely identifiable based on the data indicating the corresponding bundle code and the data indicating the corresponding bundle identifier code. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundle identifiers in each group may include data indicating different bundle codes, wherein bundle codes corresponding to the corresponding bundle identifiers of that group are associated with each other (e.g., within the controller of the bundle identification system). Thus, in response to scanning a bundle identifier in a group, the controller may associate a bundle with the bundle code corresponding to the corresponding bundle identifier of that group, and in some embodiments, with the bundle code corresponding to the corresponding bundle identifier of the previous group and the bundle code corresponding to the corresponding bundle identifier code of the next group.

[0050] While the above discloses a bundled package segment having one or two sets of bundle identifiers located outside the wrapped bundle, in some embodiments, two or three sets of bundle identifiers may be located outside the wrapped bundle (e.g., if a bundled package segment with a circumference greater than the minimum bundle circumference is shown in a bundled package diagram, if a bundled package segment with a pattern extending along the length of a bundled package with a minimum bundle circumference is shown around a bundle with a minimum bundle circumference, etc.). In such embodiments, the controller may associate the bundle with a bundle code corresponding to the scanned bundle identifier, two preceding bundle codes, and two subsequent bundle codes. The first preceding bundle code corresponds to the first preceding bundle identifier (e.g., the bundle identifier in the first set of preceding bundle identifiers), the second preceding bundle code corresponds to the second preceding bundle identifier (e.g., the bundle identifier in the second set of preceding bundle identifiers), the first subsequent bundle code corresponds to the first subsequent bundle identifier (e.g., the bundle identifier in the first set of subsequent bundle identifiers), and the second subsequent bundle code corresponds to the second subsequent bundle identifier (e.g., the bundle identifier in the second set of subsequent bundle identifiers). Therefore, if the bundle identifiers of a certain group including the scanned bundle identifier and the bundle identifiers of the first two groups are located outside the wrapped bundle, then in the subsequent bundle identification process, the bundle can be identified by scanning the bundle identifiers in said group, the bundle identifiers in the first preceding group, or the bundle identifiers in the second preceding group. Additionally, if the bundle identifiers of a certain group including the scanned bundle identifiers and the bundle identifiers of the next two groups are located outside the wrapped bundle, then in the subsequent bundle identification process, the bundle can be identified by scanning the bundle identifiers in said group, the bundle identifiers in the first subsequent group, or the bundle identifiers in the second subsequent group. Furthermore, if the bundle identifiers of a certain group including the scanned bundle identifiers, the bundle identifiers in the first subsequent group, and the bundle identifiers in the first preceding group are located outside the wrapped bundle, then in the subsequent bundle identification process, the bundle can be identified by scanning the bundle identifiers in said group, the bundle identifiers in the first subsequent group, or the bundle identifiers in the first preceding group. The same technique can be applied to bundled parcel sections where more groups of bundle identifiers are located outside the wrapped bundle.

[0051] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a bundled package 58' that can be arranged around a bundle, wherein the bundled package includes components that can be made of... Figure 3 The bundle identification system scans the bundle identifier 84'. As previously described, the bundle package 58' includes a bundle package substrate 82', and the bundle identifier 84' is arranged on or within the bundle package substrate 82'. As shown, the bundle identifier 84' is arranged in multiple patterns, each pattern including two or more bundle identifiers 84', each pattern along a perimeter equal to the minimum bundle circumference C. MThe bundle 58' extends along a length 112, and the patterns do not overlap each other along the length 112 of the bundle 58'. In the illustrated embodiment, each pattern is different from the adjacent pattern, such that when a segment 86' of the bundle 58' having that pattern and the adjacent pattern is wrapped around a bundle with the minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier 84' in that set of bundle identifiers of that pattern will not overlap with any bundle identifier in the set of bundle identifiers of the adjacent pattern. Thus, in embodiments where the bundle substrate is not completely opaque, the possibility of bundle identifiers on the inner layer of the bundle segment 86' interfering with the scanning of bundle identifiers on the outer layer of the bundle segment 86' is greatly reduced or eliminated, thereby facilitating bundle identification. As used herein, "pattern" refers to the arrangement of bundle identifiers (e.g., a set of bundle identifiers) on the bundle.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle 58' is continuous. Therefore, each end of the bundle segment 86' can be cut along any portion of the corresponding pattern. Furthermore, these patterns include a number of different patterns equal to the maximum number of layers of the bundle 58' surrounding the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle 58' has five different patterns because each segment 86' of the bundle 58' is configured to wrap around the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference five times. However, in other embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the bundle segments are configured to wrap around the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference more or fewer times), the bundle can have more or fewer patterns. For example, if each bundle segment is configured to wrap around the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference four times, the bundle can have four different patterns, while if each bundle segment is configured to wrap around the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference six times, the bundle can have six different patterns. Furthermore, in some embodiments, each bundle segment may include a pattern that is wrapped around a bundle having a minimum bundle circumference more or fewer times than the bundle segment is configured to be wrapped around a bundle. In the illustrated embodiment, bundle identifiers 84' (e.g., a set of bundle identifiers 84') for each pattern are distributed along the length 112 and the width 114 of the bundle 58'. However, in other embodiments, the bundle identifiers for each pattern may be arranged in another suitable configuration.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the first group of bundle identifiers 84' are arranged in a first pattern on the first portion 102' of the bundled parcel section 86'. As shown, the first group includes five bundle identifiers 84' arranged diagonally along the length 112 and width 114 of the bundled parcel 58'. Furthermore, the second group of bundle identifiers 84' are arranged in a second pattern on the second portion 104' of the bundled parcel section 86'. As shown, the second group also includes five bundle identifiers 84', of which four bundle identifiers 84' are arranged diagonally along the length 112 and width 114 of the bundled parcel 58', and one bundle identifier 84' is offset from the other four bundle identifiers 84' in both the lateral and longitudinal directions. Additionally, the third group of bundle identifiers 84' are arranged in a third pattern on the third portion 106' of the bundled parcel section 86'. As shown in the figure, the third group also includes five bundle identifiers 84', where the first group of three bundle identifiers 84' are arranged diagonally along the length 112 and width 114 of the bundled parcel section 86', and the second group of two bundle identifiers 84' are arranged diagonally along the length 112 and width 114 of the bundled parcel section 86', and these two groups are offset from each other in the horizontal and vertical directions. Furthermore, the fourth group of bundle identifiers 84' is arranged in a fourth pattern on the fourth portion 108' of the bundled parcel section 86'. As shown in the figure, the fourth group also includes five bundle identifiers 84', where the first group of two bundle identifiers 84' are arranged diagonally along the length 112 and width 114 of the bundled parcel section 86', and the second group of three bundle identifiers 84' are arranged diagonally along the length 12 and width 114 of the bundled parcel section 86', and these two groups are offset from each other in the horizontal and vertical directions. Additionally, the fifth group of bundle identifiers 84' is arranged in a fifth pattern on the fifth portion 116' of the bundled parcel section 86'. As shown in the figure, the fifth group also includes five bundle identifiers 84', of which four bundle identifiers 84' are arranged diagonally along the length 112 and width 114 of the bundled package 58', and one bundle identifier 84' is offset from the other four bundle identifiers 84' in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Furthermore, the clusters of the five patterns repeat along the length 112 of the bundled package 58'. Thus, the bundled package 58' includes five patterns, each pattern being different from adjacent patterns, such that when a segment 86' of the bundled package 58' with that pattern and adjacent patterns is wrapped around a bundle with the minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier 84' in that pattern's group of bundle identifiers will not overlap with any bundle identifier in the group of bundle identifiers of the adjacent pattern. Although in the illustrated embodiment, each pattern includes five bundle identifiers 84', in other embodiments, at least one pattern may include more or fewer bundle identifiers (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8 or more).

[0054] While the arrangement of the bundle wrapping section 86' around a bundle having a minimum bundle circumference is disclosed above, it is also possible to arrange the bundle wrapping section 86' around a bundle with a circumference greater than the minimum bundle circumference and less than or equal to the maximum bundle circumference. For example, in some embodiments, the maximum bundle circumference may be 25.12 feet (e.g., 7.66 m), which is the circumference of a bundle with a maximum bundle diameter of 8 feet (e.g., 2.44 m). In the illustrated embodiment, due to the pattern of the bundle identifier 84', when the section 86' of the bundle wrapping 58' is wrapped around a bundle with a circumference between the minimum bundle circumference (e.g., 12.56 feet) and the maximum bundle circumference (e.g., 25.12 feet) (inclusive), each bundle identifier in that set of bundle identifiers for each pattern will not overlap with any bundle identifier in that set of bundle identifiers for any other pattern. However, in other embodiments, when a section of the bundled package is wrapped around a bundle with a circumference greater than the minimum bundle circumference, at least one bundle identifier in the bundle identifier group of one pattern may overlap with a bundle identifier in the bundle identifier group of another pattern.

[0055] In some embodiments, each group of bundle identifiers 84' includes data indicating a common bundle code. For a bundle with a minimum bundle circumference, one or two groups of bundle identifiers are located outside the wrapped bundle. Additionally, as previously described, in some embodiments, the controller of the bundle identification system is configured to associate the bundle not only with the bundle code corresponding to the scanned bundle identifier, but also with a previous bundle code and a subsequent bundle code. The previous bundle code corresponds to a previous bundle identifier (e.g., a bundle identifier in a previous group of bundle identifiers), and the subsequent bundle code corresponds to a subsequent bundle identifier (e.g., a bundle identifier in a subsequent group of bundle identifiers). Thus, if a group of bundle identifiers including the scanned bundle identifier and the bundle identifiers of the previous group are located outside the wrapped bundle, the bundle can be identified during subsequent bundle identification (e.g., via a remote system) by scanning either the bundle identifiers in the group or the bundle identifiers in the previous group. Additionally, if the bundle identifiers of a group including the scanned bundle identifiers and the bundle identifiers of the subsequent group are located outside the wrapped bundle, the bundle can be identified during subsequent bundle identification (e.g., via a remote system) by scanning either the bundle identifiers in the group or the bundle identifiers in the subsequent group. While bundle identifiers including data indicating a common bundle code for each group are disclosed above, in some embodiments, the bundle identifiers 84' for each group may include data indicating a different bundle code.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle 58' includes a plurality of numerical identifiers 118 disposed on or within the bundle substrate 82'. The numerical identifiers 118 are spaced apart from each other along the length 112 of the bundle 58', and indicate the amount of remaining bundle 58'. For example, in some embodiments, the numerical identifiers 118 may be spaced one foot apart, allowing an operator or automation system to determine the number of feet of bundle remaining for the bundling process. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the numerical identifiers 118 may be spaced apart by a minimum bundle circumference C. M This allows the operator or automation system to determine the quantity of the remaining bundled package portion for the bundling process. While in the illustrated embodiment, a numerical identifier 118 is placed at each position along the length 112 of the bundled package 58', in other embodiments, multiple numerical identifiers may be placed at each position along the length of the bundled package (e.g., distributed along the width of the bundled package). Furthermore, while in the illustrated embodiment, the bundled package 58' includes the numerical identifier 118, in other embodiments, the numerical identifier may be omitted. Additionally, in some embodiments, the bundled package may include one or more other suitable identifiers, such as one or more arrows indicating the direction of movement of the bundled package (e.g., one or more arrows located near each numerical identifier), marketing or branding identifiers (e.g., a marketing or branding identifier located near each numerical identifier), etc. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the above references... Figure 4 The disclosed bundle 58 may include various features and variations of the digital identifier arranged on or within the bundle substrate 82 and having the digital identifier 118 disclosed above.

[0057] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a bundled parcel 58” that can be arranged around a bundle, wherein the bundled parcel 58” includes a section 86” that can be made of Figure 3 The bundle identification system scans the bundle identifier 84". As previously described, the bundle package 58" includes a bundle package substrate 82", and the bundle identifier 84" is arranged on or within the bundle package substrate 82". As shown, the bundle identifier 84" is arranged in a variety of patterns, each pattern including two or more bundle identifiers 84", each pattern along a perimeter equal to the minimum bundle circumference C. MThe bundle 58” extends along a length 112, and the patterns do not overlap each other along the length 112 of the bundle 58”. In the illustrated embodiment, each pattern is different from the adjacent pattern, such that when a segment 86” of the bundle 58” with that pattern and the adjacent pattern is wrapped around a bundle with the minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier 84” in that set of bundle identifiers will not overlap with any bundle identifier in the set of bundle identifiers of the adjacent pattern. Thus, in embodiments where the bundle substrate is not completely opaque, the possibility of the bundle identifiers on the inner layer of the bundle segment 86” interfering with the scanning of the bundle identifiers on the outer layer of the bundle segment 86” is greatly reduced or eliminated, thereby facilitating bundle identification.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle 58” is continuous. Therefore, each end of the bundle segment 86” can be cut along any portion of the corresponding pattern. Furthermore, these patterns include a number of different patterns equal to the maximum number of layers of the bundle 58” surrounding the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle 58” has 5 different patterns because each segment 86” of the bundle 58” is configured to wrap around the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference 5 times. However, in other embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the bundle segments are configured to wrap around the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference more or fewer times), the bundle can have more or fewer patterns. For example, if each bundle segment is configured to wrap around the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference 4 times, the bundle can have 4 different patterns, while if each bundle segment is configured to wrap around the bundle with the minimum bundle circumference 6 times, the bundle can have 6 different patterns. Furthermore, in some embodiments, each bundle segment may include more or fewer patterns than the number of times the bundle segment is configured to wrap around a bundle having the minimum bundle circumference. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle identifiers 84 (e.g., a set of bundle identifiers 84) for each pattern are arranged in a straight line along the length 112 of the bundle 58”, and the patterns of the five pattern clusters are offset from each other along the width 114 of the bundle 58”. However, in other embodiments, the bundle identifiers for each pattern may be arranged in another suitable configuration.

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the first group of bundle identifiers 84” are arranged in a first pattern on the first portion 102” of the bundled package section 86”. As shown, the first group includes five bundle identifiers 84” arranged in a straight line along the length 112” of the bundled package 58”. Furthermore, the second group of bundle identifiers 84” are arranged in a second pattern on the second portion 104” of the bundled package section 86”. As shown, the second group also includes five bundle identifiers 84” arranged in a straight line along the length 112” of the bundled package 58”, and the second pattern deviates from the first pattern along the width 114” of the bundled package 58”. Additionally, the third group of bundle identifiers 84” are arranged in a third pattern on the third portion 106” of the bundled package section 86”. As shown in the figure, the third group also includes five bundle identifiers 84” arranged in a straight line along the length 112 of the bundle 58”, and the third pattern deviates from the second pattern along the width 114 of the bundle 58”. Furthermore, the bundle identifiers 84” of the fourth group are arranged in the fourth pattern on the fourth portion 108” of the bundle segment 86”. As shown in the figure, the fourth group also includes five bundle identifiers 84” arranged in a straight line along the length 112 of the bundle 58”, and the fourth pattern deviates from the third pattern along the width 114 of the bundle 58”. Additionally, the bundle identifiers 84” of the fifth group are arranged in the fifth pattern on the fifth portion 116” of the bundle segment 86”. As shown in the figure, the fifth group also includes five bundle identifiers 84” arranged in a straight line along the length 112 of the bundle 58”, and the fifth pattern deviates from the fourth pattern along the width 114 of the bundle 58”. Furthermore, the cluster of the five patterns repeats along the length 112 of the bundle 58”. Therefore, the bundle 58” includes five patterns, each different from the adjacent patterns, such that when a segment 86” of the bundle 58” with that pattern and the adjacent patterns is wrapped around a bundle with the minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier 84” in that pattern’s set of bundle identifiers will not overlap with any bundle identifier in the set of bundle identifiers of the adjacent pattern. Although in the illustrated embodiment, each pattern includes five bundle identifiers 84”, in other embodiments, at least one pattern may include more or fewer bundle identifiers (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8 or more).

[0060] While the above discloses arranging the bundle wrapping section 86” around a bundle having a minimum bundle circumference, the bundle wrapping section 86” can also be arranged around a bundle with a circumference greater than the minimum bundle circumference and less than or equal to the maximum bundle circumference. For example, in some embodiments, the maximum bundle circumference may be 25.12 feet (e.g., 7.66 m), which is the circumference of a bundle with a maximum bundle diameter of 8 feet (e.g., 2.44 m). In the illustrated embodiment, due to the pattern of the bundle identifier 84", when a segment 86” of the bundled package 58” is wrapped around a bundle with a perimeter between the minimum bundle perimeter (e.g., 12.56 feet) and the maximum bundle perimeter (e.g., 25.12 feet) (inclusive), each bundle identifier in that set of bundle identifiers for each pattern will not overlap with any bundle identifier in the set of bundle identifiers for any other pattern. However, in other embodiments, when a segment of the bundled package is wrapped around a bundle with a perimeter greater than the minimum bundle perimeter, at least one bundle identifier in the set of bundle identifiers for one pattern may overlap with a bundle identifier in the set of bundle identifiers for another pattern.

[0061] In some embodiments, each group of bundle identifiers 84” includes data indicating a common bundle code. For a bundle with a minimum bundle circumference, one or two groups of bundle identifiers are located outside the wrapped bundle. Additionally, as previously described, in some embodiments, the controller of the bundle identification system is configured to associate the bundle not only with the bundle code corresponding to the scanned bundle identifier, but also with a previous bundle code and a subsequent bundle code. The previous bundle code corresponds to a previous bundle identifier (e.g., a bundle identifier in a previous group of bundle identifiers), and the subsequent bundle code corresponds to a subsequent bundle identifier (e.g., a bundle identifier in a subsequent group of bundle identifiers). Thus, if a group of bundle identifiers includes the scanned bundle identifier... If the bundle identifier of the preceding group is located outside the wrapped bundle, then in subsequent bundle identification processes (e.g., via a remote system), the bundle can be identified by scanning either the bundle identifier in the preceding group. Additionally, if the bundle identifier of a group including the scanned bundle identifier and the bundle identifier of the following group are located outside the wrapped bundle, then in subsequent bundle identification processes (e.g., via a remote system), the bundle can be identified by scanning either the bundle identifier in the preceding group or the bundle identifier of the following group. While bundle identifiers including data indicating a common bundle code for each group are disclosed above, in some embodiments, the bundle identifier 84” for each group may include data indicating a different bundle code.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle 58” includes a plurality of numerical identifiers 118’ disposed on or within the bundle substrate 82”. The numerical identifiers 118’ are spaced apart from each other along the length 112 of the bundle 58”, and indicate the amount of remaining bundle 58”. For example, in some embodiments, the numerical identifiers 118’ may be spaced one foot apart, allowing an operator or automation system to determine the number of feet of bundle remaining for the bundling process. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the numerical identifiers 118’ may be spaced apart by a minimum bundle circumference C. M This allows the operator or automation system to determine the quantity of the remaining bundled package portion for the bundling process. While in the illustrated embodiment, a numerical identifier 118' is placed at each position along the length 112 of the bundled package 58”, in other embodiments, multiple numerical identifiers may be placed at each position along the length of the bundled package (e.g., distributed along the width of the bundled package). Furthermore, while in the illustrated embodiment, the bundled package 58” includes the numerical identifier 118', in other embodiments, the numerical identifier may be omitted. Additionally, in some embodiments, the bundled package may include one or more other suitable identifiers, such as one or more arrows indicating the direction of movement of the bundled package (e.g., one or more arrows located near each numerical identifier), marketing or branding identifiers (e.g., a marketing or branding identifier located near each numerical identifier), etc.

[0063] Although the above reference Figures 5-6 Two repeating pattern clusters are disclosed, but the bundled parcel can have another suitable repeating pattern cluster, wherein each pattern is different from adjacent patterns, such that when a segment of the bundled parcel having that pattern and adjacent patterns is wrapped around a bundle with a minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier in that pattern's set of bundle identifiers does not overlap with any bundle identifier in the set of bundle identifiers of adjacent patterns. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundled parcel can have non-repeating pattern clusters, such that a single pattern cluster extends along the entire length of the bundled parcel (e.g., such that each pattern is different from all other patterns). Additionally, in some embodiments, the above references... Figure 4 The publicly disclosed bundled package 58 may have the above reference. Figures 5-6 Any arrangement of the disclosed bundle identifier. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the above references... Figure 4 The disclosed bundle 58 may have another suitable arrangement of bundle identifiers (e.g., where when a section of a bundle with a pattern and an adjacent pattern is wrapped around a bundle with a minimum bundle circumference, at least one bundle identifier in the group of bundle identifiers of that pattern overlaps with a bundle identifier in the group of bundle identifiers of the adjacent pattern).

[0064] Furthermore, in embodiments where the bundled items are continuous, such as those described above... Figures 4-6 In the disclosed embodiments, a bundle identifier or numeric identifier can function as a cutting position indicator. As previously described, in some embodiments, the bundling system is configured to identify the cutting position indicator of the bundled package to locate the interface between the end of a first segment and the beginning of a second segment. In response to determining that the interface is located at the cutting system, the bundling system controls the cutting system to separate the first segment arranged around the bundle from the second segment arranged around the axis / central hollow region of the bundled package assembly. In some embodiments, a specific numeric identifier can function as a cutting position indicator. In such embodiments, the bundling system can locate each interface by identifying the corresponding numeric identifier (e.g., via a scanner). Furthermore, in some embodiments, a specific bundle identifier can function as a cutting position indicator. In such embodiments, the bundling system can locate each interface by identifying the corresponding bundle identifier (e.g., via a scanner).

[0065] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a bundle 58''' that can be arranged around a bundle, wherein the bundle 58''' includes a section 86''' that can be made of... Figure 3 The bundle identification system scans the bundle identifier 84'''. As previously described, the bundle 58''' includes a bundle substrate 82''', and the bundle identifier 84''' is arranged on or within the bundle substrate 82'''. As shown, the bundle identifier 84''' is arranged in multiple patterns, each pattern including two or more bundle identifiers 84''', each pattern along a perimeter equal to the minimum bundle circumference C. M The bundle 58''' extends along a length 112, and the patterns do not overlap each other along the length 112 of the bundle 58'''. In the illustrated embodiment, each pattern is different from the adjacent pattern, such that when a segment 86''' of the bundle 58''' with that pattern and the adjacent pattern is wrapped around a bundle with the minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier 84''' in that set of bundle identifiers will not overlap with any bundle identifier in the set of bundle identifiers of the adjacent pattern. Thus, in embodiments where the bundle substrate is not completely opaque, the possibility of the bundle identifiers on the inner layer of the bundle segment 86''' interfering with the scanning of the bundle identifiers on the outer layer of the bundle segment 86''' is greatly reduced or eliminated, thereby facilitating bundle identification.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle 58''' is divided into multiple segments 120, each segment corresponding to a corresponding section 86'''. Each segment 120 has a first pattern of bundle identifier 84''' located at the end of the segment 120 (e.g., the longitudinal end) and a second pattern of bundle identifier 84''' located near the first pattern (e.g., along the length 112 of the bundle 58'''). In the illustrated embodiment, a first group of bundle identifiers 84''' is arranged according to the first pattern on the first portion 102''' of the bundle section 86''' / segment 120. As shown, the first group includes three bundle identifiers 84''' arranged in a straight line along the length 112 of the bundle 58'''. Furthermore, a second group of bundle identifiers 84''' is arranged according to the second pattern on the second portion 104''' of the bundle section 86''' / segment 120. As shown, the second group also includes three bundle identifiers 84''' arranged in a straight line along the length 112 of the bundle 58''', and the second pattern deviates from the first pattern along the width 114 of the bundle 58'''. Thus, the bundle 58''' includes two patterns, both different from adjacent patterns (e.g., the two patterns are different from each other), such that when a segment 86''' / segment 120 of the bundle 58''' with this pattern (e.g., the first pattern) and an adjacent pattern (e.g., the second pattern) is wrapped around a bundle with a minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier 84''' in that group of bundle identifiers will not overlap with any bundle identifier in the group of bundle identifiers of the adjacent pattern. While in the illustrated embodiment, each pattern includes three bundle identifiers 84''', in other embodiments, at least one pattern may include more or fewer bundle identifiers (e.g., 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more). Furthermore, although in the illustrated embodiment, each bundle identifier 84''' is arranged in a straight line along the length 112 of the bundle 58''', in other embodiments, the bundle may include other suitable patterns, each of which is different from the adjacent patterns, such that when a segment / section of a bundle with that pattern (e.g., the first pattern) and an adjacent pattern (e.g., the second pattern) is wrapped around a bundle with a minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier in that pattern's bundle identifier group will not overlap with any bundle identifier in the adjacent pattern's bundle identifier group.

[0067] While the arrangement of bundle wrapping segments 86''' / segments 120 around a bundle having a minimum bundle circumference is disclosed above, it is also possible to arrange bundle wrapping segments 86''' / segments 120 around a bundle with a circumference greater than the minimum bundle circumference and less than or equal to the maximum bundle circumference. For example, in some embodiments, the maximum bundle circumference may be 25.12 feet (e.g., 7.66 m), which is the circumference of a bundle with a maximum bundle diameter of 8 feet (e.g., 2.44 m). In the illustrated embodiment, due to the pattern of the bundle identifier 84''', when the bundle wrapping segment 86''' / segment 58''' is wrapped around a bundle with a circumference between the minimum bundle circumference (e.g., 12.56 feet) and the maximum bundle circumference (e.g., 25.12 feet) (inclusive), each bundle identifier in that set of bundle identifiers for each pattern will not overlap with any bundle identifier in that set of bundle identifiers for other patterns.

[0068] In some embodiments, the bundle may include a plurality of numerical identifiers arranged on or within the bundle substrate. In such embodiments, the numerical identifiers are spaced apart from each other along the length of the bundle, and the numerical identifiers indicate the amount of remaining bundle and / or the amount of remaining bundle segments. For example, in some embodiments, the numerical identifiers may be spaced one foot apart, thereby enabling an operator or automation system to determine the number of feet of remaining bundle and / or bundle segments for the bundling process. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the numerical identifiers may be spaced apart by a minimum bundle circumference C. M This allows the operator or automated system to determine the number of bundles and / or segments of bundles remaining from the bundling process. In some embodiments, a single numeric identifier may be placed at each location along the length of the bundle, while in other embodiments, multiple numeric identifiers may be placed at each location along the length of the bundle (e.g., distributed along the width of the bundle). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundle may include one or more other suitable identifiers, such as one or more arrows indicating the direction of movement of the bundle (e.g., one or more arrows located near each numeric identifier), marketing or branding identifiers (e.g., a marketing or branding identifier located near each numeric identifier), etc.

[0069] In the embodiments disclosed above, bundle identifiers are configured to be located on the outer peripheral surface of the wrapped bundle, thereby enabling one or more scanners pointing towards the outer peripheral surface of the wrapped bundle to scan the bundle identifiers. However, in some embodiments, one or more bundle identifiers may be configured to be located at at least one longitudinal end of the wrapped bundle. For example, in some embodiments, the width of the bundle wrapping section is greater than the width of the bundle, such that when the bundle wrapping section is arranged around the bundle, the bundle wrapping section can form a shoulder at the longitudinal end of the bundle. One or more bundle identifiers may be placed on the shoulder. In some embodiments, one or more bundle identifiers placed on the shoulder of a corresponding portion of the bundle wrapping section may include data indicating a bundle code identical to the bundle code of the set of bundle identifiers located on the corresponding portion. Furthermore, in some embodiments, bundle identifiers placed on the shoulder may be spaced apart from each other to greatly reduce or eliminate the possibility of one bundle identifier on the shoulder overlapping with another bundle identifier on the shoulder.

[0070] While the minimum bundle diameter of 4 feet and the maximum bundle diameter of 8 feet are disclosed above, in some embodiments, the minimum bundle diameter may be greater than or less than 4 feet, and / or the maximum bundle diameter may be greater than or less than 8 feet. For example, in some embodiments, the minimum bundle diameter may be 3 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, or greater. Additionally, in some embodiments, the maximum bundle diameter may be 7 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, or greater.

[0071] While the above describes scanning one or more bundle identifiers of a bundle when it is already in the field (e.g., after it has been unloaded from a baler system), in some embodiments, scanning may be performed during the baling process (e.g., during the baling process) or while the bundle is on the baler. Figures 5-7 The system identifies the bundle identifier of the bundled goods. For example, in some embodiments, the bundle identification system may include a scanner pointing to an internal area of ​​an agricultural harvester (e.g., an area inside a baler, an area inside a baler transporter, etc.), wherein the scanner is configured to scan the bundle identifier of the bundled goods and output a signal indicating a corresponding bundle code corresponding to the bundle identifier. The bundle identification system may also include a controller communicatively coupled to the scanner, wherein the controller includes a processor and memory. The controller is configured to receive a signal indicating a corresponding bundle code, and the controller is configured to associate a bundle with a corresponding bundle code, and in some embodiments, also associate a bundle with a previous bundle code and a subsequent bundle code. As previously described, a previous bundle code corresponds to a previous bundle identifier, and a subsequent bundle code corresponds to a subsequent bundle identifier.

[0072] Although only certain features have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and alterations will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and alterations falling within the true spirit of this disclosure.

[0073] The technologies proposed and claimed herein relate to and are applied to physical objects and concrete examples of practical nature, and significantly improve upon current technical fields; therefore, these technologies are not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any claim appended to this specification contains one or more elements designated as “means for [performing] [a certain function]…” or “steps for [performing] [a certain function]…”, such elements shall be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, those elements shall not be interpreted in accordance with 35 U.SC 112(f).

Claims

1. A type of parcel wrapping material, comprising: The base material for bundling / packaging; and A plurality of bundle identifiers are arranged on or within the substrate of the bundled package, wherein the plurality of bundle identifiers are arranged in a plurality of patterns, each of the plurality of patterns being formed by a group comprising two or more bundle identifiers of the plurality of bundle identifiers, each of the plurality of patterns extending along the length of the bundled package equal to the minimum bundle circumference, the plurality of patterns not overlapping each other along the length of the bundled package, and each of the plurality of patterns being different from the adjacent patterns, such that when a segment of the bundled package having the pattern and the adjacent pattern is wrapped around a bundle having the minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier in the group of bundle identifiers of the pattern does not overlap with any bundle identifier in the group of bundle identifiers of the adjacent pattern.

2. The bundled package according to claim 1, wherein the bundled package is divided into a plurality of segments, each of the plurality of segments having a first pattern of a plurality of patterns located at an end of the segment and a second pattern of a plurality of patterns located near the first pattern.

3. The bundled package according to claim 1, wherein the bundled package is continuous, and the plurality of patterns comprises a number of different patterns, the number of which is equal to the maximum number of layers of the bundled package surrounding the bundle having the minimum bundle circumference.

4. The bundled package according to claim 3, wherein the bundle identifier group of each of the plurality of patterns is arranged in a straight line along the length of the bundled package.

5. The bundled package according to claim 3, wherein the bundle identifier group of each of the plurality of patterns is distributed along the length of the bundled package and along the width of the bundled package.

6. The bundled package according to claim 1, wherein the bundle identifier in each bundle identifier group includes data indicating a common bundle code.

7. The bundled package according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of numerical identifiers disposed on or within the bundled package substrate, wherein the plurality of numerical identifiers are spaced apart from each other along the length of the bundled package, and the plurality of numerical identifiers indicate the amount of remaining bundled package.

8. A type of bundle, comprising: The base material for bundling / packages; and Multiple bundle identifiers are arranged on or within the substrate of the bundled package, wherein the multiple bundle identifiers are arranged in a variety of patterns, each of the multiple patterns being formed by a group including two or more bundle identifiers, each of the multiple patterns extending along the length of the bundled package equal to the minimum bundle circumference, the multiple patterns not overlapping each other, and the bundle identifiers in each group of bundle identifiers including data indicating a common bundle code.

9. The bundled package according to claim 8, comprising a plurality of numerical identifiers disposed on or within the bundled package substrate, wherein the plurality of numerical identifiers are spaced apart from each other along the length of the bundled package, and the plurality of numerical identifiers indicate the amount of remaining bundled package.

10. A bundle identification system for an agricultural harvester, comprising: A scanner configured to point to an area outside the agricultural harvester, wherein the scanner is configured to scan one of a plurality of bundle identifiers of the bundle package when the bundle package, which includes a bundle identifier, is arranged around the bundle in a section of the field. The scanner is configured to output a signal indicating a corresponding bundle code among the plurality of bundle codes, and the corresponding bundle code corresponds to the bundle identifier. and A controller communicatively coupled to the scanner, wherein the controller includes a processor and a memory, and the controller is configured to: Receive a signal indicating the corresponding bundle code; and Associate the bundle with the corresponding bundle code.

11. The bundle identification system according to claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to associate the bundle with a previous bundle code among the plurality of bundle codes and to associate the bundle with a subsequent bundle code among the plurality of bundle codes, the previous bundle code corresponding to a previous bundle identifier among the plurality of bundle identifiers, and the subsequent bundle code corresponding to a subsequent bundle identifier among the plurality of bundle identifiers.

12. The bundle identification system according to claim 10, comprising the bundled package, wherein the bundled package comprises: The base material for bundling / packages; and The plurality of bundle identifiers are arranged on or within the substrate of the bundled package, wherein the plurality of bundle identifiers are arranged in a plurality of patterns, each of the plurality of patterns being formed by a group comprising two or more bundle identifiers, each of the plurality of patterns extending along the length of the bundled package equal to the minimum bundle circumference, and the plurality of patterns not overlapping each other.

13. The bundle identification system according to claim 12, wherein the bundle identifier in each bundle identifier group includes data indicating a common bundle code among the plurality of bundle codes.

14. The bundle identification system according to claim 13, wherein the controller is configured to associate the bundle with a previous bundle code among the plurality of bundle codes and to associate the bundle with a subsequent bundle code among the plurality of bundle codes, the previous bundle code corresponding to a previous bundle identifier among the plurality of bundle identifiers, and the subsequent bundle code corresponding to a subsequent bundle identifier among the plurality of bundle identifiers.

15. The bundle identification system according to claim 12, wherein the bundle includes a plurality of digital identifiers disposed on or within the bundle substrate, the plurality of digital identifiers being spaced apart from each other along the length of the bundle, and the plurality of digital identifiers indicating the amount of remaining bundle.

16. The bundle identification system according to claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of patterns is different from the adjacent patterns in the plurality of patterns, such that when a representative segment of the bundle package having the pattern and the adjacent pattern is wrapped around a representative bundle having the minimum bundle circumference, each bundle identifier in the bundle identifier group of the pattern does not overlap with any bundle identifier in the bundle identifier group of the adjacent pattern.

17. The bundle identification system according to claim 16, wherein the bundled package is divided into a plurality of segments, each of the plurality of segments having a first pattern of a plurality of patterns located at the end of the segment and a second pattern of the plurality of patterns located near the first pattern.

18. The bundle identification system according to claim 16, wherein the bundled packages are continuous, and the plurality of patterns comprises a number of different patterns, the number of which is equal to the maximum number of layers of bundled packages surrounding a representative bundle having the minimum bundle circumference.

19. The bundle identification system according to claim 18, wherein the bundle identifier group of each of the plurality of patterns is arranged in a straight line along the length of the bundled package.

20. The bundle identification system according to claim 18, wherein the bundle identifier group for each of the plurality of patterns is distributed along the length of the bundle and along the width of the bundle.

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