Process monitoring in a laundry

Abstract

Computer (1) for process monitoring of a textile processing plant (A) in which textile pieces (T) are processed according to a textile processing process comprising several textile processing steps (S1-S5), wherein the computer (1) has a processor (11), a memory (12), a communication interface (13) and a database (17) and the processor (11) executes instructions stored in the memory (12) such that the processor (11) performs the following steps: Receiving (S101), via the communication interface (13), a plurality of messages from a plurality of readers (2A-2E) of the textile processing plant (A), wherein each message is assigned to the textile processing step (S1-S5) to which the reader (2A-2E) from which the message was received is assigned, and the message contains at least one identifier of a machine-readable element (E) read by the reader (2A-2E) which is connected to a piece of textile (T); Creating (S102) log entries for each piece of textile (T), wherein each log entry contains the identifier of the piece of textile (T), the textile processing step (S1-S5) and a timestamp relating to a time of reading; Calculate (S103) at least one processing time for at least one processing step (S1-S5) of the textile piece (T) using the timestamps of the log entries, and link the at least one processing time with the log entries; and Saving (S104) the log entries in the database (17), thereby creating a log for the textile piece (T) during processing in the textile processing plant (A).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The invention relates to process monitoring in a laundry. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Laundries clean and process large quantities of textiles daily. This includes not only workwear for businesses such as hospitals, but also bed linens and textiles used in kitchens, restaurants, for cleaning, etc.

[0003] The processing of textiles involves several steps. These include, for example, receiving, sorting, emptying the bags, washing, drying, ironing, packaging and delivery.

[0004] To ensure that processed textiles are returned to the correct customer, barcode labels are used. These labels are attached to a laundry bag or individual textiles and assigned to a customer or a specific customer order. After processing, or immediately before packaging, a barcode scanner can be used to confirm that a particular textile is being assigned to the correct packaging or delivery.

[0005] Even though barcodes solve the problem of returning the correct textiles to the correct customer, it can still happen that an item of clothing gets lost during processing and is therefore never scanned before delivery. Only afterwards is it reported missing by the customer.

[0006] Furthermore, there is a need to provide more precise information about the processing phase of a current textile product.

[0007] It is therefore a task of the invention to overcome at least some of the known disadvantages of the prior art. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The invention relates to a computer for process monitoring of a textile processing plant. In particular, the invention relates to a computer for process monitoring of a textile processing plant, with which one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art are overcome.

[0009] The computer is used for process monitoring of a textile processing plant in which textile pieces are processed according to a textile processing procedure comprising several processing steps. The computer has a processor, memory, a communication interface, and a database. The processor executes instructions stored in memory, thus performing the following steps. These steps include receiving, via the communication interface, multiple messages from multiple readers of the textile processing plant. Each message is assigned to the textile processing step to which the reader from which the message was received is assigned. A machine-readable element is associated with a textile piece. The message contains at least one identifier of the machine-readable element that was read by the reader. The steps also include creating log entries for each textile piece.Each log entry contains the identifier of the textile piece, the textile processing step, and a timestamp. The timestamp refers to the point in time when the entry was read. The steps include calculating at least one processing time for each processing step of a textile piece using the timestamps of the log entries, and linking this processing time to the corresponding log entries. The steps also include storing the log entries in the database, thereby creating a record of the textile piece during processing in the textile processing plant.

[0010] In one embodiment, the processor performs several additional steps. These steps include providing access to the log entries via an application interface using the communication interface. They also include receiving a request via the application interface from a client device, where the request contains access credentials. These steps include verifying the access credentials to determine if the client device is authorized. If the client device is authorized, these steps include receiving an order number or customer number from the client device via the application interface, where the order number or customer number is associated with one or more specific textile items. Finally, these steps include providing the log, or a portion thereof, to the specific textile items associated with the order number or customer number via the application interface.

[0011] In one embodiment, the processor further performs the following step: analyzing the processing time, using an analysis module executed by the processor, to determine statistical parameters. These statistical parameters include one or more of the following: the total processing time for the textile processing of a specific textile piece; the external cycle time of a specific textile piece, which refers to the time between the completion of processing of that particular textile piece and its entry into subsequent processing; the average total processing time for the textile processing of multiple textile pieces; and the variance of the processing time of a specific processing step across multiple textile pieces. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Aspects of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the following figures and the accompanying description. The figures show: Fig. 1 a schematic diagram of the sequence of an exemplary textile processing process, in particular the associated textile processing steps and the computer with the associated reading devices; Fig. 2 a block diagram of a computer according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 3 a schematic block diagram of the computer's applications and interfaces; Fig. 4. A flowchart that represents a procedure executed by the computer and Fig. 5. A flowchart, which represents another procedure executed by the computer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION EXAMPLES

[0013] Fig. Figure 1 shows a textile processing plant A, designed to process a piece of textile T in a textile processing process with several steps S1-S5. The textile processing plant A could, for example, be a laundry.

[0014] The textile item T is shown as a shirt for illustrative purposes, but it could also be other articles of clothing or other textile items, such as bed linen. The textile item T does not necessarily have to be a single piece, but could also comprise a number of textile items T that are connected, linked, or packaged together.

[0015] The textile piece T is connected to or provided with a machine-readable element E. This can be achieved, for example, by attaching the machine-readable element E to the textile piece T or to a label connected to it. The machine-readable element E has an identifier. This is preferably a unique combination of symbols that identifies the textile piece T or is associated with it. The machine-readable element E is designed such that the identifier can be read by a reader 2A-2E. The machine-readable element E can, for example, be a visually readable element, such as a barcode or QR code. In this case, the identifier could be represented or encoded in the visually readable element. A barcode scanner or QR code scanner can be used as the reader. Alternatively, the machine-readable element E can also be designed to be read using radio waves.In this case, it can be implemented, for example, as an RFID tag with an identifier stored in the RFID tag. Accordingly, the reading device can be implemented as an RFID reader.

[0016] The textile piece T goes through the textile processing process in the textile processing plant A. As shown, this includes several steps S1-S5, not all of which are absolutely necessary.

[0017] In the first step S1, the textile item T is received, for example, as part of a delivery or other goods receipt. The textile item T is usually already equipped with a machine-readable element E. If this is not the case, it is linked to one in this step. In the first step S1, an order number can also be received, selected, or otherwise defined, with which the textile item T is linked via the identifier in the machine-readable element E. The textile item T is brought within reading range of a first reader 2A, as shown, so that reader 2A can read the identifier. In the subsequent steps, the textile item T is also brought within reading range of the further readers 2B-2D.

[0018] In the next step, S2, the textile item T is washed in a washing machine. Subsequently, in step S3, the textile item T is dried, for example, in a tumble dryer. In the optional step S4, it is ironed or smoothed, and in step S5, it is prepared for delivery. This can include, for example, folding and packaging. The textile item T can be moved through the individual processing steps manually, with an employee transporting it from one processing station to the next. Alternatively, the textile item T can also be moved from step to step by an automated conveyor system for at least some of the steps.

[0019] Between the individual steps, or before or after one of the steps S1-S5, the textile piece T, or the identifier of the machine-readable element E, can be read by further reading devices 2B-2D. For illustration, the Fig. 1. One reader 2A-2D is placed after each step S1-S5. However, it is also possible that no reader 2A-2D is placed after a certain step or before the next step. Furthermore, it is also possible that several readers 2A-2D are placed after a step, especially if the textile piece T is conveyed from step to step by means of a conveyor system.

[0020] After the final processing step S5, in which the textile piece T was prepared for delivery, the textile piece T, or rather the identifier of the machine-readable element E, is read by the reader 2E. The textile piece is then delivered to customer 4 or their location, who uses it in step S6. Subsequently, the textile piece T is returned to the textile processing machine A, and the processing process begins again with step S1.

[0021] By reading the identifier, at least in conjunction with steps S1 and S5, it is possible to determine two important key figures: the time required for processing the textile item T in the laundry and the time that the textile item T is in circulation or in use at customer 4.

[0022] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the readers 2A - 2E are each communicatively connected to a computer 1 via a data connection V1. Computer 1 is a computerized device, such as a desktop computer or server computer. The data connection V1 can be established, for example, via a communication network. This network can include, for example, a local area network (LAN) and / or a bus system for data communication. The data connection can be wired and / or wireless.

[0023] Computer 1 can be connected to a client device 3 via a second data connection V2. Client device 3 is a user's computerized device and can be, for example, a computer, tablet, or smartphone. The second data connection V2 can be a data network, such as the internet.

[0024] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the computer 1 comprises a processor 11, a data storage device 12 and a communication interface 13.

[0025] Depending on the embodiment, the processor 11 comprises a system on a chip (SoC), a central processing unit (CPU) and / or other more specific processing units such as a graphics processing unit (GPU).

[0026] The data storage device 12 consists of one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memory components. The memory components can be replaceable and / or non-replaceable and can also be wholly or partially integrated into the computer 1. Examples of memory components are RAM (Random Access Memory), flash memory, hard disks, data storage devices, and / or tape storage. The data storage device 12 comprises a non-volatile, computer-readable medium on which computer program code is stored, configured to control the processor 11 so that the computer 1 performs one or more steps and / or functions as described herein. Depending on the embodiment, the computer program code is compiled or uncompiled program logic and / or machine code. Accordingly, the computer 1 is configured to perform one or more steps and / or functions. The computer program code defines a discrete software application and / or is part of one.A person skilled in the art understands that the computer program code can also be distributed across a multitude of software applications. In one embodiment, the computer program code further provides interfaces, such as APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), so that software applications, functionality, and / or data of computer 1 can be accessed remotely. The data storage device 12 can comprise one or more databases.

[0027] Communication interface 13 is configured to initiate data exchange with other computers and devices, as described above, via data connections V1 and V2. Data exchange preferably occurs via a wired connection using a broadband connection, although certain intermediate networks can also transmit data wirelessly. Specifically, communication interface 13 is configured to communicate with the reading devices and with a client device. Furthermore, communication interface 13 can also be configured to communicate with a separate database, which, for example, may be implemented on another computer.

[0028] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of the application or system architecture of computer 1 and serves to illustrate the interfaces, applications, and devices that communicate with each other. Certain modules shown relate directly to hardware components, while others relate to purely software-based applications or modules.

[0029] Computer 1 has an application programming interface (API) 14 through which external applications can access data or other resources of Computer 1. Specifically, the API 14 is configured to allow access to an external application running on a customer's or user's computer, referred to here as the Customer Tracking Application 18. Depending on the implementation, Computer 1 may also be configured to check access rights or, more generally, to provide a customer portal through which the customer can access information, such as information about their orders. The external Customer Tracking Application 18 can be implemented as a native standalone app or as a web app via a browser. The external Customer Tracking Application 18 can be used by the customer to place, manage, or track orders.This allows the customer to access information about the order, such as the current processing status.

[0030] API 14 is also configured, allowing access for an internal tracking application 19. The operator of the textile processing plant can use this internal tracking application 19 to monitor and track the processing of orders and individual textile items.

[0031] Computer 1 also has a device interface 15, which is provided on the hardware side via the communication interface. Device interface 15 can, for example, include a device driver 15. Device interface 15 enables the exchange of commands and data between computer 1 and the readers 2. In particular, the identifiers read by the readers 2 can be received via device interface 15.

[0032] Computer 1 also includes an analysis module 16. This analysis module is a software-implemented module for analyzing order processing, particularly the processing of individual textile items. Specifically, the analysis module is designed to generate statistical parameters or key performance indicators (KPIs) related to the textile items and their processing. These include, in particular, the processing time of a textile item. The processing time can refer to the time of a specific processing step, such as washing. However, the processing time can also refer to multiple steps or the entire process. For example, a total processing time can be calculated. This is the time between the receipt of the textile item, for example, at goods receiving, as recorded by a first reading device, and the dispatch of the textile item, for example, at goods issue, as recorded by a second reading device.The processing time for a single textile item can also be used to determine the processing time of an entire order, which can include multiple textile items. Furthermore, the analysis module is designed to determine the external cycle time of a specific textile item. The external cycle time refers to the duration between the completion of processing a particular textile item and its receipt in a subsequent processing step. Additionally, an average overall processing time for the textile processing of multiple textile items can be calculated, and / or the distribution of the processing time for a specific processing step across multiple textile items.

[0033] The analysis module allows for the quantitative determination of textile processing. This enables insights to be gained that facilitate process improvements. Furthermore, the analysis module can be configured to generate warnings if the duration of a step or sequence of steps exceeds expectations (for example, according to a defined threshold). In this way, the analysis module can provide information indicating a malfunction or failure of the system, or the absence of a specific textile piece during processing.

[0034] Computer 1 also has a database 17. Database 17 can either be implemented directly in computer 1, specifically in memory, or it can be external and connected via an interface.

[0035] Fig. Figure 4 shows a flowchart of a first procedure 100. The procedure steps are executed by the computer. The procedure comprises several steps S101–S104. Procedure 100 serves for process monitoring and can be executed continuously. The steps do not necessarily have to be executed in the sequence shown, and some steps can also run asynchronously or in parallel.

[0036] In a preliminary step, a reader reads the identifier of a machine-readable element and generates a message. This message contains the identifier and is transmitted to the computer. According to one implementation example, the machine-readable element is an RFID tag, which is read by the reader (designed as an RFID reader) and transmitted to the computer.

[0037] In step S101, messages are received from reading devices. Each message is assigned to a specific textile processing step. This is made possible, for example, by identifying the reading device. The identification can be contained in the message or can be assigned or generated based on communication or interface properties assigned to the respective reading device. In other words, the computer is able to determine from which reading device, or in connection with which processing step, the message was received. The message contains at least one identifier of a textile piece, or the identifier read from the machine-readable element.

[0038] In step S102, a log entry is created. Preferably, one log entry is created for each textile item and for each received identifier for that item. The log entry contains the textile item's identifier, the processing step, and a timestamp. The timestamp refers to the point in time when the identifier was read. The timestamp can be recorded, for example, by the reader itself or by the computer after receiving the message from the reader. A log entry can therefore be used to locate and track the textile item.

[0039] Therefore, for each piece of textile, multiple such log entries are created for each processing step in the textile processing plant.

[0040] In step S103, a processing time is calculated. The processing time refers to the time it takes to process a piece of textile. This processing time includes at least one processing step. The processing time is calculated using log entries, particularly timestamps, and linked to at least one of these log entries. This allows you to see how quickly the textile is processed.

[0041] In step S104, the log entries are saved in the database. These log entries can also be linked to an order number and / or a customer. This allows customers to track the processing of their textiles. Specifically, this creates a log of the textile's progress during processing in the textile processing system.

[0042] Fig.Figure 5 shows a flowchart of a second procedure, 200. The procedure steps are executed by the computer. Procedure 200 comprises several steps, S201–S102. Procedure 200 is used for process monitoring and can be executed continuously. The steps do not necessarily have to be executed in the sequence shown, and some steps can also run asynchronously or in parallel.

[0043] In the first step, S201 provides access to the log entries. This access is provided via the API through the communication interface.

[0044] In step S202, a request is received via the API. The request is received by a client device. The request contains login credentials, such as a username and password. Other login credentials or methods are also possible, but generally at least a user identifier and some form of authorization data or code must be received to verify the credentials. For example, a third-party service can also be used to receive login credentials or user information.

[0045] In step S203, the access data is verified. This checks whether the client device, or the user, is authorized. Specifically, it can be verified whether a received password or a value generated using the password matches a stored value. Alternatively, the access data can also be verified using a third-party service, where the computer receives an authorization code or token from the third-party service, which it uses to obtain user information and thus grant the user access.

[0046] The customer or client device now has access to information about their orders or transactions. In particular, in an example where the login credentials are linked to a customer number, the relevant information can be provided immediately after successful login. If not, a customer number can be retrieved from the client device.

[0047] In an optional step S204, the client device can also receive an order number or information that is or can be assigned to an order number. For example, the user can type in an order number or select an order from a list. The customer number or order number is linked to one or more textile items.

[0048] In step S205, the protocol, or a portion thereof, is provided via the API, particularly regarding specific textile items linked to the order number or customer number. This allows the customer to obtain the desired information about their orders. Specifically, the customer can track the processing stage of their textile items.

[0049] It is clear to the person skilled in the art that changes can be made to a certain extent to the above-mentioned features without deviating from the teaching of the present disclosure.

Claims

[1] Computer (1) for process monitoring of a textile processing plant (A) in which textile pieces (T) are processed according to a textile processing process comprising several textile processing steps (S1-S5), wherein the computer (1) has a processor (11), a memory (12), a communication interface (13) and a database (17) and the processor (11) executes instructions stored in the memory (12) such that the processor (11) performs the following steps: Receiving (S101), via the communication interface (13), a plurality of messages from a plurality of readers (2A-2E) of the textile processing plant (A), wherein each message is assigned to the textile processing step (S1-S5) to which the reader (2A-2E) from which the message was received is assigned, and the message contains at least one identifier of a machine-readable element (E) read by the reader (2A-2E) which is connected to a piece of textile (T); Creating (S102) log entries for each piece of textile (T), wherein each log entry contains the identifier of the piece of textile (T), the textile processing step (S1-S5) and a timestamp relating to a time of reading; Calculate (S103) at least one processing time for at least one processing step (S1-S5) of the textile piece (T) using the timestamps of the log entries, and link the at least one processing time with the log entries; and Saving (S104) the log entries in the database (17), thereby creating a log for the textile piece (T) during processing in the textile processing plant (A). [2] The computer (1) according to claim 1, wherein the processor (11) further performs the following steps: Providing (S201), via the communication interface (13), access to the log entries via an application interface (14); Receiving (S202) a request via the application interface (14) from a client device (3), wherein the request contains access data; Check (S203) the access data to determine if the client device (3) is authorized; Received (S204), if the client device (3) has been authorized, an order number or a customer number from the client device (3) via the application interface (14), wherein the order number or the customer number is linked to one or more specific textile items (T); and Provide (S205), via the application interface (14), the protocol or part thereof to the specific textile items (T) that are linked to the order number or customer number. [3] The computer (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the processor (11) further performs the following step: Analyze, using an analysis module (16) which is executed by the processor (11), the processing time to determine statistical measures, including one or more of the following: a total processing time in relation to the textile processing process of a specific piece of textile (T); an external cycle time of a specific textile piece (T), which refers to the time between the completion of the processing of the specific textile piece (T) and the receipt of this textile piece (T) in a subsequent processing step; an average total processing time in relation to the textile processing process of several textile pieces (T); and a variation in the processing time of a specific processing step over a plurality of textile pieces (T).

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