PRODUCT TRACKING

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the tracking of products using active radio frequency identification (RFID) tags.

[0002] For a manufacturer and / or distributor of products, product tracking can be useful or even necessary. Pharmaceutical products and plant protection products, for example, are subject to a number of regulatory requirements; in some countries, this includes the requirement to ensure product traceability (track and trace). For this purpose, individual packages are marked with a unique identifier (e.g., a serial number) to allow for their unambiguous identification at a later date. While a product in hand can be clearly identified using this unique identifier, it is not possible to determine the location or condition of a product once it has been placed on the market based solely on this unique identifier.

[0003] Product tracking can also be valuable for optimizing production and / or logistics. If a user or distributor of consumer goods has a high inventory level, it's unlikely they will order a large quantity of new products in the near future. This information can be incorporated into the planning of product manufacturing and / or the distribution and / or storage of already manufactured products to achieve optimal utilization of production machinery, warehouse capacity, and / or transportation resources.

[0004] It would therefore be desirable to know where individual products that have been placed on the market are located.

[0005] GB2550326A discloses methods and devices for monitoring and tracking inventories or assets.

[0006] Furthermore, it would be desirable to know whether packaging in which a product is usually found has already been opened or is still unopened before it is used, since with opened packaging it can generally be assumed that the products contained therein will be used in the foreseeable future and then new products will be needed.

[0007] WO2017 / 184596A1 discloses a wireless communication device in the form of a label equipped with a continuity sensor. The continuity sensor comprises a mechanism for effectively tearing off or removing a portion of the label substrate, which contains at least a portion of the continuity sensor, from a container and / or packaging.

[0008] It would be desirable to be able to monitor the entire logistics chain – from production to consumption / use of the product – for example, to check whether storage conditions have been met. It would also be desirable to be able to ascertain the conditions to which products are subjected during transport and / or storage.

[0009] According to the invention, this is achieved by the subject matter of the present invention.

[0010] A first object of the present invention is an active radio frequency identification tag, wherein the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is designed to be connected to the packaging of a product, wherein the RFID tag includes at least one sensor that detects at least one environmental condition and at least one packaging state, wherein the RFID tag is configured to transmit an advertising data packet at time intervals, wherein the advertising data packet includes a unique identifier and at least one state information relating to the at least one environmental condition and the at least one packaging state.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is a system comprising at least one active radio frequency identification tag, and at least one receiver, wherein the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is designed to be connected to the packaging of a product, wherein the RFID tag comprises at least one sensor that detects at least one environmental condition and at least one packaging state, wherein the RFID tag is configured to transmit an advertising data packet at time intervals, wherein the advertising data packet comprises a unique identifier and at least one state information relating to the at least one environmental condition and the at least one packaging state, wherein the receiver comprises: a receiving unit, a location determination unit, a data processing unit, a control unit, and a transmitting unit, wherein the control unit of the receiver is configured to cause the receiving unit of the receiver to listen for one or more frequency ranges and to receive an advertising data packet from the active RFID tag,that is associated with the packaging of a product, wherein the receiver's control unit is configured to cause the receiver's data processing unit to extract a unique identifier and one or more status information from the advertising data packet, wherein the receiver's control unit is configured to cause the receiver's location determination unit to determine location information, and wherein the receiver's control unit is configured to cause the receiver's sending unit to transmit the unique identifier, the status information(s), and the location information over a network to a server.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is a method comprising the steps Connecting an active radio frequency identification (RFID) tag to the packaging of a product, capturing at least one environmental condition and at least one packaging state by the RFID tag, sending an advertising data packet by the RFID tag, wherein the advertising data packet includes a unique identifier and at least one state information relating to the at least one environmental condition and the at least one packaging state, listening to one or more frequency ranges and receiving the advertising data packet by a receiver, extracting the unique identifier and the at least one state information from the advertising data packet by the receiver, determining a location information by the receiver, and transmitting the unique identifier, the at least one state information and the location information via a network to a server.

[0013] The invention is explained in more detail below, without distinguishing between the subject matter of the invention. Rather, the following explanations are intended to apply analogously to all subject matter of the invention, regardless of the context in which they are made.

[0014] If steps are mentioned in a sequence in the present description or in the claims, this does not necessarily mean that the invention is limited to that sequence. Rather, it is conceivable that the steps could also be carried out in a different sequence or even in parallel; unless one step builds upon another, which makes it essential that the building step be carried out subsequently (which will be clear in the specific case). The sequences mentioned thus represent preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0015] According to the present invention, product packaging is equipped with an active radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.

[0016] The product can be any item (tangible good) that can be offered and sold commercially.

[0017] Preferably, the product is a consumable item or material that is used by a user (end customer) for a defined purpose and is thereby "consumed," i.e., brought to a state in which it can no longer be used for its original purpose, so that the user must purchase a new product. Preferably, the product is not intended for immediate use by a user but can be stored for a certain period of time before use. This storage period is preferably at least several weeks to several years.

[0018] Examples of products within the meaning of the present invention are pharmaceuticals, plant protection products, cosmetics, cleaning agents, and the like. Preferably, the product is a plant protection product (e.g., a herbicide, an insecticide, or a fungicide).

[0019] The product is packaged. The packaging can be used to make the product transportable and / or to protect it from environmental influences that could damage it (e.g., moisture, atmospheric oxygen, light, and the like).

[0020] Examples of packaging include cardboard boxes, blisters, canisters, bottles, sacks, bags, containers and the like.

[0021] The packaging is equipped with an active radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The term "active RFID tag" means that the RFID tag has a means of power supply.

[0022] Typically, the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is attached to the packaging after the packaging has been filled with the product and sealed. However, it is also conceivable that the RFID tag is attached to the packaging before the product is filled and / or the packaging is sealed.

[0023] It is also conceivable that the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is part of the packaging.

[0024] The radio frequency identification (RFID) tag can, for example, be printed on the packaging or bonded to the packaging (e.g., laminated).

[0025] The radio frequency identification (RFID) tag can be located outside the packaging – that is, the part of the packaging that has no contact with the product but is exposed to the outside world (environment). The RFID tag can also be located inside the packaging – that is, the part of the packaging that is in contact with the product. It is also possible that the RFID tag is sandwiched between two packages.

[0026] The radio frequency identification tag can be attached / embedded on or in a closure of the packaging (e.g. on or in a screw cap).

[0027] In one embodiment of the present invention, once the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag has been attached to the packaging, it is irreversibly bonded to the packaging. This means that any attempt to remove the RFID tag from the packaging would result in its destruction, where "destruction of the RFID tag" means that the RFID tag can no longer be used according to the invention. Such an irreversible bond can be achieved, for example, by an adhesive bond between the RFID tag and the packaging. The force required to overcome the adhesive bond and thus detach the RFID tag from the packaging is greater than the force holding the individual components of the RFID tag together, so that any attempt to detach it would cause the individual components of the RFID tag to separate from one another, thereby destroying the RFID tag.

[0028] In another embodiment of the present invention, the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is designed to be reusable. It can therefore be detached from the packaging and attached to another package.

[0029] The radio frequency identification (RFID) tag has at least one sensor. A "sensor" is a technical component that can qualitatively or quantitatively detect certain physical or chemical properties and / or the material composition of its environment. These properties are detected using physical or chemical effects and converted into processable, usually electrical, signals. Before the electrical signals are transmitted wirelessly to a receiver, they are typically digitized.

[0030] The at least one sensor records measurements that characterize the condition of the packaging and the product at the time of measurement. Thus, condition information is generated via the at least one sensor.

[0031] Such a condition may involve one or more environmental conditions to which the packaging / product is / was subject ("external parameter") and a packaging condition ("internal parameter").

[0032] Environmental conditions include, for example, temperature, air pressure, humidity, intensity of electromagnetic radiation in a defined wavelength range, acceleration forces to which the sensor is subjected, and the like. Environmental conditions are detected at the time and place where they prevail. If an environmental condition is detected by a sensor at a given time, then the sensor (or the product) is subject to that environmental condition at that time.

[0033] Packaging conditions characterize the packaging. They refer specifically to environmental conditions to which the packaging was exposed at an earlier time. Examples of packaging conditions include: the packaging is open or unopened, the packaging has been crushed or not crushed, the packaging has been exposed to a temperature above and / or below a defined temperature limit, the packaging has been exposed to humidity above a defined humidity limit, the packaging has been exposed to pressure below and / or above a defined pressure limit, the packaging has been exposed to acceleration forces above a defined acceleration limit, and so on. A packaging condition identifies environmental conditions to which packaging was exposed before the respective packaging condition was recorded.Typically, sensors are used to detect packaging conditions. These sensors irreversibly alter a component when environmental conditions exceed and / or fall below defined thresholds. Such a component is subsequently referred to as an indicator. The indicator thus shows whether the component has been exposed to a defined environmental condition.

[0034] The purpose of recording environmental conditions and / or packaging conditions can be to track whether the necessary transport and / or storage conditions for the product have always been met throughout the distribution chain – from manufacturing to the end user. Furthermore, the purpose of recording environmental conditions and / or packaging conditions can be to monitor transport and / or storage conditions so that the location and / or condition of a specific product is always known.

[0035] It is conceivable that the product needs to be refrigerated to prevent spoilage. In such a case, a temperature sensor can record the temperature at defined intervals. If a measured temperature value exceeds a defined temperature limit, it becomes apparent that the cold chain is currently not being maintained. Alternatively, a sensor can be used that includes a temperature indicator, which is irreversibly altered by a temperature exceeding a defined threshold. During the measurement process, the sensor checks whether the temperature indicator has changed (because the temperature was previously above the defined threshold) or whether it has remained unchanged.

[0036] It is conceivable that the product is not frost-resistant and therefore should not be exposed to temperatures below a certain threshold. In such a case, a temperature sensor can record the temperature at defined intervals. If a measured temperature value falls below a defined temperature limit, it becomes apparent that the product has been exposed to excessively low temperatures and may have been damaged. Alternatively, a sensor can be used that includes a temperature indicator, which is irreversibly altered by a temperature below a defined threshold. During the measurement process, the sensor checks whether the temperature indicator has changed (because the temperature was previously below the defined threshold) or whether it has remained unchanged.

[0037] It is conceivable that the product must not get wet, as this could damage it or lead to a loss of quality; in such a case, a humidity sensor can measure the humidity (e.g., relative humidity) at defined times. If a measured humidity value exceeds a defined threshold, it becomes clear that the current humidity is too high and measures should be taken to reduce it. Alternatively, a sensor can be used that includes a humidity indicator, which is irreversibly altered by humidity levels above a defined threshold. During measurement, the sensor checks whether the humidity indicator has changed (because the humidity was above the defined threshold in the past) or whether it has remained unchanged.

[0038] It is conceivable that a product is sensitive to acceleration forces, for example, because it is fragile. In such a case, an acceleration sensor can detect the acceleration forces at defined times. If a measured value for the acceleration forces currently acting on the sensor exceeds a defined threshold, it becomes apparent that there is a risk of product damage. Alternatively, a sensor can be used that includes an acceleration indicator, which is irreversibly altered by acceleration forces exceeding a defined threshold. During detection, the sensor checks whether the acceleration indicator has changed (because the acceleration forces were above the defined threshold in the past) or whether it has remained unchanged.

[0039] It is conceivable that a product is light-sensitive. In such a case, a light intensity sensor can detect the intensity of electromagnetic radiation within a defined wavelength range (e.g., in the visible light range (380 nm to 780 nm) and / or in the ultraviolet light range (e.g., UV-A (380 nm to 315 nm) and / or UV-B (315 nm to 280 nm) or another wavelength range or multiple wavelength ranges)) at defined times. If a measured value for the light intensity currently acting on the sensor exceeds a defined threshold, it becomes apparent that the product is currently exposed to excessive light intensity; measures should be taken to reduce the light intensity. Alternatively, a sensor can be used that includes a light indicator, which is irreversibly altered by a light intensity exceeding a defined threshold.During the detection process, the sensor checks whether the light indicator has changed (because the light intensity was above the defined limit in the past) or whether it has not changed.

[0040] A wide variety of commercially available sensors and indicators exist for measuring temperature, humidity, pressure, acceleration, light intensity and other environmental conditions.

[0041] Environmental conditions can be recorded using one or more sensors at defined times. "Defined time" means that the timing of data acquisition follows clear rules. For example, data acquisition could occur at predetermined times, such as once a day at noon, or every hour on the hour, or similar. However, "defined time" can also refer to the occurrence of a defined event that triggers data acquisition, such as an external (electromagnetic) pulse, a vibration, or similar event. It is also conceivable that data acquisition and the transmission of advertising data packets are linked, for example, by initiating data acquisition before the transmission of an advertising data packet, and then transmitting the acquired data(s) in the form of the advertising data packet.However, decoupling is also conceivable; in this case, the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag has a data storage unit in which measured values ​​can be stored. Measured values ​​are recorded at defined times and stored in the data storage unit. Before an advertising data packet is sent, a control unit, which is part of the RFID tag, determines the environmental conditions based on the stored measured values ​​and then sends the information about the environmental conditions in the form of the advertising data packet.

[0042] The same applies to the determination and transmission of one or more packaging states. The acquisition of measurement data for determining a packaging state occurs at defined times and can be linked to or decoupled from the transmission of an advertising data package. It is conceivable that measurement data is acquired immediately before the transmission of an advertising data package; it is also conceivable that measurement data is acquired and stored in a data repository.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the radio frequency identification tag includes a sensor that detects whether the packaging is unopened or whether it is open / has been opened.

[0044] The sensor detects the packaging status (unopened / opened), preferably based on a physical property that changes when the packaging has been opened and / or is being opened. This physical property, which changes when the packaging is opened, could be, for example, electrical conductivity (or electrical resistance), electrical capacitance, inductance, or the like.

[0045] It is conceivable that the sensor is designed to check at defined time intervals whether the packaging is open or unopened.

[0046] In one embodiment of the present invention, the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag has one or more electrically conductive wires arranged such that when the packaging is opened, at least one wire is irreversibly interrupted, preventing any further electrical current from flowing through it. The sensor detects an interrupted wire by the change in its conductivity. This principle is described, for example, in WO9604831A1 or DE19516076A1. In the present case, the wire acts as an indicator; opening the packaging results in an irreversible change to the indicator: the wire is interrupted.

[0047] It is conceivable that the sensor is designed to detect the process of opening the packaging. Sensory detection of the change of state (unopened to open) could, for example, be achieved using the piezoelectric effect: opening the packaging causes mechanical stress on a piezoelectric element, which generates an electrical voltage. This voltage, or its effect, can be registered by a sensor.

[0048] The RFID tag can have a data storage unit in which information about the packaging status is stored. It is conceivable that the sensor is designed to check at defined intervals whether the packaging is still unopened; as soon as it is opened, the corresponding (new) packaging status is stored in a data storage unit. Before the RFID tag transmits the packaging status as advertising data, a control unit integrated into the RFID tag reads the packaging status from the data storage unit. In such a case, the detection of the packaging status and the transmission of the status information are decoupled. The RFID tag can be configured to query the packaging status via a sensor at defined times until the sensor registers that the packaging is being / has been opened. After that, no further query of the packaging status via a sensor is required.

[0049] The radio frequency identification (RFID) tag also has a unique identifier. This unique identifier can be a number, an alphanumeric code, a binary code, or the like. The unique identifier serves to identify the RFID tag or the product to which the RFID tag is attached via the packaging. A product database is typically part of the system according to the invention. Information about the respective product (product name, product type, manufacturer, lot number, date of manufacture, composition, instructions for use, expiration date, best-before date, and the like) can be retrieved from the database using the unique identifier.

[0050] The identifier is stored in a data memory of the radio frequency identification tag. Preferably, this is a semiconductor memory. It can be the same data memory that also stores packaging condition information and / or environmental condition measurements; however, it can also be a separate data memory. The data memory for the unique identifier is typically a WORM (Write Once Read Many) memory. write once, read many, (English for "write once, read many times"). It is conceivable that the RFID tag already possesses a unique identifier before being attached to the packaging. However, it is also conceivable that the unique identifier is only written to the data storage after the RFID tag has attached to the packaging. A control unit of the RFID tag can access the data storage and read the unique identifier. The control unit can then transmit the unique identifier using a transmitter unit of the RFID tag.

[0051] The unique identifier is stored both in a data storage unit of the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag and in a separate product data storage unit, so that the unique identifier and the product are related to each other and, if the unique identifier is known, information about the product can be obtained from the product database.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag has an optically readable code, such as a barcode or a matrix code (such as a QR code or Data Matrix code). The optically readable code includes a unique identifier by which the RFID tag and / or the product and / or a product batch and / or the like can be uniquely identified. This may be the same unique identifier that the RFID tag's control unit can access, or it may be a different (additional) unique identifier. The optical code may also include an internet address. The optically readable code is, for example, printed, engraved, etched, affixed to the RFID tag in the form of a sticker, or otherwise connected to or incorporated into the RFID tag.

[0053] The optical code serves to provide the buyer / user of the product with further information about the product. This is done, for example, by the buyer / user scanning the optically readable code with a mobile computing device such as a smartphone or tablet. Mobile computing devices typically have a camera that can read optical codes. Preferably, the mobile computing device is configured (via an installed software program (an "app")) to open a website based on the scanned optical code, presenting the buyer / user with information about the product. This information may be specifically intended for the buyer / user of this product.For example, it is conceivable that a notification regarding a product recall or information on what to do if the product has been exposed to defined environmental conditions that could lead to a loss of quality could be displayed. Preferably, the mobile computer system is the receiver according to the invention.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the buyer / user receives a notification via the RFID tag instructing them to scan the optical code and thereby access a website containing information provided for them. For example, the RFID tag could have a status indicator that informs them whether the product packaging is closed (e.g., sealed), whether it is open and usable, or whether they should retrieve further information from the website accessed via the optical code before using the product. The status indicator could be, for example, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or a liquid crystal display (LCD). It is conceivable that the RFID tag's control unit could be configured to change the information displayed by the status indicator when the measured values ​​acquired by one or more sensors reach or exceed defined values.For example, the status indicator can show that the packaging is properly sealed if the packaging status sensor registers that the packaging is closed. The status indicator can show that the packaging is open if the packaging status sensor registers that the packaging has been opened. The status indicator can also show that the product has been exposed to harmful environmental conditions (excessive temperature, excessive temperature, excessive humidity, excessive pressure, excessive acceleration, etc.) if a sensor registers that a limit value (temperature, humidity, pressure, acceleration force, etc.) has been exceeded or fallen below (warning signal). Such a warning signal alerts the buyer / user that there may be a problem with the product and that they should consult the website for further information before using it.It is also conceivable that the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag has a receiver unit that allows it to receive a signal. This would make it possible, for example, to change the status indicator via an external signal, such as to recall a product.

[0055] The radio frequency identification tag has its own power supply.

[0056] This could be, for example, a battery or an accumulator. In a preferred embodiment, the power supply means is a printable battery as exemplified in US2010021799A, EP3104433A1, KR20170085256A, KR20170098004A, and US2010081049A. Preferably, the battery is biodegradable (see, for example, US2016351936A).

[0057] The radio frequency identification (RFID) tag can further be designed to harvest electrical energy from its environment. This electrical energy serves to power the RFID tag, enabling it to perform its functions according to the invention. The energy from the environment can be provided, for example, in the form of light, electric fields, magnetic fields, electromagnetic fields, movement, pressure, and / or heat, and / or other forms of energy, and can be used or "harvested" by the RFID tag. This type of electrical energy generation is known as Energy Harvesting known. With Energy Harvesting In electronics, this refers to processes that harvest and store minute amounts of freely available energy from the environment. This technology makes it possible to power radio frequency identification (RFID) tags for their entire lifespan, eliminating the need for maintenance after installation. Energy Harvesting Systems typically comprise an energy converter, an energy management unit with an energy storage device, usually a capacitor. The energy converter, also called a microgenerator, converts energy from the environment into electrical energy. The conversion can utilize, for example, the piezoelectric effect, the thermoelectric effect, or the photoelectric effect. Further details are described in the prior art (see, for example, http: / / www.harvestingenergy.de / and the publications listed there).

[0058] The radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is further designed to transmit an advertising data packet, also known as a "beacon." This advertising data packet includes a unique identifier and at least one piece of status information relating to at least one detected environmental condition and / or at least one detected packaging condition.

[0059] The advertising data packet may be an advertising data packet borrowed from the Bluetooth standard. Bluetooth is a technology developed in the 1990s by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group Bluetooth SIG developed an industry standard according to IEEE 802.15.1 for short-range wireless data transmission between devices (WPAN). Devices conforming to Bluetooth SIG standards transmit as Short Range Devices (SRDs) in a license-free ISM band ( Industrial, Scientific and Medical Band ) between 2.402 GHz and 2.480 GHz. A sub-form of Bluetooth is Bluetooth. Low Energy, Bluetooth LE, or BLE for short, uses less power than traditional Bluetooth. Specifically, Bluetooth LE divides the ISM frequency band into 40 channels, each 2 MHz wide. Typically, Bluetooth LE transponders independently transmit short advertising data packets on one of three advertising channels. These channels are located within the ISM frequency band, usually two at the band's edges and one in the center. Channels 37, 38, and 39 can be used as the advertising channels to which the advertising signals / data packets are sent. A Bluetooth LE transponder then typically listens on this channel for a connection request before switching to one of the remaining 37 channels to exchange data.Advertising channels are broadcast channels that allow data packets to be transmitted from a source to all reachable, or "listening," participants in the Bluetooth messaging network. Advertising data packets (broadcast data packets) can be sent periodically on any advertising channel. The time interval between successive advertising data packets can be a fixed interval or include an additional random delay. A standard advertising data packet contains a payload of up to 31 bytes for data describing the sender and its capabilities. It can also be used to transmit any user-defined information to other devices. If the standard 31-byte payload is insufficient for the data, BLE also supports an optional secondary advertising payload.

[0060] According to the invention, no Bluetooth connection is established between the radio tag and a receiver to transmit data, as such a connection would consume too much energy. Instead, the receiver simply intercepts the advertising data packet emitted by the radio tag. This packet contains at least one piece of status information and a unique identifier. The receiver is configured to intercept the advertising data packet and extract the at least one piece of status information and the unique identifier from the signal. The size of 31 bytes of a standard advertising data packet is generally sufficient to transmit the at least one piece of status information and the unique identifier from the radio tag to the receiver.

[0061] As an alternative to the Bluetooth standard, the advertising data packet can also be transmitted via communication according to the Wi-Fi standard (IEEE 802.11). IEEE 802.11 is a family of standards for Wireless Local Area Networks (WLAN). According to the 802.11 standard of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, a service set refers to all devices in a WLAN. A service set identifier (SSID) is a freely chosen name for a service set, by which it can be addressed. Since this identifier often has to be manually entered into devices by a user, it is often a string that is easily readable by humans and is therefore commonly referred to as the network name of the WLAN. An SSID can be up to 32 bytes long. The radio label according to the invention can be configured to transmit an SSID data packet wirelessly, which includes at least one piece of status information and the unique identifier.The receiver according to the invention can be configured to receive the SSID data packet and extract the at least one piece of status information and the unique identifier.

[0062] It is also conceivable that the transmission of at least one status piece of information and the unique identifier from the radio tag to the receiver takes place via a PAN ID of a ZigBee network.

[0063] It is also conceivable that the transmission of at least one status piece of information and the unique identifier from the radio tag to the receiver takes place via a low-power wide area network (LPWAN or LPN) such as a NarrowBand IoT network.

[0064] It is also conceivable that the radio tag according to the invention is designed as a short-range radio device (SRD) for transmitting data via a radio network such as the Sigfox radio network. Sigfox is a French telecommunications company that is building its own global radio network to wirelessly connect low-power objects to the internet. The devices transmit small amounts of data at defined intervals to a base station, which then forwards them to a database of the respective receiver. Sigfox uses a radio system based on ultra-narrowband technology. This is known as a low-power wide-area network (LPWAN). LPWAN uses a long-range signal in the ISM band (868 megahertz in Europe, 902 megahertz in the USA) that can penetrate even solid objects. Distances of 30 to 50 km can be bridged in open terrain, and between 3 and 10 km in cities.Sigfox base stations can currently manage up to one million devices, using only one-thousandth of the energy of standard mobile communication systems. According to Sigfox, devices can operate for up to 20 years on just two AA batteries because they only become active when sending a message and then immediately return to sleep mode. Devices on the Sigfox network also use low data rates. They can send a maximum of twelve bytes per message and no more than 140 messages per device per day. However, this capacity is sufficient to transmit simple messages such as packaging status information and unique identifiers.

[0065] Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and receivers are preferably matched to minimize energy consumption for data transmission from the RFID tag to the receiver. The RFID tag is preferably configured to remain in a sleep mode for the majority of the time. At defined times, it becomes active and transmits the advertising data packet, comprising at least one piece of status information and a unique identifier. It is conceivable that the RFID tag transmits the advertising data packet at regular or irregular intervals. It is conceivable that it transmits the advertising data packet over a defined period or repeatedly once it becomes active. It is conceivable that it is activated by an event and then transmits the advertising data packet one or more times. The event can be triggered by environmental conditions, the receiver, and / or the product user.

[0066] The sending of an advertising data package can, for example, occur once an hour, once a day, or irregularly.

[0067] The receiver can be configured to remain permanently in a receive mode, scanning defined frequency ranges for an advertising data packet. Upon detecting an advertising data packet, it extracts at least one piece of status information and a unique identifier from the signal. The receiver can identify an advertising data packet, for example, by a defined structure of the contained data and / or a defined bit sequence.

[0068] It is also conceivable that the receiver only switches to a receive mode at defined times and / or within defined time periods and waits for the arrival of one or more advertising data packets. For example, it is conceivable that the receiver and / or the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag are activated by external environmental influences, in which case the RFID tag transmits one or more advertising data packets and / or the receiver scans one or more defined frequency ranges for the one or more advertising data packets. It could be, for example, that the receiver and / or the RFID tag are activated by light when a minimum brightness level is reached and / or by heat when a minimum temperature is reached.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is activated by the receiver. For example, the receiver could send a signal to the RFID tag, which activates the tag and prompts it to send the advertising data packet. Alternatively, the receiver could provide energy, for example in the form of electromagnetic energy, which is "harvested" by the RFID tag, switching the tag from a sleep mode to an active mode.

[0070] Similarly, the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag can be activated by opening the packaging. For example, it is conceivable that the opening process provides energy, perhaps in the form of mechanical energy, which is "harvested" by the RFID tag, switching it from sleep mode to active mode.

[0071] The receiver according to the invention can be a stationary device, i.e., permanently installed at a location, or a mobile (portable) device. Preferably, it is a mobile device. The receiver comprises a receiving unit, a location determination unit, a data processing unit, a control unit, and a transmitting unit.

[0072] The control unit serves to control the individual components of the receiver and to coordinate the data and signal flows between the components as well as the data and signal flows between the receiver and other devices such as the radio tag.

[0073] The control unit is configured to prompt the receiving unit to check whether a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag near the receiver is sending an advertising data packet. If such an advertising data packet is received by the receiving unit, it is transmitted to the data processing unit. The data processing unit is then prompted to extract the unique identifier and at least one piece of status information from the advertising data packet.

[0074] Using the location tracking unit, the receiver is able to determine its position. The receiver may, for example, have a sensor that receives a signal from a satellite navigation system and uses this signal to determine its position. Well-known satellite navigation systems include NAVSTAR GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and Beidou. Since the abbreviation GPS (Global Positioning System) has become established in everyday language as a generic term for all satellite navigation systems, this description uses the term GPS as a collective term for all positioning systems. Location information can also be derived from the (mobile) cell tower in which the receiver is located. However, the purpose of location tracking is less about determining the receiver's location and more about recording the current location of a specific product.Since a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag has a relatively short range, it is usually sufficient to know the receiver's location at the time it could have received an advertising data packet from the RFID tag. The RFID tag's location then roughly corresponds to the receiver's location. Preferably, the receiver therefore always performs a location determination when it has received an advertising data packet from an RFID tag and combines the information extracted from the advertising data packet (state information and unique identifier) ​​with the determined location information. It is also conceivable that multiple receivers receive a transmitted advertising data packet and determine the RFID tag's location via triangulation.

[0075] The receiver can transmit data to other devices via the transmitting unit. Preferably, the receiver is connected to one or more servers via a network, such as a mobile network and / or the internet, to which it can transmit data. The control unit is configured to instruct the transmitting unit to send the unique identifier, at least one status piece of information, and the location information to a server via a network. The transmission of the information can occur immediately after it is acquired; however, it is also conceivable that the receiver first stores the acquired information in an internal data storage device and transmits it to an external server only at a later time. The transmission of information to a server can occur at regular times, for example, once a day, once an hour, or every 5 minutes, or irregularly.It is also conceivable that the server retrieves information from the recipient.

[0076] The server receives the unique identifier, at least one piece of status information, and the location information, and stores this information in a database for the respective product to which the unique identifier is assigned. The database thus contains retrievable information about where a specific product (product unit) was located at various times, its current location, its past and present state, and so on. Therefore, in principle, the entire history of a product, from the packaging process to the point at which it is removed from the packaging, can be determined from the stored data.

[0077] The receiver can be a computer system such as a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or a smartphone. These computer systems typically possess the aforementioned functions; they are widely available, portable, and can be configured according to the invention via software programs (apps).

[0078] The present invention also relates to a computer program product that configures a receiver to perform steps of the method according to the invention: Listening to one or more frequency ranges and receiving an advertising data packet; extracting a unique identifier and at least one piece of status information from the advertising data packet; determining location information; and transmitting the unique identifier, the at least one piece of status information, and the location information via a network to a server.

[0079] Preferably, the computer program product according to the invention is available as an app via a download portal, from which it can be downloaded to a receiver according to the invention and installed there.

[0080] Preferably, a multitude of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and receivers are components of the system according to the invention, such that the location and state of a multitude of product units are known. This information can be used to optimize production processes, logistics, and / or warehousing.

[0081] In one embodiment of the present invention, the manufacturer of the products has access to the server and uses the information to optimize the production of the products, for example by initiating the production of products when the number of unopened packages located with end customers falls below a defined threshold.

[0082] In one embodiment of the present invention, a distributor of the products has access to the server and uses the information to order new products and / or transport them to a defined warehouse when the number of unopened packages located with end customers falls below a defined threshold.

[0083] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to figures and examples, without limiting the invention to the features and combinations of features mentioned in the figures and examples.

[0084] They show: Figur 1 Figure 1 schematically shows an example of a system according to the invention comprising a plurality of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags (5a, 5b, 5c) and a receiver (6). The receiver (6) is configured as a smartphone. The RFID tags (5a, 5b, 5c) are affixed to packages (1, 2) containing products (not shown). Three packages (1) are unopened; one package (2) is open. Radio frequency symbols in the figure indicate that two RFID tags (5b, 5c) each transmit an advertising data packet. The advertising data packets are received by the receiver (6). Each advertising data packet contains a unique identifier and information about whether the respective package is open (5c) or unopened (5b) (not shown in the figure). Figur 2 Figure 1 schematically shows an example of a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag (5) affixed to a product package (1). The package (1) is sealed with an adhesive strip (7). If the adhesive strip (7) were removed or cut along the line (4), an electrically conductive wire (3), which is part of the RFID tag (5), would be interrupted. The RFID tag (5) can be designed to detect the interruption of the wire (3) and thus distinguish whether the package (1) is unopened or opened. Figur 3 Figure 5 schematically shows an example of a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag (5). The RFID tag (5) has an energy converter (54) that can utilize ("harvest") energy (60) from the environment, e.g., an induction coil. The RFID tag (5) also has an energy management unit (55) which includes an energy storage device (56), for example, a capacitor. A sensor (50) is used to detect the packaging status (open / unopened). A control unit (51) is used to control the individual components and to coordinate the data and signal flows. Advertising data packets can be sent by means of a transmitter unit (52, 53). The unique identifier and, optionally, the packaging status information are stored in a data memory (57). Figur 4 Figure 6 schematically shows an example of a receiver (6). The receiver (6) has a receiving unit (61, 62) that can receive advertising data packets. A control unit (60) controls the individual components and coordinates the data and signal flows. A location determination unit (65) can determine the location of the receiver (6) (location information). A data processing unit (66) extracts data (unique identifier and packaging status information) from a received advertising data packet and links the extracted data with the location information. A transmitting unit (63, 64) can transmit the determined data (unique identifier, packaging status information, and location information) via a network to a server (not shown). Figur 5Figure 5a shows three radio frequency identification (RFID) tags (5a, 5b, 5c) in different states. Each RFID tag (5a, 5b, 5c) has a conductive wire (3a, 3b, 3c), a status indicator (8a, 8b, 8c), and an optically readable code (9).

[0085] In the case of the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag (5a), the conductive wire (3a) is intact. A control unit (not shown) of the RFID tag uses a sensor (not shown) to detect the conductivity of the wire (3a) and recognizes that the wire (3a) is intact. The control unit then causes the status indicator (8a) to display that the packaging is sealed. This indication is provided, for example, by means of a light-emitting diode or a liquid crystal display.

[0086] In the case of the radio frequency identification tag (5b), the conductive wire (3b) is broken. The control unit detects that the wire (3b) is broken using the conductivity sensor and causes the status indicator (8b) to show that the packaging is open ("unsealed").

[0087] In the case of the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag (5c), the conductive wire (3c) is intact. The control unit uses the conductivity sensor to detect that the wire (3c) is intact and causes the status indicator (8c) to show that the packaging is sealed. Simultaneously, the status indicator (8c) also indicates that the buyer / user should not use the product but should first scan the optical code (9). Scanning the optical code takes the buyer / user to a website that provides further information.

Claims

1. Active radio tag (5), wherein the radio tag (5) is configured such that it can be connected to a packaging (1) of a product, wherein the radio tag (5) comprises at least one sensor (50) which detects at least one environmental condition and at least one packaging state, wherein the radio tag (5) is configured to transmit an advertising data packet at time intervals, wherein the advertising data packet comprises a unique identifier and at least one state information relating to the at least one environmental condition and the at least one packaging state.

2. Radio tag (5) according to claim 1, comprising a power supply unit, at least one sensor (50), a control unit (51), a data memory (57) in which a unique identifier is stored, and a transmitting unit (52, 53), wherein the control unit (51) is configured to determine, by means of the at least one sensor (50), a packaging state information indicating whether the packaging is opened or unopened, and to determine an environmental condition, and wherein the control unit (51) is configured to cause the transmitting unit (52, 53) to transmit the unique identifier and the packaging state information and the environmental condition as an advertising data packet.

3. Radio tag (5) according to claim 2, comprising a sensor (50) for detecting a packaging state, and a status indicator (8a, 8b, 8c), wherein the control unit (51) is configured to determine the packaging state by means of the sensor (50), and to cause the status indicator (8a, 8b, 8c) to display the packaging state.

4. Radio tag (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a sensor for detecting an environmental condition, a status indicator, wherein the control unit (51) is configured to receive at least one measurement value from the sensor, to compare the at least one measurement value with a defined threshold value, and in the event that the measurement value is below or above the defined threshold value, to cause the status indicator to display a warning signal.

5. Radio tag (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a receiver for receiving a signal, a status indicator (8a, 8b, 8c), wherein the control unit (51) is configured to receive a signal by means of the receiver, and to cause the status indicator (8a, 8b, 8c) to display a warning signal.

6. Radio tag (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising an optically readable code (9) comprising a unique identifier.

7. System comprising at least one radio tag (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, and at least one receiver (6), wherein the receiver (6) comprises: a receiving unit (61, 62), a location determination unit (65), a data processing unit (66), a control unit (60), and a transmitting unit (63, 64), wherein the control unit (60) of the receiver (6) is configured to cause the receiving unit (61, 62) of the receiver (6) to monitor one or more frequency ranges and to receive an advertising data packet transmitted by the active radio tag (5) connected to a packaging (1) of a product, wherein the control unit (60) of the receiver (6) is configured to cause the data processing unit (66) of the receiver (6) to extract a unique identifier and one or more state information from the advertising data packet, wherein the control unit (60) of the receiver (6) is configured to cause the location determination unit (65) of the receiver (6) to determine location information, and wherein the control unit (60) of the receiver (6) is configured to cause the transmitting unit (63, 64) of the receiver (6) to transmit the unique identifier and the state information(s) and the location information to a server via a network.

8. System according to claim 7, wherein the receiver further comprises: a camera for reading an optical code comprising a unique identifier, wherein the control unit (60) of the receiver (6) is configured to receive the optical code (9) by means of the camera, to extract the unique identifier from the optical code (9), and to present information about the individual product to a user depending on the unique identifier.

9. System according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the control unit (60) of the receiver (6) is configured to receive a message comprising at least one unique identifier via a network, wherein the control unit (60) is configured to transmit a signal via the transmitting unit (63, 64) to those radio tags which have the corresponding at least one unique identifier.

10. Method comprising the steps of connecting an active radio tag (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 to a packaging (1) of a product, detecting at least one environmental condition and at least one packaging state by the radio tag (5), transmitting an advertising data packet by the radio tag (5), wherein the advertising data packet comprises a unique identifier and at least one state information relating to the at least one environmental condition and the at least one packaging state, monitoring one or more frequency ranges and receiving the advertising data packet by a receiver (6), extracting the unique identifier and the at least one state information from the advertising data packet by the receiver (6), determining location information by the receiver (6), and transmitting the unique identifier and the at least one state information and the location information to a server via a network.

11. Method according to claim 10, wherein the unique identifier and the packaging state information and / or the environmental condition is propagated by the radio tag via a Bluetooth advertising data packet as a Bluetooth name, or via a WiFi advertising data packet as a WLAN SSID, or via a ZigBee advertising data packet as a PAN-ID, or via an SRD radio signal into a Sigfox Cloud.

12. Method according to any one of claims 10 or 11, comprising the steps of displaying a packaging state and / or a warning signal on a status indicator (8a, 8b, 8c) of the radio tag (5).