Method for identifying events of concern regarding items in a supply chain

Abstract

In one embodiment, a processor-based method for identifying or determining an event sequence for a callout of a connected product at a point or site in a supply network includes obtaining real-time parameters of the connected product at a first location in the supply network by receiving output from an interrogation of a digital trigger attached to or integrated with the connected product. The method further includes determining a comparison result by comparing the real-time parameters of the connected product with target parameters using a condition. The method further includes identifying an associated callout based on the comparison result. The method includes remediating the event by performing an automated action based on the callout.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 320,321, filed March 16, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] For some conventional systems and methods of sending items through a supply network, tracking for various items may include using item-specific inventory lists to track the number of each item moved through the supply network. Such conventional systems may result in items being forgotten, lost, or delayed during transportation or movement through the supply network, leading to inefficiencies and waste. Thus, improvements with respect to conventional systems may still be needed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Described herein are methods and systems for identifying or determining events of concern (e.g., suspicious events or event sequences) related to items or goods, such as trade goods, in a supply chain. In some embodiments, the items or goods are connected products. In some embodiments, the connected products are managed by a connected product platform or solution. In some embodiments, the connected product platform / solution is cloud-based.

[0004] In some embodiments, the event of concern includes a difference, discrepancy, or other disconnection between supply network data about an actual item or connected product and the same data about a reference item or connected product. For example, a connected product may be a perishable food item that has been assigned a maximum amount of time (dwell time) at one site in the supply network. The dwell time for the actual product is compared to the dwell time for the reference product to determine if there is an anomaly.

[0005] In some embodiments, the supply network evaluates at least connected product dwell times, traversal data, item state transitions, or combinations thereof for suspicious event sequences or anomalies.

[0006] In some embodiments, the connected product may include one or more digital triggers known in the industry. Exemplary digital triggers include, but are not limited to, RFID (e.g., HF, UHF) tags, NFC, QR codes, bar codes, digital watermarks, Bluetooth beacons, etc. In some embodiments, the digital trigger and / or the connected product includes a means for identifying the geographic location of the connected product. The digital trigger may be read or interrogated using any technology / device known in the industry, including mobile devices, on-premise devices such as tunnels, gates, smart carts, smart shelves, smart totes, pallet readers, etc. The reader / interrogation device may transmit the connected product data to on-site data or to the cloud directly or via an API or other application.

[0007] The methods and systems described herein may also be used to manage purchase orders, evaluate / verify sustainability scores, consumer experience / analysis, and the like. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is an exemplary representation of a dashboard or hub that provides worldwide inventory tracing information. [Diagram 2] 1 is an exemplary representation of a dashboard or hub that provides the fewest and most number of callouts. [Diagram 3] 1 is an example representation of a dashboard or hub providing dwell time callouts. [Figure 4] 1 is an exemplary representation of a hub or dashboard card showing inventory and callouts at a distribution warehouse and a retail store. [Diagram 5] 1 is an exemplary representation of a hub or dashboard card showing inventory and callouts at a distribution warehouse and retail store with callouts to specific sites. [Figure 6] 1 is an exemplary representation of a hub or dashboard card showing inventory and callouts at a distribution warehouse and retail store with callouts to specific sites. [Figure 7] 1 is a flow chart illustrating the process of assigning a unique identification number to an item / good and associating data / information with that item / good. [Figure 8] 13 is a flow chart illustrating a process for comparing dwell time data. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart illustrating a process for comparing traversal data. [Figure 10] 1 is an exemplary representation of a hub or dashboard for purchase order management. [Figure 11] 1 is an exemplary representation of a customer experience hub or dashboard. [Figure 12] 1 is an exemplary representation of a hub or dashboard showing analysis of customer experience or behavior. [Figure 13] 1 is an exemplary representation of a hub or dashboard showing analysis of customer experience or behavior. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing system. [Figure 15]FIG. 1 is an example diagram of a computer program product. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] I. Definition "Anomaly" may refer to one or more differences or discrepancies between one or more item parameters and the same one or more reference item parameters.

[0010] "Connected product" may mean a physical or other item of commerce, such as an article of commerce attached or adhered to or incorporating a digital trigger, or a raw or starting material. A connected product may mean software, an audio file, an image, a poster, or other item. Such items may be offered for sale or license.

[0011] “Connected product cloud” may mean a cloud-based platform for managing connected products.

[0012] "Digital trigger" may refer to one or more sensors or devices that read, are read, adapt, and / or react to the environment in which they are used. Some examples of digital triggers may include one or more of a QR code, a barcode, an NFC tag, an RFID tag, a digital watermark, or other detectable features that may be used to identify a product or trigger an interaction, such as between a user and software, or between a first Internet-connected device and a second Internet-connected device. Additional information is provided below.

[0013] "Interrogating a digital trigger" may mean exposing the digital trigger to a means for retrieving information from the trigger, e.g., radio signals and radio frequency identification tags. In some embodiments, interrogating a digital trigger may include powering the digital trigger or providing intended conditions that cause the digital trigger to respond.

[0014] "Item parameters" may refer to one or more attributes, characteristics, criteria, details, etc. for an item at a site or point in a supply network.

[0015] "Intervention" may refer to one or more actions. For example, in some embodiments, an action may be taken to reduce, eliminate, or inhibit an anomaly. In other embodiments, an action may be taken to cause, promote, increase, or otherwise affect an anomaly or other event.

[0016] A "point in a supply chain" may refer to a non-offline outlet in the supply chain, such as a vehicle (eg, truck, plane, ship).

[0017] "Reference item parameters" may refer to one or more attributes, characteristics, criteria, detailed information, etc., relating to a reference item at a point or site in a supply network.

[0018] "Site in the supply network" may mean a physical location in the supply network such as a manufacturing site (eg, factory), packing plant, distribution center, warehouse, retail outlet, store, etc.

[0019] II. Methods for identifying or determining a suspect sequence of events Described herein are methods for identifying suspicious event sequences (eg, one or more suspicious or erroneous events), trade items, or anomalies in items, such as raw or starting materials, in a supply chain.

[0020] A. Connected Products In some embodiments, the item being evaluated for suspicious event sequences or anomalies is a connected product. In some embodiments, the digital trigger can be any digital trigger known in the art. Exemplary digital triggers include, but are not limited to, radio frequency identification (RFID) tags or labels, QR codes, bar codes, digital watermarks, NFC, machine readable codes, vision systems, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons, or other digital identification (ID) systems. In some embodiments, the digital trigger can be serialized, i.e., encoded with a unique identification number.

[0021] 1. RFID tags / labels Radio frequency item level sensors, also known as RFID tags, are wireless devices with varying amounts of memory, typically 96-128 bits of EPC memory space, 48-96 bits of TID memory space, and optional features such as user memory as described by GS1. These sensors have a unique ID and respond to RF energy, broadcasting the presence of the particular item to which they are attached. There are several factors that affect the range and readability of RFID item level sensors and antennas (inlays), including size, power, and frequency.

[0022] A typical RFID device generally includes an antenna for wirelessly transmitting and / or receiving RF signals and analog and / or digital electronics operatively connected thereto. So-called active or semi-passive RFID devices may also include a battery or other suitable power source. The electronics are typically implemented via an integrated circuit (IC), microchip or other suitable electronic circuitry and may include, for example, communication electronics, data memory, control logic, and the like. In operation, the IC or microchip functions to store and / or process information, modulate and / or demodulate RF signals, as well as optionally perform other specialized functions. In general, RFID devices are typically capable of holding and communicating sufficient information to uniquely identify an individual, package, inventory, and / or other similar object to which the RFID device is affixed.

[0023] Typically, an RFID reader or base station is used to wirelessly obtain data or information (such as an identification code) communicated from an RFID device. Typically, an RFID device is configured to store, emit, or display an identification code or other identifier. The manner in which an RFID reader interacts and / or communicates with an RFID device generally depends on the type of RFID device. A given RFID device is typically classified as a passive device, an active device, a semi-passive device (also known as a battery-assisted or semi-active device), or a beacon-type RFID device (generally considered a subcategory of active devices). Passive RFID devices typically do not use an internal power source, so the RFID device is a passive device that only activates when an RFID reader is in close proximity to power the RFID device, for example, via wireless illumination of the RFID device with RF signals and / or electromagnetic energy from the RFID reader. Conversely, semi-passive and active RFID devices are provided with their own power source (e.g., a small battery). To communicate, conventional RFID devices (other than the so-called beacon type) respond to queries or interrogations received from an RFID reader. This response is typically accomplished by backscatter, load modulation, and / or other similar techniques used to manipulate the field of the RFID reader. Backscatter is typically used for far-field applications (i.e., when the distance between the RFID device and the reader is greater than about a few wavelengths) and load modulation is typically used for near-field applications (i.e., when the distance between the RFID device and the reader is within about a few wavelengths).

[0024] Passive RFID devices typically signal or communicate their data or information by backscattering a carrier wave from an RFID reader. That is, in the case of a conventional passive RFID device, to retrieve information from it, the RFID reader typically sends an excitation signal to the RFID device. The excitation signal activates the RFID device and transmits the information stored in it back to the RFID reader. As a result, the RFID reader receives and decodes the information from the RFID device.

[0025] As mentioned above, passive RFID devices typically do not have an internal power supply. Rather, power to operate a passive RFID device is provided by the energy of the received RF signal received by the RFID device from the RFID reader. Typically, a small current induced in the antenna of the RFID device by the received RF signal provides enough power to the RFID device's IC or microchip to power up and transmit a response. This means that the antenna must typically be designed to both collect power from the received signal and to transmit an outbound backscatter signal.

[0026] Passive RFID devices have the advantages of simplicity and long life (e.g., never running out of battery). Nevertheless, their performance may be limited. For example, passive RFID devices generally have a more limited range than active RFID devices.

[0027] In contrast to passive RFID devices, active RFID devices typically include their own transmitter and power source (e.g., battery, solar cell, etc.). Essentially, active RFID devices employ a self-powered transmitter to broadcast a signal that communicates information stored in the RFID device's IC or microchip. Active RFID devices also typically use a power source to power the IC or microchip employed therein.

[0028] Generally, there are two types of active RFID devices, one can be considered as a transponder type active RFID device and the other as a beacon type active RFID device. An important difference is that a transponder type active RFID device may only wake up when it receives a signal from an RFID reader. A transponder type RFID device responds to an interrogation signal from an RFID reader and broadcasts its information to the reader. As can be seen from the above, such a type of active RFID device conserves battery life by broadcasting its signal only when the device is within range of the reader. Conversely, a beacon type RFID device transmits an identification code and / or other data or information independently (e.g., at fixed intervals, periodically, or otherwise) and does not respond to specific interrogation from a reader.

[0029] Generally, an on-board power supply allows an active RFID device to transmit at higher power levels (e.g., compared to a passive device) and therefore be more robust in a variety of operating environments. However, batteries or other on-board power supplies tend to make active RFID devices relatively large (e.g., compared to a passive device) and / or more expensive to manufacture. Furthermore, compared to passive RFID devices, active RFID devices have a limited battery life and therefore potentially a more limited shelf life. Nevertheless, a self-supporting power supply typically allows an active RFID device to include a generally larger memory than a passive device, and in some cases, an on-board power source allows an active device to include additional functionality, such as, for example, acquiring and / or storing environmental data from suitable sensors.

[0030] Semi-passive RFID devices are similar to active devices in that they are typically self-powered, but the battery typically only powers the IC or microchip and does not provide power for broadcasting the signal. Rather, like passive RFID devices, responses from semi-passive RFID devices are typically powered by backscattering the RF energy received from the RFID reader, i.e., the energy is reflected back from the reader, similar to passive devices. In semi-passive RFID devices, the battery typically also serves as the power source for data storage.

[0031] Conventional RFID devices will often operate within one of a variety of frequency ranges, including, for example, the low frequency (LF) range (i.e., about 30 kHz to about 300 kHz), the high frequency (HF) range (i.e., about 3 MHz to about 30 MHz), and the ultra-high frequency (UHF) range (i.e., about 300 MHz to about 3 GHz). Passive devices generally operate within any one of the aforementioned frequency ranges. In particular, for passive devices, LF systems generally operate at about 124 kHz, 125 kHz, or 135 kHz, HF systems generally operate at about 13.56 MHz, and UHF systems generally use any band between 860 MHz and 960 MHz. Alternatively, some passive device systems also use 2.45 GHz and other regions of the radio spectrum. Active RFID devices generally operate at about 455 MHz, 2.45 GHz, or 5.8 GHz. Semi-passive devices often use frequencies around 2.4 GHz.

[0032] The read range of an RFID device (i.e., the range at which an RFID reader can communicate with the RFID device) is generally determined by a number of factors, such as the type of device (i.e., active, passive, etc.). In some embodiments, passive LF RFID devices (also called LFID or LowFID devices) can generally be read from within about 12 inches (0.33 meters), passive HF RFID devices (also called HFID or HighFID devices) can generally be read from up to about 3 feet (1 meter), and passive UHF RFID devices (also called UHFID devices) can generally be read from about 10 feet (3.05 meters) or more. However, the above distances are only exemplary, and the distances may vary (e.g., may be longer or shorter) depending on the characteristics listed above. One important factor that affects the read range of a passive RFID device is the method used to transmit data from the device to the reader, i.e., the coupling mode between the device and the reader, which can usually be inductive coupling or radiative / propagative coupling. Passive LFID and passive HFID devices typically use inductive coupling between the device and a reader, while passive UHFID devices typically use radiative or propagative coupling between the device and a reader.

[0033] In inductive coupling applications (e.g., as conventionally used by passive LFID and HFID devices), the device and reader are typically each equipped with a coil antenna that together form an electromagnetic field between them. In inductive coupling applications, the device draws power from the electromagnetic field and uses this power to run the circuitry of the device's IC or microchip, which then modifies the electrical load on the device's antenna. As a result, the reader's antenna detects changes in the electromagnetic field and converts these changes into data that the reader or an auxiliary computer can understand. Because the coil in the device's antenna and the coil in the reader's antenna must form an electromagnetic field between them to complete inductive coupling between the device and the reader, the device must often be quite close to the reader's antenna, which tends to limit the read range of these systems.

[0034] Alternatively, in radiative or propagative coupling applications, rather than forming an electromagnetic field between the reader and the device's respective antennas (e.g., as conventionally used by conventional, passive UHFID devices), the reader emits electromagnetic energy that illuminates the device. As a result, the device collects energy from the reader via its antenna, and an IC or microchip in the device uses the collected energy to modify the load on the device's antenna and reflect, or backscatter, the modified signal. In general, UHFID devices can communicate data in a variety of different ways, for example, they can increase the amplitude of the reflected wave sent back to the reader (e.g., amplitude shift keying), shift the reflected wave out of phase with the received wave (e.g., phase shift keying), or change the frequency of the reflected wave (e.g., frequency shift keying). In either case, the reader captures the backscattered signal and converts the modified wave into data that the reader or an auxiliary computer can understand.

[0035] Also, the antenna employed in an RFID device is generally influenced by many factors, such as the intended application, the type of device (i.e., active, passive, semi-active, etc.), the desired read range, the coupling mode between the device and the reader, the operating frequency of the device, etc. For example, a passive LFID device is typically inductively coupled with a reader, and since the voltage induced at the device's antenna is proportional to the operating frequency of the device, a passive LFID device is generally equipped with a coil antenna having many turns to generate a voltage sufficient to operate the device's IC or microchip. Comparatively, a conventional passive HFID device is often equipped with a planar spiral (e.g., 5-7 turns for a credit card-sized form factor) antenna, which can typically provide a read range on the order of tens of centimeters. In general, HFID antenna coils can be manufactured using relatively cheaper techniques than wire winding (e.g., lithography), and therefore can be manufactured at lower costs (e.g., compared to LFID antenna coils). Passive UHFID devices are typically radiatively and / or propagatively coupled to the reader's antenna, so that a conventional dipole antenna may often be employed.

[0036] 2.NFC Near Field Communication (abbreviated NFC) is a form of contactless communication between mobile terminals such as smartphones and tablets, utilizing electromagnetic radio fields rather than radio transmissions (e.g. Bluetooth, WiFi). NFC is an offshoot of the RFID design used by devices and objects in close proximity to each other. Currently, three types of NFC technology are in use: Type A, Type B, and FeliCa. The technology behind NFC allows a device known as a reader, interrogator, or active device to generate a radio frequency current that communicates with other NFC-compatible devices, or small NFC tags that hold the desired information. Passive devices, such as NFC tags, store information and communicate with a reader, but do not actively read other devices. Peer-to-peer communication via two active devices is also possible with NFC. This allows both devices to send and receive information.

[0037] 3. QR Code (registered trademark) A fast response QR Code is a type of machine-readable matrix code (2D barcode). QR Codes often contain locator, identifier, or tracker data that points to a website or application. QR Codes use four standardized encoding modes (numeric, alphanumeric, byte / binary, and kanji) to store data efficiently, and may also use extensions. After being detected by a two-dimensional digital image sensor, QR Codes are digitally analyzed by a programmed processor. The processor finds three characteristic squares in the corners of the QR Code image and uses a smaller square (or squares) near the fourth corner to normalize the image for size, orientation, and viewing angle. The small dots throughout the QR Code are then converted into binary numbers and verified with an error correction algorithm.

[0038] The amount of data that can be stored in a QR Code® symbol varies with the data type (mode or input character set), version (1, ..., 40, representing the overall dimensions of the symbol, i.e. 4 x version number + 17 dots on each side), and error correction level. The maximum storage capacity occurs with version 40 and error correction level L (low), represented as 40-L.

[0039] 4. Digital trigger for plastic packages In some embodiments, one or more digital triggers are designed to be integrated into the plastic package. In some embodiments, the plastic package is used to package perishable foods such as fresh cut fruits and / or vegetables, proteins, etc. Suitable sensors are commercially available from Avery Dennison. In some embodiments, the placement of the RFID sensor on the package is such that the product inside the package does not overlap the RFID inlay area by more than 20% when the product is placed on a shelf. In some embodiments, the RFID sensor can be a low profile inlay to reduce coverage area.

[0040] 5.Low profile sensor In some embodiments, the one or more digital triggers are designed as low profile item level sensors when difficult to read materials. In some embodiments, these sensors are used for packaged goods such as food. Suitable sensors are commercially available from Avery Dennison. In some embodiments, the sensor can be mounted flush with spacers or elevated along its length to form a low profile flag tag. In some embodiments, the tag includes built-in structure that separates the dielectric properties of the product and the inlay. In some embodiments, the size of the low profile inlay is used to reduce the coverage area.

[0041] 6. Microwave-safe inlays In some embodiments, the digital trigger is incorporated into a microwave-safe sensor. Microwave-safe sensors / inlays are described in WO2018 / 125977, WO2019 / 204694, WO2019 / 204698, WO2019 / 204704, WO2020 / 006202, WO2020 / 006219, WO2021 / 138237, and WO2021 / 134066, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] In some embodiments, the microwave-compatible sensor is a microwave-compatible RFID tag that defines a gap and includes an antenna configured to operate at a first frequency. The RFID chip and antenna are electrically coupled to the antenna across the gap. A shielding structure is electrically coupled to the antenna across the gap and covers the RFID chip. The shielding structure includes a shielding conductor and a shielding dielectric located at least partially between the shielding conductor and the RFID chip. The shielding structure is configured to limit the voltage across the gap when the antenna is exposed to a second frequency that is greater than the first frequency.

[0043] In some embodiments, the antenna is or includes an antenna having a sheet resistance in the range of about 100 ohms to about 230 ohms. In another aspect, the RFID tag includes an RFID chip and an antenna electrically coupled to the RFID chip. The antenna is or includes a conductor formed of a substrate and a second material having different coefficients of thermal expansion configured to fracture the antenna into a plurality of pieces when heated.

[0044] In some embodiments, a microwave-compatible RFID tag includes a substrate having opposing first and second surfaces. An antenna is secured to the first surface to define a gap and configured to operate at a first frequency. An RFID chip is electrically coupled to the antenna across the gap. A shielding structure is secured to the second surface of the substrate, with at least a portion of the shielding structure substantially aligned with the gap. The shielding structure is configured to limit voltage across the gap when the antenna is exposed to a second frequency greater than the first frequency.

[0045] In some embodiments, the maximum dimension of the antenna of the RFID tag is 40 mm or less. In some embodiments, the center of the shielding structure is substantially aligned with the RFID chip. In some embodiments, the shielding structure is larger than the gap. In some embodiments, the shielding structure is electrically coupled to the antenna through the substrate. In some embodiments, the RFID tag further includes first and second conductive bridges extending between the antenna and the shielding structure through the substrate such that the first and second conductive bridges are associated with the antenna on opposite sides of the gap. In some embodiments, the first and second conductive bridges are substantially identical. In some embodiments, the first and second conductive bridges are substantially equally spaced apart from the gap. In some embodiments, each of the first and second conductive bridges is located closer to an associated edge of the shielding structure than the gap. In some embodiments, each of the first and second conductive bridges includes an electrochemically formed via. In some embodiments, each of the first and second conductive bridges includes a crimp. In some embodiments, each of the first and second conductive bridges includes a conductive ink contained by a respective hole defined in the substrate.

[0046] In some embodiments, a microwave resistant RFID tag device can be affixed to an item that is to be placed in a microwave field, such as a food item that is to be defrosted, heated, reheated or cooked in a microwave oven. The RFID tag device includes at least one antenna designed to operate at one or more frequencies and an RFID chip that holds data about the product to which it is attached and / or the microwave process that the microwave oven needs to perform (e.g., cooking). In some embodiments, the antenna of the RFID tag device is designed to prevent destructive arcing and minimize heating of the RFID tag itself during the microwave process when placed in the high level 2.45 GHz region.

[0047] In another embodiment, an RFID reader system is coupled to the microwave oven cavity so that it can read the RFID tag data before the high levels of the 2.45 GHz range are applied since the high range can destroy RFID tag devices. The RFID reader system can operate at 2.45 GHz and may be shared or coexistent with the oven emitter, or it can operate at a separate frequency such as UHF in the 900 MHz to 930 MHz range, or it can operate at both frequencies. The RFID reader system then interfaces with the oven controller to authorize and / or control the cooking process of the tagged food items.

[0048] In some embodiments, a microwave-compatible RFID tag includes a split ring (or shield) conductor, preferably formed on one side of a dielectric, a coil antenna conductor formed on the other side of the dielectric, and an RFID chip. The split ring conductor is separated from the coil antenna conductor by the dielectric. The split ring conductor also covers a majority of the coil antenna conductor such that the split ring conductor capacitively couples to the coil antenna conductor through the dielectric. Additionally, the split ring conductor includes a gap that allows microwave current to flow through the coil antenna conductor, but any portion of the coil antenna conductor within the gap does not interact with the microwave current, thus preventing arcing.

[0049] In another embodiment, a microwaveable RFID tag device includes a second split ring conductor that rotates opposite the first split ring conductor such that the gaps in the conductors are misaligned and no current flows through the gap. A coil antenna conductor is then placed between the first and second split ring conductors and capacitively couples with the conductors, effectively shorting the coil antenna conductor to the first and second split ring conductors and preventing arcing and excessive current flow along the coil antenna conductor.

[0050] In another embodiment, the microwaveable RFID inlay includes a pair of dipole arms extending from a tuning loop, where each of said dipole arms terminates at a load end. The conductive structure is further configured to have a metal mass below the standard detection threshold of a metal detector used to scan food items and their packaging. Furthermore, the conductive structure has an area large enough to perform the required or desired performance, but still below the typical standard detection threshold associated with scanning food items or packages, if a dissimilar metal object of about 1 mm diameter metal sphere. The conductive structure may be manufactured by printing conductive ink or cutting metal foil. The thickness of the entire conductive structure is then reduced to more than the skin depth calculated for each conductive structure material and frequency. A portion of each load end may be hollowed out to remove areas of the conductive structure with low current flow to minimize the impact on overall RFID performance and achieve a conductive structure with a mass below the detection threshold of a metal detector.

[0051] In another embodiment, a package for microwaveable food items is provided. The package includes a first package member configured to be heated in a microwave oven and a second package member associated with the first package member, the second package member configured to be separated from the first package member prior to heating the first package member in a microwave oven. The package also includes an RFID tag including a reactive strap and a long-range antenna. The reactive strap is associated with the first package member while the long-range antenna is associated with the second package member and separated from the reactive strap. The reactive strap is configured to be coupled to the long-range antenna when the second package member is associated with the first package member and to be separated from the long-range antenna when the second package member is separated from the first package member. The RFID tag is capable of long-range communication when the reactive strap is coupled to the long-range antenna, while only capable of short-range communication when the reactive strap is separated from the long-range antenna.

[0052] In some embodiments, the microwave-compatible RFID sensor is Wavesafe™ available from Avery Dennison. Wavesafe™ is a microwave-compatible UHF RFID solution developed by Avery Dennison in 2017 and launched in 2019 to ensure safety standards with item-level tagging of raw and frozen perishable packaged foods. Wavesafe™ is designed to prevent arcing and heat buildup during microwave cooking while still providing highly accurate read rates for time tracking.

[0053] Commercially available sensors include AD251 available from Avery Dennison. In some embodiments, the microwave-safe inlay is used for meat and seafood, including those in / packaged in foam trays. In some embodiments, the microwave-safe inlay adheres to TUV Rheinland® T-mark certification standards. In some embodiments, the RFID sensor is placed on the outside of the foam tray to ensure separation of the items.

[0054] 7. Flag Tags In some embodiments, the sensor is or includes a flag tag. A flag tag is a label or tag that includes a digital trigger, such as an RFID inlay, where a portion of the tag or label can be offset from the remainder of the tag or label. This can be useful to reduce or eliminate interference between a tagged or labeled item and the digital trigger (e.g., a metal item or package and an RFID metal antenna). A variety of flag tag structures are known in the art. In some embodiments, the structure has a fold to create the offset. For example, the MIDas Flagtag® available from Avery Dennison. However, other flag tag structures can be used.

[0055] B. Digital Trigger Interrogation A digital trigger attached, adhered, or integrated with a connected product can be interrogated or read using any method and / or device known in the art for interrogating or reading a particular digital trigger. For example, if the digital trigger is an RFID tag, the RFID can be interrogated or read by an RFID reader. The RFID reader can be a portable device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or other portable device, or a macro device, such as a tunnel scanner / reader, gate reader, overhead RFID reader, or shelf reader (e.g., smart shelf). Such devices can be referred to as readers or hardware. Software can be integrated into the hardware as needed to operate the hardware and analyze the data stored in the trigger. The reader can send the data to an on-site server, which can then send the information to the connected product's platform, or the reader can send the information directly to the platform.

[0056] 1. Local reading points In some embodiments, the digital trigger is interrogated or read by a combination of local and global read points.

[0057] In some embodiments, the local read point is or includes a shelf-level or pallet-level reading device that monitors the presence and timestamp of last seen data from a given space. In some embodiments, the local read point is a complete and functionally packaged unit for ease of use, aesthetics, adaptability to existing facilities, reduction or elimination of on-premise hardware requirements, and reduction of cables. In some embodiments, the device posts a unique item ID, timestamp, location, and type of event trigger to a defined destination. In some embodiments, event-based data is sent directly from the reader without an on-premise server.

[0058] In some embodiments, the local reader is a grid of phased array antennas, with segments of the read zone controllable by cycling a signal across it in phase. The result is a controlled and limited read zone that can be digitally stepped across the surface. Multiple alternating phase elements generate the grid sections to allow for X-axis position recognition.

[0059] In some embodiments, the local reader is a smart shelf. In some embodiments, the shelf reader includes a reader control board and an RF antenna array. In some embodiments, each set of antennas creates a defined read zone, which electronically cycles through the length of the shelf reader. In some embodiments, each smart shelf is connected to a control device including a processing unit via a USB cable. The architecture can include multiple ports on the control unit to achieve the desired capacity. Additional functionality can be added to the control unit, such as WiFi network connectivity. Each set of shelf readers can be standalone network devices that provide event-based data to the network via the control unit, or can be connected in series.

[0060] In some embodiments, the local reader includes or is in a parent-child configuration. In some embodiments, the parent-child configuration includes a parent smart shelf that controls and powers one or more child smart shelves. Such a configuration may reduce costs since it includes a single parent (master) shelf rather than multiple parent (master) shelves with self-controlling and power supply units.

[0061] In some embodiments, the local reader is an RFID reader and / or a smart shelf with single or multiple RFID antennas. In some embodiments, the antennas are classified into two groups: short response and long response within the immediate limits of the physical shelf, while the read area extends beyond the physical shelf with the furthest read edge away from the physical shelf. In some embodiments, the short response antenna is placed in close proximity to one or more products in read area #1. This read area may consist of multiple antennas or read zones. Products tagged with UHF RFID (radio detection, RF detection, etc.) in read area #1 are detected for the purpose of detecting removal or insertion events. In some embodiments, read area #1 has a tightly controlled read zone that generates a quick response because the selected product travels a short distance before leaving read area #1 when removing or inserting a product, and the response is made in close proximity to the shelf and the configuration of standard merchandising products. Removal events from read area #2 are recognized to take longer because the edge of read area #2 is away from the physical shelf.

[0062] In some embodiments, the long response antenna creates a read area #2 that monitors the shelf, but by having a read area that utilizes a higher power or different type of RF read area, a stronger and larger read area is created. Read area #2 detects in- and out-of-events in a similar manner as area #1, but read area #2 captures a larger volume and therefore has a slower perceived reaction time. Data from read area #2 is utilized to modify data indicative of products not presented or detected in read area #1 based on product location or the location of multiple products that block visibility of read area #1.

[0063] In some embodiments, the relative sizes of the read areas are reversed, eg, read area #1 is larger and read area #2 is smaller, as described above.

[0064] In some embodiments, the number of read zones is more than two or less than two, e.g., the number of read zones is 1, 3, 4, 5 or more. In some embodiments, multiple read areas have dual functionality in a given read area, e.g., both short range and long range. In yet other embodiments, certain read areas have functionality within other read areas. In yet other embodiments, multiple read areas intersect and are generated from the same plane.

[0065] In some embodiments, data from separate reading areas may be combined to provide deeper data, enrich the data, or generate more accurate data. In some embodiments, data may be reported in an event-type manner to indicate whether an item is visible in only one of the reading areas or in both reading areas, and timing between deliveries may be governed by different filters, settings, or data events in multiple reading areas. Data from multiple defined reading areas may provide deeper data for machine learning, artificial intelligence, localized software, and actionable data.

[0066] Other sensors and data inputs may also be preferred. These sensors may be non-RF based sensors, such as visual, infrared, ultrasonic, or other known devices.

[0067] 2. Wide-area reading device In some embodiments, the wide area refers to or defines a read zone or multiple read zones that cover not only the area of ​​the product while it is on display, but also the surrounding area where the product is sold. In some embodiments, the wide area coverage includes, but is not limited to, an RFID real-time location positioning system (RTLS) that reports x and y coordinates. RTLS are typically used to find the exact location of items within a facility. In some embodiments, RTLS operates via a combination of Bluetooth technology and GPS to monitor and track objects and interactions as they occur. In some embodiments, the RTLS functionality of the RFID reader is used solely to supplement the existing sensor set in use.

[0068] In some embodiments, the wide-area reader is or includes a phased array of overhead readers operating in multiple read zones in a north, south, east and west configuration. These multiple zones can be used to generate x and y coordinates. In some embodiments, the RF coordinates are combined with visual coordinates for the item to help provide post-product selection confirmation.

[0069] C. Data Path / Software In some embodiments, the system receives data in a variety of formats from multiple different data sources, repackages the received data for a particular destination, and provides the packaged digital identity data securely and securely. Methods and systems for receiving and processing data are described in WO2021 / 247628, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0070] In some embodiments, the data provided by the present invention is a set of data or a segment of data from one of multiple data sources. These various data sources may be multiple different sensors that collect data based on a specific purpose. The present invention anticipates combining data from single or multiple reading areas, combining multiple data inputs in a repository, and / or providing single or multiple data sets to machine learning algorithms and / or artificial intelligence systems.

[0071] In some embodiments, data provided by the present invention is combined with other data sources to determine system actions or activities and / or to initiate or disable notifications within or outside the system.

[0072] In some embodiments, external sensors collect data that affect the thresholds and events provided by the present invention.

[0073] In some embodiments, the data and / or event data of the present invention influences thresholds and events provided by external and / or other sensors.

[0074] In some embodiments, data sources may cross-communicate with one another for the purpose of dynamically adjusting settings within the source devices, with dynamic adjustments being influenced by other data sources or source devices and the environment as interpreted by sensors.

[0075] In some embodiments, the system includes a repository for receiving data about serialized items from a source. The repository can be a designated application, such as a cloud application that is an intermediary software. The serialized items can be RFID tagged, UPC coded, or ERP coded products that contain a digital identity about the product that is readable by the source. The digital identity can include a product specific identity, an expiration date of the item, or other related data of the product, and the source of the data can include an edge device such as a smart shelf, smart cooler, smart store, or smart storage that has an electronic display and an RFID reader / interrogator that monitors products in its proximity. For example, when a serialized item is removed from, to, or around the source, the source can communicate that information to the repository.

[0076] In some embodiments, the repository may be a designated cloud application, preferably configured to receive data about serialized items from a source and manage the digital identities of the products. The repository may also be further configured to manage the amount of inventory of the products based on the information received from the source, and to combine or aggregate the received data about the products with other product-specific data, environment-specific data, consumer behavior data, or other variable and / or fixed data feeds.

[0077] In some embodiments, the system further includes one or more digital destinations, including but not limited to a cloud application. The destination application is configured to receive and post the combined data sent from the repository via a connector. The connector may be an active directory gateway, a cloud connector, or the like. The destination application may provide product data, availability, inventory, etc. to local searchers. Additionally, pricing information for products may be manipulated by the destination application based, for example, on product expiration dates, shelf life, or other data that meets the needs and / or preferences of the user.

[0078] The destination application can then post the data in a searchable format. Additionally, the destination application can retransmit the data to sources at retail stores or other electronic displays, so that they too can benefit from the aggregated and / or updated data. For example, a consumer can see the same product prices online in the destination application that are seen in the retail store.

[0079] In some embodiments, the method and system are as described above, and the system includes a destination cloud application for receiving, manipulating, and posting data about serialized items from a source. The serialized items may include, but are not limited to, RFID tagged, UPC coded, or ERP coded products that contain a digital identity about the product that is readable by the source. The digital identity may include a product specific identity, an expiration date of the item, or other useful product data. The source may be an edge device that may include a fixed or mobile device for communicating with a sensor or machine readable code, such as a smart shelf, smart cooler, smart store, or smart storage, having an electronic display and an RFID reader / interrogator that monitors the products / serialized items located at the source. For example, when serialized items are removed, added, or manipulated from, to, or around the source by a customer or employee, the source may communicate that information to the destination cloud application.

[0080] Similar to the previous embodiment described above, the destination cloud application receives data about serialized items from the source and manages the digital identity of the product through the connector. The destination cloud application similarly manages the amount of inventory of the product based on the information received from the source. The destination cloud application is configured to combine the received data about the product with other product-specific data. The connector may be an active directory gateway, cloud connector, or similar device. The destination cloud application may then provide the combined product data, or any portion thereof, to a searcher in the local area. Additionally, pricing information for the product may be manipulated by the destination cloud application based, for example, on the product's expiration date, shelf life, or other useful data.

[0081] The destination cloud application can then post the data in a searchable format available to consumers in the local area. Additionally, the destination application or repository can send the data back to retail sources or other electronic displays that may use the combined data. For example, consumers can see the same product prices online in the destination cloud application that they see in the retail store.

[0082] In another embodiment, the method and system described herein includes a process for improving migration and accessibility of product-related data. The system includes a designated application, such as a cloud application, for receiving data about serialized items from a source, which may be an intermediate software. As described above, the serialized items may be RFID-tagged, UPC-coded, or ERP-coded products that contain a source-readable digital identity about the product, which may include a product-specific identity, an item expiration date, or other useful product data or information. The source may be an edge device, such as a smart shelf, smart cooler, smart store, or smart storage, that has an electronic display and is equipped with an RFID reader / interrogator capable of monitoring serialized items. For example, when a serialized item is removed from the source, the source may communicate the information to the repository, which may update the product data stored therein.

[0083] The designated application is configured to receive data about the serialized items from the source and manage the digital identity of the products. The designated application also manages the amount of inventory for the products based on the received information from the source. The designated application is further configured to merge the received data about the products with other product specific data and may also receive data about the serialized items from multiple data collection points, sources that are not suited to a data sharing environment such as inventory scans, point of sale data, distributor data, data center data, etc.

[0084] The system may further include a destination application configured to receive, manipulate, and display the combined data sent from the designated cloud application. The destination application may provide product data, availability, and inventory data to local searchers. Additionally, pricing information for products may be manipulated by the destination application based on product expiration dates, shelf life, or other data related to the products.

[0085] The destination application, e.g., a cloud application, then presents the combined data to consumers in a searchable format in their local area, and the destination application can transmit the data back to retail sources or other electronic displays, where consumers can then see the same product prices online in the destination application that they would see in the retail store, and determine the availability of local inventory for purchase.

[0086] In some embodiments, the methods described herein encompass or include edgeware. Edgeware is embedded software that runs on the reader hardware, eliminating the need for on-premise computing equipment and servers. Edgeware simplifies the data path and reduces software development requirements for users. In some embodiments, edgeware sends event-based data directly from the reader to local and / or cloud destinations, as described above. Event-based data is reliable and the software is optimized to reduce errant readings and provide flexibility to adjust the amount of data provided from the device to the data destination.

[0087] Readers can provide a variety of information. Beyond the unique identifier encoded in the trigger, readers can provide timestamps when an item arrives at a location and / or leaves a location, allowing calculation of time spent at a location, geographic location, etc. Combining triggers with other sensors, such as sensors that record / report conditions such as temperature, humidity, etc., can provide detailed information regarding the period an item was exposed to a particular set of environmental conditions. This can be particularly important for perishable items, especially fruits and vegetables, proteins, cheeses, etc., and / or other connected products that are sensitive to temperature, humidity, etc.

[0088] D. Geographical location The physical location of the connected product can be determined using a variety of techniques known in the art. For example, in some embodiments, a device used to interrogate or read the digital trigger comprises the physical location of the connected product. In some embodiments, the device is a mobile terminal such as a smart phone, smart watch, tablet, laptop, or other portable device. In other embodiments, the device is an on-premise device such as a pallet reader, tunnel reader, gate reader, shelf reader / smart shelf, etc. In some embodiments, the location of the device is determined using one or more methods or techniques known in the art. Suitable methods and techniques include, but are not limited to, outdoor positioning systems ("OPS") and indoor positioning systems ("IPS"). An exemplary OPS includes, but is not limited to, the global positioning system ("GPS").

[0089] Exemplary IPS include, but are not limited to, non-wireless and wireless technologies. Examples of non-wireless technologies include, but are not limited to, magnetic positioning, inertial measurements, visual marker-based positioning, and known visual feature-based location measurements. Examples of wireless technologies include, but are not limited to, ultra-wideband (UWB), WiFi positioning system (WiPS or WFPS), Bluetooth, Bluetooth 5.1, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), choke point concept, grid concept, long range sensing concept, angle of arrival, time of arrival, received signal strength indication, and combinations thereof.

[0090] In some embodiments, the method or technique used to determine the location of a mobile terminal is accurate to within 5 meters, 4 meters, 3 meters, 2 meters, 1 meter, 0.9 meters, 0.8 meters, 0.7 meters, 0.6 meters, 0.5 meters, 0.4 meters, 0.3 meters, 0.2 meters or 0.1 meters.

[0091] In some embodiments, the location of the device is determined using one or more techniques described herein to identify one or more items that are proximate to the device. In some embodiments, the term "proximate" means within about 10 meters, 9 meters, 8 meters, 7 meters, 6 meters, 5 meters, 4 meters, 3 meters, 2 meters, 1 meter, 0.9 meters, 0.8 meters, 0.7 meters, 0.6 meters, 0.5 meters, 0.4 meters, 0.3 meters, 0.2 meters, or 0.1 meters. However, items may be further away.

[0092] The identity of an item may be determined using one or more techniques known in the art, including but not limited to planograms, visual inventory, RFID handheld inventory, RFID overhead inventory, vision system inventory, QR, barcode, NFC, or other methods known in the art.

[0093] In some embodiments, one or more items at the location of the device are fitted with one or more sensors that can be detected by a localized scanner. Such items are said to be digitally identified. The sensor can be integrated into a label, such as a pressure-adhesive label or other type of label, or into a tag, such as a hang tag. The sensor can be any sensor known in the art that is suitable for the methods and applications described herein. In some embodiments, the sensor is, for example, a radio frequency identification (RFID, such as UHF or HF) sensor, a near field communication (NFC) sensor, a quick response (QR) code, a machine-readable code, a vision system, a Bluetooth® low energy (BLE) beacon, or other digital identification (ID) system. In some embodiments, the location of the device is determined by one or more of the aforementioned techniques, and items in the vicinity of the mobile terminal are identified using UHF RFID. In some embodiments, the digital ID system is a UHF Gen2 RFID or similar standard.

[0094] E. Identification of suspicious, unusual, positive or negative event sequences / anomalies The methods described herein may enable users, such as manufacturers, retail brand owners, distributors, etc., to see how all of their goods (e.g., trade goods) are distributed throughout the supply chain, e.g., from the manufacturing site to the retail building, storage location, or shelf or tier location at the retail store, and / or delivery destination, and each site / stop or transportation route in between. In some embodiments, the method includes indicating the number of items located at each site / stop (e.g., factory, distribution warehouse, store, etc.) in the supply chain, and the number of items with suspicious, normal, abnormal, positive or negative event sequences or anomalies selected as "callouts." Callouts are identified by comparing actual (including real-time) item-specific or item-level data or parameters to one or more reference data or parameters for that item or similar items. By comparing the actual data / parameters to the reference data / parameters, the user may determine whether a suspicious, positive, negative, normal event or event sequence has occurred or is occurring. In some embodiments, based on the results, the user or a third party may be notified and / or corrective / remedial action may be automatically determined and / or taken as necessary.

[0095] In some embodiments, location can be tracked or determined when the digital trigger interacts with one or more detection devices, such as a barcode scanner, a QR code scanner, an NFC reader, an RFID reader, a Bluetooth transmitter / receiver, a Wi-Fi router or access point, or a camera. The detection devices may be integrated into a mobile terminal, such as a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, or into a fixed-location device, such as a portal scanner, printer, or other device. The detection devices may transmit information to a system that allows a location to be determined, such as GPS data, IP address, location according to a planogram or building plan, based on location relative to other devices (e.g., triangulation or distance measurement), or based on inertial navigation relative to a starting point.

[0096] Actions taken by a callout-based system may include one or more of the following: notification, status change, discard action, corrective action, awareness action, recall action, price change, or relocation action. These actions may include one or more of a database status change, an email, a text message, route directions for a human to reach the item, instructions on where to move the item, instructions to discard the item, or control of a machine to perform the action. Control of a machine may include automated transportation of the item, such as using a logistics warehouse management system that can transport the item. A status change may enable data tracking on the performance of a retailer or logistics / transport company and / or trigger other actions. A discard action may include changing the status of the item to discard, meaning that a retailer or logistics party, or an automated package processing system may receive instructions to discard the item. An item may be discarded if it is deemed expired, spoiled, or damaged. A corrective action may include issuing instructions or taking other physical action to provide repair, replacement, or compensation.

[0097] In some embodiments, a callout may include one or more of the following events in combination and in different orders:

[0098] 1. Dwell Time In some embodiments, the callout is a "dwell time" callout. In some embodiments, an exemplary "dwell time" callout includes, but is not limited to, when an item takes longer or shorter than expected at a location or series of locations, such as one or more supply network sites, a retail store storage area, a shelf location specified by a store planogram, one or more delivery vehicles, etc. In some embodiments, a dwell time callout includes when an item takes longer or shorter to be transported from one location to another (e.g., from one supply network site to another supply network site), or takes an unexpected path, such as during transportation or delivery from one distribution warehouse to another. In some embodiments, the method / system includes configurable / customizable time variations to avoid generating a callout if the process is still within a reasonable time frame. In some embodiments, the reasonable time frame is set by the end user, e.g., the manufacturer, the retail brand owner, and / or the retailer.

[0099] 2. Traversal In some embodiments, a callout results from an unexpected or unusual traversal of the supply network by one or more items. Non-limiting examples include the observation that an item travels to a site not normally found in the supply network, or skips one or more sites where the item is normally found in the supply network, or other sequences of locations leading to and / or including a sale or distribution. For example, an item's location may be tracked at an unexpected storage location or detour site, or tracked along a path that is more than a threshold distance away from the expected path. Such skipped locations or arrival or transportation through an unexpected area may be an indication that tampering has occurred, that a transportation method has failed, that a truck driver or airplane pilot has gone to a wrong destination, that a product has been displayed, hung, or exhibited in a store in a location not approved by the planogram, or that a customer has re-displayed the product in an incorrect location. In the case of perishable goods or time-sensitive deliveries, the traversal may result in spoilage. While such misdirections may be a minor issue for individual items, they may accumulate to cause substantial losses to manufacturers, distributors, retailers, grocers, or other businesses.

[0100] 3. Item state transition In some embodiments, the callouts are due to suspicious, abnormal, anomalous, normal, positive or negative event sequences or item state transitions, i.e., sequences of actions performed on / with an item. In some embodiments, transitions may be monitored by recording when an item arrives on-site, recording when an item moves within the site, recording how and where an item moves along a route during transport, and / or recording the time an item leaves the site. Events or event sequences of interest may include movement of an item during non-business hours, indicating tampering or theft, or rapid acceleration / deceleration, indicating possible drops and damage. Transition callouts may relate to longer or shorter times for an item to be delivered, stored, stocked, restocked, displayed, or sold.

[0101] 4. Connected Product Platform The methods described herein can be used in combination with a connected product solution or platform, together referred to as a system. One example of such a platform is atma.io, offered by Avery Dennison. atma.io can include a digital trigger-egnostic platform, such that any digital trigger known in the industry, including a combination of triggers, can manage and analyze the data and provide the data to the platform, providing users with insights into their supply chain. In some embodiments, the connected product platform includes a dashboard / hub that allows users to see all of their items and how the items are distributed in the supply chain. In some embodiments, the dashboard / hub includes a card by site type showing the number of callouts as well as the number of items located at each site type in the supply chain.

[0102] The platform / solution can filter and export data to accommodate the needs of the end user. For example, data can be filtered by Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) or Purchase Order (PO) number. Data can be exported in any format such as CSV or Excel. Exports can be customized to include any type of information requested by the end user, e.g., SKU, PO, quantity, master data, etc.

[0103] In some embodiments, the platform / solution may also be used to provide trace analysis. In some embodiments, the platform / solution may generate a performance card for callouts that may identify one or more of the supply network sites, product types, supply types, means of transport, carriers, individual workers, work group teams, materials, suppliers, plants, means of transport, specific vehicles used within a distribution warehouse, and / or outbound sites with the fewest, most, above average, below average, or intermediate number of callouts. This may be determined by the number of items associated with the callout at the site.

[0104] For example, trace analysis may be used to generate a performance card for dwell times by site type. In some embodiments, the performance card identifies sites with the shortest and longest dwell times. In some embodiments, dwell times are expressed as average item dwell time for a site by day. Examples of such performance cards are shown in Figures 1-3, which illustrate user interfaces according to some embodiments. Alternative embodiments of Figures 1-3 may include more or less of each feature and may include other information.

[0105] FIG. 1 includes a first filter and a second filter. Filtering options may include filtering by PO number and / or SKU. FIG. 1 includes a first card, a second card, and a third card, each displaying information about a different type of site. For example, the cards in FIG. 1 are for a factory, a warehouse, and a store, and include the number of callouts and inventory for each. In some embodiments, the cards may also display the number of inbound and / or issued items for one or both of the inventory and callouts. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the display may identify a specific callout for an item at the site. The information shared may include one or more of the site, SKU, last action, last visit time, and / or reason for flagging, which may be one or more of the callouts discussed in this disclosure.

[0106] FIG. 2 includes cards listing the sites with the fewest callouts or the most callouts, according to some embodiments. Exemplary locations are disclosed, as well as the number of callouts for these sites. Exemplary locations include factories, warehouses, retail stores, internal or external building locations, and other locations. Alternative embodiments may include less or more information.

[0107] In some embodiments, heuristic and / or machine learning models, e.g., classification and predictive algorithms, are used to analyze combinations of the aforementioned data to identify / predict anomalies. Once an anomaly is identified, a callout or notification is provided to a dashboard / hub, allowing the customer to inspect the event sequence and take corrective action if necessary.

[0108] 3 discloses the sites with the lowest and highest dwell times per site type and identifies the dwell times for different locations, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the first, second, and third site types are displayed for each category of lowest or highest dwell time.

[0109] FIG. 4 includes options for providing end-user visibility into operations, attribution options, itemization options, tracing options, calculation options, and transport options, according to some embodiments.

[0110] FIG. 5 includes options related to front-end applications, brand protection, and consumer participation, according to some embodiments.

[0111] 5. Process Flow FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating assigning a unique identification number to an item / goods and associating data / information / characteristics with the item and its unique ID number, according to some embodiments. For example, at a manufacturing site (e.g., for non-food items) or at a packing plant, farm, or other site for food items 700, a tag or label containing a unique digital ID number can be attached, glued, or integrated into the item or good in operation 702. The unique digital ID number can be encoded, incorporated, or associated with one or more digital triggers, such as an RFID tag, QR code, digital watermark, barcode, etc. Item-specific information, such as size, color, style, item description, pick-up / package date, manufacturing / package location, etc., can be associated with the item / goods via the unique ID number, and that information is stored in the connected product platform / solution. In some embodiments, the unique ID code can be read using a mobile or on-premise device, and the item-specific information is communicated / uploaded to the platform / solution via an API or other application.

[0112] For example, in some embodiments, an object name / description is added in operation 704. Object properties are added in operation 706. A location is associated in operation 708.

[0113] FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating the comparison of dwell time data, according to some embodiments. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the connected product includes, is attached to, or is bonded to a digital trigger that comprises item-level or item-specific data, such as location / site in the supply network and dwell time at the site. The dwell time data of the connected product at a particular site may be compared to reference dwell time data for that item or similar items. If the dwell time data matches or is within an acceptable margin of error, no callout is generated. However, if the data does not match, the platform / solution generates a callout on the platform. The end user can view the callout to assess the significance of the callout and determine if corrective / remedial action must be taken. Since most items of commerce are packaged in containers that contain tens, hundreds, or even thousands of units, unacceptable dwell times can lead to revenue loss and even financial losses depending on the nature of the items.

[0114] For example, for food items, unacceptable dwell times, especially under poor environmental conditions, can significantly reduce shelf life and, in the worst case, cause the product to spoil / expire while in transit to the retail store. Detecting unacceptable dwell times in this use case can enable intervention, such as diverting shipments to a nearby distribution warehouse, DC or retailer, to get the product on the shelf sooner or to determine if the product should be discarded or destroyed as needed.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, in operation 800, dwell time information for an item / good is obtained. In operation 802, the dwell time data for the item / good is compared to the dwell time data for the target. In various embodiments, the reference dwell time data can be a predefined number selected as the target (e.g., a reference dwell time) or can be a history-based variable such as the average, minimum, median, or maximum dwell time for that particular location, item type, and / or situation. The comparison can look for the comparison result to match or be within a predefined threshold range of the target (e.g., 1%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25% of the dwell time of the target), or at least as large or maximum as the dwell time of the target. In operation 804, if the dwell time of the item meets the condition, no action is required. In operation 806, if the dwell time of the item does not meet the condition, a callout is generated. In operation 808, the end user is notified of the callout. At operation 810, the end user evaluates and takes corrective action based on the callout.

[0116] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating the comparison of traversal data according to some embodiments. As mentioned above, a connected product includes, is attached to, or is glued to a digital trigger that comprises item-level or item-specific data, such as supply network traversal data. The traversal data for the connected product can be compared to a target, which can be reference traversal data for that item or similar items, for example, a predicted location, a field, a location in a store, or a storage / issuance site for a particular supply network. If the traversal data meets conditions such as being at or in close proximity to a location or expected to arrive within an acceptable time frame, no callout is generated. However, if the conditions are not met, the platform / solution generates a callout on the platform. The end user can view the callout to assess the significance of the callout and determine whether corrective / remedial action must be taken. Since most items of commerce are packaged in containers that contain tens, hundreds, or even thousands of units, an unacceptable traversal event can lead to revenue loss and even financial loss depending on the characteristics of the item.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 9, in some embodiments, operation 900 includes obtaining supply network data. In operation 902, the supply network traversal data is compared to conditions such as being at or close to an expected location. Close may mean within a threshold range of feet or miles, or expected to arrive within a threshold range of minutes, hours, days, weeks, or months. In operation 804, if the condition is met, no action is required. In operation 806, if the condition is not met, a callout is generated. In operation 808, an end user is notified of the callout. In operation 810, the end user evaluates and takes corrective action. In some other embodiments, the system controls machines to perform corrective actions such as automatically retrieving an item from a wrong location using a standard warehouse automation and item processing system.

[0118] 6. Sustainability Beyond the traceability use cases discussed above, the methods and systems described above can be used to provide sustainability information and insights. In some embodiments, the platform / solution described herein can be used to manage manufacturing sustainability scores to provide end users, particularly retail brand owners and manufacturers, with a 360 degree view of their suppliers. In some embodiments, the callouts described herein can be used to keep track of the expiration dates of sustainability assessments for manufacturers / suppliers in their supply chain. Each item produced at a particular manufacturing site inherits a sustainability score valid at the time of production, providing end users with a lifelong, immutable record of the conditions under which the item was produced.

[0119] Consumers and regulators expect brands to operate in a sustainable manner and companies are making sustainability a core part of their corporate responsibility / good corporate citizenship mission. Providing accurate sustainability insights to all stakeholders is a challenge with a distributed supply chain. Having all supplier ratings and scores available at the item level and being able to share them with relevant stakeholders and consumers is key to proving sustainability.

[0120] 7. Purchase Order Management The systems and methods described herein may also be used to automate purchase order management: the systems and methods described herein can generate purchase orders, associate ordered items, generate and export packing lists, and print carton labels.

[0121] Tracking and managing large volumes of purchase orders, registering items on manufacturing lines, generating inventory lists, and printing carton labels, if done manually, can require vast amounts of man-hours and be error-prone. Maintaining the same standards across dozens or hundreds of manufacturing sites and ensuring that production does not occur through unauthorized subcontractors creates a more complex and challenging challenge. The platform / solution described herein can provide a list of all current purchase orders, their status, and summary information for individual items within the purchase order. A representative example is shown in FIG. 10, which illustrates one possible embodiment.

[0122] By selecting one purchase order from the table, the end user can access its detailed information and individual items can be added to the purchase order, activated and issued. There is also an order fulfillment status that keeps track of the progress of the purchase order. Furthermore, the end user can mark it as confirmed / completed and then activate the export function. The end user can download various documents such as summary packing lists, item-based packing lists and outbound carton labels.

[0123] As noted, in some embodiments, Figure 10 includes one or more of the following: fields for entering a purchase order number, PO number, number of products (items), percentage of activation, percentage of packing, percentage of shipment, percentage of shipment, time created, time updated, and / or discloses data such as status.

[0124] 8. Consumer Experience The methods and systems described herein can be used to generate consumer experiences, such as a consumer experience gallery, some example embodiments of which are shown in FIG. 11. The gallery can hold both end-user templates and previously used experiences. End-users can browse to find the experience they need, generate new experiences from templates, and customize the design. Once the experience is executed, end-users can gain granular insights into how consumers interact with the product through deep consumer experience analytics.

[0125] Allowing consumers to directly interact with physical products through unique digital experiences and conveying sustainable credentials with verified data can be useful in gaining loyalty and trust as well as deepening the connection between consumers and physical items. Being able to evaluate the success of retail brand owners / retailers' campaigns based on accurate and empirical data and track how users experience and interact can enable RBOs / retailers to create better and more relevant experiences for their consumers. Exemplary analytics of consumer actions are shown in Figures 12 and 13 according to some embodiments.

[0126] FIG. 12 includes, according to some embodiments, one or more of an identifier, a timestamp, a city, a country, a name or type of device, an operating system, a browser identifier, a product number, or a GTIN. A location on a map may be provided to detect a digital trigger, such as when a consumer scans a QR code, a barcode, or an RFID tag. The digital trigger may then route the consumer's device (e.g., a smartphone) to a website related to the item with or integrated with the digital trigger. The system may provide the information shown in FIG. 12 at the same time or at a later time as a result of the consumer scanning the digital trigger. For example, an end user of the tracking system receiving and viewing the data in FIG. 12 may be able to view some, all, or other different information regarding what the consumer scanned the digital trigger for, for example.

[0127] Other uses / functions of the methods and systems described herein include the following: 1. Count Analysis: Providing insight into inventory status. For example, how many of each item are at each site can be identified by a system based on general purpose scans, scans through portals as items move through fixed readers, or scans performed manually using handheld readers. 2. The front-end application may support one or more of a variety of digital triggers and may be used with one or more of NFC URLs, GS1 Digital Links, and QR Code identifiers. 3. Consumer Redirect Configuration may provide simplified and easier redirection control to end users. 4. The product master data upload feature may feature detailed error handling for improved user experience and attribute schema management for administrators. 5. Reduced complexity of API integrations in the platform / solution including admin generated API keys, e.g. atma.io. 6. Carton audit reason codes may enable advance shipping notice support and transfer analytics via API. 7. Improved support for food industry use cases including reporting metrics supporting LOT / batch number and expiration date.

[0128] Exemplary Computer System A block diagram illustrating an example of a system (i.e., computer system 400) that may be used to process signals and / or perform operations described in this disclosure is provided in FIG. 14. Computer system 400 is configured to execute calculations, processes, operations, and / or functions related to a program or algorithm. In one aspect, certain processes and steps described herein are implemented as a series of instructions (e.g., a software program) that reside in a computer-readable memory unit and are executed by one or more processors of computer system 400. The instructions, when executed, cause computer system 400 to perform certain actions and exhibit certain behaviors as described herein.

[0129] The computer system 400 may include an address / data bus 402 configured to communicate information. Additionally, one or more data processing units, such as a processor 404 (or multiple processors), are coupled to the address / data bus 402. The processor 404 is configured to process information and instructions. In one aspect, the processor 404 is a microprocessor. Alternatively, the processor 404 may be a different type of processor, such as a parallel processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic array (PLA), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0130] The computer system 400 is configured to utilize one or more data storage units. The computer system 400 may include a volatile memory unit 406 (e.g., random access memory ("RAM"), static RAM, dynamic RAM, etc.) coupled to the address / data bus 402, where the volatile memory unit 406 is configured to store information and instructions for the processor 404. The computer system 400 may further include a non-volatile memory unit 408 (e.g., read only memory ("ROM"), programmable ROM ("PROM"), erasable programmable ROM ("EPROM"), electrically erasable programmable ROM ("EEPROM"), flash memory, etc.) coupled to the address / data bus 402, where the non-volatile memory unit 408 is configured to store static information and instructions for the processor 404. Alternatively, the computer system 400 may execute instructions retrieved from an online data storage unit, similar to "cloud" computing. In one embodiment, the computer system 400 may also include one or more interfaces, such as an interface 410, coupled to the address / data bus 402. The one or more interfaces are configured to allow computer system 400 to interface with other electronic devices and computer systems. The communications interfaces implemented by the one or more interfaces may include wired (e.g., serial cable, modem, network adapter, etc.) and / or wireless (e.g., wireless modem, wireless network adapter, etc.) communications technologies.

[0131] In one embodiment, computer system 400 may include an input device 412 coupled to address / data bus 402, where input device 412 is configured to communicate information and command selections to processor 100. According to one embodiment, input device 412 is an alphanumeric input device, such as a keyboard, which may include alphanumeric and / or function keys. Alternatively, input device 412 may be an input device other than an alphanumeric input device. In one embodiment, computer system 400 may include a cursor control device 414 coupled to address / data bus 402, where cursor control device 414 is configured to communicate user input information and / or command selections to processor 100. In one embodiment, cursor control device 414 is implemented using a device such as a mouse, trackball, trackpad, optical tracing device, or touch screen. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in one embodiment, cursor control device 414 is directed and / or activated via input from input device 412, for example, in response to the use of special keys and key sequence commands associated with input device 412. In another embodiment, the cursor control device 414 is configured to be instructed or guided by voice commands.

[0132] In one embodiment, computer system 400 may further include one or more any computer usable data storage devices, such as storage device 416 coupled to address / data bus 402. Storage device 416 is configured to store information and / or computer executable instructions. In one embodiment, storage device 416 is a storage device, such as a magnetic or optical disk drive (e.g., a hard disk drive ("HDD"), a floppy disk, a compact disk read only memory ("CD-ROM"), a digital versatile disk ("DVD")). According to one embodiment, display device 418 is coupled to address / data bus 402, where display device 418 is configured to display video and / or graphics. In one embodiment, display device 418 may include a cathode ray tube ("CRT"), a liquid crystal display ("LCD"), a field emission display ("FED"), a light emitting diode ("LED"), a plasma display, or any other display device suitable for displaying user perceivable video and / or graphic images and alphanumeric characters.

[0133] The computer system 400 presented herein is an exemplary computing environment according to one embodiment. However, the non-limiting example of the computer system 400 is not strictly limited to being a computer system. For example, the computer system 400 comprises one embodiment illustrating the type of data processing analysis that may be used according to various embodiments described herein. Furthermore, other computing systems may also be implemented. Indeed, the spirit and scope of the present technology is not limited to any single data processing environment. Thus, in one embodiment, the operation of one or more of the various aspects of the technology is controlled or implemented using computer-executable instructions, such as program modules executed by a computer. In one implementation, such program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, and / or data structures configured to perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Also, one or more aspects of the technology comprise one embodiment implemented by utilizing one or more distributed computing environments, such as where tasks are performed by remote processing devices linked via a communications network, or where various program modules are located in both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices.

[0134] An exemplary diagram of a computer program product (i.e., storage device) is shown in FIG. 15. The computer program product is shown as a floppy disk 500 or an optical disk 502, such as a CD or DVD. However, as previously mentioned, the computer program product generally represents computer-readable instructions stored on any compatible non-transitory computer-readable medium. The term "instructions" as used in the context of the present invention generally refers to a sequence of operations performed on a computer and may represent entire programs or pieces of individually separable software modules. Non-limiting examples of "instructions" include computer program code (source or object code) and "hard-coded" electronics (i.e., computer operations coded into a computer chip). The "instructions" are stored in the computer's memory or on non-transitory computer-readable media, such as floppy disks, CD-ROMs, and flash drives. In either case, the instructions are encoded on the non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0135] It will be understood that the above-described embodiments are illustrative of some of the applications of the principles of the present subject matter. Many modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter, including combinations of those features individually disclosed or claimed herein. For this reason, the scope of the present specification is not limited to the above description, but is as set forth in the following claims, and it is understood that the claims may be directed to the features of the present specification, including as combinations of the features individually disclosed or claimed herein.

Claims

1. 1. A processor-based method for identifying or determining a sequence of events for a callout of a connected product at a point or site in a supply network, comprising: obtaining real-time parameters of a connected product at a first location in a supply network by receiving an output from an interrogation of a digital trigger attached to or integrated with the connected product; determining a comparison result by comparing real-time parameters of the connected product with target parameters using conditions; identifying relevant callouts based on the comparison; and remediating the event by performing an automated action based on the callout.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the callout relates to at least one of dwell time, traversal, and item state transitions.

3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the callout includes a dwell time, and the connected product is identified as remaining at a supply network site for more than a threshold time.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the digital trigger comprises means for determining a unique identification number of the connected product and a geographic location of the connected product.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the real-time parameters include one or more of the following: geographic location, time elapsed at the site, elapsed transport time to or from the site, temperature, humidity, or temperature change.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the automated action comprises sending an alert based on the callout.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising the step of ranking a first location against a second location based on the number of callouts generated at each location.

8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the connected product comprises a perishable food product.

9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the connected product comprises a carton, tote, or crate containing additional items.

10. 1. A processor-based system for identifying or determining a sequence of events for a callout of a connected product at a point or site in a supply network, comprising: A processor; A memory, the processor obtaining real-time parameters of the connected product at a first location in a supply network by receiving an output from an interrogation of a digital trigger attached to or integrated with the connected product; determining a comparison result by comparing real-time parameters of the connected product with target parameters using conditions; identifying relevant callouts based on the comparison; and remediating the event by performing an automated action based on the callout.

11. The system of claim 10 , wherein the callout relates to at least one of dwell time, traversal, and item state transitions.

12. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the callout includes a dwell time, and the connected product is identified as remaining at a supply network site for more than a threshold time.

13. The system of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the digital trigger comprises means for determining a unique identification number of the connected product and a geographic location of the connected product.

14. The system of any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the real-time parameters include one or more of the following: geographic location, time elapsed at the site, elapsed transport time to or from the site, temperature, humidity, or temperature change.

15. The system of any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the automated action comprises sending an alert based on the callout.

16. The system of any one of claims 10 to 15, further comprising the step of ranking a first location against a second location based on the number of callouts generated at each location.

17. The system of any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the connected product comprises a perishable food product.

18. The system of any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein the connected product comprises a carton, tote, or crate containing additional items.

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