Apparatus, System, and Method for Monitoring and Predicting Beverage Product Inventory

Abstract

Systems, devices, and methods for automatically predicting a decrease in the amount of product contained. In one example system, a product demand sensor is placed directly under a product container. The demand sensor periodically (e.g., every 3 minutes) measures the weight of the container. This weight data, along with other data collected by the demand sensor, is transmitted to an analytics engine where it is used to develop a demand profile. The demand profile is used to provide an accurate prediction of the number of days of inventory of the product, thereby enabling the product supplier or user to automatically replenish the product in advance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001]

[0001] The embodiments, examples, and aspects presented in this specification relate, inter alia, to devices, systems, and methods for monitoring and predicting a decrease in the amount of a contained product, such as a beverage.

Background Art

[0002]

[0002] Bars, restaurants, and other retail beverage facilities provide individual allocations to customers from bulk products such as flasks and bag-in-box containers. Such products are ordered from beverage distributors. However, as soon as the product containers are shipped from the distributor, the distributor loses visibility of the inventory levels of those containers. Furthermore, only by the retail location having perception can it be known how quickly a given product is being consumed. Product inventory is typically confirmed by manually shaking the container or handling it in another way. The only thing often pointed out to the retailer is that the container is empty when the storage amount remains low. Such stockouts result in revenue losses while product composition, pricing, space utilization, and inventory expenses are impaired. These effects combine to reduce the overall store revenue and profitability. Furthermore, insufficient inventory management causes significant and costly supply chain inefficiencies that affect not only retailers but also distributors and brewers.

Summary of the Invention

[0003]

[0003] In particular, to address these issues, systems and methods are provided for automatically predicting a decrease in the amount of product contained. Using such embodiments, a product demand sensor is placed directly below each product container. The demand sensor periodically (e.g., every 3 minutes) measures the weight of each container. This data is transmitted to an analytics engine where it is refined, aggregated, and presented in an easy-to-understand dashboard for management. Using such embodiments, an accurate prediction of the number of days of product inventory is provided, thereby enabling retailers to automatically replenish inventory proactively. Distributors can observe customer inventory and predicted demand to help maintain stock levels from brewers and other producers.

[0004]

[0004] Using the embodiments presented herein, retailers can view real-time inventory levels and consumption rates across all products on an accessible and easy-to-understand dashboard on any connected device (smartphone, tablet, notebook, or workstation). This provides retailers with a view of the ultimate inventory at any given moment. Retailers can improve product composition, optimize selling price and space utilization, maximize revenue, and reduce working capital. Additionally, distributor replenishment is partially or fully automated, thereby substantially reducing human resources and improving order accuracy. And since distributors are observing real-time store inventory, they can perform validation checks before finalizing orders.

[0005]

[0005] In the accompanying drawings, like reference numerals refer to the same or functionally similar elements throughout the separate figures, and the accompanying drawings, together with the following detailed description of the invention, are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, and serve to further illustrate various embodiments of the concepts including the claimed invention and to explain the various principles and advantages of those embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006]

Figure 1

[0006] Schematic diagram of a conclusive product demand system according to some embodiments.

Figure 2

[0007] Schematic diagram of the product demand sensor of the system of FIG. 1 according to some embodiments.

Figure 3

[0008] Schematic diagram of the server of the system of FIG. 1 according to some embodiments.

Figure 4

[0009] Schematic diagram of the portable computing device of the system of FIG. 1 according to some embodiments.

Figure 5

[0010] Flowchart showing a method for generating an inventory days forecast for a product implemented by the server of FIG. 3 according to some embodiments.

Figure 6

[0011] Diagram of a chart for a user interface depicting inventory days forecasts for multiple different product types generated by the server of FIG. 3 according to some embodiments.

Figure 7

[0012] Diagram of a user interface depicting demand information for multiple product types including the chart of FIG. 6 according to some embodiments.

Figure 8

[0013] Diagram of a vessel configured to contain a volume of a product according to some embodiments.

Figure 9

[0014] Diagram of a vessel configured to contain a volume of a product according to some embodiments.

Figure 10

[0015] Top perspective view of a product demand sensor according to some embodiments.

Figure 11

[0016] Top perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 10 with the platform removed.

Figure 12

[0017] Bottom perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 10.

Figure 13

[0018] An enlarged bottom perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 10.

Figure 14

[0019] An enlarged bottom perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 10, including an open charging port cover.

Figure 15

[0020] A top perspective view of another product demand sensor according to some embodiments.

Figure 16

[0021] A bottom perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 15.

Figure 17

[0022] A top perspective view of another product demand sensor according to some embodiments.

Figure 18

[0023] A bottom perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 17.

Figure 19

[0024] A top perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 17 with the platform removed.

Figure 20

[0025] A top perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 17 with the platform and a plurality of buckles removed.

Figure 21

[0026] A top perspective view of another product demand sensor according to some embodiments.

Figure 22

[0027] A top perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 21 with the platform removed.

Figure 23

[0028] A bottom perspective view of the product demand sensor of FIG. 21.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007]

[0029] Those skilled in the art will understand that the elements in the drawings are shown for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, some dimensions of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to assist in understanding the embodiments of the present invention.

[0008]

[0030] The components of the apparatus and method are represented by conventional reference numerals in the drawings, which show only those specific details relevant to understanding embodiments of the invention so as not to obscure the disclosure, including details that would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein, where appropriate.

[0009]

[0031] Before embodiments of the invention are described in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0010]

[0032] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The terms “attached,” “connected,” and “coupled” are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect attachment, connection, and coupling. The terms “connected” and “coupled” are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings and can include electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect. The electronic communications and notifications described herein may be implemented using any known or later developed means including wired connections, wireless connections.

[0011]

[0033] For ease of explanation, some or all of the example systems presented herein are described using a single representative example of each of their component parts. Some examples may not describe or illustrate all of the components of the system. Other embodiments may include some, combine some, or include additional or alternative components of the illustrated components.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a definitive product demand system 100 according to some embodiments. The system 100 includes one or more product demand sensors 105A-D, a facility hub 110, and a server 115. The system 100 may further include one or more of a database 117, a portable computing device 120, and an additional facility hub / network system 130. The components of the system 100 are communicatively coupled to each other, for example, by a communication network 125. Example communication networks 125 include wireless connections, wired connections, or combinations of both. Suitable communication networks may be implemented using various local and wide area networks (e.g., Bluetooth™ networks, Wi-Fi™ networks), the Internet, terrestrial mobile radio networks, cellular data networks, Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks, 4G networks, 5G networks, or combinations or derivatives thereof.

[0012]

[0035] The product demand sensors 105A - D (referred to herein in the singular as product demand sensor 105), which are described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 2, are configured to measure the current weight of the product applied to each product demand sensor 105 (specifically, provided on the platform of the product demand sensor 105). As used herein, the term "product" refers to any type of substance, object, or plurality of objects having a measurable weight (e.g., a plurality of solid objects, a plurality of liquids, a plurality of gases, and a plurality of gases stored in the form of pressurized liquids, etc.). Such a product may be contained in a container (e.g., a vessel for containing a liquid or gas) when applied to the product demand sensor 105 for measurement. FIGS. 8 and 9 show two examples of containers for use with the system 100. FIG. 8 shows a cask 800 configured to contain a liquid product (e.g., beer) for use with a commercial fluid tap system. FIG. 9 shows a bag - in - box (BIB) soda syrup container 900 for use with a commercial soda fountain. As described in more detail herein, in some instances, the product demand sensor is configured to periodically measure the weight of the container (e.g., cask 800 or BIB container 900) disposed on the product demand sensor as the product in the container is dispensed from the container over time.

[0013]

[0036] Returning to FIG. 1, as described in more detail herein, the product demand sensors 105A-D periodically collect weight measurement results and other data, which are transmitted from their respective product demand sensors 105A-D via a facility hub 110 (e.g., an electronic wireless network hub of a facility common to the product demand sensors 105A-D). The facility hub 110 is configured to transmit the weight measurement results and other data to the server 115 via the communication network 125. As described herein, the server 115 is configured to transmit product status information to the product demand sensors 105A-D via the facility hub 110 (e.g., using a suitable communication protocol). In some cases, the facility hub 110 is further configured to transmit facility management data (described in detail herein) supplied by or retrieved from one or more other computing systems of the facility to the server 115. In some cases, the facility management data may be transmitted directly from one or more other computing systems of the facility to the server 115 through the communication network 125 without passing through the facility hub 110.

[0014]

[0037] The server 115, described in more detail with respect to FIG. 3, is communicatively coupled to a database 117 and writes data to and from the database 117. The database 117 stores data including demand profile data, facility data, and other data according to the methods described herein. As shown in FIG. 1, the database 117 is an electronic database housed on a suitable database server communicatively coupled to and accessible by the server 115. In some cases, the server 115, the database 117, or both may be part of a cloud-based database system (e.g., a data warehouse) external to the system 100 and accessible by components of the system 100 over one or more wired or wireless networks. In some embodiments, all or part of the database 117 may be stored locally on the server 115.

[0015]

[0038] As described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 5, the server 115 is configured to analyze the received weight management data, facility management data, and other data for forming product demand analysis learning information (e.g., days of inventory forecast, inventory reports, profitability reports, and other data) regarding products monitored by the demand sensors 105A - D. Further, in some instances, the server 115 is configured to generate product demand analysis learning information based on information received from additional facility hubs and / or the network system 130. Such information, referred to herein as "additional factor(s)", is described in more detail below.

[0016]

[0039] In some instances, the server 115 is configured to supply product demand analysis learning information to the portable computing device 120 (automatically or in response to a request from the portable computing device 120) via the communication network 125. In some instances, the portable computing device 120 participates in a local network of a facility housing the product demand sensors 105A - 105D and the facility hub 110. In some instances, the portable computing device 120 may be remotely operated from the facility.

[0017]

[0040] FIG. 2 schematically shows an example of the product demand sensor 105. The illustrated example of the product demand sensor 105 includes an electronic processor 205, a memory 210, an input / output interface 215 (including a transceiver 220), a load cell 225, an accelerometer 230, a battery 235, a temperature sensor 240, and a product status indicator 245. The illustrated components are coupled to each other by one or more control and / or data buses (e.g., bus 250) that enable communication between them, along with various other modules and components, or through. The use of control and data buses for the interconnection and information exchange between the various modules and components will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the description made herein. In some embodiments, the product demand sensor 105 includes fewer or additional components with a configuration different from the example shown in FIG. 2. For example, in some embodiments, the product demand sensor 105 does not have a temperature sensor or an accelerometer 230. The product demand sensor 105 may include various digital and analog components, but they are not described herein for the sake of brevity and may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both.

[0018]

[0041] The electronic processor 205 obtains and prepares information (e.g., from the memory 210 and / or the input / output interface 215), and processes that information by executing one or more software instructions or modules that may be stored, for example, in a random access memory (「RAM」) area of the memory 210, or in a read-only memory (「ROM」) of the memory 210, or in another non-transitory computer-readable medium (not shown). The software can include firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. The electronic processor 205 is configured to, among other things, retrieve and execute software related to the control processes and methods described herein. For example, the electronic processor 205 is configured to, among other things, determine the weight measurement results of the product applied to the product demand sensor 105.

[0019]

[0042] The memory 210 can include one or more non-transitory computer-readable media and includes a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area and the data storage area can include combinations of different types of memory, as described herein.

[0020]

[0043] The input / output interface 215 is configured to receive inputs and provide system outputs. The input / output interface 215 obtains information and signals from devices both internal and external to the product demand sensor 105 (e.g., on one or more wired and / or wireless connections) and supplies information and signals to those devices. In the illustrated example, the input / output interface 215 includes a transceiver 220. The electronic processor 205 is configured to control the transceiver 220 to transmit wireless data to the product demand sensor 105 (e.g., communicating with the server 115) via, for example, the facility hub 110 and to receive wireless data from the product demand sensor 105. In some embodiments, the transceiver 220 includes components of a combined transmitter-receiver. In other embodiments, the transceiver 220 includes separate transmitter and receiver components.

[0021]

[0044] The load cell 225 is operably coupled to the platform of the product demand sensor 105. The platform is not shown in FIG. 2 but is shown in FIGS. 10, 15, 17, and 21 and is described in more detail below. In particular, the load cell 225 includes one or more transducers (e.g., strain gauges) and is configured to convert a force applied to the load cell 225 by the platform into an electrical signal (e.g., voltage) that varies in proportion to the applied force. In some embodiments, the product demand sensor 105 includes an array of two load cells out of more load cells coupled to the platform. In such embodiments, the array may be electrically coupled (e.g., by a Wheatstone bridge) to output a single voltage signal. The electronic processor 205 is configured to process the signal from the load cell or load cell array to calculate the weight of the product placed on the platform. To calculate the weight of the product, for example, the processor 205 reads a voltage value (e.g., in millivolts) from the load cell 225 and multiplies the result by a value representing the amount of weight per amount of voltage (e.g., expressed as grams per millivolt). In some cases, the processor 205 is configured to subtract one or more adjustment values from the measured weight value (e.g., to separate the value of the weight of only the product without including the weight of the vessel containing the product).

[0022]

[0045] In some cases, the electronic processor 205 is configured to determine a tilt-compensated weight measurement result. For example, the product demand sensor embodiments 105 shown in FIGS. 21-23 may be deployed on an angled surface such that the force of gravity can deliver product from a container disposed on the product demand sensor 105 (e.g., where product is dispensed from a bag-in-box container). Since the angle applies weight unevenly to the platform, the angle must be compensated when determining the weight. In such cases, the electronic processor 205 can determine the tilt relative to the product demand sensor by receiving and analyzing readings from the accelerometer 230 and use that tilt and the load sensor readings to calculate a tilt-compensated weight measurement result. In some cases, the electronic processor 205 determines the weight without compensating for the tilt but transmits the weight measurement result and the tilt determination quantity to the server 115 for processing.

[0023]

[0046] The battery 235 supplies power to the product demand sensor, whereby the product demand sensor can function without being connected to an external power source. In some cases, the battery 235 is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. To conserve battery power, the electronic processor 205 is configured to function in a sleep (low power) mode, whereby it periodically wakes itself up to an active mode to perform weight measurements and transmit data. In some cases, the electronic processor 205 is configured to wake up the product demand sensor 105 every three minutes to perform weight measurements as described herein and transmit the weight measurement results to the server 115 (e.g., via the transceiver 220 and through the facility hub 110). Between the transmission of the weight measurement results to the server 115 and the transmission, the electronic processor 205 automatically switches from the active mode to the sleep mode. In some cases, the electronic processor 204 is user-configurable to perform weight measurements and transmit the weight measurement results at different intervals depending on the desired level of granularity of the collected data.

[0024]

[0047] In some cases, the product demand sensor 105 includes additional sensors, such as temperature sensor 240, to monitor the environment around the product demand sensor 105 and / or the performance of one or more components of the product demand sensor 105. Further examples of such sensors include, without limitation, one or more of a voltage sensor, a current sensor, a battery load sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor. In some cases, the electronic processor 205 is configured to periodically transmit other data in addition to the weight measurement results. For example, the electronic processor 205 can transmit one or more of the inclination with respect to the product demand sensor 105, the ambient temperature, the temperature with respect to the demand sensor 105, and the battery health state (e.g., voltage, current, or load measurement results) in addition to the weight measurement results. In some cases, the electronic processor 205 is further configured to transmit data regarding the product demand sensor itself, such as a unique alphanumeric identifier for the product demand sensor.

[0025]

[0048] The product status indicator 245 is configured to visually indicate the status of the product placed on the platform. For example, the electronic processor 205 receives a product status electronic message including the status of the product from the server and controls the product status indicator 245 to visually indicate the product status in response to the receipt of the status. For example, the product status indicator 245 may include a light source that illuminates in a specific color to indicate the status (e.g., illuminates red to indicate that the container is empty). The light source can be one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), a ring LED arranged around the outer periphery of the product demand sensor 105, or another suitable electronic light source. In some cases, the light source may pulsate to indicate the product status. In another example, the product status indicator 245 may include a suitable display configured to present a number representing the number of days in stock of the product (as described herein). In another example, the product status indicator 245 may include a display configured to present a percentage display of the available product (e.g., by displaying a numerical percentage, a bar graph, a pie chart, or another suitable display).

[0026]

[0049] In some cases, the product demand sensor 105 may include aspects of a human-machine interface for interacting with and configuring the product demand sensor 105, such as a keypad, switch, button, soft key, indicator light (e.g., light-emitting diode), and tactile vibrator. In some embodiments, the product demand sensor 105 includes a suitable display such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen and an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen. In some embodiments, the processor 205 can display the measured / calculated weight on the display.

[0027]

[0050] In some cases, the human-machine interface for the product demand sensor 105 is provided separately from the product demand sensor 105 by, for example, the portable computing device 120 being communicatively coupled to the product demand sensor 105 (e.g., via the input / output interface 215 using a wired or wireless connection).

[0028]

[0051] The components of the product demand sensor 105 are housed in a housing. The housing and its configuration are not shown in FIG. 2. Embodiments of specific examples of the product demand sensor 105 are shown in FIGS. 10-23 and are described in more detail below.

[0029]

[0052] FIG. 3 schematically shows one example embodiment of server 115. In the illustrated example, server 115 includes an electronic processor 305, a memory 310, and an input / output interface 315. Since the electronic processor 305, the memory 310, and the input / output interface 315 include similar components and function in the same manner as the electronic processor 205, the memory 210, and the input / output interface 215 respectively, they are not explicitly described herein for the sake of brevity. However, it should be noted that the electronic processor 305 is configured to be combined with the memory 310 and the input / output interface 315 to implement the methods and functionality (e.g., demand profile engine 325) described below with respect to FIG. 5.

[0030]

[0053] In some embodiments, server 115 uses one or more machine learning methods (when executing demand profile engine 325) to analyze the weight measurement results and other data described herein, and create product demand analysis learning information (as described herein). Machine learning generally refers to the function of a computer program that learns without being explicitly programmed. In some embodiments, a computer program (e.g., a learning engine) is configured to construct an algorithm based on the input. For supervised learning, it is necessary to provide a computer program with example inputs and their desired outputs. The computer program is configured to learn the general rule of mapping the input to the output from the received training data. Example machine learning engines include decision tree learning, association rule learning, artificial neural networks, classifiers, inductive logic programming, support vector machines, clustering, Bayesian networks, reinforcement learning, representation learning, similarity and metric learning, sparse dictionary learning, as well as genetic algorithms. Using these techniques, the computer program ingests, parses, understands, and continuously improves the algorithms for data analysis.

[0031]

[0054] In some embodiments, it should be noted that server 115 includes additional components not discussed herein for the sake of brevity. Such components may include, for example, one or more human-machine interfaces that enable a user to interact with and control server 115 and other aspects of system 100. For example, server 115 may include a display (such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) touch screen and an organic light emitting diode (OLED) touch screen, etc.) and suitable physical or virtual selection mechanisms (such as buttons, keys, knobs, and switches, etc.). In some cases, server 115 implements a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables a user to interact with server 115 (for example, generated by electronic processor 305 from instructions and data stored in memory 310 and displayed on a suitable display).

[0032]

[0055] Figure 4 schematically shows an embodiment of one example of the portable computing device 120 according to some embodiments. As will be described in more detail below, the portable computing device 120 is a user device configured to enable a user to transmit information to the server 115 (and, in some embodiments, one or more additional components of the system 100 via the network 125) and to receive information from the server 115. The portable computing device 120 can be, for example, a portable wireless communication device including hardware and software configured to communicate via the wireless communication network 125. The user device 120 can be, for example, a smartphone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smartwatch, or other similar devices that can function as described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the device 120 includes an electronic processor 405, a memory 410, an input / output interface 415, a display 420, and an HMI 425. The electronic processor 405, the memory 410, and the input / output interface 415 include similar components and function in a manner similar to the electronic processor 205, the memory 210, and the input / output interface 215, respectively, and thus are not explicitly described herein for the sake of brevity. However, it should be noted that the electronic processor 405, in combination with the memory 410 and the input / output interface 415, can be configured to implement at least a portion of the methods and functionality of the server 115 in some embodiments (as described with respect to FIG. 5 below).

[0033]

[0056] The display 420 is a suitable display (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) touch screen, and an organic light emitting diode (OLED) touch screen, etc.). The HMI 425 includes suitable physical or virtual selection mechanisms (e.g., buttons, keys, knobs, and switches, etc.). In some cases, the portable computing device 120 implements a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables a user to interact with the portable computing device 120 (e.g., generated by the electronic processor 405 from instructions and data stored in the memory 410 and displayed on the display 420).

[0034]

[0057] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example method 500 for generating an estimate of the days in inventory of a product. By way of example, method 500 is described with respect to the server 115, and in particular, with respect to the electronic processor 305 that estimates for a single product (e.g., executes the demand profile engine 325). However, a portion of method 500 may be distributed among multiple devices (e.g., one or more additional controllers / processors of or connected to the system 100 such as the portable computing device 120), and may be applied to two or more products (or a kind thereof) at the same time or at different times.

[0035]

[0058] In block 502, the electronic processor 305 receives from the product demand sensor 105, via the transceiver 315, data including a weight measurement result corresponding to the weight of the product applied to the product demand sensor 105 (e.g., to one or more load cells 225 of the platform of the sensor 105). As described herein, the weight measurement result represents the weight of the product and may be derived from the first weight measurement performed by the product demand sensor 105.

[0036]

[0059] In some cases, the weight measurement data is information generated by the product demand sensor 105 based on the weight measurement performed by the product demand sensor 105. The weight measurement data may be the weight measurement result itself and / or a value derived therefrom or including that value. In some embodiments, the data may be an adjusted weight measurement value derived from the original weight measurement result of the product demand sensor 105. For example, the weight measurement value can be the weight measurement result of the total weight applied to the product demand sensor 105 (i.e., the initial or true weight measurement result) - (minus) the weight of the container in which the product is stored (e.g., a predefined or calibrated value), the difference being the value.

[0037]

[0060] In some cases, the electronic processor 305 receives additional data such as, for example, an inclination value for the product demand sensor. In such cases, the server electronic processor 305 uses the received weight measurement result and inclination value to generate an inclination-compensated weight measurement result.

[0038]

[0061] In block 504, the electronic processor 305 generates a product demand profile based on the weight measurement result and historical weight measurement data corresponding to at least one previously received weight measurement result of the product. The product demand profile is a plot of the historical demand of a specific product over time (as shown, for example, in FIG. 7). In addition to corresponding to a specific product, the product demand profile can correspond to one or more related factors of the product (e.g., a specific facility associated with each product demand sensor 105). The historical weight measurement data includes one or more previous weight measurement results of the product from the same product demand sensor 105 from which the weight measurement result of block 502 was received.

[0039]

[0062] In some examples, the demand profile may be created using historical weight measurement data from different product demand sensors 105 (of the same facility) corresponding to products of the same or similar type as the product of the weight measurement results of block 502 (e.g., beer or soda of the same brand).

[0040]

[0063] In block 506, the electronic processor 305 generates a future demand trajectory (i.e., a series of calculated predicted demand values of the profile for a predetermined amount at a future time) based on the product demand profile. For example, the electronic processor 305 can perform polynomial extrapolation based on a plot of the product demand profile for the past 30 days to create a predicted demand for the next 30 days.

[0041]

[0064] In some embodiments, the future demand trajectory is determined based on one or more additional factors. For example, the electronic processor 305 can take into account facility management data for the facility to sell the product. Facility management data is, for example, information regarding the operating time of the facility, the price of the product sold by the facility, product storage information (such as the type of product and the quantity of the product), revenue and profitability, and information regarding the operation of the facility such as the number of customers.

[0042]

[0065] An example of an additional factor is a second weight measurement result corresponding to the weight of a second product applied to another product demand sensor 105. The second product may be of the same type as the first product (such as beverages of the same brand and type). As an example, the second product (and its product demand sensor 105) may be installed in a separate facility within a specific location that is very close to the location of the product demand sensor 105 (e.g., a large enterprise retail location with multiple serving stations supplied from multiple refrigerators, such as a hotel and resort). The electronic processor 305 is configured to compare the product demand profile, future demand trajectory, and / or days - of - inventory prediction of the second product of the second product demand sensor 105 with the determined future demand trajectory of the first product in order to determine one or more data weights to apply during the calculation of the determined future demand trajectory to normalize the product demand data for a specific location. Similar data for the same product provided at other retailer locations for the same distributor as the first product may also be used by the electronic processor 305 to normalize the demand data used, thereby enabling the determination of the future demand trajectory.

[0043]

[0066] Other examples of additional factors include factors with a large influence that can indirectly affect the future demand for a product. Such additional factors may include future environmental predictions, future days of the week, and facility management factors. A future environmental prediction is a weather forecast predicted for the location of the facility housing the product demand sensor 105 (and its product) that overlaps with the duration of the future demand trajectory. The electronic processor 305 can collect this information, for example, from a local electronic weather database. By using the future environmental prediction, weather factors that can affect the demand for the product are considered. For example, if the electronic processor 305 determines from the future environmental prediction that it will rain on at least one future day of the week at an outdoor facility, the processor 305 can adjust (e.g., reduce) the predicted demand value within the future demand trajectory for that day when fewer customers are likely to visit the facility.

[0044]

[0067] Similarly, future days of the week may further affect the demand for the product. For example, if the product is of the beer type, the demand for the product on Fridays and Saturdays may be higher compared to the remaining days of the week. The demand for beer may further be higher on certain holidays compared to other weekdays.

[0045]

[0068] The facility management factor is data corresponding to the operation of the facility that houses the product demand sensor 105. For example, the facility management factor may be the operating hours for each day of the week. The demand for the product may be lower on days when the facility is operating for a shorter time compared to other days of the week (e.g., when the facility is open for only half a day or closed on Monday, but operating all day on Saturday). The facility management factor may further include information regarding the day or days (e.g., holidays) when the facility will not / will not be operating, which the electronic processor 305 takes into account when determining the future demand trajectory.

[0046]

[0069] In block 508, the electronic processor 305 generates an inventory days forecast based on the future demand trajectory. The inventory days forecast is a prediction of the number of days that will elapse before the product monitored by a particular product demand sensor 105 is completely depleted (e.g., the number of days until the product is completely used and / or until it needs to be replenished). For example, the electronic processor 305 compares the demand to the current amount of the in - stock product to determine when the demand will deplete the current supply.

[0047]

[0070] In some cases, the electronic processor 305 is configured to take into account density or other factors associated with one or more physical characteristics of the product when determining the days of inventory forecast (and / or future demand profile) (e.g., if the product is a type of light beer, the processor 305 takes into account that light beer weighs less than a heavy beer such as imperial stout). Such factors may be predefined and stored locally, or may be retrieved by the server 115 from one or more of the additional hub / network systems 130, for example.

[0048]

[0071] As shown in FIG. 5, after block 508, method 500 returns to block 502 and repeats the process. Based on subsequent information received (in block 502 of method 500, or one or more of the additional factors), the electronic processor 305 is automatically configured to update the future demand profile and / or the days of inventory forecast.

[0049]

[0072] In some embodiments, the electronic processor 305 is configured to automatically generate an order for the volume of the product based on the days of inventory forecast and transmit it to a distribution facility (e.g., a distributor of a particular product). An order may be requested for the delivery of the product at a future point in time several days before it is predicted (based on the days of inventory forecast) that the product will run out of stock.

[0050]

[0073] In some embodiments, the electronic processor 305 is configured to transmit product status messages regarding products monitored by the product demand sensors to individual product demand sensors. In some cases, the product status is based on the projected days of inventory for each product. For example, if the projected days of inventory for a product on a particular product demand sensor drops below a threshold (e.g., 1 day), the electronic processor 305 can transmit a product status message to that product demand sensor indicating a "very low" product status. As described herein, upon receiving a product status message, the product demand sensor displays the product status via a product status indicator. For example, an LED within the product demand sensor brightens. In this way, personnel replenishing the products can easily identify the location of the correct product demand sensor. The product status may also be based on the projected days of inventory or the measured quantity of the product. Examples of product status include the percentage of product volume (e.g., when compared to the container capacity), a value on a numerical scale (e.g., a number between 0 and 5, where 5 indicates a full container and 0 indicates an empty container), words representing the product status (e.g., "full", "sufficient", "low", and "very low", etc.), as well as projected days of inventory values.

[0051]

[0074] In some embodiments, the electronic processor 305 is further configured to determine past or predicted revenue profitability data regarding a product based on a demand profile and a future demand trajectory. The electronic processor 305 can generate revenue and / or profitability for a product type (e.g., a particular brand of beer) based on financial information supplied to the system by the facilities of the product demand sensors 105 or captured / shared from a point of sale (POS) or accounting software system (e.g., via an additional hub / network system 130).

[0052]

[0075] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a chart 600 depicting a plurality of inventory days predictions 602 for a plurality of different product types 604 generated by server 115 according to the method presented herein. The chart may be generated as part of a user interface implemented on a computing device based on the inventory days predictions determined by server 115. The user interface may be implemented, for example, on display 420 of portable computing device 120.

[0053]

[0076] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a user interface 700 depicting demand information for a plurality of product types according to some embodiments. User interface 700 includes, in the illustrated example, chart 600 of FIG. 6. User interface 700 further includes a revenue tracking 30-day chart 705 for a plurality of different product types, a profitability chart 710 for a plurality of different product types, and a demand profile 715. Demand profile 715 is a total measure of demand revenue based on historical demand data and predicted future demand trajectories for a plurality of different product types (including both historical and predicted future demand data).

[0054]

[0077] FIGS. 10-12 show an exemplary embodiment 1000 of a product demand sensor 105 for measuring and tracking the weight of a liquid container. In some embodiments, the liquid container may be a cask, a syrup box, or a barrel, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, product demand sensor 1000 is configured to correspond to a cask. Product demand sensor 1000 may be configured to correspond to various cask sizes (e.g., homebrew beverages, six-barrel, quarter-barrel, slim quarter-barrel, half-barrel, etc.). Referring to FIG. 10, product demand sensor 1000 includes a platform 1004 disposed within a frame 1008, i.e., a pedestal.

[0055]

[0078] In some embodiments, platform 1004 includes metal. In some embodiments, platform 1004 may include carbon steel. As shown, platform 1004 is disk-shaped and has a substantially flat surface. Platform 1004 floats within frame 1008 such that it is movable in the axial, radial, and tangential directions. That is, platform 1004 is supported by frame 1008 but is not fixed to frame 1008.

[0056]

[0079] In some embodiments, frame 1008 includes plastic. In some embodiments, frame 1008 may be metal. In some embodiments, frame 1008 may be an injection mold and may be formed as an integral unit. Frame 1008 is configured to be shock-absorbing. In the illustrated embodiment, frame 1008 is waterproof. In particular, sensor 100 has an IP67 rating for environments with moisture. Frame 1008 has a base 1100 (see FIG. 11) and an outer peripheral wall 1012 extending from base 1100. Outer peripheral wall 1012 and base 1100 define a recess 1016 for receiving platform 1004. Frame 1008 has an upper surface 1018 that defines the opening of recess 1016 and a lower surface 1212 on the opposite side of upper surface 1018. Outer peripheral wall 1012 extends beyond platform 1004 and surrounds platform 1004 such that the movement of platform 1004 is limited in the radial and tangential directions. Base 1100 supports platform 1004. Platform 1004 is recessed relative to upper surface 1018. In other embodiments, platform 1004 may be flush with upper surface 1018.

[0057]

[0080] The outer peripheral wall 1012 is substantially frustoconical. The outer peripheral wall 1012 has an inner circumference 1020 that defines the recess 1016 and an outer circumference 1024 on the side opposite to the inner circumference 1020. The outer peripheral wall 1012 is tapered such that the height of the outer peripheral wall 1012 at the inner circumference 1020 is greater than the height of the outer peripheral wall 1012 at the outer circumference 1024. Due to the tapered configuration of the outer peripheral wall 1012, the user can roll the tumbler onto the platform 1004 without completely lifting it.

[0058]

[0081] Referring to FIG. 11, the frame 1008 includes a plurality of first ribs 1104 that extend from a base 1100 and are disposed within the recess 1016. The first ribs 1104 reinforce the platform 1004 and the outer peripheral wall of the 1012 of the frame 1008. The frame 1008 further includes a plurality of load sensor sheets 1108 configured to support an array of load sensors 1112. The load sensor sheets 1108 extend from the base 1100 and are disposed within the recess 1016. Each of the load sensor sheets 1108 supports a respective one of the load sensors 1112. A gap is defined between each of the load sensors 1112 and each of the load sensor sheets 1108. Thus, the load sensors 1112 are movable within the load sensor sheets 1108. The frame 1008 further includes a circuit housing 1116 that extends from the base 1100 and is disposed within the recess 1016. The circuit housing 1116 receives a lithium ion battery and a printed circuit board. A circuit cover 1118 is detachably coupled to the circuit housing 1116.

[0059]

[0082] As shown in FIG. 12, the frame 1008 includes a second plurality of second ribs 1120 that extend from the outer peripheral wall 1012 toward the lower surface 1212. The plurality of second ribs 1200 reinforce the outer peripheral wall 1012 such that the liquid container can be rolled over the outer peripheral wall 1012 without the frame 1008 breaking or buckling. In some embodiments, the outer peripheral wall 1012 can be solid.

[0060]

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 12 - 14, the frame 1008 defines a wire channel 1204 and a switch cavity 1208 within the lower surface 1212. The wire channel 1204 extends from the outer periphery 1024 of the outer peripheral wall 1012 to the switch cavity 1208. The wire channel 1204 is configured to receive a charging cable for charging the sensor 1000. The switch cavity 1208 houses an on / off switch 1300 for the product demand sensor 1000 and a charging port 1400 (see FIG. 14). The charging port 1400 includes a waterproof charging port cover 1304. When disconnected from the charging cable, the charging port 1400 is covered by the charging port cover 1304. In the illustrated embodiment, the on / off switch 1300 is a rocker switch. In some embodiments, the on / off switch 1300 may be another type of switch, such as a toggle switch or a push - button switch.

[0061]

[0084] As shown, the product demand sensor 1000 includes a frame 1008 that defines a recess 1016, a platform 1004 disposed within the recess 1016, and a plurality of load sensors 1112 disposed within the frame 1008, and is configured to detect the weight of an object or a plurality of objects placed on the product demand sensor 1000. The frame 1008 has a base 1100 and an outer peripheral wall 1012 extending from the base 1100. The platform 1004 is movable relative to the outer peripheral wall 1012 of the frame 1008.

[0062]

[0085] Figures 15 and 16 show another exemplary embodiment 1500 of the product demand sensor 105. The product demand sensor 1500 is similar to the product demand sensor 1000 described above and includes a platform 1504 disposed within a frame 1508, i.e., a pedestal. The product demand sensor 1500 is smaller than the product demand sensor 1000 described above. Unlike the product demand sensor 1000, the product demand sensor 1500 includes a battery housing 1615 that is separate from the circuit housing 1616. The battery housing 1615 receives a battery and the circuit housing 1616 receives a printed circuit board. The frame 1508 includes an outer peripheral wall 1512 that surrounds the platform 1504. Similar to the outer peripheral wall 1012 discussed above, the outer peripheral wall 1512 is tapered from an inner circumference 1520 to an outer circumference 1524.

[0063]

[0086] Figures 17 - 19 show another exemplary embodiment 1700 of the product demand sensor 105. The product demand sensor 1700 is similar to the product demand sensors described above and includes a platform 1704 disposed within a frame 1708, i.e., a pedestal. The frame 1708 includes a base 1800 and an outer peripheral wall 1712 extending from the base 1800. Unlike the outer peripheral walls 1012, 1512 described above, the outer peripheral wall 1712 is annular and has a constant thickness and height. That is, the outer peripheral wall 1712 has a hollow cylindrical shape. Further, the outer peripheral wall 1712 is perpendicular to the base 1800. The frame 1708 defines a recess 1716 that receives the platform 1704. The frame 1708 has an upper surface 1718 that defines the opening of the recess 1716 and a lower surface 1812 on the opposite side of the upper surface 1718. The platform 1704 is recessed or offset from the upper surface 1718. The configuration of the product demand sensor 1700 enables the product demand sensor 1700 to be constructed with a "zero footprint" with respect to the product vessel such that the diameter of the product demand sensor 1700 is substantially equal to the diameter of the product vessel to be monitored by the product demand sensor 1700.

[0064]

[0087] The demand sensor 1700 further includes a plurality of feet 1822 that support a plurality of load sensors 2012. The frame 1708 defines a plurality of openings 1826 in the lower surface 1812 configured to receive the plurality of feet 1822. The feet 1822 extend to the recess 1716, and the load sensors 2012 are disposed within the recess 1716. The feet 1822 and the load sensors 2012 are separated from the frame 1708 and the platform 1704 such that the frame 1708 and the platform 1704 float on the feet 1822 and the load sensors 2012. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of feet 1822 and the plurality of openings 1826 each have a circular cross-section in a plane defined by the lower surface 1812. In other embodiments, the plurality of feet 1822 and the plurality of openings 1826 may have another cross-sectional shape, such as square or rectangular. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of feet 1822 are made of plastic.

[0065]

[0088] The frame 1708 defines a circuit housing 1916 that houses a printed circuit board and a battery. The circuit housing 1916 extends to the recess 1716. A circuit cover 1818 closes the circuit housing 1916 and is removably coupled to the base 1800. The frame 1708 includes a plurality of protrusions 1920 and a plurality of ribs 1924 extending from the base 1800. The plurality of protrusions 1920 are hollow and configured to be used as handles for lifting the demand sensor 1700. The frame 1708 includes further protrusions 1928 extending from the circuit housing 1916. The product demand sensor 1700 further includes a plurality of buckles 1901 disposed on the frame 1708. The protrusions 1920, the ribs 1924, the buckles 1901, and the further protrusions 1928 are coplanar with each other such that the platform 1704 is supported and reinforced by the frame 1708 and the buckles 1901.

[0066]

[0089] The buckle 1901 is shaped to cover the load sensor 2012. Specifically, the buckle 1901 is substantially box-shaped and has an open end for receiving the load sensor 2012 and a closed end for covering the load sensor 2012. The buckle 1901 is deformable so as to be pressed against the load sensor 2012 to transmit the weight of the liquid container to the load sensor 2012. When the liquid container is placed on the platform 1704, the platform 1704 and the frame 1708 press the load sensor 2012 so that the weight of the liquid container is evenly distributed over the load sensor 2012. In some embodiments, the buckle 1901 may be plastic. In some embodiments, the buckle 1901 may be an injection mold. The buckle 1901 is detachably coupled to the frame 1708.

[0067]

[0090] Figures 21 - 23 show an embodiment 2100 of another example of the product demand sensor 105. The product demand sensor 2100 is similar to the product demand sensor described above and includes a platform 2104 disposed within a frame 2108, i.e., a pedestal. The platform 2104 and the frame 2108 are generally rectangular and are configured to support a liquid container. In the illustrated embodiment, the product demand sensor 2100 is configured to support a soda syrup box. The load demand sensor 2100 includes a plurality of feet 2304 and a plurality of load sensors 2204. The platform 2104 and the frame 2108 are disposed on the plurality of feet 2304 and the plurality of load sensors 2204 so as to float on the plurality of feet 2304 and the plurality of load sensors 2204.

[0068]

[0091] Frame 2108 includes an upper surface 2208 that abuts against platform 2104 and a lower surface 2300 on the opposite side of upper surface 2208. Frame 2108 includes an outer peripheral wall 2112 that defines a recess 2116 for receiving platform 2104. The outer peripheral wall 2112 extends from a base 2302 and is perpendicular to base 2302. Frame 2108 further includes a plurality of tabs 2120 that extend from the outer peripheral wall 2112. Frame 2108 further defines a plurality of load sensor housings 2200 configured to receive a plurality of load sensors 2204 and a plurality of feet 2304 on the side of frame 2108 opposite recess 2116. Each of the load sensor housings 2200 defines a cavity in the lower surface 2300. The cavities respectively receive each of the load sensors 2204 and each of the feet 2304.

[0069]

[0092] In use, the liquid container is placed on platform 2104 and is supported by tabs 2120 of frame 2108. Accordingly, the total weight of the liquid container is held on frame 2108, and frame 2108 applies a load to load sensors 2204. When the weight is placed on product demand sensor 2100, frame 2108 is displaced relative to load sensors 2204. Platform 2104 generally defines a flat surface. Each of the tabs 2120 has an L-shaped cross-section. Each of the tabs 2120 has a body that is generally flat and perpendicular to the generally flat surface of platform 2104.

[0070]

[0093] In some embodiments, frame 2108 may not include tabs, and platform 2104 may include a non-slip surface such as rubber. In such embodiments, the liquid container can be held on frame 2108 by frictional retention. In some embodiments, frame 2108 can be held on frame 2108 by a non-slip surface of platform 2104 and by a plurality of tabs on frame 2108. In some embodiments, frame 2108 may include only a single tab.

[0071]

[0094] Referring to the original FIG. 21, the product demand sensor 2100 includes an on / off switch 2102 on the outer peripheral wall 2112 of the frame 2108. In the illustrated embodiment, the switch 2102 is a tactile switch.

[0072]

[0095] In some embodiments, the product demand sensor includes a frame defining a recess, a platform disposed within the recess, and a plurality of load sensors disposed within the frame and configured to detect the weight of an object or objects placed on the product demand sensor. The frame has a base and an outer peripheral wall extending from the base. The platform is movable relative to the outer peripheral wall of the frame.

[0073]

[0096] In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments have been described. However, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. Accordingly, this specification and the drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a limiting sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this teaching.

[0074]

[0097] It should also be noted that not only multiple hardware and software-based devices but also components of multiple different structures can be utilized to implement the embodiments provided herein. It should also be noted that not only multiple hardware and software-based devices but also components of multiple different structures can be used to implement the present invention. Further, it should be understood that embodiments can include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules that may be illustrated and described for purposes of discussion as if most of the components were implemented solely in hardware. However, one of ordinary skill in the art, based on reading the forms for implementing this invention, should recognize that in at least one embodiment, the electronic-based aspects of the present invention can be implemented in software executable by one or more processors (e.g., stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium). Therefore, it should also be noted that not only multiple hardware and software-based devices but also components of multiple different structures can be utilized to implement the present invention. For example, the "control unit" and "controller" described herein can include one or more processors, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more memory modules including a non-transitory computer-readable medium, one or more input / output interfaces, and various connections (e.g., a system bus) connecting the components.

[0075]

[0098] It will be appreciated that some embodiments may be composed of one or more electronic processors, such as a microprocessor, a digital signal processor, a custom processor, and a field programmable gate array (FPGA), in cooperation with certain non-processor circuits, and proprietary stored program instructions (including both software and firmware) that control the one or more processors to implement some, most, or all of the functions of the methods and / or apparatuses described herein. Alternatively, some or all of the functions may be implemented by a state machine without stored program instructions, or within one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) where each function or some combination of certain functions of the functions is implemented as custom logic. Of course, a combination of the two approaches may be used.

[0076]

[0099] Furthermore, some embodiments may be implemented as a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable code stored thereon for programming a computer (including, for example, an electronic processor) to perform the methods described and claimed herein. Examples of such computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, ROM (read only memory), PROM (programmable read only memory), EPROM (erasable programmable read only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory), and flash memory. Further, in some cases, one of ordinary skill in the art will be able to readily generate such software instructions and programs as well as ICs with minimal experimentation, given the concepts and principles disclosed herein, despite the significant effort and many design choices that may be drawn, for example, from available time, current technology, and economic considerations.

[0077]

[0100] Although a particular drawing shows hardware and software disposed within a particular device, it should be further understood that these depictions are for illustrative purposes only. In some embodiments, the illustrated components may be combined or separated into discrete software, firmware, and / or hardware. For example, rather than being disposed within a single electronic processor and executed by a single electronic processor, logic and processing may be distributed among multiple electronic processors. Regardless of how they are combined or separated, the hardware and software components may be disposed on the same computing device or distributed among different computing devices connected by one or more networks or other suitable communication links.

[0078]

[0101] Accordingly, in the claims, where an apparatus and system are claimed as including an electronic processor or other elements configured in a particular manner to perform, for example, multiple determinations, the claim or claim element should be construed to mean one or more electronic processors (or other elements), provided that any of the one or more electronic processors (or other elements) are configured to perform, for example, some or all of the multiple determinations for which they are claimed. Again, those electronic processors and processing may be distributed.

[0079]

[0102] In this specification, terms indicating relationships such as first and second, and topmost and bottommost may be used solely to distinguish one entity or act from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or acts. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "has", "having", "includes", "including", "contains", or "containing", or any other variations thereof, cover non-exclusive inclusion such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has, includes, or contains a list of elements does not include only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Elements preceded by "comprises...a", "has...a", "includes...a", or "contains...a" do not, without further limitation, preclude the presence of additional identical elements in a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has, includes, or contains the element. Unless the context of their use unambiguously indicates otherwise, the articles "a", "an", and "the" should not be construed to mean "one" or "only one". Rather, these articles should be construed to mean "at least one" or "one or more". Similarly, the term "the" or "said" means "at least one" or "one or more" when used to refer to a noun preceded by the indefinite articles "a", "an", "the", and "said", unless the context of its use unambiguously indicates otherwise.The terms "substantially", "essentially", "approximately", or "about", or any other version thereof, are defined as being as close as understood by those skilled in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment, the term is defined as being within 10%, in another embodiment within 5%, in another embodiment within 1%, and in another embodiment within 0.5%. An apparatus or structure "configured" in a particular manner is configured at least in that manner, but may also be configured in ways not recited.

[0080]

[0103] The following paragraphs provide various examples of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0104] Example 1 is a demand sensor for weighing an object. The demand sensor includes a base, and a frame having an outer peripheral wall extending from the base, wherein the base and the outer peripheral wall form a recess, a platform disposed within the recess and movable relative to the outer peripheral wall of the frame, and a load sensor disposed within the recess adjacent to the platform and configured to detect the weight of the object. The outer peripheral wall has an inner circumference defining the recess and an outer circumference opposite the inner circumference, and the outer peripheral wall is tapered from the inner circumference to the outer circumference.

[0081]

[0105] Example 2 can include the subject matter of Example 1, and further can specify that the frame includes plastic and the platform includes metal.

[0106] Example 3 can include the subject matter of either Example 1 or 2, and further can specify that the product demand sensor is waterproof.

[0082]

[0107] Example 4 can include the subject matter of any of Examples 1 - 3, and further can specify that the frame includes a plurality of ribs extending from and supporting the outer peripheral wall.

[0108] Example 5 can include any one of the themes of Examples 1 to 4, and further, it can be specified that the outer peripheral wall is substantially frustum-shaped.

[0083]

[0109] Example 6 can include any one of the themes of Examples 1 to 5, and further, it can be specified that the outer peripheral wall surrounds the platform and extends beyond the platform so that the movement of the platform is restricted.

[0084]

[0110] Example 7 can include any one of the themes of Examples 1 to 6, and further, it can be specified that the product demand sensor includes a plurality of load sensors including load sensors, where the plurality of load sensors are arranged in the recess and configured to detect the weight of an object.

[0085]

[0111] Example 8 can include any one of the themes of Examples 1 to 7, and further, it can be specified that the product demand sensor includes a product status indicator.

[0112] Example 9 is a product demand sensor for measuring the weight of an object. The product demand sensor includes a frame, a platform, a load sensor, feet, and a buckle. The frame includes a base, an outer peripheral wall extending from the base, and a recess defined by the outer peripheral wall and the base. The platform is supported by the frame and configured to support an object. The load sensor is arranged in the recess and configured to detect the weight of the object. The feet support the load sensor and extend to the recess. The buckle is coupled to the frame, covers the load sensor, and supports the platform. The platform, the buckle, and the frame are configured to transmit the weight of the object to the load sensor.

[0086]

[0113] Example 10 can include the theme of Example 9, and further, it can be specified that the outer peripheral wall is annular and has a certain thickness.

[0114] Example 11 can include the subject matter of either Example 9 or 10, and further, it can be specified that the outer peripheral wall surrounds the platform and extends beyond the platform so that the movement of the platform is restricted.

[0087]

[0115] Example 12 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 9 to 11, and further, it can be specified that the frame includes plastic and the platform includes metal.

[0116] Example 13 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 9 to 12, and further, it can be specified that the buckle includes deformable plastic.

[0088]

[0117] Example 14 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 9 to 13, and further, it can be specified that the frame includes a plurality of ribs arranged in the recess and configured to reinforce the platform.

[0089]

[0118] Example 15 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 9 to 14, and further, it can be specified that the buckle is substantially box-shaped and has an open end for receiving a load sensor and a closed end for covering the load sensor.

[0090]

[0119] Example 16 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 9 to 15, and further, it can be specified that the product demand sensor includes a plurality of feet including feet, a plurality of load sensors including load sensors, and a plurality of buckles including buckles. The plurality of feet extend to the recess. Each load sensor of the plurality of load sensors is arranged on each of the feet of the feet and is configured to detect the weight of an object. Each buckle of the plurality of buckles covers each of the load sensors of the plurality of load sensors.

[0091]

[0120] Example 17 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 9 to 16, and further, it can be specified that the product demand sensor includes a product status indicator.

[0121] Example 18 is a product demand sensor for measuring the weight of an object. The product demand sensor includes a base and a frame having an outer peripheral wall extending from the base, where the outer peripheral wall and the base define a recess, and the frame defines an upper surface on which the recess is formed and a lower surface opposite the upper surface. The product demand sensor further includes a platform disposed within the recess, supported by the frame, and configured to support the object, and a load sensor disposed within a cavity of the frame on the lower surface of the frame. The frame is movable relative to the load sensor, and the load sensor is configured to measure the weight of the object based on the movement of the frame.

[0092]

[0122] Example 19 can include the subject matter of Example 18, and further can specify that the frame includes at least one tab extending from the outer peripheral wall and configured to support the weight of the object.

[0093]

[0123] Example 20 can include the subject matter of Example 19, and further can specify that at least one tab has an L-shaped cross section.

[0124] Example 21 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 18 to 20, and further can specify that the platform defines a flat surface, and at least one tab has a body that defines a flat surface that is substantially perpendicular to the flat surface of the platform.

[0094]

[0125] Example 22 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 18 to 21, and further can specify that the platform includes a non-slip surface configured to hold an object on the frame by frictional retention.

[0095]

[0126] Example 23 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 18 to 22, and further can specify that the outer peripheral wall surrounds the platform and extends beyond the platform so that the movement of the platform is restricted.

[0096]

[0127] Example 24 can include any one of the themes of Examples 18 to 23, and further, it can be specified that the frame includes plastic and the platform includes metal.

[0097]

[0128] Example 25 can include any one of the themes of Examples 18 to 24, and further, it can be specified that the product demand sensor includes a plurality of load sensors including a load sensor. Therein, the plurality of load sensors are arranged in the recess and configured to detect the weight of the object.

[0098]

[0129] Example 26 can include any one of the themes of Examples 18 to 25, and further, it can be specified that the product demand sensor includes a product status indicator.

[0130] Example 27 is a product demand monitoring system. The system includes a transceiver and an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to receive, from the product demand sensor via the transceiver, a weight measurement result corresponding to the weight of the product applied to the product demand sensor, generate a product demand profile based on the weight measurement result and historical weight measurement data corresponding to at least one previously received weight measurement result of the product, predict a future demand trajectory based on the product demand profile, and generate an expected days of inventory of the product based on the future demand trajectory.

[0099]

[0131] Example 28 can include the theme of Example 27, and further, it can be specified that the electronic processor is configured to predict a future demand trajectory based on at least one additional factor.

[0100]

[0132] Example 29 can include the theme of Example 28, and further, it can be specified that at least one additional factor includes a second weight measurement result corresponding to the weight of a second product of the same type as the product applied to a second product demand sensor.

[0101]

[0133] Example 30 can include the subject matter of either Example 28 or 29, and further, it can be specified that at least one additional factor includes at least one selected from the group consisting of the historical product demand profile of a second product of the same type as the product, the future demand trajectory of the second product, and the days of inventory value of the second product.

[0102]

[0134] Example 31 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 28 to 30, and further, it can be specified that at least one additional factor includes at least one selected from the group consisting of future environmental predictions, future days of the week, and facility management factors.

[0103]

[0135] Example 32 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 27 to 31, and further, it can be specified that the electronic processor is configured to determine at least one selected from the group consisting of predicted revenue and predicted profitability based on the future demand trajectory.

[0104]

[0136] Example 33 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 27 to 32, and further, it can be specified that the electronic processor is configured to automatically generate an order regarding the volume of the product based on the predicted days of inventory and transmit it to the distribution facility via a transceiver.

[0105]

[0137] Example 34 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 27 to 33, and further, it can be specified that the electronic processor is configured to automatically update the predicted demand trajectory based on the continuously received information.

[0106]

[0138] Example 35 can include the subject matter of any one of Examples 27 to 34, and further, it can be specified that the electronic processor is configured to transmit a product status message to the product demand sensor based on the predicted days of inventory.

[0107]

[0139] Example 36 is a product demand monitoring system for maintaining the volume of a product. The system includes a product demand sensor device including a first electronic processor, a first transceiver, and a product demand sensor, and a server including a second electronic processor and a second transceiver. The product demand sensor is configured to measure a load measurement result corresponding to the weight of the product in the container applied to the product demand sensor device, and the first electronic processor is configured to periodically transmit the load measurement result to the electronic server via the first transceiver. The second electronic processor is configured to receive the load measurement result from the product demand sensor device via the second transceiver, generate a product demand profile of the product based on the load measurement result and historical load measurement data corresponding to at least one previously received load measurement result of the product, predict a future demand trajectory based on the product demand profile, and generate an inventory days value of the product based on the future demand trajectory.

[0108]

[0140] Example 37 can include one or more non-transitory computer-readable media having instructions thereon that, when executed by one or more electronic processing devices, cause the one or more electronic processing devices to execute the subject matter of any of Examples 27 to 35.

[0109]

[0141] Example 38 can include one or more non-transitory computer-readable media having instructions thereon that, when executed by one or more electronic processing devices, cause the one or more electronic processing devices to execute the subject matter of Example 36.

Claims

1. A demand sensor for measuring the weight of an object, comprising: a frame having a base and an outer peripheral wall extending from the base, the base and the outer peripheral wall defining a recess; a platform disposed within the recess and movable relative to the outer peripheral wall of the frame; a load sensor disposed within the recess adjacent to the platform and configured to detect the weight of the object; wherein the outer peripheral wall has an inner circumference defining the recess and an outer circumference opposite the inner circumference, and the outer peripheral wall is tapered from the inner circumference to the outer circumference.

2. The product demand sensor according to claim 1, wherein the frame includes plastic and the platform includes metal.

3. The product demand sensor according to claim 1, wherein the product demand sensor is waterproof.

4. The product demand sensor according to claim 1, wherein the frame includes a plurality of ribs extending from and supporting the outer peripheral wall.

5. The product demand sensor according to claim 1, wherein the outer peripheral wall is substantially frustoconical.

6. The product demand sensor according to claim 1, wherein the outer peripheral wall surrounds and extends beyond the platform to limit movement of the platform.

7. The product demand sensor according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of load sensors including the load sensor, the plurality of load sensors being disposed within the recess and configured to detect the weight of the object.

8. The product demand sensor according to claim 1, further comprising a product status indicator.

9. A product demand sensor for measuring the weight of an object, comprising: a frame having a base and an outer peripheral wall extending from the base, the outer peripheral wall and the base defining a recess, the frame defining an upper surface on which the recess is formed and a lower surface opposite the upper surface; a platform disposed within the recess, supported by the frame, and configured to support the object; a load sensor disposed within a cavity of the frame on the lower surface of the frame; wherein the frame is movable relative to the load sensor, and the load sensor is configured to measure the weight of the object based on movement of the frame.

10. ​ ​ The product demand sensor according to claim 9, wherein the frame includes at least one tab configured to extend from the outer peripheral wall and support the weight of the object.

11. The product demand sensor according to claim 10, wherein the at least one tab has an L-shaped cross section.

12. The product demand sensor according to claim 11, wherein the platform defines a flat surface, and the at least one tab has a body that defines a flat surface that is substantially perpendicular to the flat surface of the platform.

13. The product demand sensor according to claim 9, wherein the platform includes a non-slip surface configured to hold the object on the frame by frictional retention.

14. The product demand sensor according to claim 9, wherein the outer peripheral wall surrounds the platform and extends beyond the platform so that movement of the platform is restricted.

15. The product demand sensor according to claim 9, wherein the frame includes plastic and the platform includes metal.

16. The product demand sensor according to claim 9, further comprising a plurality of load sensors including the load sensor, the plurality of load sensors being arranged in the recess and configured to detect the weight of the object.

17. The product demand sensor according to claim 9, further comprising a product status indicator.

18. A product demand monitoring system for maintaining the volume of a product, a product demand sensor device including a first electronic processor, a first transceiver, and a product demand sensor; and a server including a second electronic processor and a second transceiver comprising: The product demand sensor is configured to measure a load measurement result corresponding to the weight of the product in the container applied to the product demand sensor device, and the first electronic processor is configured to periodically transmit the load measurement result to the electronic server via the first transceiver. The second electronic processor is receiving the load measurement result from the product demand sensor device via the second transceiver; and generating a product demand profile of the product based on the load measurement result and historical load measurement data corresponding to at least one previously received load measurement result of the product. Predicting a future demand trajectory based on the product demand profile, and generating an inventory days value for the product based on the future demand trajectory A system configured to perform.

19. The system according to claim 18, wherein the second electronic processor is further configured to predict the future demand trajectory based on at least one additional factor.

20. The system according to claim 18, wherein the second electronic processor is further configured to automatically generate an order regarding the volume of the product based on the inventory days prediction and transmit it to a distribution facility via the transceiver.

Images