Automated Third Party Cost Estimating and Production

Abstract

A computer system for automated third-party cost estimating and production control receives a request for an individual packaging design template. The system identifies current system capabilities through a continuous monitoring software application. The continuous monitoring software application is configured to interrogate a plurality of packaging production machines located on different networks and at different locations, collect current operating characteristics of each packaging production machine selected from the plurality of packaging production machines, and interrogate queue memory space at each packaging production machine selected from the plurality of packaging production machines. Based on the current system capabilities, the system selects an individual packaging production machine selected from the plurality of packaging production machines to produce the individual packaging design template. The system then produces the individual packaging design template.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is an international PCT application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 838,240, filed April 2, 2020, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62 / 830,171, filed April 5, 2019, entitled "AUTOMATED THIRD-PARTY COST ESTIMATION AND PRODUCTION," all of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] The shipping and packaging industry frequently uses paperboard and other fanfold material processing equipment that converts the fanfold material into box templates. One advantage of such equipment is that carriers can prepare boxes of the required size when they are needed, instead of storing a stock of standard, pre-made boxes of various sizes. As a result, carriers can eliminate the need to forecast their requirements for individual box sizes and to stockpile pre-made boxes of standard sizes. Instead, carriers may stockpile one or more bales of fanfold material that can be used to generate various box sizes based on the specific box size requirements at the time of each shipment. This allows carriers to reduce the stockpile space normally required for regularly used shipping supplies and to reduce waste and costs associated with the inherently inaccurate process of forecasting box size requirements.

[0003]

[0003] In addition to reducing the inefficiencies associated with stockpiling pre-made boxes of numerous sizes, creating custom-sized boxes also reduces packaging and shipping costs. In the fulfillment industry, it is estimated that shipped items are typically packed in boxes that are about 40% larger than the items being shipped. Boxes that are too large for individual items are more expensive than boxes that are custom-sized for the items due to the cost of the extra materials used to create the larger boxes. When items are packed in oversized boxes, filler materials (e.g., Styrofoam, foam peanuts, paper, air pillows, etc.) are often placed in the box to prevent the items from moving inside the box and to prevent the box from collapsing when pressure is applied (e.g., when the box is taped shut or stacked). These filler materials further increase the costs associated with packing items into oversized boxes.

[0004]

[0004] Custom-sized boxes also reduce the shipping costs associated with shipping items compared to shipping items in oversized boxes. A shipping vehicle filled with boxes 40% larger than the items being packaged is much less cost-effective to operate than a shipping vehicle filled with boxes that are custom-sized to fit the items being packaged. In other words, a shipping vehicle filled with custom-sized packages can carry a significantly larger number of packages, which can reduce the number of shipping vehicles required to ship the same number of items. Thus, in addition to or as an alternative to calculating shipping prices based on the weight of the packages, shipping prices are often influenced by the size of the packages being shipped. Thus, reducing the size of the packages of the items can reduce the price of shipping the items.

[0005]

[0005] However, in some situations, relying on packaging production machinery can create bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the packaging work flow. For example, during busy periods, the packaging production machinery may not be able to keep up with the flow of product. In contrast, during slow periods, the packaging production machinery may remain idle. Both of these situations are not ideal and result in undesirable costs.

[0006]

[0006] While packaging production machinery and associated equipment can potentially reduce the inconvenience and costs associated with stockpiling and using standard sized shipping items, the process for creating and using custom made, just-in-time packaging design templates can still be improved through the ordering in which the packaging design templates are created and used. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention relates, for example, to automated third-party cost estimating and production. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] At least one embodiment disclosed herein includes a computer system for automated third-party cost estimating and production that receives a request for an individual packaging design template. The system identifies current system capabilities through a continuous monitoring software application. The continuous monitoring software application is configured to interrogate a plurality of packaging production machines located on different networks and at different locations, collect current operating characteristics of each packaging production machine selected from the plurality of packaging production machines, and interrogate queue memory space at each packaging production machine selected from the plurality of packaging production machines. Based on the current system capabilities, the system selects an individual packaging production machine selected from the plurality of packaging production machines to produce the individual packaging design template. The system then produces the individual packaging design template.

[0009]

[0008] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0010]

[0009] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the teachings herein. The features and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. Features of the invention will become more fully apparent from the description which follows and the appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

[0011]

[0010] To explain the manner in which the above detailed and other advantages and features may be obtained, a more particular description of the subject matter briefly described above will be given by reference to specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. With the understanding that these drawings merely depict exemplary embodiments and therefore should not be considered limiting in scope, the embodiments will be described and explained, with additional specificity and detail, through the use of the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1]

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a packaging system. [Diagram 2]

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system of a packaging production machine in communication with a server and a user computing device. [Diagram 3]

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a geographical map with indications relating to the location of a user and the locations of various packaging production machines. [Figure 4]

[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart of steps in an embodiment of a method for automated third-party cost estimation and production of custom packaging design templates. [Diagram 5]

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart of steps in an embodiment of a method for automated third-party cost estimation and production of custom packaging design templates. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013]

[0016] The disclosed embodiments include technical solutions for securely implementing interfaces to third parties to minimize packaging production machine downtime and also leverage uncommitted queue space for custom packaging production solutions. We will observe that such systems utilize complex network communications, memory space management in queues, packaging production machine management, and other related technologies.

[0014]

[0017] Turning now to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a packaging system 100. The depicted packaging system 100 includes various exemplary components, including an embodiment of a packaging system control unit 110, an embodiment of a product intake system 120, an embodiment of a packaging production machine 130, and an embodiment of a dunnage production machine 140. The various components and modules of the packaging system 100 described herein are provided merely for clarity and example. Those skilled in the art will understand that various alternative or additional modules or components may be used equivalently to the same effect. For example, multiple packaging system control units 110, product intake systems 120, packaging production machines 130, and / or dunnage production machines 140 may be used within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0015]

[0018] In at least one embodiment, a picking system (not shown) provides a batch of one or more target products 122 (further referred to herein as "objects") to a product intake system 120. The depicted product intake system 120 includes a conveyor belt configured to transport the target products 122 through at least a portion of the packaging system 100. In addition, the product intake system 120 may include a dimensional input device 124 in the form of one or more scanning sensors. In at least one embodiment, the one or more scanning sensors include a light curtain. The light curtain measures both the height and width of the target products 122 using various light emitters and light detectors.

[0016]

[0019] The depicted light curtain is provided for example purposes only. In various alternative or additional embodiments, the product intake system includes a plurality of dimensional input devices 124, such as light curtains for measuring different cross sections of the group of one or more target products 122. Furthermore, in additional or alternative embodiments, the product intake system 120 includes one or more other dimensional input devices 124 for determining dimensions of the target products 122. For example, the one or more dimensional input devices 124 may include a URL scanner 126 that scans URLs associated with each of the target products in the group of one or more target products 122. The URL scanner 126 may be in communication with a computer database (not shown) that stores dimensional information for each product based on the product's URL.

[0017]

[0020] Similarly, the one or more dimensional input devices 124 may include devices for receiving manually entered dimensional information, manually entered product description information, or any other manually entered information that allows the packaging system 100 to access a database and determine the packaging template size required to package the target products 122. In such cases, the product intake system 120 determines the overall dimensions of all groups of one or more target products 122 based on the stored dimensions of each individual product. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more dimensional input devices 124 may include LIDAR sensors, computer vision systems, laser distance measuring sensors, or any other system capable of measuring dimensions. Thus, a variety of different devices and systems may be used to determine the dimensions of the groups of one or more target products 122.

[0018]

[0021] Further, in at least one embodiment, it is not necessary for the product intake system 120 to be present in the packaging system. For example, in some embodiments, a user may simply provide input to the packaging system control unit 110 indicating a custom packaging design template. As used herein, a "packaging design template" refers to a digital and / or physical design that is turned into a physical corrugate box. Thus, in some instances, a packaging design template describes a digital file that corresponds to a physical design of a corrugate box, while in other embodiments, a packaging design template describes a cut and creased corrugated box that is ready to be folded and glued into a box. The packaging system control unit 110 communicates commands to the packaging production machine 130 to generate the required custom packaging design template.

[0019]

[0022] Once the product intake system 120 has determined the information related to the physical dimensions of the batch of one or more target products 122, the product intake system 120 communicates the information to the packaging system control unit 110. Alternatively, a user can manually input in the required packaging design, dimensions, quantities, and other package characteristics.

[0020]

[0023] The packaging system control unit 110 may include a server, a desktop computer, an embedded system, a microcontroller, a cloud server, or any other computing device capable of communicating and processing information. The packaging system control unit 110 includes a packaging database that contains various information related to the packaging production system and to one or more target products 122. For example, the packaging database includes available corrugated cardboard types, available packaging production machines 130, available dunnage types, available dunnage production machines 140, the type of product to be packaged (e.g., one or more target products 122), physical characteristics of the product to be packaged, information regarding special packaging requirements associated with a particular product, and other similar information.

[0021]

[0024] In at least one embodiment, a storehouse of packaging design templates is kept near the product intake system 120. In such an embodiment, when the overall dimensions of an order are identified, the appropriate packaging design template can be immediately retrieved from the storehouse. A replacement packaging design template can then be generated and placed in the storehouse to replace the previously removed packaging design template.

[0022]

[0025] In at least one embodiment, the packaging system control unit 110 sends commands to the packaging production machine 130 that causes the machine to generate a custom packaging design template. The custom packaging design template can be produced to specifically fit one or more target products 122 or to produce a required box size. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the packaging system control unit 110 selects the individual packaging production machine 130 and corrugated board that will be used to create the packaging design template. Thus, the packaging system control unit 110 exercises significant control over the dimensions and materials used in the construction of the custom packaging design template.

[0023]

[0026] The packaging production machine 130 includes any machine capable of producing custom packages or package templates. The packaging production machine 130 is further associated with at least one type of large volume of corrugated board. For example, the packaging machine may be associated with both relatively thinner corrugated board and relatively thicker corrugated board. In addition, the different corrugated boards may have different strength characteristics, different production costs, different shipping costs, and various other different characteristics.

[0024]

[0027] In at least one embodiment, the packaging system control unit 110 is further in communication with a dunnage production machine 140. The dunnage production machine 140 includes any machine capable of automatically creating, measuring, and / or forming dunnage. For example, the depicted dunnage production machine 140 is configured to dispense a measured amount of foamed peanuts from a hopper 143. The foamed peanuts are dispensed from a nozzle 142 into a target package. In additional or alternative embodiments, the dunnage production machine 140 is configured to create, measure, and / or form wood, rugs, bubble wrap, air pillows, foam, cardboard, paper, plastic, molded cushioning, or any other type of material capable of functioning as dunnage.

[0025]

[0028] We will appreciate that the above-described packaging system 100 is provided for purposes of context and clarity. In various other embodiments, packaging system 100 may include different components, different machines, or may be combined into a single machine that performs any number of the above-referenced functions.

[0026]

[0029] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system of packaging production machines 130(a-c) in communication with a server 220 and a user computing device 200 through a network 210. The server 220 includes one or more processors and one or more computer-readable media storing executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the computer system to perform various modules. As used herein, a "module" includes computer-executable code that performs a discrete function. The modules may be interoperable with computer hardware during execution of the computer-executable code. Thus, by way of example, a "request module" is any combination of computer-executable code and computer hardware configured to perform the requested function described.

[0027]

[0030] In at least one embodiment, server 220 receives requests for individual packaging design templates from computing device 200. Computing device 200 may include a computer, mobile phone, tablet, or any other device capable of network communications. The communications may be generated by computing device 200 or in a web portal accessed by an application running locally on computing device 200.

[0028]

[0031] Based on receiving the request, a request module 232 in the continuous monitoring software application 230 identifies current system capabilities among the set of packaging material production machines 130(a-c). To identify the current system capabilities, a machine tracking module 234 in the continuous monitoring software application 230 is configured to query the set of packaging material production machines 130(a-c). In at least one embodiment, the packaging material production machines in the set of packaging material production machines 130(a-c) are located on different networks and in different geographic locations.

[0029]

[0032] In addition, to identify current system capabilities, the continuous monitoring software application 230 then collects current operating characteristics of each packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines 130(a-c). The operating characteristics of the packaging production machines 130(a-c) may include the size of the corrugated board associated with each packaging production machine, the type of corrugated board associated with each packaging production machine, and various other characteristics related to the corrugated board available on the machine and / or the cutting and creasing tools available on the machines.

[0030]

[0033] Additionally, to identify current system capabilities, the continuous monitoring software application 230 queries a queue module associated with each packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines 130(a-c). In at least one embodiment, each of the packaging production machines 130(a-c) is associated with a different processor and a different computer readable medium. Each computer readable medium is used to track the queue of packaging design templates that have been communicated to the respective packaging production machine. For example, an individual packaging production machine may have multiple packaging design templates in the queue that are ready to be produced.

[0031]

[0034] Based on current system capabilities, the continuous monitoring software application 230 selects an individual packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines 130(a-c) to produce the individual packaging design template. For example, selecting an individual packaging production machine 130a in the set of packaging production machines includes identifying that the individual packaging production machine 130a is associated with a desired type of corrugated board and identifying that the individual packaging production machine 130a is associated with a queue that is below a bandwidth threshold.

[0032]

[0035] In at least one embodiment, the bandwidth threshold is dynamically determined to account for historical cycles in production. For example, an individual packaging production machine 130a may typically sit unused during the early morning or evening hours. In such cases, the bandwidth threshold is automatically adjusted to account for the amount of excess production that is likely to be available at that particular time. As an illustration, a packaging production machine may sit relatively unused from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Thus, the bandwidth threshold may be dynamically changed as the time approaches 6:00 a.m. Such a system may determine that an individual packaging production machine 130a is capable of producing 100 packaging design templates per hour. Using this information, the bandwidth threshold may be automatically adjusted to indicate an excess production availability of 50 packaging design templates at 5:30 a.m. because only 30 minutes remain until the machine is at its historical maximum utilization. Similar dynamic changes may be made at different times to account for different historical usage amounts of individual packaging production machines 130a.

[0033]

[0036] Based on the selection of the packaging production machine 130a, the server 220 communicates instructions to the packaging production machine 130a to produce a custom packaging design template. Thus, the disclosed embodiments enable a system that allows a user to request that a custom packaging design template be generated from a packaging production machine in a different geographic location and on a different network than the user. Such a feature may enable owners of packaging production machines to sell excess capacity on their packaging production machines to third parties without affecting their own production.

[0034]

[0037] 3 illustrates a geographic map with indications relating to a user's location 300 and the locations 310(a-f) of various packaging production machines 130(a-c). In at least one embodiment, server 220 receives from computing device 200 the geographic location 300 associated with computing device 200. The geographic location may include a network address associated with computing device 200 used for location verification, an address provided by a user, GPS coordinates, or any number of other means for determining the geographic location associated with computing device 200.

[0035]

[0038] Based on the user's geographic location, the server generates a set of packaging material production machines 130(a-c) represented by locations 310(a-f). In at least one embodiment, each packaging material production machine in the set of packaging material production machines 130(a-c) is selected based on being within a threshold distance from the geographic location. For example, FIG. 3 depicts a threshold distance represented by a circle 320. Packaging material production machine locations 310(a-e) within circle 320 are determined to belong to the set of packaging material production machines 130(a-c). In contrast, packaging material production machine 310f is outside the threshold distance and is therefore excluded from the set of packaging material production machines 130(a-c).

[0036]

[0039] Thus, in at least one embodiment, a user may request a packaging design template on the user's computing device 200. In response to the request, the server 220 determines the user's location. Based on that location, the server identifies packaging production machines located within a threshold distance from the user. The continuous monitoring software application 230 then identifies packaging production machines 130a that are capable of producing the desired packaging design template and have the bandwidth to do so without interfering with the packaging production machines' typical workload. Such a feature allows owners of packaging production machines 130(a-c) to monetize unused processing power on their machines. Conversely, such a feature allows individuals who would not otherwise have access to such machines to generate their own custom-made packaging design templates.

[0037]

[0040] The discussion that follows will now refer to certain methods and method acts that may be performed. Although the method acts may be discussed in a certain order or illustrated in flowcharts as occurring in a particular order, no particular ordering is required unless specifically stated or an act is required because of a dependency on another act being completed before the act can be performed.

[0038]

[0041] Turning now to FIG. 4, a flowchart of steps in an embodiment of a method for automated third-party cost estimation and production of custom packaging design templates is depicted. In at least one embodiment, the displayed flowchart depicts steps in a process for enabling third parties to utilize unused production time or idle time in a packaging system. For example, we can appreciate that packaging systems are complex machines that may reside primarily in large packaging warehouses. However, many smaller companies can also equally benefit from the production of custom packaging design templates. Thus, the disclosed embodiments provide a system and method for releasing unused production time from a packaging system to other parties.

[0039]

[0042] In at least one embodiment, a visitor visits a website (400) and is presented with a login screen to authenticate to a user account (402). The visitor fills out login information (404) and submits a web form (406). Upon receiving the web form, a computer system checks (408) against a customer ID in a practice management database. In the event that the customer ID is not found, the system creates (410) a new customer ID in the practice management system. The visitor is then successfully logged into the website (412).

[0040]

[0043] The website displays customer-specific information to the visitor (414). The information may include previous customer packaging design template orders, contact information for the visitor, or other similar information (416). The web page further displays a web form for receiving information regarding the requested custom packaging design template. The requested information may include dimensions, design, material, color, quantity, item number, and other related inputs.

[0041]

[0044] The computer system then processes the order and identifies the appropriate price point for the order (418). The process of processing the order and identifying the price point may include accessing a continuous monitoring software application in communication with all available packaging production machines in a given geographic area (420). The packaging production machines may be located at different addresses, in different buildings, owned by different companies, and otherwise unrelated to one another. The continuous monitoring software application still communicates with the various packaging systems and monitors the queue memory space associated with each packaging production machine (422). The continuous monitoring software application may also map the historical production cycles of each packaging production machine and identify expected future operating cycles.

[0042]

[0045] In addition, the continuous monitoring software application also identifies the operating characteristics of the available packaging production machines. For example, different packaging production machines may be associated with different widths and weights of corrugated board. Some packaging production machines may not be capable of producing particularly large custom packaging design templates due to the narrow widths of the corrugated board with which they are associated. Similarly, producing small packaging production templates on packaging production machines associated with very large widths of corrugated board may be highly inefficient because there would be a large amount of wasted corrugated board left behind. Using these various dynamic monitoring techniques, the continuous monitoring software application generates real-time estimates of the available queue bandwidth for the various production machines.

[0043]

[0046] The continuous monitoring software application then communicates this information to an operations management database. In turn, the operations management database generates a cost estimate for producing the requested custom packaging design template (424). In at least one embodiment, the operations management database includes a machine learning component, such as a neural network, that is used to estimate the cost of producing the requested custom packaging design template. The cost estimate is based, at least in part, on the individual packaging production machine selected. For example, the cost estimate takes into account the total amount of cardboard (including waste) required to produce the custom packaging design template, the amount of time required to produce the custom packaging design template, and wear on the packaging production machine in relation to the creation of the custom packaging design template. The cost estimate is provided to a human operator for validation (426). The human operator can then reject the order or accept the order. If the order is accepted, the selected packaging system generates a custom packaging design template (428).

[0044]

[0047] The system then creates an invoice for the quote and prints the required packing slips (430). The completed custom packaging design template and packing slips are placed in a bundle or pallet with the third party for pick-up or delivery to the third party. A notice is sent to the third party (also referred to above as a visitor) (432). Once the third party has picked up or received the packaging design template and signed for receipt (434), an invoice is sent to the third party (436).

[0045]

[0048] Thus, in at least one embodiment, third parties can buy unused time on packaging production machines, which can be selected from a set of packaging production machines distributed among different addresses, buildings, and different companies. Companies that own or manage packaging production systems can further realize higher profits on their packaging production systems by selling time that would otherwise remain idle.

[0046]

[0049] Turning now to Figure 5, Figure 5 illustrates a flowchart of steps in an embodiment of a method 500 for automated third-party cost estimating and production of custom packaging design templates. The method 500 includes an act of receiving 510 a request for a packaging design template. The act 510 includes receiving a request for a custom packaging design template from a computing device. For example, as depicted and described with respect to Figures 2 and 4, a user's computing device 200 communicates with a server 220 through a network 210.

[0047]

[0050] Method 500 further includes an act of identifying current system capabilities 520. Act 520 includes identifying, by the continuous monitoring software application, current system capabilities in the set of packaging material production machines. The process of identifying current system capabilities includes an act 530 of querying the set of packaging material production machines, where the packaging material production machines in the set of packaging material production machines are located on different networks and in different geographic locations.

[0048]

[0051] Identifying the current system capabilities further includes an act of collecting 540 current operating characteristics of each packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines and an act of querying 550 a queue module associated with each packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines. Method 500 further includes an act of selecting 550 an individual packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines for producing an individual packaging design template based on the current system capabilities. Furthermore, method 500 includes an act 570 of producing an individual packaging design template.

[0049]

[0052] Furthermore, the methods may be practiced by a computer system including one or more processors and a computer-readable medium, such as a computer memory. In particular, the computer memory may store computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause various functions to be performed, such as acts detailed in the embodiments.

[0050]

[0053] Computing system functionality may be enhanced by the ability of a computing system to be interconnected to other computing systems via network connections, which may include, but are not limited to, connections via wired or wireless Ethernet, cellular connections, or even computer-to-computer connections through serial, parallel, USB, or other connections. The connections enable a computing system to access services at, and receive application data from, the other computing systems quickly and efficiently.

[0051]

[0054] The interconnection of computing systems has fostered distributed computing systems, such as so-called "cloud" computing systems. In this description, "cloud computing" may refer to systems or resources for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, services, etc.) that can be provisioned and released with reduced management effort or service provider interaction. Cloud models may be composed of a variety of characteristics (e.g., on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, measured service, etc.), service models (e.g., software as a service ("SaaS"), platform as a service ("PaaS"), infrastructure as a service ("IaaS"), and deployment models (e.g., private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, hybrid cloud, etc.).

[0052]

[0055] Cloud and remote-based service applications are prevalent. Such applications are hosted on public and private remote systems, such as clouds, and typically provide a set of web-based services to communicate to and from clients.

[0053]

[0056] Many computers are intended to be used with direct user interaction with the computer. As such, computers have input hardware and software user interfaces to facilitate user interaction. For example, a modern general purpose computer may include a keyboard, mouse, touchpad, camera, etc. to allow a user to input data into the computer. In addition, a variety of software user interfaces may be available.

[0054]

[0057] Examples of software user interfaces include graphical user interfaces, text command line based user interfaces, function key or hot key user interfaces, and the like.

[0055]

[0058] The disclosed embodiments may include or utilize special purpose or general purpose computers, including computer hardware, as discussed in more detail below. The disclosed embodiments further include physical and other computer readable media for carrying or storing computer executable instructions and / or data structures. Such computer readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer system. Computer readable media that store computer executable instructions are physical storage media. Computer readable media that carry computer executable instructions are transmission media. Thus, by way of example, and not limitation, embodiments of the present invention may include at least two distinctly different kinds of computer readable media: physical computer readable storage media and transmission computer readable media.

[0056]

[0059] Physical computer-readable storage media include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage (such as CD, DVD, etc.), magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0057]

[0060] A "network" is defined as one or more data links that enable the transport of electronic data between computer systems and / or modules and / or other electronic devices. When information is transferred or provided to a computer over a network or another communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless), the computer naturally views the connection as a transmission medium. Transmission media can include networks and / or data links that can be used to carry program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0058]

[0061] Furthermore, upon reaching various computer system components, program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures may be automatically transferred from a transmission computer-readable medium to a physical computer-readable storage medium (or vice versa). For example, computer-executable instructions or data structures received over a network or data link may be buffered in RAM in a network interface module (e.g., a "NIC") and then eventually transferred to the computer system RAM and / or to a less volatile computer-readable physical storage medium in the computer system. Thus, computer-readable physical storage media may be included within computer system components that also (or even primarily) utilize transmission media.

[0059]

[0062] Computer-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that cause a general purpose computer, a special purpose computer, or a special purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of functions. Computer-executable instructions may be, for example, binaries, intermediate format instructions such as assembly language, or even source code. Although the present subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it should be understood that the present subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the illustrated features or acts set forth above. Rather, the described features and acts are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0060]

[0063] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be practiced in a network computing environment with many types of computer system configurations, including personal computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, message processors, handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, mobile phones, PDAs, pagers, routers, switches, and the like. The present invention may also be practiced in a distributed system environment in which local and remote computer systems, linked through a network (either by hardwired data links, wireless data links, or a combination of hardwired and wireless data links), both perform tasks. In a distributed system environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

[0061]

[0064] Alternatively, or in addition, the functionality described herein may be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. For example, and without limitation, illustrative types of hardware logic components that may be used include field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application specific standard products (ASSPs), systems on a chip (SOCs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and the like.

[0062]

[0065] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or characteristics of the invention. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. 1. A computer system for producing individual packaging design templates, comprising: one or more processors; When executed by the one or more processors, causes the computer system to at least: receiving a request for the individual packaging design template from a computing device, the request for the individual packaging design template including dimensions, design, material, color, quantity, item number, and other related inputs for the individual packaging design template; and identifying, by a continuous monitoring software application, a current system capability among a set of packaging material production machines, the continuous monitoring software application comprising: (A) interrogating the set of packaging material production machines; (B) collecting current operating characteristics of each packaging production machine in said set of packaging production machines; and (C) interrogating a queue module associated with each packaging material production machine in the set of packaging material production machines, the queue module including a memory space associated with each packaging material production machine in the set of packaging material production machines, interrogating the queue module including interrogating a job status of each packaging material production machine; configured to: To identify and selecting an individual packaging production machine from the set of packaging production machines for producing the individual packaging design template based on the current system capabilities; Producing said individual packaging design template. one or more computer-readable media having executable instructions stored thereon configured to perform the steps of: Including, the packaging material production machines in said set of packaging material production machines are located at different geographic locations; Computer system.

2. The executable instructions configure the computer system to: receiving from the computing device a geographic location associated with the computing device; 10. The computer system of claim 1, further comprising instructions executable to configure the computer system to:

3. The computer system of claim 2 , wherein the geographic location comprises a network address associated with the computing device.

4. The computer system of claim 2 , wherein the geographic location comprises an address provided by a user.

5. The executable instructions configure the computer system to: generating the set of packaging production machines based on the geographic location, each packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines being selected based on being within a threshold distance from the geographic location; 3. The computer system of claim 2, further comprising instructions executable to configure the computer system to:

6. The current operating characteristics of each packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines include: a type of corrugated board associated with each packaging production machine in said set of packaging production machines; 2. The computer system of claim 1, comprising:

7. Selecting the individual packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines comprises: identifying the individual packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines associated with a desired type of corrugated board; The packaging production machine associated with a queue that is below a bandwidth threshold. identifying said individual packaging production machine within the set; 2. The computer system of claim 1, comprising:

8. 8. The computer system of claim 7, wherein the bandwidth threshold is dynamically determined to account for historical cycles in production.

9. The computer system of claim 1 , wherein selecting the individual packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines comprises:

10. 1. A computer-implemented method for producing personalized packaging design templates, the method running on one or more processors, comprising: receiving a request for the individual packaging design template from a computing device, the request for the individual packaging design template including dimensions, design, material, color, quantity, item number, and other related inputs for the individual packaging design template; identifying, by a continuous monitoring software application, a current system capability among the set of packaging material production machines, the continuous monitoring software application comprising: (A) interrogating the set of packaging material production machines; (B) collecting current operating characteristics of each packaging production machine in said set of packaging production machines; and (C) interrogating a queue module associated with each packaging material production machine in the set of packaging material production machines, the queue module including a memory space associated with each packaging material production machine in the set of packaging material production machines, interrogating the queue module including interrogating a job status of each packaging material production machine; and selecting an individual packaging production machine from the set of packaging production machines for producing the individual packaging design template based on the current system capabilities; producing said individual packaging design template; Including, the packaging material production machines in said set of packaging material production machines are located at different geographic locations; A computer-implemented method.

11. receiving from the computing device a geographic location associated with the computing device; The computer-implemented method of claim 10, further comprising:

12. The computer-implemented method of claim 11 , wherein the geographic location comprises a network address associated with the computing device.

13. The computer-implemented method of claim 11 , wherein the geographic location comprises an address provided by a user.

14. generating the set of packaging production machines based on the geographic location, each packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines being selected based on being within a threshold distance from the geographic location; 12. The computer-implemented method of claim 11, further comprising:

15. The current operating characteristics of each packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines include: a type of corrugated board associated with each packaging production machine in said set of packaging production machines; 11. The computer-implemented method of claim 10, comprising:

16. Selecting the individual packaging production machine from the set of packaging production machines comprises: identifying the individual packaging production machine in the set of packaging production machines associated with a desired type of corrugated board; identifying the individual packaging production machines in the set of packaging production machines associated with a queue that is below a bandwidth threshold; 11. The computer-implemented method of claim 10, comprising:

17. 17. The computer-implemented method of claim 16, wherein the bandwidth threshold is dynamically determined to account for historical cycles in production.

18. 1. A computer program product including one or more computer storage media having computer-executable instructions stored thereon that, when executed on a processor, cause a computer system to perform a method for producing personalized packaging design templates, the method comprising: receiving a request for the individual packaging design template from a computing device, the request for the individual packaging design template including dimensions, design, material, color, quantity, item number, and other related inputs for the individual packaging design template; identifying, by a continuous monitoring software application, a current system capability among the set of packaging material production machines, the continuous monitoring software application comprising: (A) interrogating the set of packaging material production machines; (B) collecting current operating characteristics of each packaging production machine in said set of packaging production machines; and (C) interrogating a queue module associated with each packaging material production machine in the set of packaging material production machines, the queue module including a memory space associated with each packaging material production machine in the set of packaging material production machines, interrogating the queue module including interrogating a job status of each packaging material production machine; and selecting an individual packaging production machine from the set of packaging production machines for producing the individual packaging design template based on the current system capabilities; producing said individual packaging design template; Including, the packaging material production machines in said set of packaging material production machines are located at different geographic locations; Computer program products.

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