Internet label for things for factory and warehouse applications

Abstract

To provide an internet-of-things (IoT) label for factory and warehouse applications.SOLUTION: Systems, apparatuses and methods may provide label technology that includes a flexible substrate and a flexible circuit coupled to the flexible substrate. The flexible circuit includes a power source, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna. The microcontroller may be configured to identify sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors and to send the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer and a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, where at least one of the sensor readings is sent in a push communication.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to labeling of objects.

Background Art

[0002] Embodiments generally relate to labeling of objects. More particularly, embodiments relate to Internet of Things (IoT) labels for factory and warehouse applications. Conventional tracking of objects within a factory can rely heavily on manual processes, which can be costly and time-consuming. More recent smart tracking solutions have reduced the reliance on manual processes, but there is still considerable room for improvement. For example, passive technologies such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identifier) tags or NFC (Near Field Communication) modules can provide only intermittent tracking in response to queries of the passive device. Additionally, active technologies can have inadequate communication infrastructure and form factors (e.g., rigid printed circuit boards placed within conventional plastic enclosures), which limit the technology to tracking large bulk items (e.g., pallets). Further, conventional passive and active tracking solutions can be vulnerable to package tampering.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] According to one or more embodiments, a label includes a flexible substrate and a flexible circuit coupled to the flexible substrate, the flexible circuit including a power supply, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna, the microcontroller identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors and transmitting the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, at least one of the sensor readings being transmitted in push communication.

[0004] According to one or more embodiments, a method of operating a microcontroller includes identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from a plurality of sensors within a flexible label, and transmitting the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in a push communication.

[0005] According to one or more embodiments, a method of creating a label includes coupling a flexible circuit to a flexible substrate, the flexible substrate including a power source, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna, and programming the microcontroller to identify sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors and transmit the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in a push communication.

[0006] The various advantages of the embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following specification and appended claims and referring to the following drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Referring now to FIG. 1, an IoT communication architecture is shown in which a flexible label 10 wirelessly communicates sensor readings to a computer network 14 (e.g., including a cloud computing infrastructure and / or a cloud server) via a cellular network 12. In one embodiment, the computer network 14 communicates with one or more remote devices 16 (16a - 16c, e.g., a central computer) via a wireless network 18 (e.g., operating on a cellular or other wireless protocol). As will be described in more detail, the flexible label 10 may include a flexible circuit 20 (20a - 20h) coupled to a flexible substrate 22 (e.g., a polymer having an adhesive backing). In one example, the flexible circuit 20 includes a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) 20a (e.g., including electrical traces printed on one or both sides), a microcontroller 20b, a motion sensor 20c (e.g., an accelerometer for detecting shock, vibration, and / or tampering), an ultraviolet (UV) light sensor 20d, a UV index (e.g., visible light) sensor 20e, an environmental sensor 20f (e.g., having temperature, relative humidity, and / or pressure sensing capabilities), a flexible power source such as a battery 20g, and an antenna 20h.

[0009] The microcontroller 20b can be programmed to identify sensor readings in one or more signals (e.g., temperature signal, relative humidity / RH signal, position signal, motion signal, etc.) from sensors 20c - 20f and transmit the sensor readings to the computer network 14, the tablet device 16a, the smartphone 16b, and / or the workstation 16c. Of particular note is that one or more of the sensor readings can be transmitted in a push communication not in response to a request or query from an external device. Rather, the microcontroller 20b can generate push communications according to programmable time intervals, in response to events associated with sensor readings, etc., or according to any combination thereof. For example, the events can correspond to temperature measurements crossing a temperature threshold, humidity measurements crossing a humidity threshold, vibration events, shock events, tampering events, etc. With respect to the programmable time intervals, the microcontroller 20b can extend battery life by powering off when not communicating with sensors 20c - 20f or the computer network 14. Thus, the illustrated flexible label 10 is enhanced compared to conventional active, passive, and manual solutions in the extent to which it enables, at least, proactive tracking, a robust communication infrastructure, the ability to track relatively small items / assets, and / or less vulnerability to package tampering.

[0010] In fact, the label 10 can be useful in applications outside of a warehouse / factory context. For example, the label 10 can be used to monitor the status of household objects such as coffee mugs (e.g., monitoring surface temperature and / or condensation), tools such as drills (e.g., monitoring vibration frequency and / or intensity over time), etc.

[0011] FIG. 2 shows a 3D sensor arrangement 30 in which a first sensor (sensor "A") is disposed on a first surface of an object (e.g., within the x-plane), a second sensor (sensor "B") is disposed on a second surface of the object (e.g., within the y-plane), and a third sensor (sensor "C") is disposed on a third surface of the object (e.g., within the z-plane). In one embodiment, sensors A, B, and C are incorporated into a flexible label such as the flexible label 10 (FIG. 1) already described. Similarly, another 3D sensor arrangement 32 may include a first sensor (sensor "A"), a second sensor (sensor "B"), and a third sensor (sensor "C") disposed on a curved surface of an object. Thus, the 3D sensor arrangements 30, 32 demonstrate the advantages of the form factor of the flexible sensors described herein.

[0012] Referring now to FIG. 3, label 40 is shown. The illustrated label 40, which may be readily used in place of the label 10 (FIG. 1) already described, includes a flexible substrate 42 (e.g., having a "peel and stick" backing) and a flexible circuit 44 coupled to the flexible substrate 42. In one embodiment, the flexible circuit 44 includes a power source 46, a microcontroller 48, a plurality of sensors 50 (50a-50f), one or more transceivers 52, and a flexible antenna 54. As already described, the microcontroller 48 may be programmed to identify sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors 50 and transmit the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols.

[0013] For example, one or more signals may include a temperature signal (e.g., including a temperature measurement), a relative humidity signal (e.g., including a humidity measurement), a position signal (e.g., including a position measurement based on triangulation or other suitable techniques), a motion signal (e.g., including a motion measurement), and the like. In one embodiment, at least one of the sensor readings indicates one or more of a temperature measurement crossing a temperature threshold (e.g., exceeding an upper temperature threshold or falling below a lower temperature threshold), a humidity (e.g., RH) measurement crossing a humidity threshold (e.g., exceeding an upper humidity threshold or falling below a lower humidity threshold), a vibration event (e.g., during vehicle transportation), a shock event (e.g., during warehouse storage), a tampering event (e.g., being attempted to be removed), or any combination thereof. Further, the microcontroller 48 may generate a push communication in response to an event (e.g., temperature, humidity, vibration, shock, and / or tampering event) associated with the sensor readings. In one example, the microcontroller 48 generates a push communication according to a programmable time interval (e.g., every 30 seconds to 5 minutes). At least one of the sensor readings may also be transmitted in response to a request (e.g., an inquiry).

[0014] The illustrated label 40 also includes an encapsulant 56 for providing environmental protection to the flexible circuit 44. Accordingly, the label 40 can withstand a wide temperature range within a warehouse environment and vibrations and shocks typical of current package handling practices. In one example, the power source 46 is replaceable. Further, the power source 46 can be rigid or flexible depending on the situation.

[0015] In one embodiment, the microcontroller 48 encrypts the sensor readings before transmission (e.g., the data is encrypted while in motion). In such cases, the sensor readings can be transmitted to a central computer and / or a computer network via an identity-verified network communication link to further protect against tampering. Additionally, the trust of the software can be verified at the hardware level to protect against software binary and configuration endangerment. Standard wireless transmission protocols can include cellular IoT protocols, wireless protocols, ultra-wideband (UWB) protocols, BLUETOOTH (R) low energy (BLE) protocols, wireless mesh network protocols, 5G (fifth generation) network protocols (e.g., 5G New Radio / NR), wireless network communication protocols, cellular network communication protocols, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0016] In the illustrated example, the flexible circuit 44 includes a flexible PCB 59. The flexible PCB 59 can include laser cut vias (not shown) and electrical traces (not shown) printed on both sides of the flexible PCB 59. The illustrated sensor 50 is mounted on the flexible PCB 59, but additional external sensors can also be connected to the flexible PCB 59 via a multi-wire interface such as, for example, an I 2 C (inter-integrated circuit), I 2 S (sound between ICs) and / or SPI (serial peripheral interconnect) interface. In one embodiment, the flexible circuit 44 also includes one or more balun circuits 58 to ensure impedance matching of the signal lines between the microcontroller 48 and the sensor 50. The balun circuit 58 can be in the form of passive components, active (e.g., power-requiring) or passive packaged components, or can be incorporated into the microcontroller 48.

[0017] FIG. 4 shows that when executable by the microcontroller 48, the microcontroller 48 may include one or more instructions 51 that cause the microcontroller 48 to identify sensor readings in one or more signals from a plurality of sensors 50 and transmit the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols. As already described, at least one of the sensor readings may be transmitted in a push communication.

[0018] Figure 5 shows an environment in which secure IoT labels, such as label 70, are implemented on various packages 76 within an automated warehouse 72. In one embodiment, label 70 is similar to label 10 (FIG. 1) and / or label 40 (FIG. 3) already described. Label 70 can transmit push communications to a directional antenna 74, such as a large multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) signal collection antenna, which, for example, improves connectivity and provides a tracking resolution on the order of 0.15 meters (6 inches). In one example, the directional antenna 74 communicates with a cellular (e.g., LTE-M (Long-Term Evolution Category Mobile 1), LTE NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things), or 5G New Radio) core system 78, which then communicates with a cellular secure authentication (SA) core system 80 (e.g., enforces non-trusted mobile constraints and / or identity-verified network communication links). For example, an identity-verified network communication link can include a trusted handshake protocol between the cellular SA core system 80 and the cellular core system 78 (e.g., non-SA). In one embodiment, the cellular SA core system 80 also communicates with an accountable property system of record (APSR) 82 and an antenna 84 that receives signals from one or more cameras 86 implemented within the automated warehouse 72, enabling visual image data to be added to the APSR. Accordingly, warehouse operations personnel 88 can be automatically alerted to conditions such as temperature measurements crossing a temperature threshold, humidity measurements crossing a humidity threshold, vibration events, shock events, tampering events, visual images, etc.

[0019] In fact, the label 70 can enhance the in-out logistics by enabling local data collection in the truck 90, the shipyard dock 92, and the container 94. In such cases, slicing can be used in the 5G RAN (Radio Access Network) 96. More specifically, the original network architecture can be extended and potentially "sliced" across different frequency bands in a plurality of logical and independent networks configured to effectively meet various service requirements. In one embodiment, the following technologies are used. - Network functions represent the basic network functions used as "building blocks" for creating all network slices. - Virtualization provides an abstract representation of physical resources under an integrated and homogeneous scheme, enables scalable slice deployment relying on NFV (Network Function Virtualization), and each network function instance is separated from the network hardware on which the instance runs. - Orchestration is a process that enables the coordination of different network components involved in the life cycle of each network slice. In this regard, SDN (Software Defined Network) can be used to enable dynamic and flexible slice configuration.

[0020] FIG. 6 shows a method 100 for operating a microcontroller. Method 100 can generally be implemented by instructions 51 (FIGS. 3 and 4) of a microcontroller and / or a microcontroller 48, such as, for example, the microcontroller 20b (FIG. 1) already described. More specifically, method 100 can be implemented in one or more modules as a set of logic instructions stored in a machine or computer-readable storage medium such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), firmware, flash memory, etc., in configurable logic such as programmable logic array (PLA), field programmable gate array (FPGA), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), etc., in fixed-function hardware logic using circuit technologies such as application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) or transistor-transistor logic (TTL) technology, or any combination thereof.

[0021] Processing block 102 shown provides a step of identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from a plurality of sensors within a flexible label. The sensor readings can indicate, for example, a temperature measurement crossing a temperature threshold, a humidity measurement crossing a humidity threshold, a vibration event, a shock event, a tampering event, etc., or any combination thereof. Block 102 can include a step of comparing the measurement to a threshold (e.g., a programmable threshold), and / or a step of detecting one or more warning messages within the signal (e.g., the sensor performs the comparison).

[0022] Block 104 may provide for transmitting sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols such as, for example, a cellular IoT protocol, a wireless protocol, a UWB protocol, a BLE protocol, a wireless mesh network protocol, a 5G network protocol, a wireless network communication protocol, a cellular network communication protocol, etc. In the illustrated example, at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted by push communication. Alternatively, the sensor readings may be transmitted via a wired link.

[0023] Push communication may be generated in a plurality of ways. For example, push communication may be generated in response to an event associated with a sensor reading (e.g., a temperature event, a humidity event, a movement event, a vibration event, a shock event). Additionally, push communication may be generated according to a programmable time interval (e.g., periodically). In one embodiment, at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in response to a request. In one example, block 104 also provides for encrypting the sensor readings, wherein the encrypted sensor readings are transmitted to a central computer and / or a computer network via an identity-verified network communication link. Thus, the illustrated method 100 enhances performance inasmuch as it enables at least proactive tracking, a robust communication infrastructure, the ability to track relatively small items, and / or reduced vulnerability to package tampering.

[0024] FIG. 7 shows a method 106 for reprogramming a microcontroller, such as the microcontroller 20b (FIG. 1) already described, and / or the instructions 51 (FIGS. 3 and 4) of the microcontroller 48. The method 106 can be implemented in one or more modules as a set of logic instructions stored in a machine or computer-readable storage medium such as RAM, ROM, PROM, firmware, flash memory, in configurable logic such as a PLA, FPGA, CPLD, or in fixed-function hardware logic using circuit technology such as ASIC, CMOS or TTL technology, or any combination thereof.

[0025] The illustrated processing block 107 provides a step of receiving a reprogramming signal from a network-verified authority, where the reprogramming signal is received via the APSR and a wireless communication link. In one embodiment, block 108 updates one or more of the sensor responsiveness settings, reset time conditions settings, or package information settings within the microcontroller based on the reprogramming signal.

[0026] FIG. 8 shows a method 110 for creating labels, such as label 10 (FIG. 1), label 40 (FIG. 3) and / or label 70 (FIG. 5). The method 110 can be implemented in one or more modules as a set of logic instructions stored in a machine or computer-readable storage medium such as RAM, ROM, PROM, firmware, flash memory, in configurable logic such as a PLA, FPGA, CPLD, or in fixed-function hardware logic using circuit technology such as ASIC, CMOS or TTL technology, or any combination thereof.

[0027] The illustrated processing block 112 provides a step of coupling a flexible circuit to a flexible substrate, the flexible circuit including a power supply, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna. In one embodiment, the plurality of sensors includes a temperature sensor, a relative humidity sensor, a position sensor, and a motion sensor (e.g., detecting vibration, impact, tampering, etc.). One or more of the sensors may also be combined in a shared package (e.g., a combined temperature and RH sensor). In an example, the flexible circuit further includes a flexible PCB and one or more balance circuits. Further, block 112 may further include steps of laser cutting vias in the flexible PCB, printing electrical traces on the flexible PCB, and molding an encapsulant substantially around the flexible circuit.

[0028] Block 114 may provide a step of programming the microcontroller to identify sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors and transmit the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols. In the illustrated example, at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in a push communication. Thus, the illustrated method 110 creates a label that enables proactive tracking, a robust communication infrastructure, the ability to track relatively small items, and / or less vulnerability to package tampering.

[0029] Appendix and Examples: Example 1 includes a label that includes a flexible substrate and a flexible circuit coupled to the flexible substrate. The flexible circuit includes a power source, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna. The microcontroller identifies sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors and transmits the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, and at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted by push communication.

[0030] Example 2 includes the label according to Example 1, wherein the sensor readings indicate one or more of a temperature measurement crossing a temperature threshold, a humidity measurement crossing a humidity threshold, a vibration event, an impact event, and a tampering event.

[0031] Example 3 includes the label according to Example 1, wherein the microcontroller generates push communication in response to an event associated with the sensor readings.

[0032] Example 4 includes the label according to Example 1, wherein the microcontroller generates push communication according to a programmable time interval.

[0033] Example 5 includes the label according to Example 1, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in response to a request.

[0034] Example 6 includes the label according to Example 1, wherein the one or more signals include a temperature signal, a relative humidity signal, a position signal, and a motion signal.

[0035] Example 7 includes the label according to Example 1, further including an encapsulant substantially surrounding the flexible circuit.

[0036] Example 8 includes the label described in Example 1, where the microcontroller encrypts sensor readings, and the encrypted sensor readings are transmitted to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via an identity-verified network communication link.

[0037] Example 9 includes the label described in Example 1, where the standard wireless transmission protocol includes one or more of a cellular IoT protocol, a wireless protocol, an ultra-wideband protocol, a BLUETOOTH (registered trademark) low energy protocol, a wireless mesh network protocol, a 5G network protocol, a wireless network communication protocol, or a cellular network communication protocol.

[0038] Example 10 includes the label described in Example 1, where the flexible circuit further includes a flexible printed circuit board and one or more balance circuits.

[0039] Example 11 includes a method of operating a microcontroller, the method including identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from a plurality of sensors within a flexible label, and transmitting the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted by push communication.

[0040] Example 12 includes the method described in Example 11, where the sensor readings indicate one or more of a temperature measurement crossing a temperature threshold, a humidity measurement crossing a humidity threshold, a movement event, a vibration event, a shock event, or a tampering event.

[0041] Example 13 includes the method described in Example 11, further including generating push communication in response to an event associated with the sensor readings.

[0042] Example 14 includes the method described in Example 11, further comprising the step of generating push communications according to a programmable time interval.

[0043] Example 15 includes the method described in Example 11, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in response to a request.

[0044] Example 16 includes the method described in Example 11, further comprising the step of encrypting the sensor readings, wherein the encrypted sensor readings are transmitted to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via an identity-verified network communication link.

[0045] Example 17 includes the method described in Example 11, wherein the standard wireless transmission protocol includes one or more of a cellular Internet of Things (IoT) protocol, a wireless protocol, an ultra-wideband protocol, a BLUETOOTH (registered trademark) low energy protocol, a wireless mesh network protocol, a 5G network protocol, a wireless network communication protocol, or a cellular network communication protocol.

[0046] Example 18 includes the method described in Example 11, further comprising the step of updating one or more of the sensor responsiveness settings, reset time condition settings, or package information settings within the microcontroller based on a reprogramming signal from a network-verified authority, wherein the reprogramming signal is received via an explainable record asset system and a wireless communication link.

[0047] Example 19 is a method of creating a label, comprising the steps of coupling a flexible circuit to a flexible substrate, the flexible circuit including a power supply, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna; identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors; and programming the microcontroller to transmit the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, at least one of the sensor readings being transmitted by push communication.

[0048] Example 20 includes the method according to Example 19, further comprising the step of molding an encapsulant substantially around the flexible circuit.

[0049] Example 21 includes the method according to Example 19, wherein the plurality of sensors includes a temperature sensor, a relative humidity sensor, a position sensor, and a motion sensor, and the flexible circuit further includes a flexible printed circuit board and one or more balun circuits.

[0050] Embodiments are applicable to use with all types of semiconductor integrated circuit ("IC") chips. Examples of these IC chips include, but are not limited to, processors, controllers, chipset components, programmable logic arrays (PLAs), memory chips, network chips, system-on-chips (SoCs), SSD (Solid State Drive) / NAND controller ASICs, etc. Also, in some of the drawings, signal conductor lines are represented by lines. Some may differ to show more constituent signal paths, may have number labels to indicate the number of constituent signal paths, and / or may have arrows at one or more ends to indicate the direction of the basic information flow. However, this should not be construed as limiting. Rather, such added details may be used in connection with one or more exemplary embodiments to facilitate easier understanding of the circuit. Any signal line shown may, in reality, include one or more signals that can travel in multiple directions, with or without additional information, and may be implemented in any suitable type of signal scheme, such as digital or analog lines implemented as differential pairs, optical fiber lines, and / or single-ended lines.

[0051] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes the following examples, whereby the scope of protection is provided by the claims.

[0052] Example 1 A label including a flexible substrate and a flexible circuit coupled to the flexible substrate, the flexible circuit including a power supply, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna, the microcontroller identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors and transmitting the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, at least one of the sensor readings being transmitted in push communication.

[0053] Example 2 The sensor reading indicates one or more of a temperature measurement value that crosses a temperature threshold, a humidity measurement value that crosses a humidity threshold, a vibration event, a shock event, or a tampering event, the label described in Example 1.

[0054] Example 3 The microcontroller generates push communication in response to an event associated with the sensor reading, the label described in Example 1 or 2.

[0055] Example 4 The microcontroller generates push communication according to a programmable time interval, the label described in any one of Examples 1 to 3.

[0056] Example 5 At least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in response to a request, the label described in any one of Examples 1 to 4.

[0057] Example 6 The one or more signals include a temperature signal, a relative humidity signal, a position signal, and a motion signal, the label described in any one of Examples 1 to 5.

[0058] Example 7 Further includes an encapsulant that substantially surrounds the flexible circuit, the label described in any one of Examples 1 to 6.

[0059] Example 8 The microcontroller will encrypt the sensor reading, and the encrypted sensor reading is transmitted to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via an identity-verified network communication link, the label described in any one of Examples 1 to 7.

[0060] Example 9 The label according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the standard wireless transmission protocol includes one or more of a cellular IoT protocol, a wireless protocol, an ultra-wideband protocol, a BLUETOOTH (registered trademark) low energy protocol, a wireless mesh network protocol, a 5G network protocol, a wireless network communication protocol, or a cellular network communication protocol.

[0061] Example 10 The label according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the flexible circuit further includes a flexible printed circuit board and one or more balanced circuits.

[0062] Example 11 A method of operating a microcontroller, the method including: identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from a plurality of sensors within a flexible label; and transmitting the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted by push communication.

[0063] Example 12 The method according to Example 11, wherein the sensor readings indicate one or more of a temperature measurement crossing a temperature threshold, a humidity measurement crossing a humidity threshold, a movement event, a vibration event, an impact event, or a tampering event.

[0064] Example 13 The method according to Example 11 or 12, further including generating push communication in response to an event associated with the sensor readings.

[0065] Example 14 The method according to any one of Examples 11 to 13, further including generating push communication according to a programmable time interval.

[0066] Example 15 The method according to any one of Examples 11 to 14, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in response to a request.

[0067] Example 16 A method according to any one of Examples 11 to 15, further comprising the step of encrypting sensor readings, wherein the encrypted sensor readings are transmitted to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via an identity-verified network communication link.

[0068] Example 17 A method according to any one of Examples 11 to 16, wherein the standard wireless transmission protocol includes one or more of a cellular Internet of Things (IoT) protocol, a wireless protocol, an ultra-wideband protocol, a BLUETOOTH (registered trademark) low energy protocol, a wireless mesh network protocol, a 5G network protocol, a wireless network communication protocol, or a cellular network communication protocol.

[0069] Example 18 A method according to any one of Examples 11 to 17, further comprising the step of updating one or more of sensor responsiveness settings, reset time conditions settings, or package information settings within a microcontroller based on a reprogramming signal from a network-verified authority, wherein the reprogramming signal is received via an explainable record asset system and a wireless communication link.

[0070] Example 19 A method of creating a label, comprising the steps of coupling a flexible circuit to a flexible substrate, the flexible circuit including a power supply, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna; and programming the microcontroller to identify sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors and transmit the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted by push communication.

[0071] Example 20: The method according to Example 19, further comprising the step of molding an encapsulant substantially around the flexible circuit.

[0072] Example 21: The method according to Example 19 or 20, wherein the plurality of sensors includes a temperature sensor, a relative humidity sensor, a position sensor, and a motion sensor, and the flexible circuit further includes a flexible printed circuit board and one or more balance circuits.

[0073] Although sizes / models / values / ranges of examples are given, embodiments are not limited to the same. As manufacturing technologies (e.g., photolithography) mature over time, it is expected that smaller-sized devices can be manufactured. Further, well-known power / ground connections to IC chips and other components may or may not be shown in the drawings to simplify the illustration and description and not to obscure particular aspects of the embodiments. Further, to avoid obscuring the embodiments and considering the fact that details regarding the implementation of such block diagram arrangements highly depend on the platform on which the embodiments are implemented, the arrangements may be shown in block diagram form, i.e., such details should be well within the scope of those skilled in the art. When specific details (e.g., circuits) are described to illustrate exemplary embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments can be practiced without these specific details or with variations of these specific details. Accordingly, the description is to be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting.

[0074] The term "coupled" may be used herein to refer to any type of direct or indirect relationship between the components in question and may apply to electrical, mechanical, fluidic, optical, electromagnetic, electromechanical or other connections. Further, terms such as "first", "second", etc. may be used herein only to facilitate discussion and do not convey any particular temporal or chronological significance unless otherwise indicated.

[0075] As used in this application and the claims, the term "one or more" in connection with a list of items can mean any combination of the listed terms. For example, the expression "one or more of A, B, or C" can mean A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A, B, and C.

[0076] Those skilled in the art will understand from the foregoing description that the broad techniques of the embodiments can be implemented in various forms. Thus, although the embodiments have been described in connection with specific examples thereof, upon review of the drawings, specification, and the following claims, other modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art, and the true scope of the embodiments should not be so limited.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0077] 10 Flexible label 12 Cellular network 14 Computer network 16 Remote device 16a Remote device 16a Tablet device 16b Remote device 16b Smartphone 16c Remote device 16c Workstation 18 Wireless network 20 Flexible circuit 20a Flexible circuit 20a Flexible printed circuit board 20b Flexible circuit 20b Microcontroller 20c Flexible circuit 20c Motion sensor 20d Flexible circuit 20d Ultraviolet (UV) light sensor 20e Flexible circuit 20e UV index (e.g., visible light) sensor 20f Flexible circuit 20f Environmental sensor 20g Flexible Circuit 20g Battery 20h Flexible Circuit 20h Antenna 22 Flexible Substrate 30 3D Sensor Arrangement 32 Another 3D Sensor Arrangement 40 Label 42 Flexible Substrate 44 Flexible Circuit 46 Power Supply 48 Microcontroller 50 Multiple Sensors 50a Sensor 50b Sensor 50c Sensor 50d Sensor 50e Sensor 50f Sensor 52 Transceiver 54 Flexible Antenna 56 Encapsulant 58 Balanced Circuit 59 Flexible PCB 70 Label 72 Automated Warehouse 74 Directional Antenna 76 Package 78 Cellular Core System 80 Cellular Secure Authentication (SA) Core System 82 APSR 84 Antenna 86 Camera 88 Warehouse Operator 90 Truck 92 Shipyard Dock 94 Container 96 5G RAN (Radio Access Network) 100 Method 106 Method 110 Method

Claims

1. A flexible substrate, A flexible circuit coupled to the flexible substrate, the flexible circuit including a power supply, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna, the plurality of sensors being disposed on different planes or curved surfaces of an object, the microcontroller Identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors, Transmitting the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, at least one of the sensor readings being transmitted by push communication, the flexible circuit A label including.

2. The label according to claim 1, wherein the sensor readings indicate one or more of a temperature measurement crossing a temperature threshold, a humidity measurement crossing a humidity threshold, a vibration event, an impact event, or a tampering event.

3. The microcontroller Generating the push communication in response to an event associated with the sensor readings, Generating the push communication according to a programmable time interval, Encrypting the sensor readings, the encrypted sensor readings being transmitted to one or more of the central computer or the computer network via an identity-verified network communication link, The label according to claim 1 or 2, which performs at least one of.

4. The label according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in response to a request.

5. The label according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more signals include a temperature signal, a relative humidity signal, a position signal, and a motion signal.

6. The label according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further including an encapsulant substantially surrounding the flexible circuit.

7. The label according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the standard wireless transmission protocol includes one or more of a cellular Internet of Things (IoT) protocol, a wireless protocol, an ultra-wideband protocol, a BLUETOOTH low energy protocol, a wireless mesh network protocol, a 5G network protocol, a wireless network communication protocol, or a cellular network communication protocol.

8. The label according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the flexible circuit further includes a flexible printed circuit board and one or more balanced circuits.

9. A method of operating a microcontroller, comprising: identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from a plurality of sensors within a flexible label, wherein the plurality of sensors are disposed on different planes of an object or on a curved surface of the object; transmitting the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in push communication; A method comprising the steps of:

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the sensor readings indicate one or more of a temperature measurement crossing a temperature threshold, a humidity measurement crossing a humidity threshold, a motion event, a vibration event, an impact event, or a tampering event.

11. generating the push communication in response to an event associated with the sensor readings; generating the push communication according to a programmable time interval; encrypting the sensor readings, wherein the encrypted sensor readings are transmitted to one or more of the central computer or the computer network via an identity-verified network communication link; and updating one or more of sensor responsiveness settings, reset time conditions settings, or package information settings within the microcontroller based on a reprogramming signal from a network-verified authority, wherein the reprogramming signal is received via an accountable record asset system and a wireless communication link; The method according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising at least one of the above steps.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein at least one of the sensor readings is transmitted in response to a request.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the standard wireless transmission protocol includes one or more of a cellular Internet of Things (IoT) protocol, a wireless protocol, an ultra-wideband protocol, a BLUETOOTH low energy protocol, a wireless mesh network protocol, a 5G network protocol, a wireless network communication protocol, or a cellular network communication protocol.

14. A method of creating a label, comprising: coupling a flexible circuit to a flexible substrate, the flexible circuit including a power supply, a microcontroller, a plurality of sensors, one or more transceivers, and an antenna, the plurality of sensors being disposed on different planes or on a curved surface of an object; identifying sensor readings in one or more signals from the plurality of sensors and programming the microcontroller to transmit the sensor readings to one or more of a central computer or a computer network via one or more standard wireless transmission protocols, at least one of the sensor readings being transmitted by push communication; comprising: the plurality of sensors including a temperature sensor, a relative humidity sensor, a position sensor, and a motion sensor, the flexible circuit further including a flexible printed circuit board and one or more balun circuits.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising molding an encapsulant substantially around the flexible circuit.

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