Container production management system

Abstract

This system provides a container production management system that optimizes production planning and management of manufacturing lines by identifying container defects in real time based on manufacturing history information of containers used for transporting and storing liquids. [Solution] The container production management system has a network 6 that connects an information terminal IT, a personal computer 1 owned by a container molding manufacturer M1, a personal computer 2 owned by a liquid filling manufacturer M2 that fills a predetermined liquid into a container 7 molded by the container molding manufacturer M1, a personal computer 3 owned by a user U that uses the filled liquid, a personal computer 4 owned by a cleaning manufacturer M3 that cleans the containers after use, and a personal computer 5 owned by a recycling company M5 that recycles the container materials. The containers are provided with an identification code on which identification information related to the manufacturing history is written, and the identification information includes first-tier and second-tier information that can be shared via the network through the personal computers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a production management system for containers.

Background Art

[0002] Containers used for transporting and storing various liquids are often sent from a "molding manufacturer" 21 that molds the containers to a "liquid filling manufacturer" 22 that fills the containers with liquid, as shown in FIG. 5. After the liquid filling manufacturer 22 fills the containers with a predetermined liquid, the containers are sent to an "end user" 23 that uses the liquid filled in the containers. After the liquid filled in the containers is taken out and used by the end user 23, the containers are sent to a "washing manufacturer" 24, returned to the liquid filling manufacturer 22, or containers determined to be non-reusable due to the appearance shape of the containers, etc. are sent to an "industrial waste processor" 25. Containers washed by the washing manufacturer 24 are sent to the liquid filling manufacturer 22. However, containers that are unusable as containers due to deterioration of the appearance shape of the containers, etc. are sent to a "material recycler" 26 or to an "industrial waste processor" 25. The material recycler 26 sends the containers sent from the washing manufacturer 24 to the molding manufacturer 21, and at the molding manufacturer 21, they are used after being pulverized or pelletized as part of the container material. Also, when the material recycler 26 performs material recycling, the containers sent from the washing manufacturer 24 may be washed before pulverization or pelletization, or supplied to other molding manufacturers other than the molding manufacturer 21. Also, among the containers sent from the washing manufacturer 24 to the material recycler 26, containers determined to be non-recyclable due to the type of residual liquid in the containers and material deterioration, etc. are sent to the industrial waste processor 25.

[0003] Thus, containers used for transporting and storing various liquids go through complex processing routes, resulting in either complete reuse, partial reuse, or disposal. In this case, if various information about the containers, such as information about the raw materials, molding process, and the liquid being filled, is available, appropriate processing conditions can be adopted by each of the aforementioned processing companies. As a result, for example, cleaning manufacturers can expect to reduce cleaning costs by adopting optimal cleaning conditions. Recycling companies can reduce recycling costs by adopting optimal recycling conditions. Furthermore, molding manufacturers can ensure that recycled materials are used for optimal purposes by having clear information about the raw materials. Industrial waste disposal companies can also reduce processing costs by adopting optimal processing conditions and avoid causing environmental problems due to the adoption of inappropriate processing conditions.

[0004] Currently, some information about containers on the market is attached to them using methods such as QR codes (registered trademarks) and barcodes, but it cannot be said that this is always sufficiently effective. As a result, it is difficult to clarify who is responsible for cleaning, recycling, or waste disposal. In other words, when a container molding manufacturer sends a molded container to a liquid filling manufacturer, they recognize that the liquid filling manufacturer is responsible for managing the container; when a liquid filling manufacturer sends a liquid-filled container to an end user, they recognize that the end user is responsible for managing the container; when an end user sends a used container to a cleaning manufacturer, they recognize that the cleaning manufacturer is responsible for managing the container; when a cleaning manufacturer sends a cleaned container to a recycling company, they recognize that the recycling company is responsible for managing the container; and when an end user, cleaning manufacturer, or recycling company sends a container to an industrial waste disposal company, they often recognize that the industrial waste disposal company is responsible for managing the container.

[0005] Thus, it can be said that none of the parties involved in the various processes from the molding to the disposal of containers used for transporting and storing various liquids recognize that they are personally responsible for managing these containers. Consequently, improper cleaning conditions at cleaning manufacturers may result in water pollution from the wastewater. Furthermore, improper recycling conditions at recycling companies and improper processing conditions at industrial waste disposal companies may result in environmental pollution.

[0006] Therefore, in establishing a recycling system for containers used for transporting and storing various liquids, it is urgent to ensure that proper processing and disposal are carried out.

[0007] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a paper container recycling system, as shown in Figure 6, which includes a mobile phone A connected to a network, a management server C, and a collection device B, for improving the recycling rate of paper containers G. The mobile phone A comprises a first reading means 31 for reading a two-dimensional code H provided inside the paper container G, a first analysis means 32 for analyzing identification information converted into the two-dimensional code H read by the first reading means 31, and a first transmission means 33 that connects to the management server C via the network and transmits the identification information obtained by the analysis by the first analysis means 32 and personal identification information that identifies the person who recycles the paper container G to the management server C. The collection device B comprises a second reading means 34 for reading a two-dimensional code H provided inside the paper container G, a second analysis means 35 for analyzing identification information converted into the two-dimensional code H read by the second reading means 34, and the mobile phone A connects to the management server C via the network. A paper container recycling system is disclosed, comprising: a management server C and a second transmission means 36 that connects to the management server C and transmits identification information obtained by analysis by the second analysis means 35 to the management server C, wherein the management server C comprises: a first receiving means 37 that receives the identification number and personal identification information transmitted from the first transmission means 33 of the mobile phone A; a first information storage means 38 that checks whether the personal identification information received by the first receiving means 37 is stored in the personal database, and if so, stores the identification number received by the first receiving means 37 in the personal database in combination with the personal identification information; a second receiving means 39 that receives the identification number transmitted from the collection device B; and a first point adding means 40 that checks whether the identification number received by the second receiving means 39 is stored in the personal database, and if so, adds points to the individual identified by the personal identification information stored in the personal database in combination with the identification number.

[0008] According to the paper container recycling system described in Patent Document 1, points are awarded for recycling paper containers, which can increase the participation rate of consumers who purchase and dispose of paper containers, thereby improving the collection rate of paper containers. However, even among paper containers, the base material often differs depending on the contents filled in the container, such as being made only of paper and resin, or paper, aluminum foil, and resin, and the type of resin also varies. Therefore, even if paper containers can be collected by the recycling system, sorting after collection becomes necessary, which can be time-consuming, and if sorting is not done sufficiently, they may be discarded or incinerated as unrecyclable. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-242943 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] In view of the above problems, the object of the present invention is to provide a container production management system that can grasp information on defects in containers in real time based on identification information regarding the manufacturing history of containers used for transporting and storing various liquids, and optimize the manufacturing plan and production management of the on-site production line. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The container production management system of the present invention for achieving the above objective comprises a container molding manufacturer, a liquid filling manufacturer that fills containers molded by the container molding manufacturer with a predetermined liquid, an end user that uses the liquid filled in the containers by the liquid filling manufacturer, a cleaning manufacturer that cleans the containers after they have been used by the end user U, a material recycling company, an information terminal equipped with information reading, writing and transmission functions, a personal computer owned by the container molding manufacturer, a personal computer owned by the liquid filling manufacturer, a personal computer owned by the end user, a personal computer owned by the cleaning manufacturer, a personal computer owned by the material recycling company, and a network connecting all of these personal computers to each other.

[0012] Identifying information regarding the manufacturing history of a container includes, for container molding manufacturers, information on the raw materials of the container (e.g., type of resin, physical and chemical properties of the resin, resin mixing ratio, etc.), information on the molding of the container (e.g., molding atmosphere, molding temperature, molding pressure, molding time, molding pattern, etc.), and other information about the container itself (e.g., shape of the container, size of the container, manufacturing control number of the container, performance information of the container, etc.).

[0013] For liquid filling manufacturers, identifying information regarding the manufacturing history of a container includes publicly available information about the container (e.g., the container's manufacturing control number) and information about the filled liquid (e.g., type of liquid, properties of the liquid, concentration of the liquid, amount of liquid filled, date and time of filling, handling instructions, etc.).

[0014] For end users, identifying information regarding the manufacturing history of a container includes publicly available information about the container (e.g., the container's manufacturing control number) and information about the liquid it contains (e.g., type of liquid, properties of the liquid, concentration of the liquid, amount of liquid filled, date and time of filling, handling instructions, etc.).

[0015] For cleaning manufacturers, identifying information regarding the manufacturing history of a container includes publicly available information about the container (e.g., the container's manufacturing control number) and information about the cleaning method (e.g., type of cleaning liquid, properties of the cleaning liquid, concentration of the cleaning liquid, amount of cleaning liquid used, date and time of cleaning, drying method, etc.).

[0016] For material recyclers, identifying information regarding the manufacturing history of a container includes publicly available information about the container (e.g., the container's manufacturing control number) and information regarding recycling conditions (e.g., washing and crushing conditions).

[0017] The medium on which identification information regarding the manufacturing history of a container is written is not particularly limited, but a data carrier is preferred, and for example, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) can be used. Among the identification information regarding the manufacturing history of a container, the particularly important "information about the container itself" and "information about the filling liquid" may be written on the same data carrier, or they may be written on separate data carriers.

[0018] RFID is a general term for technologies that use short-range wireless communication to exchange information with dedicated tags that record data such as ID information, without human intervention. It is known as one of the automatic identification technologies that reads data from dedicated tags and recognizes its contents without human intervention. Dedicated tags are called RF tags, RFID tags, or IC tags. These tags consist of an IC chip on which data can be written, an antenna, a capacitor, etc. Using a dedicated reading device called a reader / writer, information can be exchanged between the tag and the reader / writer through short-range wireless communication. There are three types of RFID tags: passive tags that do not have a battery, active tags that have a built-in battery, and semi-active tags that combine the features of both, and all of them can be used. Even passive tags without a battery will activate through electromagnetic induction when a reader / writer is brought close, and communication will begin. In addition to the above types of tags, there are various types of RFID depending on the communication method, access method, frequency band, etc. There are three types of communication methods: electromagnetic coupling method (mutual induction method), electromagnetic induction method (inductive electromagnetic field method), and radio wave method (radiated electromagnetic field method). Electromagnetic coupling is a communication method that utilizes mutual induction between the coils of the tag and the reader / writer; electromagnetic induction is a communication method that utilizes induced magnetic flux; and radio wave is a communication method that utilizes radio waves. Access methods include read-only type, write-once type that allows data to be rewritten only once, and read-write type that allows data to be rewritten multiple times. There are four types of frequency bands: LF band (long wave band below 135 kHz), HF band (short wave band of 13.56 MHz), UHF band, and microwave band. In the present invention, it is preferable to use RFID that allows data rewriting.

[0019] For example, a QR code (registered trademark) can be used as a medium to write identification information regarding the manufacturing history of a container. QR codes (registered trademark) have several advantages: they can handle data such as numbers, letters, kanji, kana, binary symbols, and control codes, allowing for large amounts of information to be represented in a small code; they can represent data both vertically and horizontally, enabling display in small spaces; they can be read from any direction (360°); and they have an error correction function, allowing data recovery even if part of the code is dirty or damaged, making them resistant to dirt and damage. There are also different types of QR codes (registered trademark): Model 1 (maximum version 14 (73 x 73 cells), capable of handling up to 1167 digits) and Model 2 (maximum version 40 (177 x 177 cells), capable of handling up to 7089 digits). Micro QR codes (maximum version M4 (17 x 17 cells), capable of handling up to 35 digits), which allow printing in even smaller spaces, can also be used. Furthermore, it is also possible to use rMQR code (registered trademark), a rectangular QR code (registered trademark) that is easy to display in a small space, with large and small cutout symbols placed in one location each, achieving both readability and information capacity (R7×43 (7 cells × 43 cells) can handle 12 digits, and the largest R17×139 (17 cells × 139 cells) can handle up to 361 digits). In addition, it is also possible to use SQRC (registered trademark), which has a data reading restriction function and can be used for managing private information and internal company information. Moreover, it is also possible to use frame QR, which has a freely usable canvas area within the code, allowing text and images to be inserted into the canvas area. In the present invention, it is preferable to use a variable QR code (registered trademark) that allows data to be rewritten. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the invention of the present application, based on the identification information regarding the manufacturing history of containers used for transporting and storing various liquids in container manufacturers, liquid filling manufacturers, end users, cleaning manufacturers, and material recycling operators, the defect information of the containers can be grasped in real time, and the production plan and production management of the on-site production line can be optimized.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an embodiment of the production management system for the container of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of another embodiment of the production management system for the container of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic configuration diagram of yet another embodiment of the production management system for the container of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of yet another embodiment of the production management system for the container of the present invention. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic layout diagram showing a conventional container processing system. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a configuration diagram of a paper container recycling system described in Patent Document 1.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] [[ID=及び]] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0023] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the container production management system of the present invention. In Figure 1, the container production management system of the present invention comprises a container molding manufacturer M1, a liquid filling manufacturer M2 that fills containers molded by the container molding manufacturer M1 with a predetermined liquid, an end user U that uses the liquid filled in the containers by the liquid filling manufacturer M2, a cleaning manufacturer M3 that cleans the containers after they have been used by the end user U, a material recycling company M5, an information terminal IT equipped with information reading, writing and transmission functions, a personal computer 1 provided by the container molding manufacturer M1, a personal computer 2 provided by the liquid filling manufacturer M2, a personal computer 3 provided by the end user U, a personal computer 4 provided by the cleaning manufacturer M3, a personal computer 5 provided by the material recycling company M5, and a network 6 that connects these personal computers 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 to each other.

[0024] A two-dimensional code (identification code) 8, which records identification information related to the manufacturing history of the container, is provided on the containers 7a and 7b, which are molded at the container molding manufacturer M1.

[0025] Figure 1 shows the case where "information about the container itself" and "information about the filling liquid" are shared or not shared in network 6. Figure 2 shows the case where only "information about the container itself" is shared or not shared in network 6. Figure 3 shows the case where "information about the filling liquid" is written to the same data carrier as "information about the container itself," and only "information about the filling liquid" is shared or not shared in network 6. Figure 4 shows the case where "information about the filling liquid" is written to a different data carrier than the data carrier on which "information about the container itself" is written, and only "information about the filling liquid" is shared or not shared in network 6.

[0026] In Figure 1, molding manufacturer M1 writes identification information regarding the manufacturing history of the container into a two-dimensional code (identification code) 8 provided on the molded container 7a or 7b, and sends this molded container 7a or 7b to liquid filling manufacturer M2. This identification information includes first-level information consisting of product information (A***), container manufacturing location (** factory), manufacturing machine (* machine number), manufacturing date, manufacturing time (hours, minutes, seconds), raw materials, and crushing method; second-level information consisting of UN standard information (details below), resin type, and SDS (details below); third-level information relating to a manufacturing monitoring system that monitors manufacturing process setting conditions, actual control conditions, and manufacturing conditions; and fourth-level information relating to a manufacturing management system that manages order and shipping information (customer information, product specification information, product formulation information, raw material inventory and order information, production plan, output information, quality control information, packaging information) and sales information.

[0027] The information at the first and second levels is shared via network 6 between the personal computers of the container molding manufacturer M1, the liquid filling manufacturer M2, the end user U, the cleaning manufacturer M3, and the material recycling company M5. The information at the third and fourth levels is kept confidential, and each of the container molding manufacturer M1, liquid filling manufacturer M2, end user U, cleaning manufacturer M3, and material recycling company M5 possesses its own unique information at the third and fourth levels. While each of the container molding manufacturer M1, liquid filling manufacturer M2, end user U, cleaning manufacturer M3, and material recycling company M5 can access their own unique information at the third and fourth levels, they cannot access the information at the third and fourth levels that belongs to others.

[0028] For example, the container molding manufacturer M1, the liquid filling manufacturer M2, the end user U, the cleaning manufacturer M3, and the material recycling company M5 can read the first and second-tier information by reading the identification codes provided on the containers 7a and 7b with a reading device, and the first and second-tier information is shared via the network 6.

[0029] On the other hand, as mentioned above, the container molding manufacturer M1, the liquid filling manufacturer M2, the end user U, the cleaning manufacturer M3, and the material recycling company M5 cannot access the third and fourth tier information unique to others. For example, container molding manufacturer M1 can access the manufacturing monitoring system that monitors the third tier information, which is the history of changes over time in controllable parameters such as mixers, extruders, and molds, as well as temperature, humidity, and cleanliness at the manufacturing site, and the manufacturing management system that manages the fourth tier information, which is the information from order to shipment and cost (order information, formulation of ordered products (raw material part numbers and mixing ratios, functional agent part numbers and mixing ratios), production plan including molding machine capacity, output (efficiency), inspection information, product information such as product cost and selling price), by entering a password unique to the PC 1 owned by container molding manufacturer M1. In this way, the container molding manufacturer M1 can obtain detailed manufacturing information (including confidential information) from the manufacturing monitoring system that monitors third-tier information and the manufacturing management system that manages fourth-tier information. Furthermore, the liquid filling manufacturer M2, end-user U, cleaning manufacturer M3, or material recycler M5 can access their respective manufacturing monitoring systems (which monitor third-tier information) and manufacturing management systems (which manage fourth-tier information) by entering their unique passwords into computers 2, 3, 4, or 5.

[0030] For example, when a container molding manufacturer M1 receives first- and second-tier information about a container defect, along with the container's identification code, from a liquid filling manufacturer M2 and an end-user U via network 6, M1 can enter a unique password into PC 1 to obtain detailed manufacturing information, such as the cause of the defect, the manufacturing date, and the time (hours, minutes, seconds) of the defective container, from a manufacturing monitoring system that monitors third-tier information and a manufacturing management system that manages fourth-tier information. This allows M1 to quickly verify not only product lot information, shipping information, inspection information, and raw material information, but also the product history before and after the exact time the defective container was manufactured. Furthermore, if the cause of the defect extends to the time before and after the defective container was produced, sharing first- and second-tier information about potentially defective containers on network 6 enables liquid filling manufacturer M2 and end-user U to quickly and accurately address their respective operational problems.

[0031] Traditionally, when the container molding manufacturer M1 received a report of a container defect from the liquid filling manufacturer M2 or end-user U, it would obtain the lot information stamped on the container from M2 or U. From this lot information, it would then check the shipping status, inspection information, manufacturing history, and raw material information. However, because the time frame of a single lot is long (e.g., a full day or half a day), and many manufacturing factors such as production, packaging, shipping, and unloading are involved, containers are not delivered and filled in the order they were manufactured (chronological order). Instead, a single lot contains containers with various manufacturing dates and times, which are used randomly. Therefore, even if the manufacturing date and time of the container that caused the defect can be identified, the liquid filling manufacturer M2 or end-user U cannot identify and separate containers manufactured at that specific date and time. Thus, traditionally, management was only possible on a lot basis, making it impossible to respond quickly and accurately to operational problems.

[0032] For example, if container molding manufacturer M1 receives first- and second-tier information about container defects, along with the container's identification code, from liquid filling manufacturer M2 and end-user U via network 6, then container molding manufacturer M1 can obtain detailed information about the manufacturing of the defective container by entering a unique password into PC 1, enabling management down to the hour, minute, and second. As a result, by sharing first- and second-tier information on containers manufactured around the exact time the potentially defective container was manufactured via network 6, liquid filling manufacturer M2 and end-user U can take appropriate measures, thereby minimizing operational troubles caused by defective containers (such as line shutdowns or production cuts for equipment inspection).

[0033] UN standard information refers to information that certifies the international transport of dangerous goods in accordance with the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, covering explosives (Classification 1), high-pressure gases (Classification 2), flammable liquids (Classification 3), combustible substances (Classification 4), oxidizing substances (Classification 5), poisons (Classification 6), radioactive materials (Classification 7), corrosive substances (Classification 8), and hazardous substances (Classification 9). Containers that meet UN standards are marked with a symbol that includes the type of container, the material of the container, the type of top (fixed or removable), the container class (an indicator of the level of danger of the dangerous goods), the specific gravity of the contents, the hydrostatic test pressure, the year of manufacture, the name of the country of approval, and the manufacturer's abbreviation.

[0034] A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a document used to provide information about the properties and handling of chemical substances when transferring or providing products containing potentially hazardous or harmful chemicals to other businesses, in accordance with the United Nations' Universally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). An SDS includes product and company information (product name, name, address, and contact information of the business providing the SDS), a summary of hazards (using GHS-compliant pictograms and warning words), composition, ingredient information (names of designated chemical substances contained, types of designated chemical substances, and percentages), first aid measures, fire measures, spill measures, handling and storage precautions, exposure prevention and protection measures for people, physical and chemical properties, stability and reactivity, hazard information, environmental impact information, disposal precautions, transport precautions, applicable laws and regulations, and other information.

[0035] Liquid filling manufacturer M2 reads the identification information written on the two-dimensional code 8 of the molded container 7a or 7b sent from the container molding manufacturer M1 using an information terminal IT, and then transmits this identification information to PC 2 using the information terminal IT. After filling the molded container 7a or 7b with the predetermined liquid, M2 writes identification information regarding the manufacturing history of the container for the filled liquid (details of the filled liquid: for example, the chemical formula of the liquid, chemical composition, amount filled, date and time of filling, time of filling, name of the filling plant, name of the filling machine, etc.) to the two-dimensional code 8 on the molded container 7a or 7b, and then sends this molded container 7a or 7b to the end user U.

[0036] End user U reads the identification information written on the two-dimensional code 8 of the molded container 7a or 7b sent from liquid filling manufacturer M2 using information terminal IT, and then transmits this identification information to PC 3 using information terminal IT. After using the liquid filled in the molded container 7a or 7b, U may write identification information related to the container's manufacturing history (details of usage: for example, if the liquid filled in the molded container 7a or 7b was used to clean an IC chip, the weight of the liquid used for cleaning the IC chip, the date and time of use, the duration of use, the name of the factory used, the name of the machine used, etc.) to the two-dimensional code 8 on the molded container 7a or 7b, and then sends this molded container 7a or 7b to cleaning manufacturer M3.

[0037] The cleaning manufacturer M3 reads the identification information written on the two-dimensional code 8 of the molded container 7a or 7b sent by the end user U using the information terminal IT, and then transmits this identification information from the information terminal IT to the personal computer 4. Then, after confirming the information of the filling liquid written on the two-dimensional code 8 of the molded container 7a or 7b sent by the end user U, selects a cleaning method, and cleans the molded container 7a or 7b, it writes the identification information related to the container's manufacturing history (details of the liquid used for cleaning: for example, the chemical formula, chemical composition, amount used, date and time of cleaning, cleaning time, name of the cleaning plant, name of the cleaning machine, etc.) to the two-dimensional code 8 on the molded container 7a or 7b, and sends this molded container 7a or 7b to the material recycling company M5.

[0038] Material recycling company M5 reads the identification information written on the two-dimensional code 8 of the molded container 7a or 7b sent from cleaning manufacturer M3 using information terminal IT, and then transmits this identification information to PC 5 using information terminal IT. After performing the necessary processing (e.g., cleaning) on ​​the container, it writes identification information related to the container's manufacturing history (number of recyclings, processing applied to the container, processing date and time, processing time, etc.) to the two-dimensional code 8 on the molded container 7a or 7b, and then sends this molded container 7a or 7b to the container molding manufacturer M1.

[0039] Since personal computers 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are connected to each other by network 6, the container molding manufacturer M1, the liquid filling manufacturer M2 that fills the containers molded by container molding manufacturer M1 with a predetermined liquid, the end user U that uses the liquid filled in the containers by liquid filling manufacturer M2, the cleaning manufacturer M3 that cleans the containers after they have been used by end user U, and the material recycling company M5 can share the first-level and second-level information of the identification information written in the two-dimensional code 8 of the molded container 7a or 7b, which is read by the information terminal IT.

[0040] The above describes the basic flow of the production management system for the containers of the present invention. However, if the liquid filling manufacturer M2 finds, for example, that the part number and specifications stamped on the container are different, that the container is not UN standard despite being a UN standard container, that, after checking the container information written on the container, it is found that a container molded using a resin other than the specified resin has been mistakenly included, that a foreign object has been found in the container, or that the container is damaged, the liquid filling manufacturer M2 will not fill the molded container 7a or 7b with the predetermined liquid and will return the molded container 7a or 7b to the container molding manufacturer M1. At the same time as the return, the liquid filling manufacturer M2 will input the details of the defect into the defect information field provided in the first or second layer of the identification information of the PC 2 using the information terminal IT, thereby instantly transmitting the defect information to the container molding manufacturer M1.

[0041] In this way, when information about defective containers is instantly transmitted from the liquid filling manufacturer M2 to the container molding manufacturer M1, the container molding manufacturer M1 can access the first and second level information to determine the manufacturing date, time, minute, and second of the defective container. Then, when the container molding manufacturer M1 sends the individual identification information of the defective container to the PC 1 via the information terminal IT, the liquid filling manufacturer M2 and the end user U can use that information to remove containers that are presumed to have been manufactured around the same time as the defective container from the production line.

[0042] For example, if end-user U checks the information about the filling liquid written on the container and finds that the composition or composition ratio of the specified filling liquid is different, end-user U will not use the liquid filled in molded container 7a or 7b and will return molded container 7a or 7b to liquid filling manufacturer M2. Furthermore, if any abnormalities such as discoloration or contamination impurities are found in the filling liquid, end-user U will not use the liquid filled in molded container 7a or 7b and will return molded container 7a or 7b to liquid filling manufacturer M2. Simultaneously with the return, end-user U will input the details of the defect into the defect information field located in the first or second layer of the identification information on PC 3 using the information terminal IT, thereby instantly transmitting the defect information to liquid filling manufacturer M2.

[0043] In this way, when information regarding defects in the filled liquid is instantly transmitted from the end user U to the liquid filling manufacturer M2, the liquid filling manufacturer M2 can access the first-level and second-level information to determine the date, time, minute, and second when the specified liquid was filled into the container. Then, when the liquid filling manufacturer M2 transmits the individual identification information of the specified liquid to the PC 2 via the information terminal IT, the end user U can use that information to remove containers from the production line that are presumed to have been filled with the same liquid at the same time as the specified liquid.

[0044] In this way, individual identification of defective molded containers and defective filled liquids is possible in real time, allowing the scope of defects to be managed not by lot but by hour, minute, and second.

[0045] If cleaning manufacturer M3 determines that a molded container 7a or 7b sent by end-user U is unusable for reasons such as damage or contamination, it will return the molded container 7a or 7b to the container molding manufacturer M1 without cleaning it. Simultaneously with the return, cleaning manufacturer M3 uses information terminal IT to input the details of the defect into the defect information field located in the first or second layer of the identification information on PC 4, thereby instantly transmitting the defect information to the container molding manufacturer M1.

[0046] In this case, since there is a shortage of containers, the container molding manufacturer M1 checks its inventory and the on-site manufacturing process, and sends the information to PC 1 via the information terminal IT to inquire about the delivery date of the shortage of containers to the cleaning manufacturer M3. Once the cleaning manufacturer M3 agrees to the delivery date, the order is finalized. In this way, the lead time for delivering the shortage of containers can be shortened. In addition, the liquid filling manufacturer M2 and the end user U can find out the delivery date of the shortage of containers in a short time, making it easier to plan production on the on-site manufacturing line.

[0047] If material recycling company M5 determines that molded containers 7a or 7b sent from cleaning manufacturer M3 are unrecyclable due to damage, soiling, or other reasons, it will send the molded containers 7a or 7b to an industrial waste disposal company without recycling them (e.g., cleaning them). If it determines that they are recyclable, it will crush or crush the molded containers 7a or 7b into pellets.

[0048] Simultaneously with the crushing process, the material recycling company M5 inputs the details of the defect into the defect information field located in the first or second layer of the identification information on PC 5 using the information terminal IT, instantly transmitting the defect information to the container molding manufacturer M1. In this case as well, there may be a shortage of containers, so, as before, the container molding manufacturer M1 checks its inventory and the on-site manufacturing process, and sends the information to PC 1 using the information terminal IT to inquire about the delivery date of the missing containers from the liquid filling manufacturer M2 and the end user U. Once the liquid filling manufacturer M2 and the end user U agree to the delivery date, the order is finalized. In this way, the lead time for delivering the missing containers can be shortened.

[0049] The contents described in paragraphs 0035 to 0038 represent the basic business models of liquid filling manufacturers, end users, cleaning manufacturers, and material recyclers, respectively. However, one of these companies may perform the work of another. For example, an end user may, after using the liquid filled in a molded container, clean the container themselves and return it to the liquid filling manufacturer. Alternatively, a cleaning manufacturer may, after cleaning the molded container sent by the end user, crush or mill it into pellets. Furthermore, a material recycler may, after cleaning the molded container sent by the cleaning manufacturer, crush it, or clean and crush the molded container sent by the cleaning manufacturer and then mill it into pellets. Thus, cases in which one company performs part or all of the work of another company are also included in the production management system of the present invention.

[0050] Furthermore, a production management system may be used only by manufacturers that utilize information about the container itself, or only by manufacturers that utilize information about the filling liquid.

[0051] The container production management system of the present invention, configured as described above, has the following effects. (1) Since the usage status of molded containers or filling liquids can be checked in real time, the container molding manufacturer M1, the liquid filling manufacturer M2, the end user U, and the cleaning manufacturer M3 can flexibly modify the on-site manufacturing management plan as needed.

[0052] (2) Because individual defective molded containers and defective filled liquids can be identified in real time, the scope of defects can be managed not by lot but by time, minute, and second.

[0053] (3) Based on information that containers cannot be reused or recycled, container manufacturers and liquid filling manufacturers can improve their operating conditions by determining the lifespan of containers, accumulating container lifespan data, and examining its correlation with operational data.

[0054] (4) Based on information about the filled liquid and information about whether the container is unreusable or unrecyclable, chemical resistance data of the container can be accumulated, and based on this chemical resistance data, the container molding manufacturer can develop containers with superior chemical resistance.

[0055] (5) Because the resin components are clearly identified by the individual identification code of each container, they can be recycled for the most optimal use.

[0056] (6) Container molding manufacturers can accurately obtain information on material recycling (physical properties such as melt flow rate, melt viscosity, strength, and elongation before recycling), and the source of the molded products used as recycled materials will be clearly identified. This will make it easier to design formulations to address the deterioration of physical properties due to the mixing of different materials or the deterioration of the physical properties of the recycled material itself, thereby making it easier to guarantee the quality of recycled containers. In other words, so-called horizontal cycles, container to container, and especially certified container to certified container cycles will become possible. [Explanation of symbols]

[0057] M1 Container molding manufacturer M2 Liquid Filling Manufacturer U End User M3 Cleaning Manufacturer M5 Material Recycling Company IT information terminals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 PC 6 Network 7a, 7b container 8. QR code

Claims

[Claim 1] A container molding manufacturer, a liquid filling manufacturer that fills containers molded by the container molding manufacturer with a predetermined liquid, an end user that uses the liquid filled in the containers by the liquid filling manufacturer, a cleaning manufacturer that cleans the containers after they have been used by the end user, a material recycling company, an information terminal equipped with information reading, writing and transmission functions, a personal computer owned by the container molding manufacturer, a personal computer owned by the liquid filling manufacturer, a personal computer owned by the end user, a personal computer owned by the cleaning manufacturer, a personal computer owned by the material recycling company, and a network connecting all of these personal computers to each other. The container is provided with an identification code on which identification information regarding the manufacturing history is written by the container's molding manufacturer, and this identification information includes first-tier and second-tier information that can be shared via a network through a personal computer. This includes third and fourth-tier information that cannot be shared. The first level of information includes product information, the place of manufacture of the container, the manufacturing machine, the date of manufacture, the time of manufacture, the raw materials, and the grinding method. The second level of information includes UN standard information, resin type, and SDS. The third level of information includes information about a manufacturing monitoring system that monitors information including manufacturing process setting conditions, actual control conditions, and manufacturing conditions. The fourth level of information includes information related to a manufacturing management system that manages order information, shipping information consisting of customer information, product specification information, product formulation information, raw material inventory and order information, production plan, output information, quality control information, and packaging information, as well as sales information. Liquid filling manufacturers, end users, cleaning manufacturers, and material recyclers each possess unique third and fourth-tier information that is different from the third and fourth-tier information included in the aforementioned identification information. A container production management system characterized in that container molding manufacturers, liquid filling manufacturers, end users, cleaning manufacturers, and material recyclers can each access their own unique third and fourth-tier information, but cannot access the third and fourth-tier information unique to others.

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