A distribution network that monitors, controls, and optimizes the flow of liquid beverage products delivered to customers via containers.

Abstract

A liquid product distribution network and method, as well as a radio transmitter device, are provided that monitor, control, and optimize the flow of liquid products for delivery to consumers supplied via liquid product dispensing containers, such as beer kegs. At least one liquid product dispensing container (keg) includes a suitably attached radio transmitter and microprocessor for sensing and transmitting a plurality of data measurements regarding the status of the liquid product dispensing container. A stationary reader or mobile device communicates the data measurements from the radio transmitter. Data collection functions include a liquid product management function, a liquid product sales function, and a liquid product consumer management function. A server computer communicates with an internet communication or cloud interface. Sales reporting and marketing sales interface with the liquid product production, distribution, sales, and consumption functions.

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 339,513, filed May 20, 2016, entitled "Monitoring, Controlling, and / or Optimizing Flow of Products" and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 363,643, filed Jul. 16, 2016, entitled "System, Apparatus and Methods for Determining the Amount of Liquid Inside Kegs", both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 【0002】 The present disclosure generally relates to the monitoring, control, and / or optimization of the flow of products delivered to customers via containers flowing within a distribution network. Alternatively, the disclosed subject matter encompasses a distribution network that monitors, controls, and optimizes the flow of liquid beverage products delivered to customers via containers, devices, and / or resources that are spread across a geographic area, move between or within locations, and have usage amounts, contents, or other relevant status information. 【Background Art】 【0003】 The beer industry in the United States and other countries involves multiple parties performing specific roles from brewing beer to distributing it and finally selling it to consumers who drink and enjoy it in many forms. While the U.S. has legal requirements to maintain a three-tier system that demands all beer pass through a distributor or wholesaler, for many reasons, the three-tier system is the most popular form of operation for the beer industry in most other countries as well. Distributors handle on-site sales and marketing for producers, then sell the beer to retailers, who ultimately supply it to consumers. Distributors also maintain cold storage facilities for storing the beer and a fleet of trucks to ship it to its final destination. Distributors also ensure that retailers always have fresh beer in stock. In some states, breweries are permitted to distribute themselves, in which case the brewery assumes both production and distribution functions. 【0004】 Of course, beer is sold to consumers in two main forms: in bottles or through kegs. Beer kegs are made from stainless steel or, less commonly, aluminum. A keg has a single opening at one end called a “pour spout.” A tube called a “spear” extends from that opening to the other end. Most large breweries now use kegs with spears inside. There is an automatic shut-off valve that opens by a coupling fitting that is attached when the keg is cut. There is also a top opening in the spear that allows gas (usually carbon dioxide) to push the beer out of the keg. The coupling fitting has one or two valves that control the flow of beer out of the keg and the flow of gas into the keg. The keg must be in an upright position, i.e., with the opening for beer dispensing at the top. 【0005】 Barrels are typically the second largest asset a brewery owns (the first being its production equipment), and this asset is not under the brewery's control. The industry average for barrel loss is 4-5% per year, and owners usually don't know where or when they've lost barrels. Barrel deposits are only $30-$50, while the cost of a barrel is $100-$150. The deposit does not cover the cost of the barrel. Correlating deposits between the delivery and receipt sides requires manual counting and is prone to errors. Tracking the location of barrels requires manually scanning each barrel at its location. 【0006】 Barrels are often stolen or misplaced by vendors. Therefore, when a brewery needs empty barrels, they may not be available because the necessary barrels haven't been returned. Without visibility into where the barrels are and when they will be returned, it's difficult to anticipate and plan for needs. 【0007】 Barrel maintenance schedules are crucial for maintaining product quality. However, without knowing the precise history of each barrel, it's impossible to determine a specific schedule. Without good measurements, breweries have little ability to optimize their barrel usage. Recording which barrels need servicing based on the number of uses in the field requires manual counting and is prone to errors. Recording which barrels require which type of cleaning based on the number of uses also requires manual counting and is prone to errors. 【0008】 When kegs are returned, they must be manually scanned to determine the batch number, beer type, date, and other information. Scanning individual kegs as they enter and leave the warehouse can lead to an inaccurate inventory. Correlating keg serial numbers with deliveries is a manual process and prone to errors. 【0009】 Recording keg inventory in refrigerators, trucks, and warehouses requires manual counting, which is prone to errors. Using cardboard labels to determine keg contents, fill dates, and other information is a common practice, but these labels frequently peel off, making errors more likely. The ultimate consequence is that retailers may inadvertently run out of certain styles of beer. 【0010】 Beer matures, with some beers becoming fresher and others maturing. Unpasteurized beer must be kept below a certain temperature threshold to avoid spoilage. Therefore, being sensitive to the needs of such products is an ongoing issue for distributors and retailers, as mistakes here can affect the customer acceptance of the brewer's product. 【0011】 Distribution trucks are a critical part of the beer industry, yet they are also a place where human limitations and incomplete information can cause numerous problems. Inside the truck, it is difficult / impossible to know exactly which kegs are inside. Managing driver teams, monitoring compliance, and making real-time route changes are challenging. Recording which kegs are inside a truck each day and each time the truck is driven for delivery and collection is difficult. Drivers may try to disable the records to hide unplanned detours. Extracting total mileage and speed data from the trucks is difficult. Training new drivers on the routes is difficult, and it is difficult for drivers to learn the nuances of their consumers' requirements. 【0012】 One possible solution to these problems is to use a GPS tracking device on the beer keg. However, the tracking device is often removed by someone stealing the keg. Most GPS tracking devices cost nominally $100, including a cell radio, GPS radio, and other components. Also, GPS tracking devices are bulky and require power to operate. Most GPS tracking devices require a cell data plan to communicate back to the owner. This monthly fee is prohibitively expensive for a beer keg. This cost and associated complexity make GPS trackers prohibitively expensive for a beer keg. 【0013】 Breweries / distributors sell kegs to retailers (i.e., restaurants, bars, etc.), but this does not mean that the kegs are fitted with spouts (i.e., that several pints are put up for sale). Therefore, breweries / distributors do not know whether retailers need new kegs or not. Thus, breweries and distributors need to visit retailer customers to check whether a given keg has been fitted with a spout. Breweries and distributors also want to know whether a keg is "full at the restaurant," "empty at the distributor," and other logical states and transitions. Gathering this information is very time-consuming and difficult, and may require several trips just to maintain the information. 【0014】 Once the kegs arrive at the distributor, it is difficult to determine when a line in the tap room may be depleted due to the kegs in the refrigeration room. Distributors want to know how many glasses they can sell, but keg-level POS tracking is inaccurate due to variations in how beer is supplied and when and how kegs are replaced. Flow meters to measure how much liquid has been taken out of a keg (and thus how full the keg is) must be installed (1) in the line between the keg and the handle in the bar, (2) inside a valve attached to the keg, or (3) inside a valve in the handle. Again, there is the problem of correlating keg replacement with flow meter readings. Measuring the liquid level inside a container often requires breaking the container. Solutions for measuring the weight of kegs to determine how full they are may also require each keg to be weighed individually, and scales may need to be moved between kegs due to interference with shelf material. All of this unduly complicates the use of barrels and the experience that retailers and consumers enjoy in using them. 【0015】 There are also opportunities to improve the relationship between breweries and consumers. In the market, it is difficult to determine the marketing effectiveness of a particular beer. Consumers want to be involved with the beers they like. Consumers want to know when their favorite beers are available nearby. When their favorite beers are not available, consumers want recommendations for other things to try. When traveling, it is difficult for consumers to find the places and things they like. 【0016】 Breweries are eager to attract new consumers. It's difficult to blindly determine consumers' drinking preferences (i.e., types of beer). Retailers' POS terminals often fail to distinguish which beer was sold. Consumers may want to engage with specific styles of beer. They also want to know when promotions will take place. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve] 【0017】 In light of the considerations above, today's beer industry demands significant improvements across the supply chain, including breweries, distributors, retailers, and consumers. Significant improvements in the use and monitoring of beer kegs throughout the entire beer supply chain are necessary for both industrial profitability and consumer protection and enjoyment. However, to date, such improvements have not been effective in satisfactorily addressing these concerns and opportunities. [Means for solving the problem] 【0018】 In light of the above-mentioned issues relating to the beer industry at the brewery, distributor, retailer, and consumer levels, this disclosure provides numerous innovations, improvements, and inventions relating to monitoring, controlling, and / or optimizing the flow of products delivered to consumers via containers moving through a distribution network. The disclosed subject matter includes a distribution network that monitors, controls, and optimizes the flow of liquid beverage products delivered to customers via containers, equipment, and / or resources that are spread across a geographical area, move between or within locations, and have usage, content, or other relevant state information. 【0019】 In one embodiment, the disclosed subject matter provides a liquid product distribution network for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the flow of liquid products for delivery to consumers supplied by the distribution network for distribution of liquid product distribution containers. The liquid product distribution network includes at least one liquid product distribution container for transport from a transport location to a distribution location. The at least one liquid product distribution container includes a radio transmitter and a microprocessor that are adaptably attached for sensing and transmitting a plurality of data measurements regarding the status of the liquid product distribution container. A stationary reader or mobile radio signal reader operates within the distribution network to receive the plurality of data measurements from the radio transmitter and to further communicate information regarding the plurality of data measurements. A computer software system is associated with the radio signal reader for a plurality of data collection functions. The data collection functions include liquid product management functions, liquid product sales functions, and liquid product consumer management functions. A computer processing server system is associated with the stationary reader to execute instructions for processing the data and associating it with information regarding the data collection functions. The computer processing server further communicates information regarding the data collection functions to an internet communication interface or a cloud interface. The sales reporting and marketing subsystem is related to a computer processing server system to interface with multiple computer processing systems that operate in connection with the functions of producing, distributing, selling, and consuming liquid products. 【0020】 In another aspect, the disclosure provides a liquid product distribution container device attached to a liquid product distribution container, such as a beer keg, for monitoring, controlling, and / or optimizing the flow of liquid products delivered from a liquid product distribution container to consumers in a liquid product distribution network. The liquid product distribution container moves from location to location and distributes liquid products from locations within the distribution network. The liquid product distribution container device includes a casing for mounting it to the liquid product distribution container. The casing includes an enclosure and a mounting mechanism for mounting the casing to a predetermined location on the liquid product distribution container. The liquid product distribution container device includes a power supply for providing power. A light indicator may be included to indicate the status of the liquid product distribution container device. The liquid product distribution container device includes a radio transmitter circuit fixed within the enclosure. The radio / processing module handles radio signal transmissions of information about the liquid product distribution container. An antenna is associated with the radio / processing module for transmitting and receiving radio signal transmissions between the radio / processing module and at least one stationary reader and / or mobile device. A temperature sensor circuit senses the temperature of the liquid product distribution container and generates an electronic signal relating to the temperature. A transducer circuit senses a measurement of the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container and generates an electronic signal relating to the sensed measurement. A microphone / sensor circuit for sensing sound and related data relates to the distribution of liquid product from the liquid product distribution container. A codec / digital signal processing circuit includes a memory and computer instruction processing network for receiving data and processing instructions from the temperature sensor, transducer, and microphone / sensor circuit and generating information about the location of the liquid product distribution container, the state of the liquid product distribution container, and the state of the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container. Processor instructions enable the radio transmitter device to operate to communicate information about the location of the liquid product distribution container, the state of the liquid product distribution container, and the state of the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container. 【0021】 The liquid product distribution network of this disclosure includes radio transmitters that provide wireless communication for accurate barrel identification even when barrels are not visible / accessible. The radio transmitters also enable accurate barrel inventory inventory within the warehouse. The radio transmitters also enable automatic real-time correlation of returned barrels and determination of barrel location and cold storage inventory. The radio transmitters utilize a standard mobile phone to detect barrels within a 100-foot radius in the background at distances where barrels are not visible, without manual interaction. 【0022】 The radio transmitter enables automatic and accurate correlation of barrel serial numbers to correlate deposits and maintain inventory inventories. The radio transmitter and associated software allow for easy retrieval of barrel contents, filling dates, etc., and can be used with standard mobile phones and barrel flags for on-site service based on the number of turns. 【0023】 Radio transmitters allow for the unique identification of each barrel, its distributor, and brand, so the barrel status can be automatically relayed to the brewery / distributor. A distribution network mechanism that determines how full each barrel is is attached to the barrel and does not require the barrel to be moved onto a scale for weighing. Radio transmitters are connected within the distribution network to automatically relay the filling data to the correct brewery / distributor. 【0024】 By utilizing a cell phone communication system, the radio transmitter does not require its own GPS and cell radio, allowing the cost of the radio transmitter to be kept below $10. Furthermore, the radio transmitter does not require a monthly cell data plan, has a small form factor, and can run for five years on a standard lithium battery cell. 【0025】 By operating nominally for five years, the radio transmitter coincides with the normal five-year service cycle of the cask. The distribution network includes a cask level measurement system that does not require penetration of the container. The cask level measurement system separates acoustic measurements by (1) using ambient noise cancellation and (2) timing measurements to match acoustic impulses generated by the immediately adjacent casks. The level measurement system is not continuous, saves power when not measuring, and at the same time does not require either line penetration or handle / tap changes. 【0026】 The distribution network includes a truck reader that enables real-time inventory of delivery trucks. By placing an antenna at the end of a wire, the truck reader main unit can be hidden and / or secured under the dash or seat. By connecting to the ODB2 port within the delivery truck, this unit is easy to install and can collect total mileage, speed, and other data from the vehicle. By integrating a Wi-Fi antenna, this unit can "store and exchange", that is, collect data during the day and automatically download that data at night when the truck is back at the base. The truck reader serves as a knowledge base for the delivery driver and records information such as instructions on where to park, lock codes or access codes, the best time to make deliveries, consumer contact information and instructions, and others that the delivery driver needs to make deliveries. 【0027】 The truck reader enables real-time monitoring of the truck and the driver. For example, the truck reader enables determination of which driver is closest to the requested delivery and whether the driver is on their route or making an unscheduled detour, among other things. 【0028】 By collecting data on the position and history of the kegs, the distribution network determines the state transitions of the kegs. Some of the state transitions are determined retrospectively. For example, the lack of readings after a certain period can retrospectively determine the state transitions that occurred at the beginning of that period. The handoff between the sensing device and the location can determine a change in state. For example, a keg that was detected by a refrigerator reader but is no longer detected by that reader and is subsequently detected by a truck reader can cause a state change to "in delivery". 【0029】 The distribution network may have determined that a keg has been delivered to a vendor (i.e., a consumer such as a restaurant / bar), but may not know which vendor or the exact time. When a mobile sensor (such as a mobile phone) detects / comes into contact with a keg at a location, the distribution network can determine which vendor the keg went to and now knows which vendor received the keg, so it can retrospectively determine the delivery schedule and other information. 【0030】 By using accumulation exchange, when the mobile sensor detects the radio transmitter 16 at a vendor, it can download the history information from that radio transmitter 16. By using a mesh network and accumulation exchange at the vendor, the arriving keg can communicate its arrival to other kegs at that vendor. When one of the older kegs leaves the vendor and is returned to the brewery, that keg transfers information from the newly arrived kegs that were there while it was at that vendor. 【0031】 The distribution network includes a weighing mat that can integrate branding to correlate the position of a given type of barrel on the mat. Breweries can sponsor their portion of the mat, allowing the total area of ​​the mat to increase over time. The mat wirelessly determines where a barrel is located on the mat using radio transmitters to determine exactly which barrel is being weighed. By correlating the decrease in barrel levels with liquor purchases, it is possible to determine which consumer purchased from which barrel. After a barrel has been identified, the brewery, type of beer, brewing date, and other information become known. 【0032】 By correlating the location of a keg with the location of the consumer, it is possible to inform consumers of (1) when a keg of their preferred beer was opened, (2) the nearest location to purchase a glass of beer, (3) how long it is likely that the beer has been opened (i.e., how empty the keg is), (4) whether the keg is no longer available, and (5) how fresh the beer is (i.e., when it was brewed). When a limited supply keg is opened, the action of opening it can trigger an alert to consumers indicating that the keg is now available. 【0033】 The distribution network can indicate other beers currently available and ready to drink that are similar to what consumers like / have previously purchased / like their friends / are drinking / are popular / are the freshest / have been aged the longest / are seasonal or specialty / are from local breweries / are from distant breweries / have special ingredients / are limited in supply. The distribution network can indicate other beers currently available and ready to drink that are similar to what consumers like / have previously purchased / other, thereby introducing consumers to new breweries. The distribution network can indicate the brewing date of each beer, how long it has been aged, how long it has been ready to drink, and other information. 【0034】 By correlating consumer purchases of a product with the marketing conducted towards those consumers, it is possible to determine marketing efficiency and thereby improve future marketing. Breweries can allow consumers to become "sponsors" of certain barrels so that consumers are notified where the barrels are moving, when they will arrive at their current location, and so on. If a consumer wishes to become a sponsor of a barrel containing only a certain type of beer, the container can be allocated to his sponsorship across all breweries, and thus it will appear as if he "owns" a particular barrel, even if the actual container is different at each brew. This allows consumers to perceive that they are sponsoring a single barrel, while at the same time allowing breweries to rotate their barrels as usual. 【0035】 Novel features that appear to represent the characteristics of the disclosed subject matter are shown in the claims enclosed thereafter. However, the disclosed subject matter itself, as well as preferred modes of use, further purposes, and their advantages, are best understood by referring to the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 【0036】 Having finished explaining the present invention in general terms, we will now refer to the attached drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to actual size. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0037】 [Figure 1] This figure shows the architecture of the liquid product distribution network described herein. [Figure 2] This is an exploded view showing the radio transmitter of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the PCB and battery assembly of this disclosure, including components that perform the disclosed functions. [Figure 4] This diagram shows and shows an assembled radio transmitter based on the teachings of this disclosure. [Figure 5]This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of mounting the radio transmitter of this disclosure to the rim of a barrel. [Figure 6] This diagram shows an alternative switch configuration that uses a barrel metal surface to turn on the power to a radio transmitter. [Figure 7] This figure shows an exemplary embodiment of a tamper-resistant mechanism for holding and securing a radio transmitter to the rim of a barrel. [Figure 8A] This figure shows a radio transmitter fixing mechanism for fixing the radio transmitter of this disclosure to the rim of a barrel. [Figure 8B] This figure shows a radio transmitter fixing mechanism for fixing the radio transmitter of this disclosure to the rim of a barrel. [Figure 8C] This figure shows a radio transmitter fixing mechanism for fixing the radio transmitter of this disclosure to the rim of a barrel. [Figure 9] This diagram shows an alternative mounting mechanism for securing a radio transmitter around the barrel handle. [Figure 10] This figure shows one embodiment of a fluid level measuring mechanism for determining barrel volume. [Figure 11A] This figure shows an embodiment of the radio transmitter and volume monitoring device of the present disclosure in a fixed configuration. [Figure 11B] This figure shows an embodiment of the radio transmitter and volume monitoring device of the present disclosure in a fixed configuration. [Figure 11C] This figure shows an embodiment of the radio transmitter and volume monitoring device of the present disclosure in a fixed configuration. [Figure 12] This figure presents an alternative embodiment of the radio transmitter of this disclosure for fixing to the barrel opening at the top of the barrel. [Figure 13] This figure presents an alternative embodiment of the radio transmitter of this disclosure for fixing to the barrel opening at the top of the barrel. [Figure 14] This figure shows a transducer-microphone configuration for use in a collar radio transmitter to determine the volume and other characteristics of a barrel. [Figure 15] This figure shows an embodiment of a certified mounting mechanism for securing a radio transmitter to a barrel. [Figure 16]This is a circuit block diagram presenting a radio transmitter architecture according to a preferred embodiment of the system disclosed herein. [Figure 17A] This figure shows hardware for use on delivery trucks operating within the liquid product distribution network of this disclosure. [Figure 17B] This figure shows hardware for use on delivery trucks operating within the liquid product distribution network of this disclosure. [Figure 18] This figure provides examples of events that may influence the transition of the barrel state when the monitored barrel 14 moves from different geographical regions. [Figure 19] This figure shows an exemplary arrangement of various barrels 14 on a mat for use in the system of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] This figure illustrates improved barrel usage, monitoring, and reporting between operations occurring in a refrigerated room and operations occurring in a public room, such as a restaurant or other location. [Figure 21] This figure shows an exemplary radio transmitter signal reader for tag detection and measurement according to the present disclosure. [Figure 22] This figure shows the arrangement of filling readers related to the refrigeration room or other locations for detecting and reporting the conditions of multiple barrels. [Figure 23] Figure 22 shows an example screen of a monitoring device that may be applied within the diagram. [Figure 24A] This figure shows how the liquid product distribution network of this disclosure can sense the condition of barrels inside a refrigerated compartment with a closed metal door. [Figure 24B] This figure shows how the liquid product distribution network of this disclosure can sense the condition of barrels inside a refrigerated compartment with a closed metal door. [Figure 25] This figure shows the laminated structure of the weight measurement mat according to the teachings of this disclosure. [Figure 26] This figure shows a weight measuring device or measuring device integrated into a weight measuring mat in this disclosure. [Figure 27]This figure shows the relationship between the weight measuring mat and the barrel radio transmitter of this disclosure. [Figure 28] This figure shows the potential configuration of stacked barrels 14, which can be measured and monitored using the weighing mat of this disclosure. [Figure 29] This figure shows the screen of the mobile device application of this disclosure. [Figure 30] This figure shows the screen of the mobile device application of this disclosure. [Figure 31] This figure shows the screen of the mobile device application of this disclosure. [Figure 32] This figure shows the screen of the mobile device application of this disclosure. [Figure 33] This figure shows exemplary screens that may be applicable to the monitoring and reporting of barrels 14 at various locations and to mobile phones and tablets for detecting and reporting data. [Figure 34] This figure shows exemplary screens that may be applicable to the monitoring and reporting of barrels 14 at various locations and to mobile phones and tablets for detecting and reporting data. [Figure 35] This figure shows exemplary screens that may be applicable to the monitoring and reporting of barrels 14 at various locations and to mobile phones and tablets for detecting and reporting data. [Figure 36] This diagram shows the marketing feedback loop for the application described herein. [Figure 37A] This figure shows the data that can be reported by the current software. [Figure 37B] This figure shows the data that can be reported by the current software. [Figure 37C] This figure shows the data that can be reported by the current software. [Figure 37D] This figure shows the data that can be reported by the current software. [Figure 38] This diagram shows the customer editor display of the current system. [Figure 39] This figure further illustrates information that may be generated by the system of this disclosure in the delivery of barrel 14 to show the barrel inventory and status. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0038】 One or more embodiments of the present invention are described below. Note that these and any other embodiments are illustrative and intended to illustrate the invention, rather than be limiting. While the invention is broadly applicable to different types of systems, it is impossible to include all possible embodiments and contexts of the invention in this disclosure. Numerous alternative embodiments of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art as they read this disclosure. 【0039】 Figure 1 shows the architecture of the liquid product distribution network of this disclosure. The liquid product distribution network (or distribution network) 10 is a system that monitors, controls, and / or optimizes the flow of products delivered to customers via containers flowing through the distribution network. Alternatively, the distribution network 10 is a system that extends within a geographical area, moves between or within locations, and monitors, controls, and / or optimizes the use of equipment and / or resources having usage, content, or other status information associated therewith. 【0040】 Figure 1 shows a distribution network 10 that can be thought to begin with barrel section 14 12. In barrel section 14 12, multiple liquid product containers, in this case barrels 14, can become part of the distribution network 10. A mesh network 18 is consequently formed through the use of sensors and radio transmitters 16 associated with the barrels 14. The mesh network 18 has functionality applicable to breweries 20, trucks 22, warehouses 24, cold storage rooms 26, restaurants 28, and distributors 30, and even event venues 32. 【0041】 The sensor / data acquisition section 34 is adjacent to the barrel 14 section 12 as the next integrated part of the distribution network 10. The sensor / data acquisition section 34 can consist of multiple devices that receive output from the barrel 14 section 12. The stationary reader 36 can receive information from the mesh network 18 as well as mobile devices such as mobile device 38, mobile device 40, and mobile device 42. In this specification, sensing device 36 / 38 refers to either the stationary reader 36 and / or mobile devices 38, 40, or 42, as is most appropriate in the particular context. 【0042】 The sensor / data acquisition section 34 also provides association with management software such as ERP system software 46, POS system software 48, and CMS system software 50 via interface 44. The ERP system software 46 provides brewery management software functionality. The POS system software 48 provides POS system functionality. The CMS system software 50 provides customer management software functionality for the distribution network 10. 【0043】 The server section 52 provides an interface between the distribution network 10 and the internet 54. Using the server computer 52, the server section 52 makes all application data and other resources that may be on the internet and may be applicable to the operation of the distribution network 10 accessible from the distribution network 10. 【0044】 The Reporting / Marketing / Sales (RMS) section 58 provides accounting and management functions via a mobile device 60, which can be any one of the mobile devices 38, 40, or 42. Furthermore, a computer, such as a desktop computer or mainframe computer 62, can interface with the distribution network 10 by communicating with the server section 52. By using our RMS section 58, breweries 20, distributors 64, retailers 30, and customers 66 can benefit from the operation of the distribution network 10. 【0045】 Furthermore, a delivery section 68 appears, which can be considered either an accessory to or part of the distribution network 10. The delivery section 68 may include a number of delivery trucks 70 equipped with various communication and display hardware 72 for communication with the mesh network 18 and individual radio transmitters 16 attached to the barrels 14. 【0046】 Within the distribution network system 10, the radio transmitter 16 is attached to a barrel 14 or other items to be tracked. The tracked barrels 14 are not fixed in geographical location but move based on the needs of the company tracking them, and therefore the transmitter moves in geographical location. Stationary readers 36 and mobile devices 38, 40, 42 act as sensors and may or may not have fixed geographical locations. 【0047】 The distribution network software 10 enables automatic reporting of the location of each barrel 14 as well as the status and / or content status of each barrel 14. In many applications, barrel 14 status / content tracking is more important than simply tracking the barrel 14 location. For example, in the brewing industry, barrel 14 may change from "empty" to "filled with IPA," "IPA, distributor," "IPA, customer," "IPA, with spout, customer," "empty, customer," etc. The distribution network software 10 automatically detects and updates the known status of the contents of each barrel 14 as follows: 【0048】 Examples of events that may affect state transitions include entering or leaving a certain geographical area, arriving near or departing from the vicinity of the stationary reader 36, receiving input events from the relevant systems, sensors on the radio transmitter 14 itself, and others. The barrel 14 has a wireless radio transmitter 16. The position of the radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14 can be in various positions on the barrel 14 to be more advantageous with respect to sensor readings, calculation accuracy, and / or reception of wireless signals. The radio transmitter 16 is mounted on the outside of the barrel 14 without altering the barrel or penetrating the barrel, and does not have a direct form to measure the liquid level inside the barrel 14 or the weight of the barrel 14. 【0049】 The distribution network 10 software does not need to collect all measurements before calculating state transitions. The distribution network 10 software can be distributed among multiple sensor radio transmitters 16, multiple mobile devices 38, stationary readers 36, and server computers 56 on the internet cloud 54. Each of these can be considered a node in the distribution network 10. All nodes in the distribution network 10 may be authorized to determine state changes in the barrel 14 or mesh network 18 and then communicate those changes to the rest of the distribution network 10. The RMS section 58 allows for the arbitration of all such state changes and the recording of the final state of the barrel 14 or mesh network 18 for reporting to the user. 【0050】 There may be buffering / delay between the events triggered during the operation of the distribution network 10 and the final propagation of the state change in the rest of the distribution network 10. This is because the collection from the radio transmitter 16, the sensing and / or collection of data by the stationary reader 36 or mobile device 38, and communication to the server section 52 may not occur in real time. For example, sensing and / or collection by the stationary reader 36 may occur when there is no available connection to the distribution network 10. In this case, the data is buffered until a connection is established, after which the state change of barrel 14 propagates through the distribution network 10. 【0051】 Examples of applications made available by the distribution network 10 include tracking barrels 14 and their contents, communication with delivery trucks 70, tracking the status and location of industrial or contractor equipment, shipments, tools, rental items, freight cars, pets, shopping carts, portable toilets, storage containers, delivery containers for food or beverages or products, fuel tanks or fuel containers, and others. 【0052】 The distribution network 10 enables optimization and efficiency in the delivery, collection, and tracking of barrels 14 and / or barrel contents. Detailed knowledge of barrel 14 tracking and barrel contents enables automated restaurant menu changes, automated inventory ordering, data for supplier production forecasts, automated marketing and advertising messages, automated real-time inventory inventory in storage areas such as warehouses and cold storage rooms, automated container check-in and check-out, and optimization of replenishment delivery scheduling and / or routing. The distribution network 10 also enables determining how long barrels 14 or similar parts of equipment have been used to trigger maintenance schedules, and automatically generates invoices, rental compliance monitoring, and alarm generation. Furthermore, the distribution network 10 enables monitoring of contents temperature for legal and regulatory compliance, reporting of "good" condition of barrel contents, and reporting of progress of excessively high / low temperatures. 【0053】 Wireless technologies that the distribution network 10 can use include Bluetooth®, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, GPRS, GSM®, CDMA, ultrasonic, infrared, and others, while wired technologies that may be used include Ethernet®, optical, serial, and others. Wireless capability 38 means that scanning of barrels 14 can occur automatically in the background without any manual interaction. 【0054】 Wireless scanning can occur at a distance when the barrel 14 is not visible. Wireless scanning can occur at a distance without special equipment. The use of a mobile device 38 means that anyone can detect barrel 14 within a 100-foot radius, and that radius depends on the precise capabilities of the mobile device. Wireless capability enables real-time automatic determination of container status without manual scanning. Wireless capability enables automatic real-time determination of container location without manual scanning. Radio transmitters can be placed on pallets of multiple barrels 14 and can even work inside stacked collections. 【0055】 By leveraging a known mobile device 38, the radio transmitter 16 does not require its own GPS and cell radio, allowing the cost of the radio transmitter to be less than $10. The radio transmitter does not require a monthly cell data plan, has a small form factor, and can run for more than 5 years on a standard lithium battery cell. By operating for at least 5 years, the radio transmitter aligns with the standard 5-year service cycle of a barrel. 【0056】 The radio transmitter 16 utilizes available connection points. If a stationary reader 36 or mobile device 38 is nearby, the radio transmitter 16 defaults to communicating with that device. However, if neither is nearby, the radio transmitter 16 can choose to upgrade the communication to Wi-Fi. However, if Wi-Fi is also unavailable, the radio transmitter 16 can choose to upgrade the communication to cellular data. In this way, communication is escalated to a more expensive medium only when necessary. 【0057】 By using the "storage exchange" function, the distribution network 10 can transmit only summary information (e.g., location once a day) via the cell data network and store the entire history locally for later upload when a cheaper (i.e., free) medium becomes available. 【0058】 The POS terminal, or POS 48, can supply sales data either directly to the sensor / data collection section 34 or via the internet within the server section 52. The server section 52 aggregates the data, performs calculations to determine the fill level of each barrel 14, and delivers the resulting data and reports to the brewery 20, distributors 64, retailers 30, and / or customers 66. Furthermore, the server section 52 takes action based on the determined fill data, for example, by automatically reordering inventory. 【0059】 Available direct or indirect data communication mechanisms and / or data communication protocols include wired, wireless, ad-hoc, peer-to-peer, audio, optical, radio, serial, TCP / IP, UDP, Ethernet®, and others. A mobile device 38 may have a wireless connection to the Internet (e.g., Wi-Fi), but a stationary reader 36 inside the cold compartment of section 12 of barrel 14 may require a non-wireless connection (e.g., Ethernet® or serial signal lines) due to the walls of the cold compartment shielding wireless communication. 【0060】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of delivery data. Each radio transmitter 16 has a unique ID and can store information about the barrel 14 to which it is attached, either in its own memory or on the server computer 56. Such history includes the delivery date to the distributor 30, which products are in the barrel 14, the type of product, when it was brewed, when the barrel 14 was filled, which distributor 64 delivered the barrel 14, temperature history, and other information. When data is stored on a radio transmitter 16, another radio transmitter 16 can transmit that data using the mesh network and / or a stationary reader 36 and / or mobile device 38 can receive the data and transmit it to the server section computer 56, otherwise the data is already on the server computer 56 and indexed by its unique ID. In addition, location, market data, sales history, and other information about the distributor 64 are stored on the server computer 56. All of this information is used to calculate the barrel 14 filling level. 【0061】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of location data via stationary readers 36. By examining the wireless signals received from each barrel 14, the stationary readers 36 can determine the distance from each of its antennas to each barrel 14. This information can be used to generate a three-dimensional estimate of the location of each barrel 14. The stationary readers 36 are positioned within the refrigerated room so that they can determine the distance of each barrel 14 from the tap line. Typically, the stationary readers 36 are positioned near where the tap line passes through the wall of the refrigerated room towards the public dispensing area of ​​the distributor 30, and / or may be positioned vertically to best measure stacked barrels 14 and / or barrels 14 on shelves. The location data is used to calculate the barrel 14 filling level. 【0062】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data regarding empty barrels 14. Typically, the cold storage room is crowded, and empty barrels 14 tend not to be stored inside. The departure of a barrel 14 from the cold storage room is an indicator of whether the barrel 14 is full or empty (whether or not it has been opened), and this data is used to calculate the barrel 14 filling level. 【0063】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of distance-related data. The distance of each barrel 14 from the tap wall is an indicator of whether or not the barrel 14 has been opened, and this data is used to calculate the barrel 14 filling level. 【0064】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data regarding delivery dates. Since barrels 14 are typically opened in the order of delivery, the delivery dates are used to calculate the barrel 14 filling levels. Furthermore, the delivery dates provide a measure of hysteresis to other events, such as barrels 14 leaving the refrigeration room. 【0065】 The distribution network 10 enables data collection on the radio transmitters 16. The distribution network 10 radio transmitters 16 may have additional sensors (temperature, shake sensors, etc.) on them, and the stationary reader 36 collects data from these sensors and feeds it into calculating the barrel filling level of the barrels 14. 【0066】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data for input to the calculation of the barrel 14 filling level. The stationary reader 36, mobile device 38, and radio transmitter 16 enable the collection of data supplied to a method for determining the filling level of each barrel 14. 【0067】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data regarding product information. The distribution network 10 knows the brand and product in each barrel 14, thereby knowing the type of product (IPA, Pilsner, Porter, Bock, etc.). The brand, product, product type, and current sales rate for each such product are supplied to the calculation of the barrel 14 filling level. 【0068】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data related to the history of the barrels 14. The server section 52 collects historical data (sales rates by brand, product, type, etc.) on a calendar day basis (e.g., working days vs. holidays) and on a weekday basis (e.g., weekdays vs. weekends) and supplies this data to calculate the barrel 14 filling level. 【0069】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data about the distributors 30. The server section 52 stores information about each distributor 30 (e.g., zip code, past sales data, etc.) and supplies this data to calculate the barrel 14 filling level. 【0070】 The distribution network 10 enables the collection of importance for each data item for calculating the barrel 14 filling levels. Importance weights are calculated from the supplied input values ​​and then applied to each input value along with thresholds to determine the probability answer to the following questions. 【0071】 - Is barrel 14 (1) full and scheduled to be opened, (2) actually fitted with a drinking spout, or (3) empty and off tap? 【0072】 -(2) If barrel 14 has a spout, how full is the barrel? 【0073】 -If barrel 14 is not yet empty, when is it expected to become empty? 【0074】 -What is the consumption rate of the product in each barrel (14) at the 30 distributors? 【0075】 The margin of error is also determined for each of the above answers, and the margin of error is fed back into the calculation. When the calculated probability answer is determined to exceed the set threshold for each question, that question is considered to have a given answer. 【0076】 Certain input data provides verified answers to questions. For example, if a barrel 14 is delivered to a distributor 30 and returned to a distributor 64 after remaining in the refrigerator long enough to be emptied, the calculation can verify that the barrel 14 is emptied. When it is verified that the barrel 14 has transitioned from a taped state to an emptied, off-tap state, the previous time estimate is compared to the actual time, and feedback is applied to the calculation to improve the estimate. 【0077】 The distribution network 10 also supports actions that can be triggered based on the results of calculations. For example, automatic reordering, updating the website or public availability of products that are spouted or scheduled to be spouted, notifying interested users of the current or expected state of a barrel, for example, notifying the sponsor of a barrel 14 that their barrel 14 is about to be spouted, has been spouted, or has been emptied, supplying products based on the rate at which barrel 14 will be emptied, and so on. 【0078】 An alternative embodiment of the distribution network 10 may not include a stationary reader 36. When it is not possible to install a stationary reader 36 inside the distributor's 30 refrigeration room, a radio transmitter 16 on a barrel 14 can operate in bidirectional mode. In this mode, data is communicated between barrels 14 regarding their positions and / or to determine their positions inside the refrigeration room and / or to calculate their fill levels. Each barrel 14 stores all or part of the data about that barrel 14 inside the refrigeration room, and then, when the barrel 14 leaves the refrigeration room, the data stored on the transmitter is uploaded to the server section 52. This upload may occur automatically in the background by accessing an app per mobile device 38 via a mobile device 38, automatically when a barrel 14 encounters a stationary reader outside the refrigeration room, when a barrel 14 returns to the distributor 64 or brewery 20, or by any other suitable contact with the radio transmitter 16. 【0079】 Figure 2 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of the radio transmitter 16 of the present disclosure. The assembly of the radio transmitter 16 includes an inner housing 81 that can cover a printed circuit board (PCB) / battery assembly 82. After assembly, the inner housing 81 and the PCB / battery assembly 82 can be positioned within an outer housing 84. Note that Figures 2 to 7 show one possible housing, and Figures 12 and 13 below show another possible housing as a collar radio transmitter 142. 【0080】 Figure 3 shows a three-dimensional view of a PCB and battery assembly of one embodiment of the present disclosure, including components that perform the disclosed functions. Figure 3 further shows the general configuration of the PCB / battery assembly 82, including a battery 86 attached to PCB 94. On the side of PCB 94 opposite to the battery 86, a sensor 90, including a temperature sensor and other sensors, and an antenna 92 ​​appear. A codec / DSP 96 may also be found on PCB 88. Figure 15 below provides a further detailed description of the electronic network present on PCB 94. 【0081】 The radio transmitter 16 is less than one inch tall and, as a result, fits within the lower edge of the barrel 14, as shown in Figure 11A below. The curved shape is optimized to fit the three sizes of the barrel. The radio transmitter 16 does not extend beyond the boundaries of the barrel 14 in any dimension. Therefore, the use of the distribution network 10 does not require any physical modifications to the distributor's lines, valves, or handles 30. 【0082】 The use of a rechargeable battery 86 allows the radio transmitter 16 to be completely sealed, where only external electrical contacts are provided for charging the battery. The radio transmitter 16 includes an onboard temperature sensor for monitoring the barrel 14 temperature. A shake sensor determines whether the barrel 14 is in transit. A sensor header 91 can also accommodate additional sensors. The azimuth / polarization of the antenna 92 ​​maximizes the radio transmission strength from either the top or bottom of the barrel 14. The battery 86 is sized to fit under the rim of the barrel 14 and to obtain a lifespan of at least 5 years. The battery 86 may be soldered to the PCB 88 to reduce costs. The distribution network 10 measurement system is not continuously powered and therefore conserves power when not performing measurements. 【0083】 Figure 4 shows a radio transmitter 16 assembled according to the teachings of this disclosure, where the width 92 appears to be less than 1 inch so that the radio transmitter 16 can fit on either the upper or lower edge of the barrel 14. The radio transmitter 16 further includes a curved edge 94 which can fit on at least three different types of barrel 14 configurations known at various points along the curved edge 94. A single curved back engages with each size barrel 14 at different points along the curve, with epoxy / foam tape occupying a small amount of space for each size. Mounting can be by either rivets, such as those at point 96, or epoxy, such as those in space 98, to firmly position the radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14. Waterproof IP67 achieved by epoxy sealing is half the bond to the barrel 14. This eliminates the need for O-rings or seals. Epoxy requires no surface treatment, reducing installation time and cost. 【0084】 The outer housing 84 includes a “delamination” layer that allows for the destructive release of a tag that peels off the epoxy when the battery 86 is depleted. The void within the inner housing 80 is minimized to achieve an airtight seal. The use of very small, long “capillary” tubes allows for pressure release when necessary while maintaining waterproofness. The outer housing 84 includes a visible unique serial number, barcode, QR code®, or other coding on its outer side. It should be noted that the serial number on the outer housing 84 may be different from the radio serial number to deter impersonation. The outer housing 84 may include various tamper-proof mechanisms to prevent unauthorized removal of the radio transmitter 16. The outer housing 84 may also include an integrated desiccant container to protect against condensation at varying temperatures. 【0085】 Figure 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of mounting the radio transmitter 16 of this disclosure to the rim 100 of the barrel 14. For example, an epoxy layer 102 can be used to make the mounting of the radio transmitter 16 secure and waterproof to protect the PCB / battery assembly 82. The epoxy layer 102 may be applied to the mounting space 98, which provides a small volume that allows for sufficient proximity to be applied for a firm setting of the radio transmitter 16 to the rim 100 of the barrel 14. A manufacturing step can be skipped by using the same epoxy used to mount the housing to the barrel 14, also to seal the joint between the housing halves. The housing 84 allows the radio transmitter 16 to bond with the three-dimensional curved surface of the barrel 14, maximizing the adhesion and protection provided by the barrel 14 rim, while minimizing heat transfer from the barrel 14 body. The housing 84 can be completely sealed, but can still be switched on when mounted. 【0086】 An alternative switch configuration may be used in which a sticker is used to seal the opening of the pin that activates the switch that turns on the radio transmitter 16. In this configuration, the one-time activation is not reversible. A similar pin hole is also used to activate the "connect mode" for maintenance of the radio transmitter 16. Such a sticker can cover the hole and make a watertight seal, and the edge of the sticker is protected by the insert edge in the notch of the outer housing 84. In the alternative, a screw-type waterproof on / off switch may be used to activate the hardware switch. 【0087】 Figure 6 shows an alternative switch configuration that uses the metal surface of the barrel 14 to power on the radio transmitter 16. Metal connecting pins 104 and 106 can be exposed on the outside of the inner housing 80 to connect the associated circuitry on the PCB / battery assembly 82 to create a conductive circuit. That is, connecting pin 104 can make an electrical connection with the rim 100 of the barrel 14, which allows current to flow through connecting pin 106. The resulting circuit uses minimal voltage and current to provide indication that the radio transmitter 16 is securely fixed to the rim 100 of the barrel 14. It should also be noted that at mounting point 96, the radio transmitter 16 can be securely positioned on the rim 100 of the barrel 14. 【0088】 The radio transmitter 16 is protected under the rim 100 of an existing rolled barrel 14. Pins that contact the metal casing of the barrel 14 close the circuit for activating the switch. The housing can be completely sealed, but can still be switched on when installed. The use of a rechargeable battery allows the unit to be completely sealed, with only external electrical contacts provided for charging the battery. Providing an electromagnetic induction loop or other contactless charging mechanism allows electrical penetration of the housing to be avoided, reducing manufacturing costs and allowing for a less precise interface between the housing and the charging station. 【0089】 Figure 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of an outer housing 84 that holds and secures a radio transmitter 16 to the rim 100 of a barrel 14. In Figure 7, the outer housing 84 is secured to the rim 100 of the barrel 14 using screws or other fastening mechanisms 108. An inner housing 80 can occupy a position within the outer housing 84 to securely position the PCB / battery assembly 82 to the rim 100 of the barrel 14. In one embodiment, a permanent seal / shell 84 is permanently attached to the barrel 14, and the inner housing 16 is a removable part that can be serviced. Since the radio transmitter 16 uniquely identifies the barrel 14, the distributor 64, and the brand, the status of the barrel 14 can be automatically relayed to the brewery 20 or the distributor 64. 【0090】 Figures 8A to 8C show a radio transmitter mounting mechanism for securing the radio transmitter of this disclosure to the rim 100 of a barrel 14. In the example of Figures 8A to 8C, the hook mechanism 110 can engage with an existing feature of the barrel 14, such as a handle opening or an overhang 114. The overhang 114 is a component of the barrel 14, including the rim 100, the rolled rim 112, and the barrel 14 rim wall 114. The mounting mechanism 110 can be fixed in a position between the upper surface 116 of the barrel 14 and the overhang rolled rim 112 so that it cannot be removed without releasing the mounting mechanism. The mechanism extends into the space between the rolled rim 112 and the rim wall 114 and between the barrel 14 body 116 and the rim wall 114. 【0091】 In another embodiment, the hook mechanism 120 engages with an existing feature on the barrel 14 (a handle opening or the edge of the rim). In yet another embodiment, the radio transmitter 16 is attached to the barrel 14 like a "secure bracelet" around the rim opening 122 within the barrel 14 rim 100, and the hook mechanism 120 is then used to return to itself or to secure it to an extension of the outer housing 84. 【0092】 The radio transmitter 16 may be mounted not only on the barrel body 116 but also on the barrel 14's rim 114. Heat transfer from the barrel body 14 to the rim 114 is along the seam, and therefore heat transfer is slow, allowing a standard battery 86 to be used. The radio transmitter 16 is protected under the existing rolled barrel 14 rim 112 at either the top or bottom of the barrel 14. In either case, the PCB / battery assembly 82 is designed to fit snugly into it. For the example of mounting on the top rim 122, a button cell battery may be used. For the bottom rim (shown below), a cylindrical cell battery is used. The outer housing 84 is bent backward to engage well with the rim 122. 【0093】 Figure 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure in which a radio transmitter 16 may be attached to the barrel rim 100 using a secure bracelet 118. The radio transmitter 16 is attached to the barrel rim 114 around the barrel 14 outskirt 122. The bracelet 128 passes through an opening in the barrel rim wall 114 and returns to itself, having fastening points 120 on the radio transmitter outer housing 84 to which the bracelet ends 122 are secured. 【0094】 Figure 10 shows one embodiment of a fluid level measuring mechanism that includes the use of a battery-powered ball 124 for determining the volume of beer 126 in a barrel 14. In this configuration, a sealed ball 124 transmits a periodic signal wirelessly or mechanically that can be detected through the metal of the barrel 14. The ball 124 can withstand the high-temperature washing cycles and chemicals used to prepare the barrel 14 for reuse. The amount of air or liquid in the barrel 14 can be determined by placing one or more sensing or communication devices, such as listening devices 128 and / or 130, outside the barrel 14, which measure the characteristics of the received signal, such as sound reflection, intensity, harmonics, etc. The communication can be bidirectional, where the ball 124 can receive signals transmitted wirelessly or mechanically from outside the barrel 14. By using bidirectional communication, it is possible for the ball to store data locally, perform a reset function, measure the received signal, modify the signal, and return it. The attenuation of the received signal due to the ball being in liquid versus air helps determine the volume of liquid in the barrel 14. 【0095】 Ball 124 can be battery-powered or mechanically driven. The mechanical power source in example could be a wound spring or expansion and contraction caused by the heating / cooling cycle of the barrel 14. With measurements from the fluid level measuring mechanism communicated via the radio transmitter 16, the distribution network 10 can automatically relay filling data to the correct brewery 20 / distributor 64. The distribution network 10 mechanism does not require any changes to the lines, valves, or handles of the distributor 30. The radio and sensor network of the distribution network 10 can automatically relay filling data to the desired brewery 20 and / or distributor 64. 【0096】 Figures 11A–11C show various configurations of the radio transmitter 16 and volume monitoring device embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 11A shows the radio transmitter 16 mounted on the bottom 134 of the barrel 14 in the inner portion of the lower rim 136 of the barrel 14. The radio transmitter 16 can be concealed beneath the lower rim 136 of the barrel 14, so that no one would see it and know that the barrel 14 is being tracked. Using the acoustic properties of the barrel 14, the radio transmitter 16 and the distribution network 10 can measure the liquid level from outside the barrel 14. 【0097】 Figure 11B shows one embodiment of a flow-detecting fill sensor 138 for use with a barrel 14. In addition to a radio transmitter 16 which may be attached to the side wall 139 of the barrel 14, a microphone 138 appears which forms part of the barrel 14's fill level measuring system. The microphone 138 captures ambient noise. The captured ambient noise can be subtracted from the signal measured from the barrel 14 in order to isolate noise originating from inside the barrel 14. The sound measurement system of the distribution network 10 isolates acoustic measurements by timing the measurements to correspond to acoustic impulses generated by adjacent barrels, while simultaneously using ambient noise cancellation. 【0098】 Figure 11C shows another embodiment of the radio transmitter 16 as a collar radio transmitter 142. The collar radio transmitter 142 may be positioned around the barrel outlet 144 to measure the fluid passing through the barrel outlet 144. The collar radio transmitter 142 may also extend beyond the top of the barrel 14, either surrounding us to extend the connection to the barrel 14. The collar radio transmitter 142 may be uncoupled around the barrel outlet 144 so as to detach and fall from the body of the barrel 14 when the barrel 14 is inverted, i.e., during sewage treatment. Thus, when the barrel 14 is hot in washing, the collar radio transmitter 142 does not come into contact with the body of the barrel 14. When the barrel 14 is returned to an upright position, the collar radio transmitter 142 returns to its original position and falls, coming into contact with the body for operational use. When the barrel 14 is in an upright position, the collar radio transmitter 142 contacts the body of the barrel 14 to generate acoustic impulses and / or measure the acoustic properties of the barrel 14. The barrel 14 collar radio transmitter 142 may be detached to facilitate cleaning around and beneath it. By allowing easy cleaning around and beneath it, the collar radio transmitter 142 enables the barrel 14 owner to maintain a sterile environment for products entering and leaving the barrel 14 through the barrel outlet 144. 【0099】 Figures 12 and 13 present alternative embodiments of the radio transmitter 16 of this disclosure for attachment to the top barrel opening 144 of the barrel 14. The collar radio transmitter 142 is located beneath the barrel cap 140. The barrel cap 140 is removed by using a self-destructing tab 141, which releases the cap but also renders it unusable by peeling off the sides of the barrel cap 140. The collar radio transmitter 142 can sense whether or not the barrel cap 140 is present. The event of the removal of the barrel cap 140 is used by the distribution network 10. By using the barrel cap 140, the distribution network 10 can determine with high probability whether or not the barrel 14 has been fitted with a mouthpiece. Distributors 30 typically do not remove the barrel cap 140 until the barrel 14 has been fitted with a mouthpiece, as the barrel cap 140 prevents filth and food from entering the barrel opening 144. The collar radio transmitter 142 is secured to the barrel opening 144 by a friction fit or other flexible configuration 145 that fixes the collar radio transmitter 142 to the barrel opening 144 and prevents removal unless authorized by an authorized person. Such a fixing mechanism may be a locking mechanism, a latching mechanism, a hidden tab, or other friction mechanism that prevents removal of the collar radio transmitter 142. By enabling the collar radio transmitter 142 to be locked, the distribution network 10 can ensure that the collar radio transmitter 142 is in place except during maintenance by an authorized person. 【0100】 The collar radio transmitter mechanically engages with the upper surface of the barrel 14 and the barrel opening 144 142, thereby enabling it to withstand the shocks and loads associated with the normal existing handling of full or empty barrels. The collar radio transmitter 142 does not extend the existing boundaries of the barrel 14, thereby allowing the barrels to be handled and stacked as usual. No changes are required to the lines, valves, handles, or processes of the distributor 30, the pallets or processes of the distributor 64, the equipment or processes of the delivery truck 70, or the automated filling and washing equipment, storage systems, or processes of the brewery 20. 【0101】 The collar radio transmitter 142 may also have additional functionality beyond that present in the current embodiment of the radio transmitter 16. The additional volume of the collar radio transmitter 130 makes for an ever-expanding set of functions and supporting electronics for the collar radio transmitter 142 to operate within the distribution network 10. 【0102】 Figure 14 shows a transducer-microphone configuration for use in a collar radio transmitter 142 when determining the volume and other characteristics of barrel 14. Figure 14 shows the collar radio transmitter 142 surrounding the barrel opening 144 and including transmitter T1 148 and microphone M1 150. The signal produced by T1 148 is acquired by M1 150 after being modified by the filling level in barrel 14. As a result of the changing signal measurements, it is possible to determine the relevant filling level. This information can be processed by the collar radio transmitter 142 and then communicated via the distribution network 10. 【0103】 Figure 15 shows an embodiment of a certified mounting mechanism 160 for securing the radio transmitter 16 to the barrel 14. The certified mounting mechanism 160 provides a secure mounting of the radio transmitter 16 to the barrel 14 while allowing non-destructive removal / replacement only by authorized parties. The certified mounting mechanism 160 operates within the outer housing 84 of the radio transmitter 16 and is mounted on a hook-and-catch 162. The mechanical hook-and-catch 162 provides a permanent mounting fixture for securing the radio transmitter 16 to the barrel 14. The hook 162 is concealed from external tampering, and only internal actuators (electromagnetic, motor, etc.) can disengage this hook. The engaging arm 164 inserts into the recess 166 using spring force from a spring 168. The engaging arm 164 operates under the control of actuator 170 to retract from the recess 166 in response to a signal from CPU 172. Antenna 174 can receive actuation signals from an external source to actuate the engaging arm 164 under the control of CPU 172. Battery 86 can supply actuation power for CPU 172 operation to control actuator 170. Certified mounting mechanism 160 further provides external voltage pads 180 to allow power to enter the outer housing 84 and to allow the internal actuator circuit to be temporarily powered in the event of battery failure or to charge the rechargeable battery 86. These pins are electrically isolated from the battery to prevent current leakage. Alternatively, digital connection 182 can provide an optional digital signal input for control of CPU 172 regarding actuator operation. 【0104】 The certified mounting mechanism 160 allows distributors 64, vendors 30, or event venues 32 to place a radio transmitter 16 on a barrel 14 only while they possess the barrel 14, and to remove the radio transmitter 16 before the barrel is returned and is no longer their possession. The certified mounting mechanism 160 may require a secret digital master key to activate the engaging arm 164. The digital secure key is transmitted wirelessly to the radio transmitter 16 via an antenna 174. The CPU 172 verifies the digital secure key by multiple possible means. By using a digital key instead of a mechanical key, no points of water intrusion are introduced into the outer housing 84, the space required for a mechanical key is avoided, and manufacturing costs are reduced. By using a digital key, every barrel 14 can have a unique digital lock code, and the digital key is easy to manage using software. 【0105】 A secure mechanism requiring a secret digital master key is used to latch the radio transmitter 16 to the barrel 14. By using a digital key, no points of water intrusion are introduced, the space required for mechanical keys is avoided, and manufacturing costs are reduced. By using a digital key, every barrel 14 can have a unique digital lock code, and the keys are easy to manage using software. Breaking one lock will not reveal the others. 【0106】 Figure 16 shows a block diagram of a radio transmitter electronic network 190 according to a preferred embodiment of the system disclosed herein. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 includes a radio / processing module 96 connected to a temperature sensor 192 and a codec / DSP 194. The analog-to-digital circuit (ADC) 196 of the radio / processing module 96 receives an output 198 from the temperature sensor 192. The radio / processing module 96 also supplies a collector voltage (VCC) 202 to the temperature sensor 192 via general-purpose input / output (GPIO) 200. A rechargeable battery 86 supplies 2-3 volts of operating power to the radio / processing module 96 at VCC 204. The codec / DSP 194 interfaces with the radio / processing module 96 via the I2C / SPI 206 of the radio / processing module 96 using an inter-integrated circuit / serial peripheral interface (I2C / SPI) interface 208. The radio / processing module 96 interfaces with the I2S / GPIO interface 212 of the codec / DSP 194 via the inter-integrated circuit sound / general purpose input-out (I2S / GPIO) interface 210. The codec / DSP 194 connects to the converter 148 via the digital-to-analog converter interface (DAC) 214. The codec / DSP 194 also interfaces with the microphone / sensor 150 via the ADC interface 216. The antenna 174 supplies input to the RF interface 218. 【0107】 The radio transmitter electronic network 190 utilizes the mobile devices 38-42 and stationary reader 36 of the distribution network 10 to eliminate the need for separate GPS and cell radio networks. As a result, the radio transmitter 16 achieves a production cost of less than approximately $10. Furthermore, in terms of the operation of the distribution network 10, the radio transmitter 16 does not require a monthly cell data plan, has a small form factor, and can run for 5 years on a standard lithium battery cell. By operating for 5 years, the radio transmitter 16 ensures that the distribution network 10 matches the standard 5-year service cycle of barrels 14 from most breweries and distributors. The radio design of the radio transmitter 16 can also work inside stacks of metal barrels, as will be discussed in more detail below. 【0108】 The radio transmitter electronic network 190 includes firmware that can operate in multiple modes. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 operates in a disconnectable mode based on deployment security and battery life preservation. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 enters connectable mode only temporarily during boot or via a switch / pad on PCB 88. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 operates in connectable mode, protected by asymmetric encryption and authentication, providing authenticated pairing without bonding. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 operates in a mode for pairing an algorithmically generated passcode based on a broadcasted major number, a minor number, and a shared secret. This mode can optionally use a timestamp, a board serial number, or the like. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 can also operate in connectable mode to update the serial number and other parameters of the radio transmitter 16 after manufacturing but before deployment. 【0109】 The distribution network 10 addresses various roles related to various devices / components. Such devices include radio transmitters 16, collar radio transmitters 142, stationary readers 36, mobile devices 38 and 60, server computers 56, and RMS section computers 62. Hereinafter, the functions of various devices / components capable of performing such functions will be described as appropriate. 【0110】 A device acting as a central device can scan advertisers and initiate connections. Such a device acts as a master in one or more connections. A good example is the mobile device 38 and the computer 62. This means that the device roles used for established connections are peripheral and central roles. The other two device roles are used for one-way communication. The broadcaster function applies to disconnectible advertisers, such as a temperature sensor 192 broadcasting the current temperature, or a radio transmitter 16. The observer function scans for advertisements but cannot initiate connections. This could be a remote display on a mobile device 38 that receives and presents temperature data or tracks the radio transmitter 16. 【0111】 The two obvious device roles in the radio transmitter 16 application are the peripheral and the broadcaster. Both transmit the same type of advertisement, except for a specific flag indicating whether the application is connectable or not. 【0112】 The Bluetooth® low energy solution is ideal for the radio transmitter 16 because it is low-power and its ecosystem is already deployed in most smartphones or other Bluetooth® Smart Ready-enabled devices on the market. Low power consumption is achieved by keeping the transmission time as short as possible and allowing the device to enter sleep mode during transmission. 【0113】 The disconnectable radio transmitter 16 is a Bluetooth® low energy device in broadcasting mode. It simply transmits internally stored information. Disconnectable broadcasting achieves the lowest possible power consumption by simply waking up, transmitting data, and returning to sleep, as it does not activate any receiving capability. This comes with the disadvantage that dynamic data is limited to data known to the device or available via external input from serial protocols such as universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART), serial peripheral interface (SPI), universal serial bus (USB), etc. 【0114】 The connectable radio transmitter 16 is a peripheral mode Bluetooth® low energy device, meaning that the connectable radio transmitter 16 can not only transmit but also receive. This allows a central device (e.g., a mobile device 38) to connect to and interact with a service performed on the radio transmitter 16. The service provides one or more characteristics that can be modified by the peer device. An example of these characteristics could be a string of data representing information to be broadcast. In this form, it becomes possible to have a configurable radio transmitter 16 that can be easily updated wirelessly. 【0115】 Figures 17A and 17B illustrate various hardware for use on a delivery truck operating within the distribution network 10 of this disclosure. The truck 70 can be any type of delivery truck capable of delivering a large number of barrels 14 for loading into barrel section 12 of the liquid product distribution network 10. Within the delivery section 68, the truck 70 also includes the ability to interface with a radio transmitter 16 or collar radio transmitter 142. The possible interfaces of the truck 70 are derived from a truck leader 230, which may be positioned under a seat 232. The truck leader 230 is a communication device that connects using various antennas, including, for example, a cell antenna 234 or a Bluetooth® antenna 236. Furthermore, the truck 70 may use a GPS antenna 238, an OBD2 connection 240, and / or a Wi-Fi antenna 242. Figure 17B illustrates an alternative configuration in which a tablet 244 can provide various functions related to controlling delivery operations and monitoring delivery operations consistent with the optimal operation of the liquid product distribution network 10. 【0116】 When the Truck 70 is parked within range of the home office Wi-Fi, updates can be batch downloaded via Wi-Fi when the Truck 70 returns to the home office. This can save on cellular data charges. The hardware is designed with a main processor in the housing, along with a GPS antenna 238, a Wi-Fi antenna 242, a Bluetooth® antenna 236, and cellular connectivity located either internally or externally via wire to allow for remote antenna placement. The Truck Reader 230 optionally connects to the vehicle's OBD2 connection 240 for power and / or diagnostic data. Each of the four antennas can be internal or external, with external placement via wire allowing for flexible placement. 【0117】 The Track Reader 230 enables real-time inventory by placing an antenna at the end of a wire. The Track Reader 230 main unit can be hidden and / or securely placed under the dashboard or seat 232. By connecting to the OBD2 port 240 in the Track 70, the Track Reader 230 is easy to install and can collect total mileage, speed, and other data from the vehicle. 【0118】 By integrating the Wi-Fi antenna 242, the truck leader 230 can perform a "storage exchange" function to collect data during the day and automatically download it at night when the truck 70 returns to base. The Wi-Fi antenna 242 can also operate as a Wi-Fi access point inside the truck 70. Thus, the tablet 244 can have an internet connection, for example, when the truck 70 is being driven around. The truck 70 driver's cell phone can also use the Wi-Fi antenna 242 to incorporate security, logging, and firewall functions. 【0119】 By using Truck 70 as a Wi-Fi access point, Truck Leader 230 can send messages, alerts, instructions, and new routes to drivers in real time. As a Wi-Fi access point, Truck 70 can connect a display to Tablet 244 to show drivers maps, instructions, alerts, and other information. The Truck Leader 230 system acts as a knowledge base for delivery drivers, allowing them to record the information they need to make deliveries. Such information may include instructions on where to park, lock codes or access codes, the best time to make deliveries, consumer contact information and instructions, and more. The distribution network 10 system can use Truck Leader 230 to provide real-time monitoring of trucks and drivers. For example, Truck Leader 230 can determine which driver is closest to a requested delivery, whether a driver is on their route or making an unscheduled detour, and more. 【0120】 The Track Reader 230 can function as a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing connected clients to access the internet via a cell modem connection. Standard Wi-Fi password protection and encryption are used to prevent unauthorized connections. When functioning as a Wi-Fi hotspot, the Tablet 244 is used as a screen / GUI. This allows sophisticated mapping, routing, invoice creation, and other functions to be written onto the tablet and integrated with the Track Reader 230 sensor data. 【0121】 The track reader 230 can function independently of all mobile devices (telephones, tablets) within the track 70. The software on the track reader 230 and the tablet 244 can communicate with each other and divide the calculation, communication, and display processing. Depending on the capabilities of the tablet 244, the track reader 230 can offload functions to the tablet, and vice versa. For example, if 244 includes a cell modem connection to the internet, the software on the tablet 244 can receive data from barrel 14 and transmit such data to the server section 52 of the distribution network 10. 【0122】 The truck leader 230 software can determine when barrel 14 is coming into range (i.e., being loaded onto a vehicle) or going out of range (i.e., being delivered from truck 70). By accessing the known history of barrel 14 from the radio transmitter 16, the truck leader 230 can determine whether it is about to be received empty or delivered full. 【0123】 The Truck Reader 230 enables a real-time inventory of trucks. By placing an antenna at the end of a wire, the Truck Reader 230 can be hidden and / or securely installed under the dashboard or seat. By connecting to the OBD2 port 240 in the Truck 70, the Truck Reader 230 is easy to install and can collect total mileage, speed, and other data from the Truck 70. 【0124】 A handoff between the radio transmitter 16 and the location can determine a change in state. For example, if barrel 14 is detected by the refrigerated stationary reader 36 but is no longer detected by the stationary reader 36 and is subsequently detected by the track reader 230, this can trigger a change in state to "out for delivery". 【0125】 As a further example, the distribution network system 10 may determine that a barrel 14 has been delivered to a vendor 30 such as a restaurant or bar, but it may not know which vendor 30 it was or exactly when. When a mobile device 38 detects the presence of a barrel 14 at a certain location, the distribution network 10 can determine which vendor 30 the barrel 14 was sent to, and now that it knows which vendor 30 has received the barrel 14, it can retrospectively determine the delivery schedule and other information. 【0126】 The distribution network software reports truck driver activities back to the distributor's home office, and this information may include unplanned detours, driving speed, and other details. The distribution network software enables remote management and monitoring of the truck leader 230. When a truck driver visits a known customer, for example, the last inventory list at that customer may be viewed by the driver on the tablet 244. The distribution network software automatically manages deposit information, such as how many barrels 14 are in each barrel section 12, and determines the rolling deposit fee for that barrel section 12 location. The deposit information is automatically propagated back to the invoice, accounting, and other systems and can be used as a double-check against the data entered by the truck driver. 【0127】 Figure 18 provides various example events that may affect the state transitions of barrel 14 as the monitored barrel 14 moves from different geographical regions within the distribution network 10. In Figure 18, barrels 14 A, B, and C represent liquid product containers within barrel 14 section 12. Items 1 30 to 7 254 represent various mobile devices 30 and stationary readers 36 and others. Region X 244, region Y 246, and region Z 248 represent geographical regions participating within the distribution network 10. 【0128】 The distribution network 10 determines state transitions by collecting data on the location and history of barrels 14. Some state transitions are determined retrospectively. For example, the absence of readings after a certain period can retrospectively determine a state transition that occurred at the beginning of that period. Handoffs between the radio transmitter 16, the stationary reader 36, and the mobile device 38 can determine state changes. For example, barrel 14 that was detected by the refrigerated stationary reader 36 but is no longer detected by that stationary reader 36 and is subsequently detected by the truck reader 230 can trigger a state change to "in transit". 【0129】 The distribution network 10 may have already determined that a barrel 14 has been delivered to a distributor 30 (i.e., a customer such as a restaurant / bar), but may not know which distributor 30 it was delivered to or the exact time. When a mobile device 38 detects / contacts the presence of barrel 14 at a certain location, the distribution network 10 determines which distributor 30 received the barrel, and now that it knows which distributor 30 received the barrel 14, it can retrospectively determine the delivery schedule and other information. 【0130】 By using a storage exchange, the mobile device 38 can download historical information from the radio transmitter 16 when it detects the radio transmitter 16 at the dealership 30. By using the mesh network 18 and storage exchange at the dealership 30, an arriving barrel 14 18 can communicate its arrival to other barrels 14 at the dealership 30. When one of the older barrels 14 leaves the dealership 30 and is returned to the brewery 20, that barrel forwards information from newly arrived barrels 14 that it was at the dealership 30. 【0131】 The radio transmitter 16 uniquely identifies the barrel 14, distributor, and brand, so that the status of the barrel 14 can be automatically relayed to the brewery 20 and / or distributor 64. The distribution network 10 mechanism, which determines how full each barrel 14 is, is attached to the barrel 14 and does not require the barrel 14 to be shifted onto a scale. The distribution network 10 uses communication between the radio transmitter 16 and stationary reader 37 / mobile device 38 to automatically relay the filling data to the correct brewery 20 and / or distributor 64. 【0132】 Referring further to Figure 18, the distribution network 10 performs particularly attractive operations when entering and leaving geographical areas. A geographical area is defined such that a barrel 14 to which a radio transmitter 16 is attached can be considered to have "entered" that geographical area when a sensing device 36 / 38 is within that geographical area or otherwise detects the radio transmitter 16. This determination can be based on the relative positions of both the barrel 14 and the sensing devices 36 / 38 relative to the area. 【0133】 In Figure 18, barrel 14A 14 is detected by sensing device 36 / 38 1 as being inside area X, and similarly, barrel B 14 is detected by sensing device 36 / 38 7 as being inside area Y. If sensing device 36 / 38 determines that an item is inside an area but no item is detected, all items previously determined to be inside that area may be determined to have "left" that area. In Figure 18, sensing device 36 / 38 5 is inside area Z, but barrel C 14 is not detected. Hysteresis may be applied to give time for barrel C 14 to be detected or not detected. Since stationary reader 36 / mobile device 38 6 can detect barrel C 14 but it is not inside the defined geographic area, sensing device 36 / 38 6 confirms that barrel C 14 is no longer inside area Z. At any given time, the sensing devices 36 / 38 may or may not be able to detect multiple barrels 14, which may or may not be within any number of (possibly overlapping) areas. 【0134】 Within that context, the distribution network software 10 determines which state transition should occur, depending on the geographical area where detection occurs, how far the barrel 14 is determined to be from the sensing device 36 / 38, and other factors. The geographical location may be determined by several factors, namely GPS readings on the sensing device 36 / 38, the Wi-Fi network to which the sensing device 36 / 38 is located or connected, being "close" to another sensing device 36 / 38 having a predicted location, detection of wireless networks or topology, triangulation using signal strength, and others. 【0135】 Triangulation can be used to determine a location precisely. For example, the received signal strength of a radio transmitter 16 at one or more receiving stations is correlated to determine the transmitter's more precise location relative to those stations. A receiving station can be a node in a wireless distribution network, and therefore knowing the node and the received signal strength at that node allows for the determination of the probability distribution of the radio transmitter 16's location. This probability distribution may be influenced by additional data such as the known locations of buildings or other interfering structures, data packet loss, vehicle speed, received signal strength of additional transmitters, the relative locations of other nearby items, the "congestion" of items, and so on. 【0136】 In some cases, the position of the sensing device 36 / 38 may be assigned a static position (for example, if the sensing device 36 / 38 is not expected to move). In this case, all items that come within a certain distance of the sensor may cause a change in the state of that item. 【0137】 The distribution network 10 software has a programming interface through which it can retrieve and / or receive updates from other systems or input methods. These updates may cause changes in state. Examples of systems and input methods include automated assembly lines, content filling systems, POS systems, shipping and receiving systems, and others. Data from these input methods can be combined with any of the other detection mechanisms to reach conclusions. For example, if the shipping system indicates that five barrels 14 have been received and, at the same time, five items have been detected leaving the geographical area, the distribution network 10 can determine that these five barrels 14 are the received barrels 14 and add the serial numbers of the barrels 14 to the shipping invoice. 【0138】 The serial numbers of barrels 14 can be automatically and accurately correlated without manual effort. Deposits can be automatically and accurately correlated without manual effort. Inventory inventories are automatically and accurately maintained without manual effort. The contents of barrels 14, filling dates, and other information can be easily looked up using a regular mobile phone without any manual scanning or searching. Barrels 14 can be automatically and accurately flagged for service based on the number of times they have been slaughtered on site. The distribution network 10 automatically reports back where each barrel 14 is and how full it is, without any manual effort. 【0139】 By collecting data on the location and history of barrel 14, the distribution network system 10 determines state transitions. Some state transitions are determined retrospectively. For example, a lack of readings some time later can retrospectively determine a state transition that occurred at the beginning of that period. 【0140】 Figure 19 shows the arrangement of various barrels 14 on an exemplary weighing mat 250 for use in a distribution network 10. The mat is configured to have predetermined positions for barrels, or it can allow barrels to be positioned arbitrarily. On the weighing mat 250, predetermined barrel 14 positions 252 appear where barrels 14 will be stored. Design 254 shows the use of a distributor's 64 or brewery's 20 logo on which barrels 14 should be positioned. Design 254 indicates that barrel 14 contains beer from a company whose logo appears at the mat position 252. 【0141】 The weighing mat 250 can be placed under one or more barrels 14 on it and provides a thin, stationary cushion or surface that integrates with the shelf material (or floor) inconspicuously. The weighing mat 250 allows barrels 14 to be moved arbitrarily within the cold storage room or other barrel 14 section 12 location. The weighing mat 250 can integrate branding to ensure that a given type of barrel 14 correlates to a location 252. The brewery 20 can become a sponsor of their portion of the weighing mat 250, allowing the total area of ​​the weighing mat 250 to increase over time. The weighing mat 250 wirelessly determines where the barrels 14 are located on the weighing mat 250 using a radio transmitter 16 to determine exactly which barrels 14 are being weighed. 【0142】 The weighing mat 250 has a low profile (less than 1 inch), which allows existing vendor 30 shelf material units to be used. The weighing mat 250 preferably has a sloped front edge to allow barrels 14 to easily slide across the top surface. The weighing mat 250 may have one or more ridges / grooves to accommodate multiple barrel 14 sizes or layout positions. The weighing mat 250 does not have to be square and can be circular or hexagonal to facilitate high-density packing of barrels 14 in a variety of different refrigeration compartment spaces. 【0143】 Areas on the weighing mats 250 where the supplier's logo can be printed help the distributor 30 record which barrel 14 goes to which draft handle inside the bar. The logo 254 also allows the brewery 20 or distributor 64 to provide / sponsor the weighing mats 250 when the distributor 30 contracts a supplier account. The weighing mats 250 easily engage with adjacent mats, so that barrels 14 can slide across the weighing mats 250 from front to back and from side to side. The edges of the weighing mats 250 can incorporate electrical connections to transmit data between the weighing mats 250. The weighing mats 250 can be sized to accommodate multiple barrels 14 on a single mat 250, with each barrel being weighed separately. The weight measuring mat 250 wirelessly determines the location of the barrel 14 on the mat using a radio transmitter 16 in order to accurately determine which barrel 14 is being weighed. 【0144】 By using the accumulated exchange, the mobile device 38 can download historical information from the radio transmitter 16 when the radio transmitter 16 detects the mobile device 38 at the dealership 30. By using the mesh network 18 and the accumulated exchange at the dealership 30, an arriving barrel 14 can communicate its arrival to other barrels 14 at that dealership. When one of the older barrels 14 18 leaves the dealership 30 and is returned to the brewery 20, the mesh network 18 forwards information from newly arrived barrels 14 that were there while that barrel was at the dealership 30. 【0145】 Figure 20 illustrates improved use, monitoring, and reporting of barrels 14 between operations occurring in the cold storage room 278 and operations occurring in a public room 279, such as a restaurant or other location. Figure 20 shows the interaction between the cold storage room 278 and the public room 279 of barrels 14 section 12, where a mesh network 18 of barrels 14 can be positioned on a weighing mat 250 for reporting and communication, to provide a correlation between the operation of beer taps 260 in the public room 279 and the beer barrels 14 in barrel 14 section 12 of the cold storage room 278. Alternatively, barrel collars 142 could instead provide the function of the weighing mat 250. Furthermore, within the public room 279, there is a display of transactions that the distribution network 10 makes available to facilitate POS transactions. The POS transaction utilizes information about the status of barrels 14 in the cold storage room 278 and provides input for the user to make other decisions regarding purchase and consumption of different beers according to the status of barrels 14. 【0146】 By correlating the decrease in barrel levels 14 with the increase in alcohol purchases, the distribution network 10 enables the determination of which consumers 66 purchased from which barrel 14. After the barrel 14 has been determined, it is possible to determine the brewery 20, the type of beer, the brewing date, and other information, as disclosed herein. 【0147】 By correlating the consumer 66 location with respect to the barrel 14 location, it is possible to inform consumers 66 when their preferred beer barrel 14 will be ready to drink 260 based on when the beer was brewed, where the nearest public room 279 is for purchasing a glass of that beer, how long the beer is likely to remain ready to drink 260 (i.e., how full the barrel 14 is), whether the barrel 14 is no longer available, and how fresh the beer is. 【0148】 When a limited supply keg 14 is fitted with a spout 260, the action of fitting the spout 260 can trigger an alert to consumers 66 indicating that keg 14 is now available. The distribution network 10 may indicate other beers currently fitted with spouts that are similar to those preferred by consumers 66, previously purchased, preferred by their friends, drunk by others, popular, freshest, longest aged, seasonal or specialty, from local breweries 20, from distant breweries 20, with special ingredients, or limited supply. 【0149】 The distribution network 10 can show other beers currently available with a bottle 260 that are similar to what the consumer 66 likes / has previously purchased / other, thereby introducing the consumer 66 to new breweries. The distribution network 10 can show the brewing date of each beer, how long it has been aged, how long it has been bottled, and other information. The distribution network 10 can recommend locations based on the types of beers available. 【0150】 When a consumer 66 enters a public room 279 using the POS function 262, it is determined that the consumer 66 is within range of the barrel 14. This is used to determine when the consumer 66 arrives at and / or departs from that location and can be correlated with the marketing conducted for that consumer 66. By correlating the consumer 66's purchase of a product with the marketing conducted for that consumer 66, it is possible to determine marketing efficiency. Efficiency can be calculated automatically, and future choices for marketing messages or marketing processes can be determined automatically. 【0151】 By correlating the decreased barrel levels with alcohol purchases, it is possible to determine which consumers purchased from which barrels. After the barrels are identified, the brewery, beer type, brewing date, and other information become known. 【0152】 By correlating the location of the barrel 14 with the location of the consumer 66, it is possible to inform the consumer 66 of (1) when the barrel 14 of the beer the consumer prefers was opened, (2) the nearest location to purchase a glass of beer, (3) how long it is likely that the beer has been opened (i.e., how empty the barrel 14 is), (4) whether the barrel 14 is no longer available, and (5) how fresh the beer is (i.e., when it was brewed). 【0153】 When a limited supply barrel 14 is fitted with a spout, the action of fitting it with a spout can trigger an alert to the consumer 66 indicating that the barrel 14 is now available. The distribution network 10 may indicate other products that are currently fitted with spouts and available, such as those that the consumer 66 likes or has previously purchased, those that the consumer 66's friends like, those that other consumers 66 are drinking, those that are popular in or near this location, those that are the freshest in or near this location, the longest-aged products, those that are seasonal or specialty products, those from local breweries, those from distant breweries, those that have special or specific ingredients, those that are limited supply products, and so on. 【0154】 The distribution network 10 can show other beers currently available with bottles attached that are similar to what the consumer 66 likes / has previously purchased / other, thereby introducing the consumer 66 to new breweries. The distribution network 10 can also show the brewing date of each beer, how long it has been aged, how long it has been bottled, and other information. 【0155】 The distribution network 10 can recommend locations based on the types of beer available. When a consumer 66 enters a location / event where they will be using a keg in the distribution network 10, it is determined that the consumer 66 is within range of a keg 14. This is used to determine when the consumer 66 arrives at and / or departs from that location and may correlate with marketing efforts directed at that consumer 66. 【0156】 To ensure that a consumer 66 is notified when a barrel 14 is moving, when it arrives at a certain location, and so on, a brewery may allow a consumer 66 to become a “sponsor” of a particular barrel 14. If a consumer 66 wishes to become a sponsor of a barrel 14 containing only a certain type of beer, then a container may be allocated to his sponsorship at all breweries, and thus it will appear as if he “owns” a particular barrel, even if the actual container is different at each brew. This allows the consumer 66 to perceive that he is a sponsor of a single barrel, while at the same time allowing the brewery to rotate their barrel 14 as usual. 【0157】 Figure 21 shows an exemplary stationary reader 36 for radio transmitter 16 detection and measurement according to the present disclosure. The stationary reader 36 includes a yellow LED 270 and a red LED 272. The stationary reader 36 is preferably mounted on a wall, such as inside a refrigerator 278 or at a different location. The stationary reader 36 is preferably managed via a mobile device 38 application rather than having a screen. LEDs 270 and 272 indicate the status of the stationary reader 36. The red LED 272 reports whether the stationary reader 36 is powered on and connected to the internet 54. The yellow LED 270 indicates that barrel 14 sensing is active using radio transmitter 16 or collar radio transmitter 142, and during initial setup, indicates that the stationary reader 36 is ready to receive the Wi-Fi password. 【0158】 If the stationary reader 36 does not have an existing connection to the Internet, a peer-to-peer connection (for example, via Bluetooth®) can be used to establish the necessary connection. The stationary reader maintains its connection to the Internet and actively attempts to re-establish the connection if it goes down. Proximity readings to the barrel 14 are taken continuously. If the Internet 54 connection goes down, the readings are spooled into the local buffer sensor / data acquisition section 34, and the spooled data is sent to the server computer 56 when the Internet 54 connection is restored. The data is compressed, then encrypted, authenticated, and sent to the server. 【0159】 Each quiescent reader 36 within the distribution network 10 possesses a unique identifier and a unique asymmetric encryption key. Only a mobile device 38 possessing the other half of the asymmetric key is authorized to manage the quiescent reader 36. The asymmetric key is retrieved from the server computer 56 and is not permanently stored on the mobile device 38; it is only used on a per-session basis. 【0160】 Figure 22 shows the arrangement of filling readers related to the cold storage room 278 or other locations for detecting and reporting the conditions of multiple barrels 14. Figure 22 further includes the use of a mobile reader 274 which may be used on a stand 276 adjacent to the mesh network 18 of barrels 14 in the cold storage room 278. 【0161】 Figure 23 shows a filling reader display 280 that a mobile reader 274 or sensing device 36 / 38 can display to show the status of barrels 14 in a mesh network 18. The display 280 provides information 282 about empty barrels 14 and information 284 about full barrels 14. The empty barrel 14 display 282 shows that barrels 1, 2, 3, and 4 are empty barrels 14. The full barrel 14 display 284 shows that barrels 10, 11, 12, and 13 are full. A filling icon 286 indicates the movement from empty to full for various barrels 14 in the refrigerated compartment 278. An indicator 286 shows the type of liquid product in the various barrels, in this case pale ale. The display 280 also shows the date the display is operating. 【0162】 The filling reader display 280 allows the brewery 20 to input the filling date and contents of the barrels 14 when filling them using a standard tablet device 274. The distribution network software 10 allows the brewery 20 to use it to select the products to be filled into barrels, to manually mark the barrels 14 when they are filled, and to indicate nearby barrels 14 and their status. According to the brewery 20 preference, the distribution network software 10 can either request manual marking of the barrels 14 or automatically mark the barrels 14 based on whether they are within a set distance range of the filling reader 274 during a certain period of time. 【0163】 Figures 24A and 24B illustrate how a stationary reader 36 can sense the status of a barrel 14 inside a refrigerator 278 with a closed metal door. Inside the refrigerator 278, the mesh network 18 of radio transmitters 16 may be positioned behind the closed refrigerator door 290. During this time, it is impossible to obtain the necessary communication between the radio transmitters 16 and the sensing devices 36 / 38. However, as shown in Figure 24B, after the refrigerator door 290 is opened, an open communication path appears between the stationary reader 36 and the mesh network 18, allowing each radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14 to be read. Alternatively, communication may occur to any mobile devices 38, 40, 42, 60 outside the refrigerator. Although it is impossible to sense the radio transmitters 16, historical data can be stored within the radio transmitters 16 and transmitted from them. In the alternative, when the mobile device 38 enters or leaves the refrigerated room 278, the mobile device 38 can acquire data from the barrels 14 or the mesh network 18 within the refrigerated room 278 for subsequent reporting within the distribution network 10. 【0164】 Figures 25 and 26 show the laminated structure of the weighing mat 250 according to this disclosure. The weighing mat 250 includes a smooth top layer 292 bonded to a compressible spacer layer 294. Below the compressible spacer layer 294, a bottom layer 296 is revealed. The weighing mat 250 can be placed on a metal shelf crossbar 298. The bottom layer 296 may include a high-friction rubber layer 300. The smooth top layer 292 may further include a raised 302 on which a barrel 14 can be placed. The smooth top layer allows the barrel 14 to slide easily on the weighing mat 250. The surface of the bottom layer 296 may include a high-friction rubber or adhesive surface to keep the weighing mat 250 in place on the metal shelf crossbar 298. The optional raised 302 on the smooth top layer 292 helps to position one or more barrels 14 in the best position for weighing and for use in relation to other barrels 14 in a mesh network 18. 【0165】 Figure 26 shows a weighing device or weighing device 304 integrated into the weighing mat 250 of this disclosure. The weighing device 304 is sandwiched between a smooth top layer 292 and a bottom layer 296. The example weighing device 304 may be a load cell, a pressure sensor, or the like. The deflection of the smooth top layer 292 and the compression of the compressible spacer layer 294 when the barrel 14 is placed on the weighing mat 250 transmit the force of the barrel 14's weight to the weighing device 304. Optional spacing material may be used to support the smooth top layer 292 outside the weighing area. Overload protection prevents damage to the weighing device 304 from large sudden loads dropped from a shelf onto the weighing mat 250. 【0166】 Figure 27 shows the relationship between the weighing mat 250 and the radio transmitter 16 of the present disclosure. Figure 27 shows that the weighing mat 250 includes a weighing device 304 positioned beneath a ridge 302. The radio transmitter 16 communicates with the mat antenna 306. In the embodiment of Figure 27, the weighing mat 250 correlates the weight of the barrel 14 measured by the weighing device 304 with a change in the state of the barrel 14. 【0167】 The radio antenna 306 receives a signal from the radio transmitter 16 when the barrel 14 is placed on the weighing mat 250. The weighing mat 250 can then directly transmit the weight of the barrel 14 and other information about the barrel 14 to the storage system stationary reader 36, a mobile device 38, or one of the intermediate sensing devices 36 / 38. The intermediate sensing devices 36 / 38 may further include another weighing mat 250, another stationary reader 36, a mobile device 38, an internet or cloud server computer 56 via Wi-Fi, and others. 【0168】 The radio transmitter 16 has a sensor on the PCB 88 that can detect events that trigger a change in state elsewhere in the barrel 14, the mesh network 18, or the distribution network 10. One example could be a temperature sensor 192 that determines temperature changes important for barrel 14 state tracking. Such temperature changes and / or state changes themselves are communicated to a mobile device 38, which in turn communicates them to the rest of the distribution network 10. 【0169】 The placement of the radio transmitter 16 on the lower edge 136 of the barrel 14 allows for easy detection by the mat antenna 306 and signal deambiguation from other nearby barrels 14 in the mesh network 18. The distribution network 10 software determines which brands and types of beer are on the weighing mat 250, which barrels 14 were filled and when, and other factors. The mat antenna 306 is positioned directly above each weighing mat 250, where there are no other nearby barrels 14 that are not on the weighing mat 250, and where the radio transmitter 16 is best detected. The weighing mats 250 can also incorporate RF shielding to prevent items on the weighing mat 250 on the lower metal shelf crossbar 298 from being detected. The mat antenna 306 can be directional to further aid in nearby barrel 14 deambiguation. 【0170】 A mechanical overload protection mechanism allows the weighing mat 250 to be dropped directly and safely from a full barrel 14. When such an event occurs, the weighing mat 250 lies on the barrel 14, which has been dropped from the floor and nearby shelves. When a load cell is used as the weighing device 304, a mechanical stop is incorporated into the load cell action to prevent damage to the load cell in case of overload. When a pressure sensor is used as the weighing device 304, a point load compresses the smooth top layer 292, spacer layer 294, and rubber layer 300, so that the load is transmitted to the metal shelf crossbar 298 beneath the weighing mat 250. Only the load spreads across the smooth top layer 292, and the surface registers the reading. 【0171】 Within each mesh network 18, one weighing mat 250 can act as a “master” mat responsible for collecting information from nearby weighing mats 250 before sending it to the server computer 56. The weighing mats 250 can connect individually to the server section 52 via Wi-Fi or other means. The weighing mats 250 can transmit readings directly to sensing devices 36 / 38 or to nearby tablet computers. Radio readings are aggregated from multiple weighing mats 250 via the distribution network 10 software to eliminate ambiguity of multiple radio transmitter 16 signals from various barrels 14. Barrel 14 weights are aggregated via the distribution network 10 software to automatically order more products when needed. The weighing mat 250 hardware feeds events, such as a barrel 14 being placed on or off the weighing mat 250, a barrel 14 being nearly empty, a new barrel 14 being opened, and others, to the distribution network 10 software. The distribution network software 10 uses events received from the weight measurement mat hardware 250 to determine additional conditions, such as whether the last full barrel 14 of a certain brand has been fitted with a spout 260, and so on. These events and conditions trigger actions such as POS notifications 262. 【0172】 Figure 28 shows a potential configuration of stacked barrels 14 that can be measured and monitored using the weighing mat 250 of this disclosure. An alternative double barrel 14 weighing mat 310 provides the ability to stack two barrels 14 as an upper barrel 272 and a lower barrel 274. With the upper barrel 272 stacked on top of the lower barrel 274, the weighing mat 276 can provide a weighing measurement of the combined weight of the two barrels 14. Assume that the two barrels 14 stacked on top of each other are either full or empty. Thus, both barrels 14 can start from full, and the upper barrel 14 272 can be poured out. The upper barrel 272 can then be placed on the bottom, and the lower barrel 274 can be connected to the tap 260. In this configuration, only one barrel 14 is poured out at a time. The weight mat 250 may have a reading area that shows the weight / fill percentage / other of the barrel 14 to which the drinking spout 260 is currently attached. The distribution network 10 software can automatically compensate in the case of whether the lower barrel 14 274 is full or empty. 【0173】 Figures 29 to 32 show various screens of the mobile device 38 application of the present disclosure. Figure 29 shows the connection of the mobile device 38 to a wireless transmission from a stationary reader 36 and / or radio transmitter 16. As shown in Figure 29, the access screen 320 shows the ability to determine that the stationary reader 36 is within a Bluetooth® connection of icon 322 or within a Wi-Fi connection of icon 324 to the mobile device 38. A red indicator light 326 may indicate that “Track #1” as a reading station is accessible from the mobile device 38. The access screen 320 also shows the ability to select a station 328, track 330, or other location within the liquid product distribution network 10. 【0174】 The distribution network 10 software residing on the mobile phone / mobile device creates a peer-to-peer network for operating the stationary readers 36. The mobile device 38 screen allows the stationary reader 36 to enter a setting that enables it to connect to the local Wi-Fi and then to the rest of the distribution network 10. Figure 29 is a list of stationary readers for various vendors 30, where red / green indicator lights 326 indicate the operating status of the stationary readers 36. Bluetooth® connection icon 322 and Wi-Fi connection icon 324 indicate whether each stationary reader 36 currently has a wireless connection to the distribution network 10. 【0175】 Figure 30 shows how the mobile device 38 can connect to the distribution network 10. For example, the mobile device 38 can connect via the server section 52 in option 340, or to the peer-to-peer network in the sensor / data acquisition section 34 in option 342. These connections are selectable by the mobile device 38 user, such as the example illustrated in the peer-to-peer network option 340 in Figure 30. 【0176】 Figure 31 shows how the mobile device 38 software enables the user to determine the status of the distribution network 10 software at a station. Thus, the version screen 350 shows that the station name is "Reader #4" and that it uses a Wi-Fi network called "Private_Wifi" and version 1.1.1. The version screen 350 also shows the presence of nearby Wi-Fi networks applicable to the mobile device 38. Figure 31 shows information received from stationary reader 36 regarding its current status, using a name meaningful to the reader's location. The figure also provides information on whether a Wi-Fi network is programmed to it and the stationary reader 36 firmware version. The "Nearby" selection allows for the display of other radio transmitters 16 that may currently be being detected by stationary reader 36. 【0177】 Figure 32 simply illustrates the ability to select between different Wi-Fi networks, which should be typical in the operation of a mobile device 38. Figure 32 shows the identification and selection of a Wi-Fi network (Private_Wifi) from a list of available Wi-Fi networks. 【0178】 Figures 33–35 show exemplary screens that may find applications relating to barrels 14 at various locations and mobile phones and tablets acting as mobile devices 38 when detecting and reporting data, applicable to monitoring and reporting. Figures 33–36 further illustrate the communication capabilities of the distribution network 10 software. For example, Figure 33 shows a mobile device 38 interface including a satellite perspective view that provides the ability to maintain different customers associated with the distribution network 10 and to dig into customers to determine customer status. Thus, the maintenance and dig screen 360 shows a satellite image 362 including a number of barrel 14 icons 364 indicating customers associated with the distribution network 10. For example, a selection bar 366 provides the ability to select nearby locations 368, barrel 14 reporting sections 370, filling status selectors 372, and delivery sections 374 to perform various distribution network 10 functions. 【0179】 Figure 33 shows a screen 360 illustrating the analysis of distribution network 10 tracking and fill level data for presenting a map and location list of barrels 14 equipped with a radio transmitter 16 and sensing devices 36 / 38 for reading. In the upper half of screen 360, each circle 364 with a beer mug represents a barrel 14 section 12 location. Circles 362 without a beer mug represent a group of barrel 14 section 12 locations. The lower half of screen 360 can provide a list of customers associated with each circle 362 or 364. Clicking on a circle 362 or 364 or clicking on a customer name below will display Figure 34, which provides further information about a specific customer, in this case, 15th Street Cafe. Icons may change based on the status of barrels 14 at a particular location. 【0180】 The controls at the bottom of the map area of ​​Screen 360 include (1) adding new customers that have not yet been measured, (2) changing the map graphics type, (3) displaying the user's current location, and (4) changing the size of the map relative to the list. The four yellow buttons at the top of the list area lead to four screens with specific information regarding delivery screens for entering notes and information about a particular delivery. 【0181】 By performing a reverse address lookup (from GPS to location address) when truck 70 stops, the distribution network 10 can determine the delivery customer, thereby determining the inventory inventory for barrel section 12 location. If the sensing device 36 / 38 does not have reverse location address lookup capability, the GPS data associated with the sensing device 36 / 38 may be passed to the server computer 56, which may push the GPS data to a different sensing device 36 / 38 capable of performing the lookup, or the GPS data associated with the sensing device 36 / 38 may be passed directly to another sensing device 36 / 38 within the distribution network 10. The determined reverse location address lookup result may then be sent back to the original sensing device 36 / 38. After the address has been looked up, the sensing device 36 / 38 can perform address caching, so that next time only the GPS data is needed to determine the associated barrel section 12 customer. 【0182】 The distribution network 10 software can also display route information to truck 70 drivers. Such route information can include the day's customers, driving routes, what to unload and load, and verify that the driver has loaded and unloaded the correct inventory. The distribution network 10 software can also learn the routes of truck 70 drivers over time. For example, the distribution network 10 software may record that deliveries to a certain customer always start from a specific parking lot. This information becomes part of the knowledge base that the distribution network 10 software displays to truck 70 drivers. 【0183】 The distribution network software 10 further provides a knowledge base that acts as a repository for specific customer information such as routes, combinations of locks and empty barrels 14, schedules, invoices, unloading and pickup requests, and other information. Pickup, delivery, and inventory inventory data are correlated against invoices, route schedules, last known inventory inventory (i.e., lost barrels), and other information. A tablet 244 on truck 70 can communicate wirelessly with truck leader 230 to display mapping, routing, and other information. 【0184】 Figure 34 shows the result of selecting the “Nearby” function 368, where, for example, the report for 15th St. Cafe may be generated as screen 390. Within the report for screen 390, there should be information about the barrel 14 configuration and the location reported by the report, in this case 15th St. Cafe and the associated mesh network. 【0185】 Figure 35 shows, in addition to the above, the types of information available for each barrel 14, namely, serial number, contents, location, barrel 14 size, and barrel 14 history. When the barrel 14 function 370 is selected, the barrel 14 information screen 380 of Figure 34 can appear on the mobile device 38. Such information may include the name assigned to the barrel 14, the products contained within the barrel 14, the status of the barrel 14, any identification number related to the barrel 14, the size of the barrel 14, and all important operations related to the barrel 14. 【0186】 Figure 35 shows the types of information available about the customer, name and address, notes about the customer (instructions, contact person, etc.), the barrel 14 located on-site and its contents, the date of delivery to the customer, how full the barrel 14 is, statistical history about the customer including the average number of days required for the barrel 14 to be emptied, and the average rate of product consumption. 【0187】 Figure 36 relates to the POS marketing feedback loop 262 of Figure 20 in this disclosure. The POS marketing feedback loop 262 can be federated via an application or wireless network to show the consumer 66 about restaurants or other keg 14 section 12 locations where kegs 14 containing beer of known importance to the consumer 66 may be available. Screen 400 appears on the consumer 66's mobile device 38 to provide a notification from the RMS section 58 of the distribution network 10. Screen 400 shows an event that may be of interest to the consumer 66 or other stakeholders within the distribution network 10 or that may be important to them. Notification 402 shows that the "Austin IPA" brand beer has just been made available at location "Revolution". Through this notification, the mobile device 38 allows the consumer 66 to share this information or simply acknowledge the event by selecting "Share" or "OK", respectively. The value of this feature to all stakeholders within the distribution network 10 may be very high. 【0188】 Figures 37A to 37D show data that can be reported by the distribution network software 10 to perform various management and financial functions related to deposit information and financial transactions. Such management and financial information has significant interest in invoices, accounting, and verification of information entered by truck drivers 70 regarding the delivery of barrels 14. 【0189】 Figure 37A provides a report that a distributor 64 or brewery 20 may find very advantageous when reporting inventory by barrel 14 section 12 location. Report 410 may apply, for example, to a distributor 64 and provides a “location-based inventory” for each listing of vendor 30 locations 412 that the distributor 64 can serve. Report segment 414 presents the status of any empty barrels 14 that may be at a given location. Report segment 416 presents timestamped information about the history of a barrel 14 with the identity “barrel #008”. Thus, Figure 37A shows how the distribution network 10 software enables drilling down from a high-level aggregate view to the history of individual barrels 14. 【0190】 Figure 37B provides information about barrels 14 that may be at a specific distributor 30 location within the “Delivery Report”. Figure 37B shows the “State” of each barrel 14 and the calculation of how many days each barrel 14 is in each state. Figure 37B also shows the complete barrel 14 cycle from the brewery (date on the left) through various states until the barrel 14 returns to the brewery (date on the right). 【0191】 Figure 37C provides an "inventory catalog report" by or for each barrel 14. Figure 37C shows data similar to 36B, except that the current position of barrel 14 appears in column 2, the contents of barrel 14 appear in column 3, and there is the current progress of barrel 14 through the states it has progressed through so far. 【0192】 Figure 37D shows a "daily change" report for a specific location. The report in Figure 37D shows the daily changes in the state of barrel 14, which progress through the distribution network 10. These are just examples of the many types of reports and in-house financial information enabled by the distribution network 10 software and its components. Other types of reports may also be beneficial to stakeholders within the distribution network 10 within the application. 【0193】 Figure 38 shows a customer screen for viewing distributor 30 customers, their location on a map, information about the distributor, inventory inventory at the distributor, and customer history. The customer screen in Figure 38 shows information that may be generated by the distribution network 10 during the delivery of kegs 14 and shows the last inventory inventory of distributor 30 locations that may be seen by truck 70 drivers. The customer screen in Figure 38 allows drilling down to locations to show the status of locations that are part of the distribution network 10. The customer screen includes reports and includes views of kegs, products, readers, and other distributors 30 that may be seen via a web browser or within the distribution network 10 mobile device 38 app. The customer screen displays data about radio transmitters 16, kegs 14, breweries 20, products (e.g., beer brands and types), distributors 64, distributors 30, keg 14 section 12 locations, stationary readers 36, and others, either individually or grouped / aggregated. The customer screen further provides a dashboard display for showing overall information in user-customizable cells. The customer screen in Figure 38 displays only data permitted by the user / device and can further generate important notifications (e.g., beer is too old, kegs are lost, delivery errors) throughout the distribution network 10. 【0194】 Figure 39 shows a further aspect of a liquid product distribution network for automatically managing deposit information. Such information may include how many barrels 14 are at each distributor 30 location within the distribution network 10. When a barrel 14 with a radio transmitter 16 or collar radio transmitter 142 appears in barrel section 12, such as at a distributor 30 location, from a delivery truck 70, the barrel automatically becomes part of the distribution network 10 at barrel section 12 location. This is shown by a report 420 in Figure 39, which includes deposit information for the barrel. Thus, the delivery of barrel 14 initiates a financial transaction for the newly placed barrel 14 at a distributor 30 location. Therefore, when a deposit is made, a fee of $120 appears due to the communication of the radio transmitter 16. Similarly, when a barrel 14 with a radio transmitter 16 is returned through the distribution network 10, a refund of $60 appears. The illustrated example distribution network system 10 automatically debits and credits the deposit based on the measurement that 4 barrels were left and 2 were received. The right side shows the actual detection of barrels at the distributor 30 customers and the use of this data for invoicing, and thus the right side shows the exact barrels unloaded 14 and barrels received 14. 【0195】 The software automatically manages deposit information, meaning that the number of barrels 14 at each location determines the rolling deposit fee for that location. The deposit information is automatically propagated back to the invoices, accounting, and other systems, or used as a double-check against driver input data. Invoices are typically prepared before the truck 70 driver leaves the warehouse, and the driver's stack of invoices is used as a pick list for loading the barrels 14 and their products onto the truck 70. When the truck 70 driver actually makes the delivery, the specific barrels 14 to be deposited and received are added to the invoice. 【0196】 Section 422 of the "Inventory Catalog" report in Figure 39 shows a listing of all barrels 14 that may be in barrel section 14. Column 424 of the Inventory Catalog report 422 provides the identification of barrel 14 having the identifier "QB#3-005". Column 426 shows that barrel 14 QB#3-005 contains a 6-inch product, namely "Pale Ale" as shown in column 428. The Inventory Catalog report 422 further shows that the distribution network 10 also detected other barrels 14, such as barrels 14 having identifiers "HB#3-001", "HB#3-003", and others. All barrels 14 listed in the Inventory Catalog report 422 have relevant content measurements regarding both the volume and type of beer. 【0197】 In summary, the disclosed subject matter provides a liquid product distribution network for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the flow of liquid products for delivery to consumers supplied by a distribution network for distributing liquid products via liquid product distribution containers. The liquid product distribution network includes at least one liquid product distribution container for transport from a transport location to a distribution location. The at least one liquid product distribution container includes a reconcilably attached radio transmitter and microprocessor for sensing and transmitting multiple data measurements regarding the status of the liquid product distribution container. A stationary reader or mobile radio signal reader operates within the distribution network to receive multiple data measurements from the radio transmitter and to further communicate information regarding the multiple data measurements. A computer software system is associated with the radio signal reader for multiple data collection functions. The data collection functions include liquid product management functions, liquid product sales functions, and liquid product consumer management functions. A computer processing server system is associated with the stationary reader to execute instructions for processing the data and associating it with information regarding the data collection functions. The computer processing server further communicates information regarding the data collection functions to an internet communication or cloud interface. The sales reporting and marketing / sales system is related to a computer processing server system to interface with multiple computer processing systems that operate in connection with the functions of producing, distributing, selling, and consuming liquid products. 【0198】 In further summary, the disclosure provides a liquid product distribution container device attached to a liquid product distribution container, such as a beer keg, for monitoring, controlling, and / or optimizing the flow of liquid products delivered from a liquid product distribution container to consumers in a liquid product distribution network. The liquid product distribution container moves from location to location and distributes liquid products from locations within the distribution network. The liquid product distribution container device includes a casing for mounting it to the liquid product distribution container. The casing includes an enclosure and a mounting mechanism for mounting the casing in place on the liquid product distribution container. The liquid product distribution container device includes a power supply for providing power. A light indicator may be included to indicate the status of the liquid product distribution container device. The liquid product distribution container device includes a radio transmitter circuit fixed within the enclosure. The radio / processing module handles the transmission of radio signals about the liquid product distribution container. An antenna is associated with the radio / processing module for transmitting and receiving radio signal transmissions between the radio / processing module and at least one stationary reader and / or mobile device. A temperature sensor circuit senses the temperature of the liquid product distribution container and generates an electronic signal relating to the temperature. A transducer circuit senses a measurement of the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container and generates an electronic signal relating to the sensed measurement. A microphone / sensor circuit for sensing sound and related data relates to the distribution of liquid product from the liquid product distribution container. A codec / digital signal processing circuit includes a memory and computer instruction processing network for receiving data and processing instructions from the temperature sensor, transducer, and microphone / sensor circuit and generating information about the location of the liquid product distribution container, the state of the liquid product distribution container, and the state of the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container. Processor instructions enable the radio transmitter device to operate to communicate information about the location of the liquid product distribution container, the state of the liquid product distribution container, and the state of the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container. 【0199】 The benefits and advantages that may be provided by the present invention have been described above with respect to specific embodiments. These benefits and advantages, as well as any elements or limitations that may give rise to or make more apparent them, should not be construed as critical, required, or essential features of any or all of the claims. When used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also include the plural form unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises and / or comprising” or “includes and / or including” or any other variation thereof are intended to be construed as non-exclusively including the elements or limitations that follow these terms. Thus, a system, method, or other embodiment that includes a set of elements is not limited to these elements alone and may include other elements that are not expressly listed or specific to the claimed embodiments. When used herein, these terms specify the presence of the described features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

Claims

[Claim 1] A liquid product distribution network system that monitors, controls, and optimizes the flow of liquid products for delivery to customers via liquid product distribution containers, A liquid product distribution container for transport from a transport location to a distribution location, wherein the at least one liquid product distribution container includes a repositionably attached radio transmitter and microprocessor for sensing and transmitting a plurality of data measurements relating to the status of the liquid product distribution container, the radio transmitter being housed in a housing attached to the upper or lower edge of the at least one liquid product distribution container without crossing the physical boundaries of the at least one liquid product distribution container in any of the three dimensions, A mobile radio signal reader that can operate within the distribution network for passively receiving the plurality of data measurement values ​​from the radio transmitter without user interaction and for further communicating information regarding the plurality of data measurement values ​​to a computer software system associated with the distribution location for a plurality of data acquisition functions, wherein the data acquisition functions include a liquid product management function, a liquid product sales function, and a liquid product customer management function. A computer processing system associated with the mobile radio signal reader for processing data, executing commands to associate the data with the information relating to the data collection function, and further interfacing the information relating to the data collection function with an internet communication interface, A sales reporting and marketing sales subsystem related to a computer processing system for interfacing with a plurality of computer processing systems that operate in connection with the function of producing, distributing, selling, and consuming the aforementioned liquid product, A liquid product distribution network system, including the liquid product distribution network system. [Claim 2] The liquid product distribution network system according to claim 1, further comprising a truck leader unit used on a delivery truck operating within the liquid product distribution network system for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the flow of liquid products for delivery to customers via liquid product distribution containers. [Claim 3] The liquid product distribution network system according to claim 1, wherein the computer processing system is associated with the mobile radio signal reader to process data and execute instructions that may affect the state transitions of the liquid product distribution container as the liquid product distribution container passes through various geographical areas. [Claim 4] The liquid product distribution network system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one weighing mat system for determining the weight of at least one liquid distribution container at at least one of the distribution locations, for determining the volume, state, and other information relating to the contents of at least one liquid distribution container. [Claim 5] The liquid product distribution network system according to claim 1, wherein the radio transmitter constitutes a mesh network positioned behind the refrigerator door of a distribution location refrigerator that blocks wireless communication, the mobile radio signal reader is located outside the refrigerator, and communication takes place between the mobile radio signal reader and the mesh network after the refrigerator door is opened. [Claim 6] The liquid product distribution network system according to claim 1, further comprising a filling reader located at the distribution location for determining the filling level of the liquid product distribution containers located in the distribution location refrigerated chamber. [Claim 7] The liquid product distribution network system according to claim 1, further comprising a mobile device application associated with the liquid product distribution network system for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the operation of the liquid product distribution network system. [Claim 8] The liquid product distribution network system according to claim 1, further comprising multiple marketing feedback loops for measuring the efficiency of marketing a given liquid product to customers. [Claim 9] A method for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the flow of liquid products for delivery to customers via liquid product distribution containers using a liquid product distribution network system, A step of transporting at least one liquid product dispensing container from a transport location to a dispensing location, wherein the at least one liquid product dispensing container includes a radio transmitter and a microprocessor that are adaptably attached for sensing and transmitting a plurality of data measurements relating to the status of the liquid product dispensing container, The steps include: housing the radio transmitter within a housing attached to the upper or lower edge of the at least one liquid product dispensing container without crossing the physical boundary of the at least one liquid product dispensing container in any of the three dimensions; A step of passively receiving the plurality of data measurement values ​​from the radio transmitter without user interaction using a mobile radio signal reader that can operate within the distribution network, and further communicating information regarding the plurality of data measurement values ​​to a computer software system associated with the distribution location for a plurality of data acquisition functions, wherein the data acquisition functions include a liquid product management function, a liquid product sales function, and a liquid product customer management function. The steps include using a computer processing system associated with the mobile radio signal reader to process data, execute commands to associate the data with the information relating to the data collection function, and further interface the information relating to the data collection function to an internet communication interface, The steps include: using the sales reporting and marketing sales subsystem associated with the aforementioned computer processing system to interface with multiple computer processing systems that operate in relation to the functions of producing, distributing, selling, and consuming the aforementioned liquid product; Methods that include... [Claim 10] The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of using a truck leader unit on a delivery truck operating within the liquid product distribution network system to monitor, control, and optimize the flow of liquid products for delivery to customers via liquid product distribution containers. [Claim 11] The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of associating the mobile radio signal reader with the computer processing system to process data and execute instructions that associate events that may affect the state transitions of the liquid product dispensing container as the liquid product dispensing container passes through various geographical areas. [Claim 12] The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of determining the weight of the at least one liquid dispensing container at at least one of the dispensing locations using at least one weighing mat system when determining the volume, state, and other information relating to the contents of the at least one liquid dispensing container. [Claim 13] The method according to claim 9, wherein the radio transmitter constitutes a mesh network positioned behind the refrigerator door of a distribution location refrigerator that blocks wireless communication, the mobile radio signal reader is located outside the refrigerator, and communication takes place between the mobile radio signal reader and the mesh network after the refrigerator door is opened. [Claim 14] The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of operating a filling reader located at the distribution position to determine the filling level of the liquid product distribution container located in the distribution position refrigerated compartment. [Claim 15] The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of using a mobile device application associated with the liquid product distribution container to monitor, control, and optimize the operation of the liquid product distribution network system. [Claim 16] The method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of determining marketing efficiency by measuring the efficiency of marketing a given liquid product to customers, thereby improving future marketing of the liquid product to customers. [Claim 17] A radio transmitter device for use in a liquid product distribution network system for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the flow of liquid products for delivery to customers via liquid product distribution containers, wherein the liquid product distribution network system is A liquid product distribution container for transport from a transport location to a distribution location, wherein the at least one liquid product distribution container includes a radio transmitter and a microprocessor that are adaptably attached for sensing and transmitting a plurality of data measurements relating to the status of the liquid product distribution container. The radio transmitter device includes, An outer housing for attachment to the liquid product dispensing container, wherein the outer housing includes an enclosure and a mounting mechanism for attaching the outer housing to a predetermined position on the liquid product dispensing container, A self-contained power supply for supplying power to the aforementioned liquid product distribution container device, A radio transmitter device fixed within the aforementioned enclosure, A radio / processing module for processing the transmission of radio signals related to the liquid product dispensing container, An antenna associated with the radio / processing module for transmitting and receiving the radio signal transmission between the radio / processing module and at least one hub and / or mobile device, A mechanism for broadcasting a signal and data so that the broadcast receiver can approximate the distance to the broadcaster using the characteristics of the signal and the data contained therein, A sensor interface that allows one or more sensors to be interfaced with a processor, Processor instructions and mounted memory for operating the radio transmitter device to store and communicate information regarding the location of the liquid product dispensing container, the state of the liquid product dispensing container, and the state of the liquid product in the liquid product dispensing container, A radio transmitter device further including, A mobile radio signal reader that can operate within the distribution network for passively receiving the plurality of data measurement values ​​from the radio transmitter without user interaction and for further communicating information regarding the plurality of data measurement values ​​to a computer software system associated with the distribution location for a plurality of data acquisition functions, wherein the data acquisition functions include a liquid product management function, a liquid product sales function, and a liquid product customer management function. A computer processing system associated with the mobile radio signal reader for processing data, executing commands to associate the data with the information relating to the data collection function, and further interfacing the information relating to the data collection function with an internet communication interface, A sales reporting and marketing sales subsystem related to a computer processing system for interfacing with a plurality of computer processing systems that operate in connection with the function of producing, distributing, selling, and consuming the aforementioned liquid product, A radio transmitter device, further including the following.

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