Consumables subscription system
Patent Information
- Application Number
- KR1020250032357
- Authority / Receiving Office
- KR · KR
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-21
Smart Images
Figure PAT00005_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technology Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a consumable subscription system, and more specifically, aims to provide a consumable subscription system that encourages users to replace consumables at an appropriate time and minimizes the interval between the delivery date of consumables and the date of receipt by the customer. Background Technology
[0002] Vehicle batteries, water purifier filters, and other consumables require regular replacement.
[0003] For example, water purifier filters are consumables that filter supply water to produce purified water; if they are not replaced at the appropriate time, the quality of the purified water may be compromised and may have an adverse effect on the user's health.
[0004] However, if these consumables are replaced too early, the user's financial burden may increase as the parts, which are still usable and maintain performance, are quickly depleted.
[0005] Furthermore, if these consumables are delivered to the user but receipt is delayed due to the user's circumstances, the quality of the consumables may deteriorate due to prolonged exposure to the external environment. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a consumable subscription system that provides notifications to users and determines the optimal dispatch time to ensure that consumables, such as water purifier filters, are replaced and delivered in a timely manner. Prior art literature
[0006] Published Patent 10-2023-0025163 The problem to be solved
[0007] The present invention has been devised to solve the aforementioned problems, and the objective of the present invention is to provide a consumable subscription system that encourages users to replace consumables at an appropriate time and minimizes the interval between the delivery date of consumables and the date of receipt by the customer. means of solving the problem
[0008] A consumable subscription system according to the present invention is a consumable subscription system that is installed in equipment providing services to a user and provides the user with information on the replacement time of a consumable whose performance is depleted with use. The consumable subscription system includes a processing unit that notifies information regarding the need to replace a consumable, and the processing unit includes a replacement date calculation module that derives a mandatory replacement date and a recommended replacement date of the consumable using a performance indicator related to the need to replace the consumable. The mandatory replacement date is the point in time when the performance indicator reaches a predetermined first reference value, and the recommended replacement date is the point in time when the performance indicator reaches a predetermined second reference value.
[0009] According to one embodiment, the replacement date calculation module includes a first replacement date calculation module, wherein the first replacement date calculation module derives a first mandatory replacement date and a second mandatory replacement date, and the first mandatory replacement date follows the first recommended replacement date.
[0010] According to one embodiment, the replacement date calculation module comprises a plurality of replacement date calculation modules, each of which includes a different performance indicator, and each replacement date calculation module individually derives the mandatory replacement date and the recommended replacement date according to each performance indicator, and the processing unit derives the calculated recommended replacement date and the calculated mandatory replacement date by comparing the derived plurality of mandatory replacement dates and the recommended replacement dates.
[0011] According to one embodiment, the calculated mandatory replacement date is the best date among the mandatory replacement dates derived from the plurality of calculation modules.
[0012] According to one embodiment, the replacement date calculation module includes a first calculation module, and the performance indicator included in the first calculation module is the usage period of the consumable.
[0013] According to one embodiment, the usage period is the period after the consumable is installed in the equipment.
[0014] According to one embodiment, the processing unit includes an alarm providing module, and the alarm providing module includes an alarm period calculation algorithm for deriving an alarm providing date, which is a period for providing an alarm to a user notifying them that replacement of a consumable is required, and the alarm providing date is a period between a predetermined date retroactive from the calculated recommended replacement date and a predetermined date retroactive from the calculated mandatory replacement date.
[0015] According to one embodiment, the processing unit includes a delivery information derivation module that derives the delivery period of the consumable.
[0016] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module derives a delivery time, which is the start point of the delivery period, wherein the delivery time is a point in time retroactively adjusted by a predetermined first retroactive period from the recommended replacement date, and the delivery information derivation module calculates the first retroactive period.
[0017] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module calculates the first retrospective period by considering variable factors including weather information, geographical information, and inventory information.
[0018] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module corrects the first retroactive period by considering the promotion information of consumables.
[0019] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module changes the first retroactive period by monitoring the weather information in real time.
[0020] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module derives a delivery end date, which is the end point of the delivery period, wherein the delivery end date is a point in time retroactively adjusted by a predetermined second period from the mandatory replacement date, and the delivery information derivation module calculates the second retroactive period.
[0021] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module calculates the second retroactive period by considering variable factors including weather information, geographical information, and inventory information.
[0022] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module corrects the second retroactive period by considering the promotion information of consumables.
[0023] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module changes the second retroactive period by monitoring the weather information in real time.
[0024] According to one embodiment, the delivery information module derives a delivery time, which is the start time of the delivery period, and a delivery end time, which is the end time of the delivery period, wherein the delivery time is a point in time retroactively set by a predetermined first retroactive period from the recommended replacement date, and the delivery end time is a point in time retroactively set by a predetermined second retroactive period from the mandatory replacement date, and if the interval between the delivery time and the delivery end time is smaller than a predetermined first reference interval, the delivery time is changed to a predetermined date preceding the delivery time.
[0025] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module includes a delivery date derivation algorithm that derives a delivery date within the delivery period of the consumable, wherein the delivery date is the point in time that minimizes the gap between the customer receipt date provided by the user and the consumable arrival date when the consumable arrives at the user.
[0026] According to one embodiment, if the delivery information derivation module overlaps with the delivery time of the Nth round and the promotion period of the consumable, it adds the delivery amount of the consumable by a predetermined first addition amount, and at the delivery time of the N+1th round, it subtracts the delivery amount of the consumable by the first addition amount.
[0027] According to one embodiment, the delivery information derivation module collects and processes data provided by a user and reflects it in the derivation of the next delivery period.
[0028] According to one embodiment, the consumable is a filter used in a water filter, and the performance indicator includes at least one of the usage period of the consumable, filtering performance, and filtering capacity. Effects of the invention
[0029] A consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention can derive a recommended replacement date and a mandatory replacement date for consumables by considering performance indicators of consumables, thereby inducing the user to replace consumables in a timely manner.
[0030] The consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention can minimize the period during which consumables are exposed to the external environment and prevent the quality of consumables from deteriorating by ensuring that consumables are shipped at an appropriate time. Brief explanation of the drawing
[0031] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the usage time and replacement date of a consumable according to one example. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the usage time and performance consumption of a consumable according to one example. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the usage time, performance consumption, and replacement date of a consumable according to one example. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the performance consumption and replacement date according to the usage period of a filter used in a water purifier according to one example. FIG. 5 is a structural diagram of a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention installed in a water purifier. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a plurality of performance indicators representing performance indicators of a predetermined consumable and a recommended replacement date and a mandatory replacement date for each performance indicator, derived by a consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an alarm period derived by a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an alarm period derived by a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the consumable shipment period derived by a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing that a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention derives a consumable shipping period by taking into account a promotion period. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the process of deriving the consumable shipment period, the customer receipt date, and the consumable shipment date derived by a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention
[0032] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.
[0034] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the usage time and replacement date of a consumable according to one example.
[0035] Consumables must be replaced within a specified period as they are consumed during the course of use from the time of start of use. A1 indicates the time of start of use, and A4 indicates the mandatory replacement date, which is the time when replacement is required. The mandatory replacement date may be determined by various factors, such as the temporal shelf life of the consumable, the usage period, or the reaching of performance limits due to the depletion of the consumable's performance.
[0036] For example, in the case of a filter, if the lifespan is one year, and the filter has been actually installed in a water purifier for 10 months from the time of logistics storage in a warehouse, etc., the actual usable period is 2 months. Therefore, it is necessary to set the recommended replacement date and mandatory replacement date of the filter by taking into account such actual usable period.
[0037] Between the start of use and the end of use time mentioned above, a recommended replacement date for consumables may be set. For example, when considering based on usage time, the recommended replacement date may be set at the point when approximately 90% of the end of use time is reached from the start of use. As another example, when considering based on a certain performance criterion (e.g., battery level, filtering performance, etc.), if the mandatory replacement date is defined as when the remaining performance reaches 0%, the recommended replacement date may be set at the point when the remaining performance reaches 10%. A3 represents such a recommended replacement date.
[0038] By setting the recommended replacement date as described above, information regarding the need to replace consumables can be provided to the user before the expiration date of the consumables.
[0039] Prior to the above recommended replacement date, an alarm provision time may be set to provide an alarm to the user notifying them that the replacement date of a specific consumable has arrived. For example, if the recommended replacement date is when approximately 90% of the usage period has been reached from the start of use, an alarm may be provided starting from a specific date prior to the recommended replacement date. For example, the above alarm provision time may be expressed as A2. The alarm may be provided to the user to induce the user to replace the consumable, or provided to the consumable provider to induce the consumable provider to deliver the consumable to the user.
[0040] As described above, an alarm is provided, but by providing the alarm before the recommended replacement date, the user or the consumable supplier can properly recognize the information regarding the need to replace the consumable.
[0042] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the usage time and performance consumption of a consumable according to one example.
[0043] The recommended and mandatory replacement dates explained above may be determined by criteria other than usage time.
[0044] For example, FIG. 2 is a graph showing the change in a predetermined performance indicator over time. The performance indicator may vary depending on the type of consumable, and the number may be one or multiple (two or more). For example, if the consumable is a filter, the performance indicator of the filter may include, but is not limited to, the shelf life of the filter, the turbidity of the filtered water, and the microbial index contained in the water.
[0045] Performance indicators may take different forms depending on their respective properties. For example, a work performance indicator may take a form that is directly proportional to the usage time in the form of a linear function. However, other work performance indicators may take a form in which the performance deteriorates rapidly after a certain point in time as usage time accumulates. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the point in time when the performance of a consumable reaches a specific performance level may be called the first threshold point, the point in time when it reaches a specific performance level may be called the second threshold point, and the point in time when the consumable loses its function may be called the mandatory replacement date.
[0046] For example, the performance index of the filter at the start of use can be set to 100%, and the performance index at the point when the filter loses most of its performance can be set to 0%. In this case, the point when the filter loses its performance can be set as the mandatory replacement date based on the filter's performance. B1 represents the start of use of the filter, and B4 represents the mandatory replacement date based on the filter's performance.
[0047] Between the start of use and the mandatory replacement date, a recommended replacement date may be set when replacement of the filter is recommended. The recommended replacement date may be set as the point in time when the filter's performance reaches Y%. Y is a predetermined value, for example, 10. That is, if the filter's performance is 100% at the start of use and the point in time when the filter's performance reaches 0% is set as the mandatory replacement date, then the point in time when the filter's performance reaches 10% can be called the recommended replacement date. B3 represents the recommended replacement date based on the filter's performance. B3 can be derived based on B4.
[0048] Prior to the above recommended replacement date, an alarm provision time may be set to provide an alarm to the user notifying them that a predetermined replacement date has arrived. For example, the alarm provision time may be set to the point when the performance of the filter reaches X%. X is a predetermined value, for example, 20. B2 represents the alarm provision time based on the performance of the filter. B2 may be derived based on B3 or B4.
[0050] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the usage time, performance consumption, and replacement date of a consumable according to one example.
[0051] The graph located at the top of Fig. 3 shows the mandatory replacement date, recommended replacement date, and alarm provision date according to the daily performance indicator of the consumable, and the graph located at the bottom of Fig. 3 shows the mandatory replacement date, recommended replacement date, and alarm provision date according to the usage time of the consumable.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 3, regarding a specific consumable, if the usage time is judged at a specific point in time (e.g., between B3 and A3), the recommended replacement date (A3) may not have arrived, or if other performance indicators other than usage time are considered, the recommended replacement date (B3) may have already arrived.
[0053] In addition, if judged solely by usage time at a specific point in time (e.g., between B4 and A4), the mandatory replacement date (A4) of the consumable may not have arrived, but if other performance indicators other than usage time are considered, the function of the consumable may have already been lost and the mandatory replacement date (B4) may have arrived, and it may be in a state where replacement is essential.
[0054] Therefore, even though the mandatory replacement date (A4) or recommended replacement date (A3) of the consumable has not yet arrived based on usage time, the mandatory replacement date (B4) or recommended replacement date (B3) of the consumable may arrive based on performance indicators other than usage time. In this case, the user may continue to use the consumable without realizing that its performance has been depleted. Consequently, adverse effects may be inflicted upon the user and the item being used.
[0055] For example, if the product is a water purifier and the consumable is a filter, the user may continue to use the filter even though it is not performing properly, under the misconception that the replacement date has not yet arrived based solely on the usage time, which can have an adverse effect on the user's health.
[0057] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the performance consumption and replacement date according to the usage period of a filter used in a water purifier (P).
[0058] Point A is the time when the filter of the water purifier (P) is replaced. The used filter (F1) is removed from the water purifier (P), and a new filter (F2) can be installed in the water purifier (P). After replacing and using the filter of the water purifier (P) at point A, the performance of the water purifier (P) can be M% at point B, after a specific amount of time has elapsed since the replacement date. Furthermore, at point D, after a further amount of time has elapsed, the performance of the water purifier (P) can be N%. At this time, the point in time when the performance of the filter (F2) reaches M% can be called the recommended replacement date (B), and the point in time when the performance of the filter (F2) reaches N% can be called the mandatory replacement date (D).
[0059] In the above description, M and N may be arbitrary values depending on the performance indicator. For example, if the possible water treatment capacity of the filter is used as the performance indicator, M may be 80 and N may be 90. That is, if the water treatment (filtering) capacity of the filter is 1000 L, the filter may be considered to have reached the recommended replacement date when the amount of raw water filtered by the filter reaches 800 L, and the filter may be considered to have reached the mandatory replacement date when the amount of raw water filtered by the filter reaches 900 L. However, this is not necessarily limited thereto, and M and N may be set differently depending on the performance indicator (e.g., lifespan, impurities, etc.).
[0060] At a point in time (C) between the recommended replacement date (B) and the mandatory replacement date (D) mentioned above, the filter (F2) can be replaced with a new filter (F3).
[0061] In this case, if the filter (F2) is replaced before the recommended replacement date (B), the filter (F2) is replaced at a time when its performance is maintained to some extent and replacement is not necessary, thereby causing an unnecessary economic burden on the user. On the other hand, if the filter (F2) is replaced after the mandatory replacement date (D), the filter (F2) is replaced at a time when it is not performing at its proper level, which may have an adverse effect on the user's health.
[0062] Therefore, it is most desirable to remove the used filter and install a new filter at a specific point in time (C) between the recommended replacement date (B) and the mandatory replacement date (D).
[0064] FIG. 5 is a structural diagram of a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention installed in a water purifier.
[0065] A consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a processing unit (100) that processes information. The processing unit (100) may be, for example, a CPU capable of processing information, a computing device, etc., and may include an algorithm used for processing information.
[0066] The above processing unit (100) may include a replacement date calculation module (110), an alarm provision module (120), and a delivery information derivation module (130).
[0067] The above replacement date calculation module (110) is a module that derives the replacement date (recommended replacement date and mandatory replacement date) of consumables. The above replacement date calculation module (110) may include at least a first replacement date calculation module (110), and the number of replacement date calculation modules (110) may be N (N≥1).
[0068] The above alarm providing module (120) may be a module capable of providing information related to the replacement of consumables and a predetermined signal to a user or a consumable provider.
[0069] The above delivery information derivation module (130) may be a module that derives delivery information regarding consumables provided to a user from a consumable provider. The above delivery information may be information regarding the timing of delivery of consumables to the user and the quantity of consumables delivered.
[0070] A consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention may be installed in, for example, a water purifier. For example, a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention may derive information regarding the timing of filter replacement of the water purifier, a filter replacement alarm, and filter delivery information.
[0072] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a plurality of performance indicators representing one performance element among a plurality of performance elements of a predetermined consumable, derived by a consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a recommended replacement date and a mandatory replacement date for each performance indicator.
[0073] The above recommended replacement dates and mandatory replacement dates vary depending on each performance indicator of the filter and may differ from one another.
[0074] A consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention can derive recommended replacement dates and mandatory replacement dates for consumables by considering each performance indicator. In addition, it can provide information and signals, such as alarms regarding the replacement of consumables and delivery information.
[0075] For example, if the consumable is a filter, the above mandatory replacement date and recommended replacement date may be explained as follows.
[0076] The term "essential replacement date" may refer to the point in time when the filter's performance is mostly lost and it reaches a state where it is difficult to perform its original function, making filter replacement essential.
[0077] The recommended replacement date may mean the point in time when the filter is used for a specified period and its performance is depleted, and the performance is reduced to a level below a specified range, at which point the filter replacement is recommended.
[0078] For the same work performance indicator, the mandatory replacement date follows the recommended replacement date. In other words, the recommended replacement date is reached first, and the mandatory replacement date may be reached after a predetermined period has elapsed.
[0079] Consumables subject to replacement may have multiple performance indicators that serve as the basis for calculating the replacement date. Each performance indicator may represent a performance element indicating the performance of the filter. The above performance element may be, for example, various factors related to the performance of the consumable other than its usage period. In addition, each performance indicator may have a mandatory replacement date and a recommended replacement date.
[0080] For example, if the consumable is a filter, the respective performance indicators and the mandatory and recommended replacement dates for each performance indicator may be as follows.
[0081] According to one embodiment, the first performance indicator may be a shelf life. For example, if the shelf life of the filter is one year, the first mandatory replacement date (A2) is one year, and the point in time when a predetermined percentage of the period corresponding to the shelf life is reached may be set as the first recommended replacement date (A1). For example, the first recommended replacement date (A1) may be a date that is retroactively set for a predetermined period from the mandatory replacement date. For example, the first recommended replacement date (A1) may be 10 months, which is a point in time that is retroactively set for two months from the first mandatory replacement date (A2). However, it is not limited thereto.
[0082] According to one embodiment, the second performance indicator may be the turbidity of purified water filtered by a filter. For example, the turbidity of the purified water suitable for drinking water may be set as the minimum required turbidity, the time at which this minimum required turbidity is reached may be set as the second mandatory replacement date (B2) as the mandatory replacement date of the filter, and the time at which a specific percentage of the minimum required turbidity is reached may be set as the second recommended replacement date (B1) as the recommended replacement date of the filter.
[0083] According to one embodiment, the third performance indicator may be a specific component contained in the purified water filtered by the filter. For example, if the maximum content of a specific component contained in the purified water is defined as a critical amount for the purified water to be suitable as drinking water, the point at which this critical amount is reached may be set as the third mandatory replacement date (C2) as the mandatory replacement date of the filter, and the point at which a specific percentage of the critical amount is reached may be set as the third recommended replacement date (C1) as the recommended replacement date of the filter. The component may be any component, such as a specific element, mineral, or oxygen.
[0084] As described above, multiple performance indicators representing performance metrics are established, and for each performance indicator, a recommended replacement date and a mandatory replacement date can be established or derived. For example, if there are N performance indicators corresponding to N performance indicators, N recommended replacement dates and N mandatory replacement dates can be established or derived.
[0085] The mandatory replacement date and recommended replacement date can be derived based on data regarding the usage trends of consumables. For example, if the usage of consumables is relatively high, the mandatory replacement date and recommended replacement date based on a certain performance indicator may arrive quickly, while conversely, if the usage of consumables is low, the mandatory replacement date and recommended replacement date based on that performance indicator may arrive late. Therefore, even for consumables used in the same type of equipment, the mandatory replacement date and recommended replacement date may be derived differently depending on usage, environment, etc. Accordingly, the replacement date calculation module (110) may include a certain algorithm capable of calculating the mandatory replacement date and recommended replacement date by reflecting the usage and usage trends of consumables.
[0086] The consumable subscription system according to the embodiment can derive the recommended replacement date and the mandatory replacement date of consumables by comparing the recommended replacement date and the mandatory replacement date for each of the plurality of performance indicators. For example, the finally calculated recommended replacement date of consumables may be named the calculated replacement date. This calculated recommended replacement date may be the first recommended replacement date reached among the recommended replacement dates of the plurality of performance indicators. In addition, the finally calculated mandatory replacement date of consumables may be named the calculated mandatory replacement date. This calculated mandatory replacement date may be the first mandatory replacement date reached among the mandatory replacement dates of the plurality of performance indicators. It is obvious that the calculated recommended replacement date precedes the calculated mandatory replacement date.
[0087] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an alarm period (P) derived by a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0088] An alarm providing module (120) of a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention can derive an alarm period (P).
[0089] An alarm may be a signal notifying the user or the consumable provider that replacement of the consumable is necessary upon the arrival of a specific reference date regarding the consumable. The type of alarm provided to the user may be voice, visual display, etc., and is not limited to a specific form. In addition, the alarm provided to the consumable provider may be a specific signal provided via a wired or wireless connection through a telecommunications line. Through the alarm, the consumable provider can check the level of consumption of the consumable used by the user and determine whether to deliver the consumable. The alarm period (P) can be understood as the period during which the signal is displayed and provided to the user or the consumable provider.
[0090] The above alarm period (P) may be set differently according to a predetermined standard depending on the embodiment.
[0091] According to one embodiment, the alarm period (P) can be set as shown in FIG. 8.
[0092] As illustrated in FIG. 8, according to one embodiment, the start time of the alarm period (P) may precede the recommended replacement date (C1) corresponding to the earliest date (the earliest arrival) among the recommended replacement dates derived by the plurality of performance indicators described above.
[0093] In addition, the end point of the above alarm period (P) may be the recommended replacement date (A1) corresponding to the last day (the latest arrival) among the recommended replacement dates derived from the plurality of performance indicators described above.
[0094] According to this, the alarm period (P) according to one embodiment may be a period between any date preceding the first recommended replacement date (C1) and the last recommended replacement date (A1).
[0095] In addition, after the above-mentioned last recommended replacement date (A1) has elapsed (i.e., after the alarm period (P) has elapsed), an alarm with content different from the alarm provided during the alarm period (P) may be provided. That is, after the above-mentioned alarm period (P) has elapsed, the existing alarm provided during the alarm period (P) is discontinued, and an alarm with content different from the existing alarm may be provided.
[0096] For example, it may be possible to provide an indicator light of a predetermined color, provide a yellow alarm indicator during the alarm period (P), and provide a red alarm indicator after the alarm period (P) has elapsed. In addition, it may be possible to stop the alarm or provide a green indicator after the consumable is replaced.
[0097] As described above, the alarm period (P) starts from the recommended replacement date of the performance indicator that arrives first and can end before the recommended replacement date of the performance indicator that arrives last. Therefore, if the consumable is replaced within the alarm period (P), the consumable can maintain its state prior to the mandatory replacement date for all performance indicators. In other words, the user can replace the consumable in a timely manner.
[0098] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an alarm period (Q) derived by an alarm providing module (120) of a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0099] According to one embodiment, the alarm period (Q) can be set as shown in FIG. 9.
[0100] As illustrated in FIG. 9, according to one embodiment, the start time of the alarm period may be any date preceding the recommended replacement date (C1) corresponding to the earliest date (the earliest arrival) among the recommended replacement dates derived by the plurality of performance indicators described above.
[0101] In addition, the end point of the above alarm period may be the essential replacement date (B2) corresponding to the earliest date (the earliest arrival) among the essential replacement dates derived from the plurality of performance indicators described above.
[0102] According to this, the alarm period (Q) according to the embodiment may be the period between the first recommended replacement date (C2) and the first mandatory replacement date (B2).
[0103] As described above, the alarm period begins from the recommended replacement date of the performance indicator that arrives first and can end at least before the mandatory replacement date of the performance indicator that arrives first. Therefore, if the consumable is replaced within the aforementioned alarm period, the consumable can maintain its state prior to the mandatory replacement date for all performance indicators. In other words, the user can replace the consumable in a timely manner.
[0104] In addition, after the first mandatory replacement date (B2) has elapsed (i.e., after the alarm period (P) has elapsed), an alarm with content different from the alarm provided during the alarm period (P) may be provided. That is, after the alarm period (P) has elapsed, the existing alarm provided during the alarm period (P) is discontinued, and an alarm with content different from the existing alarm may be provided.
[0105] For example, it may be possible to provide an indicator light of a predetermined color, provide a yellow alarm indicator during the alarm period (P), and provide a red alarm indicator after the alarm period (P) has elapsed. In addition, it may be possible to stop the alarm or provide a green indicator after the consumable is replaced.
[0107] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the consumable shipment period derived by a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0108] A consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a delivery information derivation module (130), and the delivery information derivation module (130) can derive a delivery period (W), which is a period for sending consumables to a user. The delivery period (W) may refer to a period during which consumables are sent from a consumable provider to a user or must be delivered to a user.
[0109] The above delivery period (W) may have a delivery time (W1), which is the start date, prior to the recommended replacement date (A), and a delivery end date (W2), which is the end date, prior to the mandatory replacement date (B). Here, the recommended replacement date (A) and the mandatory replacement date (B) may be the calculated recommended replacement date and the calculated mandatory replacement date, respectively, calculated based on a number of performance indicators as described above.
[0110] That is, the delivery time (W1) is a point in time retroactively reduced by a first retroactive period from the recommended replacement date (A), and the delivery end date (W2) is a point in time retroactively reduced by a second retroactive period from the mandatory replacement date (B).
[0111] As previously explained, the recommended replacement date (A) and the mandatory replacement date (B) are calculated by the replacement date calculation module (110). The delivery information derivation module (130) derives the delivery time (W1) and the delivery end date (W2) by calculating the first retroactive period and the second retroactive period, respectively, from the calculated recommended replacement date (A) and the mandatory replacement date (B).
[0112] Here, the delivery information derivation module (130) can calculate the first retroactive period and the second retroactive period by considering certain variable factors including weather information, geographical information, and inventory information. For example, if the weather information of the region deteriorates or there is a possibility of a shortage of inventory, the width of the first retroactive period can be increased. In addition, the delivery information derivation module (130) may include an algorithm for deriving the first retroactive period and the second retroactive period by considering the variable factors.
[0113] Meanwhile, weather information may be information derived through continuous monitoring. In addition, the first and second retroactive periods may be changed in real time depending on changes in weather information.
[0114] The end date of the consumable shipment period may be the mandatory shipment date on which the consumable must be shipped. According to an embodiment, the end date of the consumable shipment period may be a predetermined date prior to the mandatory replacement date (B), and may have a predetermined date interval from the mandatory replacement date (B). The date interval may be derived by considering the time required for the shipment of the consumable.
[0115] According to an embodiment, the delivery information derivation module (130) can make the delivery period (W) longer than a predetermined standard period. For example, if the standard period is a first standard interval and the derived delivery period (W) is shorter than the first standard interval, the delivery time can be advanced to a predetermined date preceding the delivery time so that the delivery period (W) becomes longer than the first standard interval.
[0116] Information regarding the delivery period (W) as described above can be provided to the user. That is, the delivery information derivation module (130) derives the delivery period (W) by deriving the delivery start date (W1) and the delivery end date (W2) through the process described above, and then provides this information to the user, thereby enabling the user to check the time when the consumable can be delivered.
[0117] According to an embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the delivery information derivation module (130) of a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention can determine the actual delivery date (N) by considering the customer's receipt date (M).
[0118] The date on which the customer, as the user, can receive consumables may be limited according to personal schedules (e.g., vacations). The consumable subscription system according to the embodiment provides information regarding the delivery period (W) as described above to the user, and the user who receives the information regarding the delivery period (W) may transmit a delivery request to the consumable provider by considering their own schedule within the delivery period (W). Accordingly, the delivery information derivation module (130) of the consumable subscription system according to the embodiment can determine the actual delivery date (N), which is the date of dispatch of consumables, by considering the customer's available date for receipt (M). The actual delivery date (N) is a date within the delivery period (W) and can be determined by considering the customer's available date for receipt (M) and certain variable factors including weather information, geographical information, and inventory information. For example, the date of dispatch of consumables can be determined as one to two days prior to the customer's available date for receipt that the customer has replied to.
[0119] As described above, since the actual delivery date of consumables is determined by considering the consumable dispatch period, the customer's expected date of receipt, and variable factors, the period during which consumables are exposed to the external environment can be shortened. In other words, as consumables are dispatched close to the expected date of receipt, customers can quickly receive consumables that have arrived at their location. Furthermore, by determining the delivery date in consideration of weather conditions, it is possible to prevent accidents such as delivery delays, stock shortages, or loss of consumables.
[0120] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment, the first retroactive period and the second retroactive period calculated above can each be corrected.
[0121] For example, after the delivery period (W) is derived according to the first and second retroactive periods calculated above, if a predetermined promotion period occurs, the delivery time (W1) and delivery end date (W2) can be changed. At this time, the delivery time (W1) can be adjusted by advancing or delaying it, while the delivery end date (W2) can only be adjusted by advancing it.
[0122] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of deriving the actual dispatch date of a consumable item derived by a consumable item subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0123] As explained above, the calculation of the first and second retroactive periods can be performed by considering certain variable factors including weather information, geographical information, and inventory information. Accordingly, the delivery period (W) is derived.
[0124] In addition, if a promotion period (P) for consumables is scheduled to occur close to the derived delivery period (W), the delivery time (W1) of the delivery period (W) may be changed, or the actual delivery date (N), which is the actual dispatch date of the consumables, may be changed. In this case, the adjustment of the delivery period (W) due to such promotion may be made by advancing the delivery time (W1) to the previous day or delaying it. However, the delivery end date (W2) may only be advanced to the previous day and may not include delaying it to a later day. Accordingly, the Nth dispatch date of the consumables may be retroactively adjusted by a predetermined period, thereby inducing the dispatch of consumables within the promotion period.
[0125] In addition, the delivery information derivation module (130) can also derive information regarding the delivery volume of consumables being delivered.
[0126] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11, if the actual delivery date (N) of the Nth delivery is within the promotion period (P), the delivery quantity of consumables is set to A+B, and the delivery quantity of consumables delivered at the actual delivery date of the N+1th delivery can be calculated as AB. That is, if the amount of shipment within the promotion period is increased by the first additional amount, then for subsequent deliveries, the amount can be reduced by the first additional amount. Therefore, the likelihood of the user utilizing the promotion for the subscription of consumables increases, and user convenience can be enhanced.
[0127] As described above, a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention can derive the delivery period of consumables by reflecting the recommended replacement date and the mandatory replacement date. In addition, the delivery period and the actual delivery date of consumables can be derived by considering certain variable factors including the customer receipt date, weather information, geographical information, promotion information, and inventory information. Accordingly, user convenience can be improved.
[0128] In addition, the consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention can record and provide feedback on information regarding the user's usage and delivery. Accordingly, the consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention can collect and process data provided by the user and reflect it in deriving the next delivery period.
[0129] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the process of deriving the consumable shipment period, the customer receipt date, and the consumable shipment date derived by a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0130] Referring to FIG. 12, the process of deriving the consumable shipment period, the customer receipt date, and the consumable shipment date derived by a consumable subscription system according to one embodiment of the present invention is explained as follows.
[0131] A consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include the following steps.
[0132] The step where the customer sets the [desired delivery date] while applying for a regular subscription to consumables to calculate costs and make payments;
[0133] A step of calculating the [optimal dispatch date] by utilizing big data such as inventory status, logistics plans, delivery holidays, and delivery history based on the set [desired delivery date];
[0134] A step of calculating the [estimated delivery date] based on the calculated [appropriate dispatch date] and notifying the customer in advance;
[0135] A stage of collecting and incorporating customer feedback regarding the notified [estimated delivery date];
[0136] A step of calculating the [appropriate dispatch date] by utilizing big data such as inventory status, logistics plans, delivery holidays, and delivery history, based on the [estimated delivery date] changed by reflecting customer feedback;
[0137] A step of calculating the [estimated delivery date] based on the calculated [appropriate dispatch date] and notifying the customer in advance;
[0138] A stage of collecting and incorporating customer feedback regarding the notified [estimated delivery date];
[0139] The step of completing delivery on the [estimated delivery date] finally agreed upon by the customer;
[0140] Step of accumulating delivery history in the database;
[0141] A step of collecting consumable usage time and usage data using a sensor;
[0142] A step of analyzing usage patterns and remaining amount using collected usage data and calculating the [recommended replacement date];
[0143] A step of calculating the [appropriate dispatch date] by utilizing big data such as inventory status, logistics plans, delivery holidays, and delivery history based on the calculated [recommended replacement date];
[0144] A step of calculating the [estimated delivery date] based on the calculated [appropriate dispatch date] and notifying the customer in advance;
[0145] A step of notifying the customer in advance of the calculated [recommended replacement date] and [estimated delivery date] prior to the arrival of the calculated [appropriate dispatch date];
[0146] A stage of collecting and incorporating customer feedback regarding the notified [estimated delivery date];
[0147] A step of calculating the [appropriate dispatch date] by utilizing big data such as inventory status, logistics plans, delivery holidays, and delivery history, based on the [estimated delivery date] changed by reflecting customer feedback;
[0148] A step of calculating the [estimated delivery date] based on the calculated [appropriate dispatch date] and notifying the customer in advance;
[0149] A step in which the customer resets the [desired delivery date] considering the notified [estimated delivery date], and settles and pays the costs;
[0150] A step of calculating the [optimal dispatch date] by utilizing big data such as inventory status, logistics plans, delivery holidays, and delivery history based on the set [desired delivery date];
[0151] A step of calculating the [estimated delivery date] based on the calculated [appropriate dispatch date] and notifying the customer in advance;
[0152] A stage of collecting and incorporating customer feedback regarding the notified [estimated delivery date];
[0153] The step of completing delivery on the [estimated delivery date] finally agreed upon by the customer;
[0154] Step of accumulating delivery history in the database;
[0155] A step of notifying the customer of a replacement when the remaining amount is 0% to induce a replacement;
[0156] A step of collecting consumable usage time and usage data using a sensor;
[0157] By including the steps described above, the consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention can optimize the delivery and replacement timing of consumables through a mutually complementary process between big data and customer feedback.
[0158] According to an embodiment, a consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include: a step of collecting information on inspection result data obtained from parts installed in each part using internal sensors of the aircraft during takeoff and landing; a step of calculating the failure prediction and aging rate of parts using the collected inspection data of parts; and a step of calculating operational economics based on the parts inventory information recorded in a database and flight scheduling information with other aircraft based on the calculated failure prediction and aging rate of parts.
[0159] When the appropriate dispatch date is derived above, a dispatch date that can reduce production and logistics costs can be derived from the perspective of a service provider offering a regular subscription service for consumables.
[0160] Furthermore, when determining the appropriate dispatch date, the optimal time favorable for receipt from the user's perspective can be identified, and a dispatch date that reduces consumable subscription costs based on actual usage can be determined. For example, the appropriate dispatch date can be determined by considering the promotional schedule of consumables.
[0161] In addition, when deriving the optimal delivery date, it is possible to derive a delivery date that minimizes the gap between the desired delivery date, the estimated delivery date, and the customer receipt date before the recommended replacement date arrives.
[0162] A consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention can derive a recommended replacement date and a mandatory replacement date for consumables by considering performance indicators of consumables, thereby inducing the user to replace consumables in a timely manner.
[0163] The consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention can minimize the period during which consumables are exposed to the external environment and prevent the quality of consumables from deteriorating by ensuring that consumables are shipped at an appropriate time.
[0164] The consumable subscription system according to an embodiment of the present invention may be installed in equipment that provides specific goods, services, etc. to a user, such as a water purifier, or may be installed in a specific server. For example, it may be installed in the form of an algorithm in a processing unit (100) (100) that is equipped in equipment such as a water purifier and processes specific information.
[0166] Although preferred embodiments have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Various modifications are possible by those skilled in the art without departing from the essence of the invention as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols
[0167] 100: Processing unit 110: Replacement Date Calculation Module 120: Alarm providing module 130: Shipping Information Derivation Module
Claims
Claim 1 A consumable subscription system that provides information to the user on the replacement time of a consumable that is installed in equipment providing services to the user and whose performance is depleted according to use, wherein the consumable subscription system includes a processing unit that notifies information on the need to replace the consumable, and the processing unit includes a replacement date calculation module that derives a mandatory replacement date and a recommended replacement date of the consumable using a performance indicator related to the need to replace the consumable, wherein the mandatory replacement date is the time when the performance indicator reaches a predetermined first reference value, and the recommended replacement date is the time when the performance indicator reaches a predetermined second reference value. Claim 2 A consumable subscription system according to claim 1, wherein the replacement date calculation module includes a first replacement date calculation module, the first replacement date calculation module derives a first mandatory replacement date and a second mandatory replacement date, and the first mandatory replacement date follows the first recommended replacement date. Claim 3 A consumable subscription system according to claim 1, wherein the replacement date calculation module comprises a plurality of replacement date calculation modules, each of which includes a different performance indicator, and each of which individually derives the mandatory replacement date and the recommended replacement date according to each performance indicator, and the processing unit derives the calculated recommended replacement date and the calculated mandatory replacement date by comparing the derived plurality of mandatory replacement dates and the recommended replacement dates. Claim 4 A consumable subscription system according to claim 3, wherein the calculated mandatory replacement date is the best date among the mandatory replacement dates derived from the plurality of calculation modules. Claim 5 A consumable subscription system according to claim 1, wherein the replacement date calculation module includes a first calculation module, and the performance indicator included in the first calculation module is the usage period of the consumable. Claim 6 A consumable subscription system according to claim 5, wherein the usage period is the period after the consumable is installed in the equipment. Claim 7 A consumable subscription system according to claim 3, wherein the processing unit includes an alarm providing module, and the alarm providing module includes an alarm period calculation algorithm for deriving an alarm providing date, which is a period for providing an alarm to a user notifying them that replacement of consumables is required, and the alarm providing date is a period between a predetermined date retroactive from the calculated recommended replacement date and a predetermined date retroactive from the calculated mandatory replacement date. Claim 8 A consumable subscription system according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit comprises a delivery information derivation module that derives the delivery period of the consumable. Claim 9 In claim 8, the delivery information derivation module derives a delivery time which is the start point of the delivery period, wherein the delivery time is a point in time retroactively adjusted by a predetermined first retroactive period from the recommended replacement date, and the delivery information derivation module calculates the first retroactive period, a consumable subscription system. Claim 10 In claim 9, the delivery information derivation module is a consumable subscription system that calculates the first retroactive period by considering variable factors including weather information, geographical information, and inventory information. Claim 11 In claim 10, the delivery information derivation module is a consumable subscription system that changes the first retroactive period by monitoring the weather information in real time. Claim 12 In claim 9, the delivery information derivation module is a consumable subscription system that corrects the delivery time by considering the promotion information of the consumable. Claim 13 In claim 8, the delivery information derivation module derives a delivery end date, which is the end point of the delivery period, wherein the delivery end date is a point in time retroactively adjusted by a predetermined second period from the mandatory replacement date, and the delivery information derivation module calculates the second retroactive period, a consumable subscription system. Claim 14 In claim 13, the delivery information derivation module calculates the second retroactive period by considering variable factors including weather information, geographical information, and inventory information. Claim 15 In claim 14, the delivery information derivation module is a consumable subscription system that changes the second retroactive period by monitoring the weather information in real time. Claim 16 In claim 13, the delivery information derivation module is a consumable subscription system that advances the delivery end date by considering the promotion information of consumables. Claim 17 A consumable subscription system according to claim 8, wherein the delivery information module derives a delivery time, which is the start time of the delivery period, and a delivery end time, which is the end time of the delivery period, wherein the delivery time is a point in time retroactively set by a predetermined first retroactive period from the recommended replacement date, and the delivery end time is a point in time retroactively set by a predetermined second period from the mandatory replacement date, and if the interval between the delivery time and the delivery end time is smaller than a predetermined first standard interval, the delivery time is changed to a predetermined date preceding the delivery time. Claim 18 A consumable subscription system according to claim 8, wherein the delivery information derivation module derives a delivery date derivation algorithm that derives a delivery date within the delivery period of the consumable, and derives the delivery date as a point in time that minimizes the gap between the customer receipt date provided by the user and the consumable arrival date when the consumable arrives at the user. Claim 19 A consumable subscription system according to claim 8, wherein the delivery information derivation module adds a predetermined first additional amount to the delivery quantity of the consumable when the delivery time of the Nth round overlaps with the promotion period of the consumable, and subtracts the delivery quantity of the consumable by the first additional amount at the delivery time of the N+1th round. Claim 20 In claim 8, the delivery information derivation module is a consumable subscription system that collects and processes data provided by a user and reflects it in deriving the next delivery period. Claim 21 Claim 1, wherein the consumable is a filter used in a water filter, and the performance indicator comprises at least one of the usage period of the consumable, filtering performance, and filtering capacity, in a consumable subscription system.