A physical substrate, a set of physical substrates, and methods and systems for management of physical assets using the physical substrates

Abstract

At least partially computer implemented methods and systems for managing physical assets at a local facility, and / or for facilitating such management, are based on the use of a number of unique identifiers associated with each of the physical assets to be managed, the unique identifiers being added onto preformed physical substrates at different time periods. The physical substrates are received at the local facility when each of them comprises a first substrate portion occupied by a first unique identifier, and a second substrate portion having a vacant space, which space is subsequently used at the local facility for adding thereto a second unique identifier generated uniquely for the physical substrate. A first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier are then sent to a linking unit for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other.

Description

[0001] A PHYSICAL SUBSTRATE, A SET OF PHYSICAL SUBSTRATES, AND METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MANAGEMENT OF PHYSICAL ASSETS USING THE PHYSICAL SUBSTRATES

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] This invention relates generally to physical substrates bearing identifiers, attachable to physical assets, and management of the physical assets using the physical substrates bearing identifiers.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Physical substrates, systems, and methods of the kind to which the presently disclosed subject matter refers, can be found for example in: US 20220318724A1, US 20030080191A1, CN 106339889A, US 20060175401A1, US 20210208822A1, US 6508173B1, US 20050006469A1, US 11625203B2, WO2014183162A1.

[0006] GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0007] The presently disclosed subject matter is generally directed to management and / or facilitating management, of a plurality of physical assets based at least partially on a number of unique identifiers associated with each of the physical assets to be managed, the unique identifiers being added / addable onto one or more preformed physical substrates at different time periods, the physical substrate / s being attachable to the physical asset and having at least two of the unique identifiers thereon before, during or at least after having been attached to the physical asset.

[0008] In the present description and claims the term “unique” identifier with respect to a physical asset, which constitutes a part of a plurality of physical assets, and / or with respect to one or more physical substrates associated with the asset, means that the identifier belongs only to the physical asset, whilst other physical assets have their own identifiers each being different from those on any of the other assets, and / or other physical substrates bear their own identifiers each being different from those appearing on the other physical substrate / s of the plurality of the physical substrates. The number of the unique identifiers associated with each substrate and thus with each asset can generally be any desired and can depend on one or more of the following: facilities participating in the management of the assets, operations to be performed with respect to the asset, and conditions under which the identifiers are to be read.

[0009] In addition, each of the first and second unique identifiers can be constituted by a single unique identifier or by a number of unique identifiers of different types readable at different conditions. In the present description and claims, the term “unique identifier’ is meant to cover both these options.

[0010] For example, if there is more than one facility participating in the management of the assets, the facilities can include at least one ‘local’ facility, at which the physical assets are at least temporarily located at different periods of time, and at least one remote facility other than the local facility / ies, and in this case each physical asset can be associated with at least two corresponding unique identifiers. More particularly, in some examples, one of the unique identifiers can be associated with one local facility or at least one operation performed at that local facility and the other of the unique identifiers can be associated with the remote facility or at least one operation performed by that remote facility.

[0011] In addition, or alternatively, one of the unique identifiers can be associated with at least one first operation and another one of the unique identifiers can be associated with at least one second operation, and these operations can, for example, be performed at / by a same facility. In the latter case, both the unique identifiers can be associated with the same facility while being associated with different operations.

[0012] In any of the above examples, the two unique identifiers can be of different types which can be read and / or added to the physical substrate, under different conditions. For example, these different conditions can include the manner in which, and / or equipment with which, the identifiers can be read and / or added to the physical substrate. For example, one of the unique identifiers can be barcode and another one can be any identifier other than the barcode, e.g. it can comprise a Tracking Optimized Code (TOC) which can be in the form of, or can comprise, multi-colored symbols as disclosed in US 9437046. Furthermore, a first one of the identifiers (for example, TOC) can be of a kind that it is uncapable of being added to the physical substrate under the same conditions as the other identifier(s) (for example, barcode), and / or a facility that adds the other identifier(s) (for example, barcode) can be uncapable of adding the first one of the identifiers (for example, TOC) to the physical substrate under the same conditions as the other identifier(s).

[0013] In the present description and claims, the term ‘associated’ when used with respect to the identifier and the respective facilities, means that the identifier is at least used by the corresponding facility for / in a managing operation performed at that facility.

[0014] The physical substrates with two or more unique identifiers associated with each of the physical assets of a plurality of assets, and their use as described above will be referred to below as a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, which first aspect can be used in any combination with any one or more of further aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, presented below.

[0015] Thus, according to one further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter which can be used with the above first aspect, there is provided a method for managing a plurality of physical assets at a local facility, using physical substrates attachable to the physical assets, each physical substrate originally comprising a first substrate portion occupied by a first unique identifier, and a second substrate portion having a vacant space; the method comprising adding a second unique identifier in the vacant space and attaching the physical substrate to a respective physical asset of the plurality of the physical assets to be managed. This method will thus be referred to in this General Description as a ‘substrates-dealing method’.

[0016] The presently disclosed subject matter in accordance with any of the above aspects can comprise computer implemented steps performed, at the local facility with respect to each physical substrate from the plurality of the physical substrates. These computer implemented steps can comprise one or more of the following:

[0017] - obtaining from the physical substrate the corresponding first unique identifier, e.g. by reading the first unique identifier;

[0018] - obtaining the second unique identifier;

[0019] - enabling virtual linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other, e.g. by providing a linking unit with a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier.

[0020] According to another further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter which can be used with, or even independently of, the above first aspect, there is provided a method for managing a plurality of physical assets at a local facility, using identifiers. The method according to this aspect can include, for each one of the physical assets, adding a first unique identifier, uniquely associated with the physical asset, to the physical asset, and adding a second unique identifier, uniquely associated with the physical asset, to the physical asset. In some examples, either or each of the identifiers can be added onto the physical asset directly, for example, directly onto the packaging of the physical asset. In some examples, either or each of the identifiers can be added onto the physical asset indirectly, for example, by adding the identifiers on a single physical substrate, or corresponding substrates, and attaching the substrate(s) on the physical asset. The method according to this aspect can include enabling virtual linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other, e.g. by providing a linking unit with a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier. The method according to this aspect can include some or all the features of the ‘substrates- dealing method’ and description of the features of the ‘substrates -dealing method’ can apply to the corresponding features of the method of this aspect.

[0021] According to another further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a system which can be used at the local facility with any of the above aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, for managing physical assets at least partially based on physical substrates attachable to the physical assets physical substrates, each comprising a first substrate portion occupied by a first unique identifier and a second substrate portion having a vacant space. This system will thus be referred to in this General Description as a ‘substrates -dealing system’ and this substrate-dealing system comprises one or more of the following:

[0022] - an identifier reading unit operable to read at least the corresponding first unique identifier from each physical substrate of the plurality of the physical substrates;

[0023] - an identifier adding unit operable to add a second unique identifier in the vacant space of each physical substrate;

[0024] - a transmitter unit operable to enable virtual linking of the first and second unique identifiers of each physical substrate to each other, e.g. by sending to a linking unit a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier.

[0025] In some examples, the above system can include one or more of the following features: - the identifier adding unit can comprise a substrate inlet operable to receive the physical substrate prior to adding the second unique identifier, and a substrate outlet for dispensing the physical substrate after adding the second unique identifier;

[0026] - the identifier reading unit can be operable to read the first unique identifier at least at one of the substrate inlet and at the substrate outlet, wherein the identifier reading unit can have a field of view including at least partially the substrate inlet or the substrate outlet, respectively;

[0027] - the identifier reading unit can be mountable to the identifier adding unit;

[0028] - the identifier adding unit and the identifier reading unit can constitute a single unit;

[0029] - the identifier adding unit can include a printer;

[0030] - the identifier reading unit can include an imaging device; for example, the imaging device can include a scanner; and

[0031] - the transmitter unit can constitute a part of a processing circuitry.

[0032] In some examples, the linking unit can be located at the local facility, e.g. the linking unit can constitute a part of the above system. Alternatively, the linking unit can be located outside the local facility. For example, the linking unit can be located at a remote facility.

[0033] According to another further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a system which can be used at the local facility with any of, or independently of, the above aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, for managing physical assets at least partially based on identifiers. The system according to this aspect can include, an identifier adding unit operable to, for each one of the physical assets, add a first unique identifier, uniquely associated with the physical asset, to the physical asset, and adding a second unique identifier, uniquely associated with the physical asset, to the physical asset. In some examples, either or each of the identifiers can be added onto the physical asset directly, for example, directly onto the packaging of the physical asset. In some examples, either or each of the identifiers can be added onto the physical asset indirectly, for example, by adding the identifiers on a single physical substrate, or corresponding substrates, and attaching the substrate(s) on the physical asset. The system according to this aspect can include transmitter unit operable to enable virtual linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other, e.g. by providing a linking unit with a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier. The system according to this aspect can include some or all the features of the ‘substrates-dealing system’ and description of the features of the ‘substrates-dealing system’ can apply to the corresponding features of the system of this aspect.

[0034] According to a still further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a local facility comprising the above substrate-dealing system or using the above substrate-dealing method for managing a plurality of physical aspects.

[0035] According to a still further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the substrates-dealing method can include or be combined with, and the substrates dealing system can be operable to perform one or more of the following steps:

[0036] - generating the second unique identifier uniquely for each physical substrate;

[0037] - reading the second unique identifier from the physical substrate;

[0038] - reading the first unique identifier after the addition of the second unique identifier in the vacant space.

[0039] The substrates-dealing system according to the above aspects can be operable for performing any one or more of the above steps by a processing circuitry of the system or the identifier adding unit or identifier reading unit.

[0040] According to a still further aspect of the present, linking of the first and second unique identifier for each physical substrate, can be performed only if predetermined conditions are met, which conditions relate to the local facility’s manipulations with these identifiers or with the first and second data associated with these identifiers. For example, such conditions can be those under which the second identifier has been generated, or at which one or both the identifiers are read, or at which the first and second data are produced, or at which these data are sent out for tire virtual linking of the identifiers.

[0041] Accordingly, sending the first and second data can include:

[0042] - sending information indicative of the predetermined conditions together with sending the first and second data;

[0043] - sending together with the first data a first timestamp indicative of a time when the first data was sent, and sending together with the second data a second timestamp indicative of a time when the second data was sent, the first and second timestamps constituting at least partially the information indicative of the predetermined conditions;

[0044] - obtaining the second data from at least one of: a processing circuitry that generates the second unique identifier, and a database that stores the second unique identifier. In some examples, the predetermined conditions can be associated with times of sending the first and second data. In some examples, the predetermined conditions can be associated with a sending time gap between the sending the first and second data. In some examples, the predetermined conditions can include a condition that the sending time gap must be less than a predetermined sending time gap threshold.

[0045] According to a still further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, which can be used in combination with or constitute a part or a result of any of the above aspects, there is provided a physical substrate, which can constitute a part of a set of physical substrates, each having a first state in which the physical substrate has a vacant space which is free of the second unique identifier, and a second state in which a part of said space is occupied by the second unique identifier. In such set of physical substrates, each of the first and second unique identifiers of each physical substrate is unique relative to the first and second identifiers of all other physical substrates from the plurality of physical substrates.

[0046] According to a still further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a physical substrate attachable to a physical asset for management of said physical asset, the physical substrate comprising a first unique identifier, said first unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; and a second unique identifier, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate.

[0047] According to a still further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a set of physical substrates comprising a plurality of physical substrates, each being attachable to a physical asset of one or more physical assets for management of said one or more physical assets, each physical substrate comprising a first unique identifier, said first unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; and a second unique identifier, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate.

[0048] According to a still further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, each physical asset having attached thereto a physical substrate with a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier, tire method being at least partially computer implementable and comprising determining, based on a set of rules, whether or not to virtually link the first and second identifiers to each other, and linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other. This method will thus be referred to in this

[0049] General Description as a ‘linking method’.

[0050] In some examples, the above linking method can further include generating a notification (or alert or notification alert) that the first and second identifiers are not, or cannot be, linked to each other.

[0051] According to a still further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a system for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, each physical asset having attached thereto a physical substrate with a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier, the system comprising: a processor and a computer readable memory comprising instractions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to determine, based on a set of rales, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other; and to link the first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other. This system will thus be referred to in this General Description as a ‘linking system’.

[0052] The processor of the above linking system can further be operable to receive a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier, and to use the first and the second data when determining whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other.

[0053] In some examples, the computer readable memory can further comprise instructions which when executed by the processor cause the processor to generate an alert, for example a notification that the first and second identifiers are not linked to each other.

[0054] In some examples, the set of rules referred to above can include or be associated with one or more of the following features for determining that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other

[0055] - a gap between the times when the first data and the second data were sent;

[0056] - a gap between the times when the first data and the second data were received;

[0057] - a time rule that at least one of the above time gaps is less than a corresponding time gap threshold;

[0058] - a type rule that a type of information included in the first data is different from a type of information included in the second data. More particularly, the set of rules can be associated with at least two of a sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data, a receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data, and the types of information included in the first and second data. Still more particularly, the set of rules can be associated with all of these.

[0059] The above linking method can be performed, and the above linking system can be located, at the local facility or at a remote facility different from the local facility. In some examples, notwithstanding the location of the linking system and of the performance of the linking method, their use results in facilitating managing physical assets at least at the local fecility.

[0060] The above ‘linking’ method can be at least partially performed by, and the above linking system can at least partially constitute, a linking unit referred to above in the description of the substrates-dealing method and system, where it is indicated that such linking unit can be located inside or outside of the local fecility.

[0061] Thus, in some examples the linking unit can include one or more features, and can be operable to perform one or more of the functions, of the above linking system. In some examples, the description provided above with respect to the set of rules with respect to the linking method and linking system according can apply to said linking unit.

[0062] In some examples, the substrates-dealing method and system and the linking method and system can include one or more of the following features:

[0063] - the first unique identifier can be generated at a facility other than the local facility;

[0064] - the local facility can be a logistics fecility;

[0065] - the first unique identifier can be at least one of barcode, QR code, RFID, and TOC;

[0066] - the second unique identifier can be at least one of barcode, QR code, and RFID;

[0067] - the first unique identifier can be usable for tracking a location of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached;

[0068] - the second unique identifier can include a Local Facility Management System (LFMS) ID of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached;

[0069] - the first unique identifier can be generated at a facility outside the local fecility;

[0070] - the first unique identifier can be added to the physical substrate at the fecility outside the local facility; - the first unique identifier can be generated at the remote facility, and the physical substrate can be at least partially generated at the remote facility, and the first unique identifier can be added to the physical substrate at the remote facility; and

[0071] - the second identifier can be generated and added to the physical substrate outside of the remote facility , and the remote facility becomes aware of the second unique identifier only upon receipt of the second data.

[0072] The above description about the first and second unique identifiers is applicable to the physical substrate of the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter as well as any other physical substrate or set of physical substrates mentioned above.

[0073] Below are listed a number of more specific embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0074] 1. A method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility, the method being at least partially computer implementable and comprising: receiving from a remote facility different from the local facility one or more physical substrates attachable to said one or more physical assets, each physical substrate comprising a first substrate portion occupied by a first unique identifier, and a second substrate portion having a vacant space; adding a second unique identifier in the vacant space, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; reading from the physical substrate at least the first unique identifier; sending to a linking unit a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other; and attaching the physical substrate to a respective physical asset of the one or more physical assets to be managed, the physical substrate having the first and second unique identifiers at least after having been attached to the physical asset.

[0075] 2. The method according to Embodiment 1 , further comprising generating the second unique identifier uniquely for the physical substrate.

[0076] 3. The method according to Embodiment 1 or 2, further comprising reading the second unique identifier from the physical substrate, and determining the second data based thereon. 4. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein said reading the first unique identifier comprises reading the first unique identifier after said addition of the second unique identifier in the vacant space.

[0077] 5. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein said sending the first and second data to the linking unit includes sending the first and second data under predetermined conditions, said predetermined conditions being necessary to be met for the first and second unique identifiers to be linked to each other.

[0078] 6. A system for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility at least partially based on physical substrates attachable to the physical assets, said physical substrates at least after having been attached to the physical assets carrying identifiers, the system comprising: an identifier adding unit operable to receive from a remote facility different from the local facility one or more physical substrates attachable to said one or more physical assets, each comprising a first substrate portion occupied by a first unique identifier and a second substrate portion having a vacant space, said identifier adding unit being further operable to add a second unique identifier in the vacant space, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; an identifier reading unit operable to read from the physical substrate at least the first unique identifier; and a transmitter unit operable to send, to a linking unit a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other.

[0079] 7. The system according to Embodiment 6, further comprising a processing circuitry operable to generate the second unique identifier uniquely for the at least one physical substrate.

[0080] 8. The system according to Embodiment 6 or 7, wherein said identifier reading unit is operable to read the second unique identifier from the physical substrate, wherein the second data is determined based on said reading of the second unique identifier.

[0081] 9. The system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 8, wherein said identifier reading unit is operable to read the first unique identifier after addition of the second unique identifier in the vacant space. 10. The system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 9, wherein said identifier adding unit comprises a substrate inlet operable to receive the physical substrate prior to adding the second unique identifier, and a substrate outlet for dispensing the physical substrate after adding the second unique identifier, wherein said identifier reading unit is operable to read the first unique identifier at the substrate outlet.

[0082] 11. The system according to Embodiment 10, wherein the identifier reading unit has a field of view including at least partially the substrate outlet.

[0083] 12. The system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 11, wherein the identifier reading unit is mounted to the identifier adding unit.

[0084] 13. The system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 12, wherein the identifier adding unit and the identifier reading unit constitute a single unit.

[0085] 14. The system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 13, wherein the identifier adding unit includes a printer.

[0086] 15. The system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 14, wherein the identifier reading unit includes an imaging device.

[0087] 16. The system according to Embodiment 15, wherein the imaging device includes a scanner.

[0088] 17. The system according to Embodiment 5 or any one of Embodiments 8 to 16, when dependent on Embodiment 7, wherein the transmitter unit constitutes a part of the processing circuitry.

[0089] 18. The system according to any one of Embodiments 5 to 16, wherein the transmitter unit being configured to send the first and second data to the linking unit is configured to send the first and second data under predetermined conditions, said predetermined conditions being necessary to be met for the first and second unique identifiers to be linked to each other.

[0090] 19. The method according to Embodiment 5, or the system according to Embodiment

[0091] 18, wherein the predetermined conditions are associated with times of sending the first and second data.

[0092] 20. The method or system according to Embodiment 19, wherein the predetermined conditions are associated with a sending time gap between the sending the first and second data. 21. The method or system according to Embodiment 20, wherein the predetermined conditions include a condition that the sending time gap must be less than a predetermined sending time gap threshold.

[0093] 22. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5 or Embodiments 19to 21, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 21, wherein the first unique identifier was generated at a facility other than the local facility.

[0094] 23. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5 or Embodiments 19 to 22, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 22, wherein the local facility is a logistics facility.

[0095] 24. The system according to Embodiment 18 or any one of Embodiments 19 to 23, when dependent at least indirectly on Embodiment 18, wherein the transmitter unit is operable to send the first and second data accompanied by information indicative of the predetermined conditions.

[0096] 25. The system according to Embodiment 24, wherein the transmitter unit is operable to: send together with the first data a first timestamp indicative of a time when the first data was sent, and send together with the second data a second timestamp indicative of a time when the second data was sent, said first and second timestamps constituting at least partially the information indicative of the predetermined conditions.

[0097] 26. The method according to Embodiment 5 or any one of Embodiments 19 to 23, when dependent at least indirectly on Embodiment 5, wherein said sending the first and second data is accompanied by sending information indicative of the predetermined conditions.

[0098] 27. The method according to Embodiment 26, wherein said sending the information indicative of the predetermined conditions comprises sending together with the first data a first timestamp indicative of a time when the first data was sent, and sending together with the second data a second timestamp indicative of a time when the second data was sent, said first and second timestamps constituting at least partially the information indicative of the predetermined conditions.

[0099] 28. A physical substrate obtainable as a part of the method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, Embodiments 19 to 23, or Embodiments 26 to 27, said physical substrate being obtainable after the step of said adding the second unique identifier in the vacant space. 29. A set of physical substrates comprising a plurality of physical substrates, each being the physical substrate according to Embodiment 28, wherein each of the first and second identifiers of each physical substrate being unique relative to the first and second identifiers of all other physical substrates from said plurality of physical substrates.

[0100] 30. A physical substrate attachable to a physical asset for management of said physical asset, the physical substrate comprising: a first unique identifier, said first unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; and a second unique identifier, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate.

[0101] 31. A set of physical substrates comprising a plurality of physical substrates, each being attachable to a physical asset of one or more physical assets for management of said one or more physical assets, each physical substrate comprising: a first unique identifier, said first unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; and a second unique identifier, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate.

[0102] 32. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, Embodiments 19 to 23, or Embodiments 26 to 27, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 25, or the physical substrate according to Embodiment 28 or 30, or tire set of physical substrates according to Embodiment 29 or 31, wherein the first unique identifier is at least one of barcode, QR code, RFID, and Tracking Optimized Code.

[0103] 33. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, Embodiments 19 to 23, Embodiments 26 to 27, or Embodiment 32, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 25 or Embodiment 32, or the physical substrate according to any one of Embodiments 28, 30, or 32, or the set of physical substrates according to any one of Embodiments 29, 31, or 32, wherein the second unique identifier is at least one of barcode, QR code, and RFID.

[0104] 34. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, Embodiments 19 to 23, Embodiments 26 to 27, or Embodiments 32 to 33, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 25 or Embodiments 32 to 33, or the physical substrate according to any one of Embodiments 28, 30, 32, or 33, or the set of physical substrates according to any one of Embodiments 29, 31, 32, or 33, wherein the first unique identifier is usable for tracking a location of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached.

[0105] 35. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, Embodiments 19 to 23, Embodiments 26 to 27, or Embodiments 32 to 34, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 25 or Embodiments 32 to 34, or the physical substrate according to any one of Embodiments 28, 30, 32, 33, or 34, orthe set of physical substrates according to any one of Embodiments 29, 31, 32, 33, or 34, wherein the second unique identifier includes a Local Facility Management System (LFMS) ID of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached.

[0106] 36. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, Embodiments 19 to 23, Embodiments 26 to 27, or Embodiments 32 to 35, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 25 or Embodiments 32 to 35, wherein the linking unit is located outside the local facility.

[0107] 37. The method or system according to Embodiment 36, wherein the linking unit is located at the remote facility'.

[0108] 38. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, Embodiments 19 to 23, Embodiments 26 to 27, or Embodiments 32 to 35, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 25 or Embodiments 32 to 35, wherein the linking unit is located at the local facility.

[0109] 39. The system according to Embodiment 38, further comprising the linking unit.

[0110] 40. The system according to Embodiment 38 or 39, wherein the linking unit is operable to: receive the first data; receive the second data; determine, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other; and link the first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0111] 41. The system according to Embodiment 40, wherein the linking unit is operable to generate an alert in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other. 42. The system according to Embodiment 41, wherein the linking unit is operable to generate said alert as a notification that the first and second identifiers are not linked to each other.

[0112] 43. The method according to Embodiment 38, further comprising, at the linking unit: receiving the first data; receiving tire second data; determining, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other; and linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0113] 44. The method according to Embodiment 43, further comprising generating an alert in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other.

[0114] 45. The method according to Embodiment 44, further comprising generating said alert as a notification that the first and second identifiers are not linked to each other.

[0115] 46. The method according to any one of Embodiments 43 to 45 , or the system according to any one of Embodiments 40 to 42, wherein the set of rules are associated with at least one of: a sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data; a receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data; and a type of information included in the first and second data.

[0116] 47. The method or system according to Embodiment 46, wherein the set of rules include a time rule that at least one of: the sending time gap must be less than a predetermined sending time gap threshold, and the receiving time gap must be less than a predetermined receiving time gap threshold for determining that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0117] 48. The method or system according to Embodiment 46 or 47, wherein the set of rules include a type rule that the type of information included in the first data is different from the type of information included in the second data for determining that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0118] 49. The system according to any one of Embodiments 6 to 25, Embodiments 32 to 42, or Embodiments 46 to 48, wherein the transmitter unit is operable to obtain the second data from at least one of: a processing circuitry that generates the second unique identifier, and a database that stores the second unique identifier.

[0119] 50. The method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 5, Embodiments 19 to 23, Embodiments 26 to 27, Embodiments 32 to 38, or Embodiments 43 to 48, further comprising obtaining the second data from at least one of: a processing circuitry that generates the second unique identifier, and a database that stores the second unique identifier.

[0120] 51. A method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a localfacility , each physical asset having attached thereto a physical substrate with a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier, fee method being at least partially computer implementable and comprising: receiving a first data associated wife fee first unique identifier; receiving a second data associated wife fee second unique identifier; determining, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link fee first and second identifiers to each other; and linking fee first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining feat fee first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0121] 52. The method according to Embodiment 51 , further comprising generating an alert in response to determining that fee first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other.

[0122] 53. The method according to Embodiment 52, further comprising generating said alert as a notification that the first and second identifiers are not linked to each other.

[0123] 54. A system for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, each physical asset having attached thereto a physical substrate with a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier, the system comprising: a processor; and a computer readable memory comprising instructions which when executed by the processor cause the processor to: receive a first data associated with the first unique identifier; receive a second data associated with the second unique identifier; determine, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other; and link the first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0124] 55. The system according to Embodiment 54, wherein said computer readable memory further comprises instructions which when executed by the processor cause tire processor to generate an alert in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other.

[0125] 56. The system according to Embodiment 55, wherein said computer readable memory further comprises instractions which when executed by the processor cause the processor to generate said alert as a notification that the first and second identifiers are not linked to each other.

[0126] 57. The method according to any one of Embodiments 51 to 53, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 54 to 56, wherein the set of rules are associated with at least one of: a sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data; a receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data; and a type of information included in the first and second data.

[0127] 58. The method or system according to Embodiment 57, wherein the set of rules include a time rule that at least one of: the sending time gap must be less than a predetermined sending time gap threshold, and the receiving time gap must be less than a predetermined receiving time gap threshold for determining that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0128] 59. The method or system according to Embodiment 57 or 58, wherein the set of rales include a type rule that tire type of information included in the first data is different from the type of information included in the second data for determining that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0129] 60. The method or system according to any one of Embodiments 57 to 59, wherein the set of rules are associated with at least two of: the sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data; the receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data; and the type of information included in tire first and second data.

[0130] 61. The method or system according to any one of Embodiments 57 to 60, wherein the set of rules are associated with all of: the sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data; the receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data; and the type of information included in the first and second data.

[0131] 62. The system according to any one of Embodiments 54 to 61, being located at the local fecility.

[0132] 63. The method according to any one of Embodiments 51 to 53 or Embodiments 57 to

[0133] 61, being performed at the local facility.

[0134] 64. The method according to Embodiment 63 or the system according to Embodiment

[0135] 62, wherein the first unique identifier was generated at a facility outside the local facility.

[0136] 65. The method according to Embodiment 63 or 64, or the system according to Embodiment 62 or 64, wherein the physical substrate was at least partially generated at a fecility outside the localfacility , wherein the first unique identifier was added to the physical substrate at the facility outside the local facility.

[0137] 66. The system according to any one of Embodiments 54 to 61, being located at a remote fecility different from the local facility.

[0138] 67. The method according to any one of Embodiments 51 to 53 or Embodiments 57 to 61, being performed at a remote facility different from the local facility.

[0139] 68. The method according to Embodiment 67, or the system according to Embodiment 66, wherein the first unique identifier was generated at the remote fecility.

[0140] 69. The method according to Embodiment 67 or 68, or the system according to Embodiment 66 or 68, wherein the physical substrate was at least partially generated at the remote facility, wherein the first unique identifier was added to the physical substrate at the remote facility.

[0141] 70. The method according to any one of Embodiments 67 to 69, or the system according to Embodiment 66 or any one of Embodiments 68 to 69, wherein the remotefacility becomes aware of the second unique identifier only upon receipt of the second data.

[0142] 71. The method according to any one of Embodiments 67 to 70, or the system according to Embodiment 66 or any one of Embodiments 68 to 70, wherein the second identifier is generated and added to the physical substrate outside of the remote facility.

[0143] 72. The method according to any one of Embodiments 51 to 53, Embodiments 57 to 61, Embodiments 63 to 65, or Embodiments 67 to 71, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 54 to 62, Embodiments 64 to 66, or Embodiments 68 to 71, wherein the first unique identifier is at least one of barcode, QR code, RFID, and Tracking Optimized Code. 73. The method according to any one of Embodiments 51 to 53, Embodiments 57 to 61, Embodiments 63 to 65, or Embodiments 67 to 72, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 54 to 62, Embodiments 64 to 66, or Embodiments 68 to 72, wherein the second unique identifier is at least one of barcode, QR code, and RFID.

[0144] 74. The method according to any one of Embodiments 51 to 53, Embodiments 57 to 61, Embodiments 63 to 65, or Embodiments 67 to 73, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 54 to 62, Embodiments 64 to 66, or Embodiments 68 to 73, wherein the first unique identifier is usable for tracking a location of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached.

[0145] 75. The method according to any one of Embodiments 51 to 53, Embodiments 57 to 61, Embodiments 63 to 65, or Embodiments 67 to 74, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 54 to 62, Embodiments 64 to 66, or Embodiments 68 to 74, wherein the second unique identifier includes a Local Facility Management System (LFMS) ID of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached.

[0146] 76. The method according to any one of Embodiments 51 to 53, Embodiments 57 to 61, Embodiments 63 to 65, or Embodiments 67 to 75, or the system according to any one of Embodiments 54 to 62, Embodiments 64 to 66, or Embodiments 68 to 75, for facilitating managing one or more physical assets at least at the local facility'.

[0147] 77. A method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility, tire method being at least partially computer implementable and comprising, for each one of the one or more physical assets: adding a first unique identifier onto the physical asset, said first unique identifier being uniquely associated with tire physical asset; adding a second unique identifier onto the physical asset, said second unique identifier being uniquely associated with the physical asset; and sending to a linking unit a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other.

[0148] 78. A system for managing one or more physical assets at a local fa actil lietyast partially based on identifiers having at least two identifiers associated with each one of the one or more physical assets, the system comprising: an identifier adding unit operable to, for each one of the one or more physical assets: add a first unique identifier onto the physical asset, said first unique identifier being uniquely associated with the physical asset; and add a second unique identifier onto the physical asset, said second unique identifier being uniquely associated with the physical asset; and a transmitter unit operable to send, to a linking unit a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other.

[0149] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0150] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0151] Fig. 1A schematically illustrates a facility where a plurality of physical assets are located and at least partially managed, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0152] Figs. IB and 1C are respective enlarged views of one of the physical assets located at the facility of Fig. 1A and a physical substrate attached to the asset of Fig. IB;

[0153] Fig. 2A schematically illustrates a change of state of a physical substrate fiom a first state to a second state, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0154] Fig. 2B schematically illustrates a change of state of a physical substrate fiom a first state to a second state, according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0155] Fig. 2C schematically illustrates a change of state of a physical substrate fiom a first state to a second state, according to yet another example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0156] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a set of physical substrates, all being in a first state, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0157] Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a set of physical substrates, all being in a second state, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter; Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method for managing physical assets at a local focility, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter, the flow chart showing steps of the method performed for each physical substrate;

[0158] Fig. 6 illustrates a block diagram schematically depicting a system for managing one or more physical assets at a local focility, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0159] Figs. 7A and 7B illustrate two different side perspective views of a device, which can constitute at least a part of a system for managing one or more physical assets at a local focility, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0160] Fig. 8 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local focility, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0161] Fig. 9 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0162] Fig. illustrates a block diagram schematically depicting a system for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter; and

[0163] Fig. 11 illustrates a block diagram schematically depicting a method, and a corresponding system, for managing of a plurality of physical assets, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0164] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0165] The following detailed description relates to at least some operations involved in management of physical assets within and / or outside a facility. The operations can include all or some of: inventory management, order fulfillment, stock tracking, space optimization, ensuring safety and compliance, coordinating inbound and outbound shipments, forecasting demand, ordering new stock, replenishing items, managing stock levels and storage, handling returns and obsolescence, monitoring location and movement of assets in real-time, quick identification of stock discrepancies, and equivalents thereof. In general, the operations can include all or some of storage, tracking of physical movement, and handling of the physical assets within and / or outside a facility. In general, physical assets can be any physical entities at least a part of the management of which is based on physical substrates bearing identifiers and attachable to the assets, as described in detail herein further below. The physical assets are to be understood herein as a plurality of physically moveable assets that need to be managed where more than one facility is to be involved in the management and / or handling thereof. Some examples of the physical assets can include goods in a warehouse (or generally any logistics or storage center), cars in a parking lot, raw materials (for example, basic components like metals, wood, or chemicals used for manufacturing), finished goods (for example, products ready for distribution to retailers or customers, such as electronics, apparel, and packaged food), perishable goods (for example, items like fruits, vegetables, dairy, and frozen foods that require cold storage), equipment and machinery (for example, industrial tools, construction equipment, or production machinery that need secure, protected storage), pharmaceuticals (for example, medicines and medical supplies, often stored in temperature-controlled environments), consumer goods (for example, everyday items like household products, toys, or personal care items), automotive parts (for example, car components, tires, and spare parts awaiting shipment or distribution), documents and archives (for example, physical records, files, or important documents that need secure storage), construction materials (for example, building supplies such as lumber, steel, and concrete, stored for future use on construction projects).

[0166] In general, a facility can be any kind of warehouse, depot, storage center, manufacturing unit, distribution center, logistics center, office, or equivalents thereof, where the physical assets can be located, stored, managed, handled, etc., at least temporarily. In some examples, a facility can be any location from where the physical assets are managed, while the physical assets may or may not be located at the facility. A facility can be referred to as a local facility if the physical assets to be managed are located, at least temporarily, at the facility and / or physical substrates bearing identifiers are attached to the assets at the facility, as described in detail herein finther below. Some examples of a local facility can include warehouse, depot, storage center, distribution center, logistics center, office, etc. A facility can be referred to as a remote facility if the physical assets to be managed are not located at the facility and are managed at least partially therefrom.

[0167] The management of the physical assets can be at least partially based on physical substrates which bear identifiers and are attachable to the physical assets. Each of the physical assets can have at least two identifiers associated therewith, each of the identifiers being associated with an operation being a part of the management of the asset and / or being associated with a facility.

[0168] For instance, in some examples, the management of a physical asset can include two or more operations, for example, one operation being storing (or in any other way handling) of the physical asset at a facility and another operation being tracking the movement of the physical asset within or outside the facility. The physical asset can be at least partially managed based on identifiers, each associated with a corresponding operation of the management. For example, one identifier can be associated with the operation of storing of the physical asset at a facility and one (another one) identifier can be associated with the operation of tracking the movement of the physical asset within or outside the facility.

[0169] In some examples, a physical asset can be at least temporarily located and at least partially managed at a first facility (for example, a local facility), and can be at least partially managed from a second facility (for example, a remote facility) different from the first facility, and the identifiers associated with the physical asset can each be associated with a corresponding one of the first and second facility.

[0170] In some examples, a first operation of the management (for example, storing or in any other way handling) of the physical set can be performed at a first facility (for example, a local facility where the physical asset can be at least temporarily located and at least partially managed) and a second (different from the first or a sub-operation of the first) operation of the management (for example, tracking the movement of the physical asset within or outside the first facility) of the physical set can be performed from a second facility different from the first facility (for example, a remote facility). In such examples, one of the identifiers associated with the physical asset can be associated with the first facility and the first operation, and another one of the identifiers associated with the physical asset can be associated with the second facility and the second operation.

[0171] In some examples, the first and second unique identifiers can be associated with a same operation and / or facility, and can still be different from each other, for example with respect to type of the identifier, as described in detail herein further below.

[0172] The physical substrates can have any structures suitable for addition of one or more identifiers thereupon and for attachments to a physical asset. Some examples of a physical substrate can include, a sheet, sticker, panel, label, tag or any equivalents thereof, each of which can be made of paper, plastic, glass, fabric, wood, bamboo, or any other suitable one or more materials. The identifiers can be added onto the physical substrates by any suitable method or process. Some examples of methods of adding identifiers onto the physical substrates can include printing, inking, etching, laser methods, painting, writing, embossing, stamping, or in any other equivalent way of marking physical substrates with identifiers. In some examples, the physical substrates can be formed as pre-printed stickers, Radio Frequency identifiers tags (RFID tags), printed electronics, or any other equivalent physical structure bearing (carrying) identifiers.

[0173] The physical substrates can be attachable to the physical assets by any suitable attachment means selected based on the structure of the physical substrate and / or the structure of the physical asset or a packaging thereof. Some examples of the attachment means can include adhesive, mechanical attachment, magnetic attachment, sticking, pasting, affixing means, mounting means, bolts, fasteners, nuts, nails, or the equivalents thereof. In some examples, the identifiers can be directly added onto a surface of the physical assets or a packaging thereof. In such examples, the surface of the physical assets or a packaging thereof serves as the physical substrates.

[0174] An identifier can be any coded, encrypted, unencrypted, or uncoded identification mark or information usable for identifying the physical asset which an identifier is associated with. Some examples of the identifier can include barcode, QR code, pattern code, TOC, RFID, Near Field Communication (NFC) tag, serial number, lot number, IMEI tag, or any other equivalent machine or human readable identifier containing information usable for identifying the physical asset which an identifier is associated with. In some examples, the identifiers on a single physical substrate or a single physical asset can be all of same type (barcode, QR code, TOC, or others mentioned above) with respect to each other. In some examples, one or more identifiers can be of different type relative to other identifiers) on a same substrate or asset. For instance, each type of identifier can have its corresponding characteristics including physical qualities and / or usability, allowing reading the identifiers at different conditions. For example, some types of identifiers can be read from a greater distance as compared to other types of identifiers, some types of identifiers can be read from a wider viewing angle as compared to other types of identifiers, some types of identifiers can be read with a lesser illumination as compared to other types of identifiers, some types of identifiers can be easier to be read as compared to other types of identifiers, some types of identifiers can remain readable for a longer period of time as compared to other types of identifiers, or some types of identifiers can be in any manner more usable or user friendly as compared to other types of identifiers. Accordingly, in some examples, two or more different types of identifiers can be used on a single physical substrate or a single physical asset, while such identifiers of different types can carry (encode) same or different information.

[0175] Different types of identifiers can require different conditions (e.g. different manners and / or different equipment) of their addition to the physical substrate, and adding one of the identifiers (for example, TOC) on the physical substrate might not be possible, or at least suitable, in a particular environment where the other identifier (for example, barcode) is added, for example, at the local facility. Thus, the former identifier can be added on the physical substrate in a more suitable environment, for example, at a specialized facility suitable for adding such identifiers, and the latter identifier can be added at the local facility.

[0176] It is to be understood herein that the Tracking Optimized Code (TOC) can be in the form, or include features, of the multi-colored symbols disclosed in US 9437046, and the description of these symbols from US 9437046 is incorporated herein by reference.

[0177] Each one of the identifiers associated with a physical asset is unique for this, or can be generated uniquely for this, physical asset. For instance, in examples in which two identifiers are associated with one physical asset, the two identifiers include a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier, each of the first and second identifiers being unique for the physical asset. It is to be understood herein that an identifier being unique for a particular physical asset is intended to mean that the identifier is not (and not to be) associated with any physical asset other than that particular physical asset. For the purposes of understanding of the present description, a physical asset is to be understood herein as an entity that can be independently (as a single stand alone entity) managed, i.e., stored (or in any other way handled) and / or moved (within or outside a facility). For example, a physical asset is to be understood herein as any entity which can independently of other physical entities be sold, bought, stored, managed, ordered for purchase, stocked, disposed off, dispatched, or can be subject any other equivalent process.

[0178] For each one of the unique identifiers to be associated only with a specific physical asset, it can be either generated uniquely for this specific physical asset or it can be unique, i.e., generated uniquely for, the corresponding physical substrate / s that is / are to be attached to the specific physical asset. It is to be noted that there might be more than one identical physical substrates that are (or, are to be) attached to a same physical asset (for example, on different sides or portions of the physical asset). In the present description and claims, such identical physical substrates will be considered as a single physical substrate.

[0179] In one or more of the examples of the presently disclosed subject matter described herein, an identifier which is (or is to be) uniquely associated with a particular physical asset of a plurality of physical assets being managed or to be managed, is not (or is not to be) associated with any other physical assets, of the plurality of physical assets, different than the particular physical asset with which the identifier is uniquely associated,: at least within one and the same facility; and / or at least within a predefined period of time from when the identifier has been generated and / or added to the particular physical asset; and / or at least within the same category (or type) of physical assets.

[0180] In one or more of the examples of the presently disclosed subject matter described herein, an identifier which is (or is to be) uniquely associated with, or uniquely generated for, a particular physical substrate of a plurality of physical substrates based on which a plurality of physical assets are being (or are to be) managed, is not (and not to be) associated with any other physical substrates, of the plurality of physical substrates, different from that particular physical substrate,: at least within one and the same facility; and / or at least within a predefined period of time from when the identifier has been generated and / or is added to the particular physical substrate; and / or to be attached to physical asset(s) within the same category as that of the physical asset to which the particular physical substrate is (or is to be) attached.

[0181] In some examples, one (or a first) identifier can be added on to one (or a first) physical substrate and another (or a second) identifier can be added on to another (or a second) physical substrate, and both the first and the second physical substrates can be attached to the same physical asset with which the first and second identifiers are (or are to be) associated.

[0182] In some examples, the first and second identifiers can be added on to a single physical substrate which is (or which is to be) attached to the physical asset with which the first and second identifiers are (or are to be) uniquely associated. It is to be understood herein that either or both of the first and second identifiers can be added on to the physical substrate before or after the physical substrate is attached to the physical asset. In some examples, the first identifier is added on to the physical substrate prior to attaching the physical substrate to the physical asset, and the second identifier is added on to the physical substrate after attaching the physical substrate to the physical asset. In some examples, each one of the first and second identifiers are added on to the physical substrate prior to attaching the physical substrate to the physical asset, and subsequently the physical substrate is attached to the physical asset. Thus, the physical substrate includes (or carries, or bears, or has) the first and second identifiers at least after the attachment of the physical substrate to the physical asset.

[0183] Accordingly, some aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter relate to a physical substrate attachable to a physical asset for at least partial management of the physical asset, whereas the physical substrate comprises (or includes, carries, orbears, or has) a first unique identifier, the first unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate, and a second unique identifier, the second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate, the two identifiers being generated and / or added to the physical substrate at different times and / or different places.

[0184] When a plurality of physical assets are to be managed, a corresponding plurality of physical substrates are used, each having a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier. For example, both the first and second unique identifiers can be added to each one of a plurality of physical substrates, and subsequently, each substrate is attached to a corresponding physical asset. The plurality of physical substrates can constitute a collection of physical substrates either discrete or physically connected to each other, for example, in the form of a set of physical substrates.

[0185] Accordingly, a set of physical substrates can be used for management of a plurality of physical assets, each being attachable to a particular physical asset of such plurality of physical assets, whereas each physical substrate comprises (or includes, carries, or bears, or has) a first unique identifier, the first unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate, and a second unique identifier, the second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate.

[0186] In some examples, the set of physical substrates can be in the form of a roll of physical substrates. In some examples, the set of physical substrates can be in the form of a collection of discrete physical substrates. In some examples, the set of physical substrates can be in the form of a chain of physical substrates, each being connected to a next one forming the chain.

[0187] In general, the description provided herein above, about physical substrates, identifiers, and / or physical assets, can apply to all examples of physical substrates described herein below, and to physical substrates used in in all methods and systems for managing physical assets or for facilitating managing physical assents described herein below as well.

[0188] Reference is now made to Fig. 1 schematically illustrating a facility 1 where a plurality of physical assets 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, 2H, and 21 (collectively and individually referred to herein respectively as physical asset / s 2) are located and at least partially managed. A corresponding physical substrate 10 is attached to each one of the physical assets 2, i.e., physical substrates 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G, 10H, and 101 (collectively and individually referred to herein respectively as physical substrate / s 10) are attached to the physical assets 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, 2H, and 21 respectively.

[0189] Each of the physical substrates 10 include a corresponding first unique identifier 12 and a corresponding second unique identifier 14. As can be clearly seen in Figs. IB and 1C , the physical substrate 10A includes a first unique identifier 12A and a second unique identifier 14A. Each ofthe first unique identifiers is unique forthe corresponding physical substrate as well as the corresponding physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached. Each of the second unique identifiers is unique for the corresponding physical substrate as well as the corresponding physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached. Each of the first unique identifiers is unique with respect to (different from) any other first and any second unique identifier in the plurality of physical assets 2. Each of the second unique identifiers is unique with respect to (different from) any other second and any first unique identifier in the plurality of physical substrates 10.

[0190] In general, a physical substrate can have a first substrate portion and a second substrate portion. A physical substrate can have a first state in which the first substrate portion is at least partially occupied by (or bears, or includes, or carries, or has added thereon) a first unique identifier, and the second substrate portion has a vacant space, for example, for receiving therein a second unique identifier. In some examples, the first substrate portion and the second substrate portions are located at a same side of the physical substrate. In case the identifiers are located on different sides the physical substrate, the physical substrate has such a form that those sides are accessible for reading the identifiers.

[0191] Reference is now made to Fig. 2A schematically illustrating a change of state of a physical substrate 10 from a first state SI to a second state S2 according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. In the first state SI, the physical substrate 10 comprises a first substrate portion, generally designated as 10-1 and a second substrate portion, generally designated as 10-2, on a same of side of the physical substrate. The physical substrate 10 can be attached in any suitable manner to a physical asset to be at least partially managed based on the physical substrate 10. At the first state SI, the first substrate portion 10-1 bears the first unique identifier 12 and the second substrate portion 10-2 is vacant. Subsequently, once the second unique identifier 14 has been added on to the physical substrate 10 in the vacant space 10-2 A in the second substrate portion 10-2, the second state S2 of the physical substrate 10 is obtained.

[0192] Although in the example illustrated in Fig. 2A, the identifiers 12 and 14 have been shown as being of the same type, i.e., barcodes, in some examples the identifiers 12 and 14 can be of different types. For instance, in an example shown in Fig. 2B schematically illustrating a change of state of a physical substrate 10 fiom a first state SI to a second state S2, the first identifier 12 is a TOC and the second identifier 14 is a barcode. In the first state SI, the first identifier 12 occupies a part of the first substrate portion 10-1, and once subsequently, the second identifier 14 has been added on to the physical substrate 10 in the vacant space 10-2A in the second substrate portion 10-2, the second state S2 of the physical substrate 10 is obtained. It is to be understood herein that the first identifier 12 can be any type of identifier other than TOC, and / or the second identifier 14 can be any type of identifier other than barcode.

[0193] In general, the first and second identifiers can have different characteristics, for example quality and / or usability, and thus the physical substrate can inhibit the characteristics of both the identifiers. The identifiers are to be linked to each other, as described in detail further herein below, and thus any one of the identifiers can be added to the physical substrate and / or read based on environment in which the physical substrate is being used. In other words, based on an environment in which the identifiers are to be scanned (read), the more suitable identifier can be scanned. In some examples, the first and second identifiers can carry (encode) same information, thus being associated with a same facility and / or operation, and can be used to provide the characteristics of both the identifier types to the physical substrate. In some examples, the first and second identifiers can cany (encode) different information, each being associated with a correspondingfacility and / or operation, thereby associating the physical substrate with two facilities and / or operations while also providing the characteristics of both the identifier types to the physical substrate.

[0194] One or each one the first identifier and the second identifier can be constituted by two or more identifiers of different types. For instance, one or each one of the first and second identifiers can be constituted by (or include) two or more identifiers of different types. In such examples, the two or more identifiers constituting the first identifier and / or the second identifier can carry (encode) same information, and can provide the characteristics of both the identifier types to the physical substrate. It is to be understood that identifiers constituting a first or a second identifiers can be any type of identifiers generally known and / or mentioned in the present description or equivalents thereof.

[0195] For instance, in an example shown in Fig. 2C schematically illustrating the change of state of a physical substrate 10 fiom the first state SI to the second state S2, the first identifier 12 is constituted by (or includes) two identifiers, one being a TOC 12-1 and other being a barcode 12-2.

[0196] The TOC 12-1 and the barcode 12-2 can carry (encode) same information, and can be used to provide the characteristics of both the TOC and barcode to the physical substrate. In some examples, the TOC 12-1 and the barcode 12-2 can carry (encode) different information. Based on an environment in which the identifiers are to be scanned (read), the more suitable identifier can be scanned.

[0197] It is to be understood herein that the first identifier can be of a kind that at least a part thereof is uncapable of being added to the physical substrate under the same conditions as the second identifier, and / or the tfahactil aitydds the second identifier can be uncapable of adding the first identifier to the physical substrate under the same conditions as the second identifier. For example, when the first identifier is of a multi- colored type such as e.g. a TOC, a corresponding equipment needed for adding such identifiers to physical substrates can be different fiom that capable only of adding second identifiers such as single-color barcodes.

[0198] It is to be understood that any of the first and second portions of the physical substrate can bear, in addition to the respective first and second identifiers, information other than these identifier, or can be free of any such additional information. Thus, whilst in the examples shown in Figs.2A to 2C , additional information is shown as having been added to the physical substrate 10 while transitioning it from the first state to the second state, such additional information might not be necessary and can be omitted.

[0199] Fig. 3 illustrates a set 5 of physical substrates including physical substrates 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, and 10E, all being in their respective first state, each bearing a first unique identifier. The physical substrates 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, and 10E, in their first state, bear first unique identifiers 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E, respectively. In the illustrated example, the set 5 is formed as a drain of physical substrates 10A, 10B, IOC, 10D, and 10E, each being connected to at least one adjacent physical substrate. In general, some or all of the physical substrates of a set can be transitioned fiom their first state into their second state while still being within the set. Accordingly, a set of physical substrates, all being in their second state can be obtained.

[0200] Fig. 4 illustrates a set 5 of physical substrates including physical substrates 10A, 10B, IOC, 10D, and 10E, all being in their respective second state. The physical substrates 10A, 10B, IOC, 10D, and 10E, in their second state, bear first unique identifiers 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E, respectively, and second unique identifiers 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, and 14E, respectively. Each of the first unique identifiers 12A-12E is unique with respect to (different fiom) any other first and any second unique identifier. Each of the second unique identifiers 14A-14E is unique with respect to (different fiom) any other second and any first unique identifier. In the illustrated example, the set 5 is formed as a chain of physical substrates 10A, 10B, IOC, 10D, and 10E, each being connected to at least one adjacent physical substrate.

[0201] In general, the physical assets to be at least partially managed based on physical substrates according to the presently disclosed subject matter, can be located, at least temporarily, at a single facility. A facility at which the physical assets to be managed are located, at least temporarily, and / or where the physical substrates, based on which the physical assets are to be at least partially managed, are attached to the substrates, can be referred to as a local facility. A local facility can be any building unit where the physical assets are manufactured and / or stored, or any kind of logistics activity is performed with respect to the physical assets. Some examples of a local facility can include warehouse, depot, storage center, manufacturing unit, distribution center, logistics center, office, or equivalents thereof, where the physical assets can be located, stored, managed, handled, etc., at least temporarily. In general, a facility other than the local facility can be involved at least partially in management of the physical assets located, at least temporarily, at the local facility. For instance, the other facility can be involved in performance of one or more operations of the management of the physical assets. Some examples of such one or more operations can include inventory management, order fulfillment, stock tracking, space optimization, ensuring safety and compliance, coordinating inbound and outbound shipments, forecasting demand, ordering new stock, replenishing items, managing stock levels and storage, handling returns and obsolescence, monitoring location and movement of assets in real-time, quick identification of stock discrepancies, and equivalents thereof. In some examples, the operations performed by the other facility can include tracking the movement of the physical assets within and / or outside the local facility. The other facility can be located remote to the local facility, or in general can be a separate entity than (not necessarily remote to) the local facility. The physical assets may be located (at least temporarily) or may not be located (even temporarily) at the remote facility during the process of management of the physical assets.

[0202] In any case, a facility at which the attachment to the physical assets of the physical substrates, based on which the physical assets are to be at least partially managed, is not performed, is referred to as a remote facility. In other words, the physical substrates are not attached to the physical assets at the remote facility.

[0203] In some examples, the first unique identifier can be generated outside of the local facility. In some examples, the first unique identifier can be added to the physical substrate outside of the local facility. In some examples, the first unique identifier can be generated at the remote facility. In some examples, the first unique identifier can be added to the physical substrate at the remote facility.

[0204] Some examples of a remote facility can include warehouse, depot, storage center, manufacturing unit, distribution center, logistics center, office, or equivalents thereof. In some examples, a remote facility can be a facility of a service provider involved at least partially in management of the physical asset, for example, for performance of one or more operations of the management of the physical assets. Some examples of such one or more operations can include inventory management, order fulfillment, stock tracking, space optimization, ensuring safety and compliance, coordinating inbound and outbound shipments, forecasting demand, ordering new stock, replenishing items, managing stock levels and storage, handling returns and obsolescence, monitoring location and movement of assets in real-time, quick identification of stock discrepancies, and equivalents thereof. In some examples, the operations performed by the remote facility (service provider) can include tracking the movement of the physical assets within and / or outside the local facility. In some examples, the remote facility can be a cloud server, or any computer (or processor) operated system operable to perform the one or more operations of the management of the physical assets.

[0205] In some examples, the physical substrates in their first states can be provided by the remote facility. In other words, a physical substrate provided by the remote facility can bear a first unique identifier, being unique to the physical substrate.

[0206] In some aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter relating to a method for managing physical assets at a local facility based on physical substrates bearing first and second unique identifiers, this method can be at least partially computer implementable, i.e., one or more of the method steps can be performed by, or with the assistance of, a computer or processor specifically configured for performance of those steps or functions related thereto.

[0207] More particularly, a method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility according to the presently disclosed subject matter can include attaching one or more physical substrates to each one of the physical assets to be managed, each of the physical substrates bearing at least one unique identifier (unique to the physical substrate). In some examples, a corresponding one physical substrate bearing a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier can be attached to each one of the physical assets to be managed. In some examples, two physical substrates, one bearing a first unique identifier and the other one bearing a second unique identifier, can be attached to a physical asset to be managed. The method can further include reading at least the first unique identifier, for example, for obtaining a first data associated with the first unique identifier. The method can further include sending to a linking unit the first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other. It is to be understood herein that the steps of the method can be performed in a sequence different than the one described herein. For instance, the attachment of the one or more physical substates can be performed after reading the first unique identifier and / or after sending the first and second data. In some examples, reading the first unique identifier and / or sending the first and second data can be performed after the attachment of the one or more physical substates. In some examples, one or more of the steps of reading the first unique identifier and sending the first and second data can be performed or implemented by a computer or a processor-controlled hardware.

[0208] In some examples, a method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility can include receiving from a remote facility different from the local facility one or more physical substrates attachable to the one or more physical assets to be managed. Each physical substrate can comprise a first substrate portion occupied by a first unique identifier, and a second substrate portion having a vacant space. The physical substrate received from the remote facility can include one or more features of the physical substrates in their first state as described herein above generally as well as with reference to Figs. 2A to 4.

[0209] In some examples, the method can further include adding to each physical substrate at the local facility a second unique identifier in the vacant space, the second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate. It is to be understood herein that reference has been made to a singular physical substrate for the purposes of clarity, and the description applies to each of the physical substrates. The physical substrate obtained after addition of the second unique identifier can include one or more features of the physical substrates in their second state as described herein generally as well as with respect to Figs. 2A to 4.

[0210] In some examples, the method can further include reading from tire physical substrate at the local facility at least the first unique identifier, for example to obtain a first data associated therewith. In some examples, the method can further include sending to a linking unit a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other.

[0211] In the above method, the attachment of the physical substrate to a respective physical asset of the one or more physical assets to be managed, can be performed before the second unique identifier has been added to the physical substrate or after that but in any case the first and second unique identifiers are present on the corresponding substrate at least after the substrate has been attached to the physical asset.

[0212] All or some of the description provided herein above local facility, remote , facility management of physical assets, operations of management of the physical assets, can apply to corresponding features of the methods for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility described herein below.

[0213] In general, managing the physical assets can include some operations to be performed by or from the remote facility. Accordingly, the first unique identifier can be usable for performance of those operations by the remote facility. In some examples, such an operation can be tracking the movement of the physical assets within and / or outside the local facility. Accordingly, the first unique identifier can be a tracking identifier, which can be usable for tracking the location, and thus movement, of the physical asset with which the physical substrate bearing the first unique identifier is attached. Therefore, the first unique identifier can be provided, for example together with (or pre-added to) the physical substrate, and the local facility can receive the physical substrate with the first unique identifier from the remote facility.

[0214] In general, managing the physical assets can include some operations to be performed at the local facility. Some of such operations can include storing and / or in other way handling the physical assets within or outside the local facility. Accordingly, the second unique identifier can be usable for performance of those operations at the local facility. In some examples, such an operation can be storing, or in any way handling, the physical assets at the local facility. Accordingly, the second unique identifier can be a Local Facility Management System (LFMS) identifier, which can be usable for performance of the operations of the management of the physical asset with which the physical substrate bearing the second unique identifier is attached. Therefore, the second unique identifier can be provided, in some examples generated, at and / or by the local facility.

[0215] Upon addition of the second unique identifier, the physical substrate obtained includes the first unique identifier and the second unique identifier. Accordingly, in some examples, the physical substrate, obtained as a part of a method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility upon addition ofthe second unique identifier, can include one or more features of the physical substrates in their second state as described herein generally as well as with respect to Figs. 2A to 4.

[0216] In some examples, reading the first unique identifier can include reading the first identifier from the physical substrate, for example, tor obtaining a first data, associated with the first unique identifier. The first data being associated with the first unique identifier can be indicative of, or includes, any information related to the content ofthe first unique identifier. For instance, the first data can be any information usable by a recipient of the first data to identify the first unique identifier and / or retrieve the contents thereof, thereby rendering the first unique identifier usable for performance of its associated operation.

[0217] Similarly, the second data being associated with the second unique identifier can be indicative of, or includes, any information related to the content of the second unique identifier. For instance, the second data can be any information usable by a recipient of the second data to identify the second unique identifier and / or retrieve the contents thereof, thereby rendering the second unique identifier usable for performance of its associated operation.

[0218] In some examples, the method can include generating the second unique identifier, uniquely for each of the physical substrates respectively, i.e., one second unique identifier unique for one physical substrate, and similarly for each of the physical substrates. This step can be computer implementable. In some examples, the second unique identifier can be generated at the local facility. In such examples, the second data can be directly obtained from a unit (or module or system or processing circuitry) that generates the second unique identifier, and / or a memory (or database) associated therewith that stores the second unique identifier.

[0219] In some examples, irrespective of whether the second unique identifier is generated at the local facility or not, the method can include reading the second unique identifier from the physical substrate at the local facility, for example, to obtain the second data.

[0220] The first and the second data can be sent to a linking unit for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other. In some examples, the linking unit can be located at the local facility. In some examples, the linking unit can be located outside the local facility and the first and second data are sent thereto from the local facility. In some examples, the linking unit can be located at the remote facility. In some examples, sending the first and second data to the linking unit and / or the linking operation can be computer implementable. In some examples, the linking can be at least partially performed manually. The process of linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other is described herein in detail further below.

[0221] It is to be understood herein that the method described above and below can be at least partially computer implementable. In other words, one or more of the steps of the method can be performed or implemented by a computer or a processor-controlled hardware.

[0222] It is to be understood herein that in some examples, the method can be at least partially performed at the local facility.

[0223] It is to be understood herein that the steps of the method can be performed in any order. For instance, the addition of the second unique identifier can be performed before or after attaching the physical substrate on to the physical asset. The reading of the first unique identifier can be performed before or after adding the second unique identifier, and / or before or after attaching the physical substrate on to the physical asset. The sending of the first and second data can be performed before or after attaching the physical substrate on to the physical asset. Accordingly, the physical substrate has both of the first and second unique identifiers at least after attaching the physical substrate to the corresponding physical asset.

[0224] In the examples in which the method includes generating the second unique identifier, such generation of the second unique identifier can be performed before or after attaching the physical substrate on to the physical asset, and / or before or after reading the first unique identifier, and / or before or after the receiving of the physical substrate. In the examples in which the method includes reading the second unique identifier, such reading of the second unique identifier can be performed before or after attaching the physical substrate on to the physical asset.

[0225] It is to be understood herein that in the examples described below reference is made to a singular physical substrate and its corresponding first and second unique identifiers for the purposes of clarity, and the description applies to each of the physical substrates and its corresponding first and second unique identifiers.

[0226] Reference is now made to Fig. 5 illustrating an exemplary- flow chart of a method 100 for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility, for example the physical assets 2 at the facility 1, described with reference to Fig. 1.

[0227] In the illustrated example, the method 100 includes, at step 110, receiving a physical substrate as a part of a plurality of physical substrates, attachable to one physical asset of a corresponding plurality of physical assets to be managed, the physical substrate bearing a first unique identifier and having a vacant space to which a second identifier can be added, as described above with reference to Figs. 1 to 4.. The method 100 further includes, at step 120, adding the second unique identifier to the physical substrate . The method 100 includes, at step 130, reading the first unique identifier, and at step 140, sending a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier, to a linking unit for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other. At least step 140 can be computer implementable. The method 100 further includes, at step 150, attaching the physical substrate to a respective physical asset of the plurality of physical assets to be managed.

[0228] The method 100 can include optional (accordingly, shown as dotted in Fig. 5) step 115 of generating the second unique identifier, and / or another optional (accordingly, shown as dotted in Fig. 5) step 135 of reading the second unique identifier. At least the step 115 can be computer implementable.

[0229] It is to be understood herein that the sequence depicted in Fig. 5 is exemplary and the steps of the method 100 can be performed in a sequence different from the one depicted and described herein. Irrespective of the sequence of the steps, the physical substrate bears the first and second unique identifiers at least after having been attached to the physical asset.

[0230] It is to be understood herein that the description provided herein above for the steps of a method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility can apply to corresponding steps of the method 100.

[0231] In general, a method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility can be at least partially performed by a system for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility at least partially based on physical substrates attachable to the physical assets. The physical substrates at least after having been attached to the physical assets carrying (or having orbearing) identifiers, for example first and second unique identifiers, as described above.

[0232] In general, a system for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility can include an identifier adding unit, an identifier reading unit, and a transmitter unit. In some examples, the identifier adding unit can be operable to at least partially perform the steps of receiving the physical substrates and / or adding the second unique identifier. In some examples, the identifier adding unit can be operable to at least partially perform the step of reading the first unique identifier. In some examples, the identifier adding unit can be operable to at least partially perform the step of sending the first and second data to a linking unit. It is to be understood herein that the description provided herein for the steps of a method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility can apply to corresponding steps when those steps are performed by respective one of the identifier adding unit, identifier reading unit, and the transmitter unit, and these units can be operable accordingly.

[0233] The identifier adding unit can have any structure suitable for adding the second unique identifier onto the physical substrate according to the structure of the physical substrate and the process used for adding the identifier. The structure of the physical substrate and / or the process used for adding the identifier can be selected from the examples of the structures of the physical substrate and the process used for adding the identifier provided above, and the identifier adding unit can have any structure suitable for the selected structure of the physical substrate and / or the process used for adding the identifier. In some examples, the identifier adding unit can include a printer device operable to print the identifier onto the physical substrate or a sticking device operable to adhesively (or by other suitable means) stick the identifier to tire physical substrate or a stamping device operable to pressingly engrave the identifier on the physical substrate or an etching device operable to etch the identifier on the physical substrate or a laser device operable to engrave the identifier on the physical substrate or a writing device to paint, write, or otherwise ink, the identifier on the physical substrate or an equivalent of any of these.

[0234] The identifier reading unit can have any structure suitable for reading an identifier, for example from the physical substrate. In some examples, the identifier reading unit can include a scanner, any device including a scanner, an imaging device, and an equivalent of any of these.

[0235] The transmitter unit can have any suitable structure for transmitting data over wired / wireless links. In some examples, the transmitter unit can include processing circuitry suitable to implement transmission of data. In some examples, the transmitter unit can include one or more transceivers, antennas, wired / wireless signal transmitting equipment, or an equivalent of any of these.

[0236] It is to be understood herein that one or more of the identifier adding unit, identifier reading unit, and transmitter unit can be implemented at least partially by one or more processing circuitries operable to execute computer instructions causing the units to perform their intended functions. In some examples, the identifier adding unit, identifier reading unit, and transmitter unit can be implemented by a common processing circuitry. In some examples, the system can include a processing circuitry operable for generating the second unique identifier. In such examples, the second data can be directly obtained, for example, by the transmitter unit, from the processing circuitry that generates the second unique identifier, and / or a memory (or database) associated therewith that stores the second unique identifier.

[0237] In some examples, irrespective of where and by which unit the second unique identifier is generated, the identifier reading unit can be operable to read the second unique identifier from the physical substrate, for example, to obtain the second data.

[0238] In some examples, the linking unit can constitute a part of the system. In some examples, the linking can be implemented at least partially by a processing circuitry (common with any other unit or separately for the linking unit). The process of linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other is described herein in detail further below.

[0239] In some examples, two or more units of the system can be implemented as a single collective unit operable to perform functions of the corresponding two or more units. In some examples, one or more of the units of the system can be implemented as separate sub-units, all collectively or individually operable to perform the functions of that unit.

[0240] It is to be understood herein that in some examples, the system can be at least partially located at the local facility.

[0241] It is to be understood that the above description provided herein above for the identifier adding unit, identifier reading unit, transmitter unit, processing circuitry, memory', linking unit of a system for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility can apply to corresponding units of the system 200, as described herein below with reference to Figs. 6, 7 A and 7B.

[0242] Reference is now made to Fig. 6 illustrating a block diagram schematically depicting a system 200 for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility at least partially based on physical substrates attachable to the physical assets, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. The system 200 includes an identifier adding unit, an identifier reading unit, and a transmitter unit, generally designated as 210, 220, and 230 respectively. The system 200 further includes processing circuitry 240 operable to, in some examples, implement at least partially one or more of the identifier adding unit 210, an identifier reading unit 220, and a transmitter unit 230. The processing circuitry 240 can be operable to establish coordination between the other units of the system 200. The system 200 further includes a memory (or database) 250, which stores computer instructions that can be executed by the processing circuitry, in some examples, to implement at least partially one or more of the identifier adding unit 210, an identifier reading unit 220, and a transmitter unit 230, and / or to perform other intended functions thereof.

[0243] The system 200 can optionally (accordingly, shown with dotted block in Fig. 6) include a linking unit 260 operable for linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other, as described in detail herein further below. In some examples, the linking unit 260 can be implemented at least partially by the processing circuitry 240. In general, an identifier adding unit of a system for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility can include a substrate inlet operable to receive the physical substrate prior to adding the second unique identifier, and a substrate outlet for dispensing the physical substrate after adding the second unique identifier. In some examples, the substrate inlet can be operable to receive a set of physical substrates, as described above, being in their first state. The identifier adding unit can subsequently add the second unique identifiers to the substrates of the set to bring them into their second state, and dispense them from the substrate outlet continuously (i.e. one by one), or all together as the set.

[0244] The identifier reading unit can be operable to read the first unique identifiers at the substrate outlet. In other words, the identifier reading unit can be operable to read the first unique identifier on each physical substrate when the physical substrate is reaches the substrate outlet. For instance, the identifier reading unit can have a field of view within which the identifier reading unit can read an identifier. The identifier reading unit can be so positioned that the substrate outlet is at least partially within the field of view, at least enough that the identifier reading unit can read the identifier when the physical substrate is located at the substrate outlet. In some examples, the identifier reading unit can include an imaging device, some examples of which can include a camera, a device including a camera, a scanner, a device including a scanner, and equivalents thereof.

[0245] In some examples, the identifier adding unit and the identifier reading unit can be constituted as a single unit. For instance, the identifier adding unit and the identifier reading unit can be implemented by a single device or apparatus. In some examples, the identifier adding unit and the identifier reading unit can constitute parts or sub-units of a single unit. In some examples, the identifier reading unit can be mounted, by a suitable mounting means, to the identifier adding unit. The mounting means can be mechanical mounting means, some examples of the which can include screws, fasteners, clamps, snap-mechanisms, and equivalents thereof. In some examples, the identifier reading unit can be mounted at a holder for the identifier reading unit which can be positioned in proximity to the identifier adding unit, or can be mounted thereto.

[0246] Reference is now made to Figs. 7A and 7B illustrating a device 200’, which can constitute at least a part of a system 200 for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility at least partially based on physical substrates attachable to the physical assets, according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. The device 200’ includes an identifier adding unit 210, which in the illustrated example is a printer 210. The printer 210 includes a substrate inlet, which in the illustrated example is printer inlet 212, operable to receive the physical substrate prior to adding the second unique identifier, and a substrate outlet 214, which in the illustrated example is a printer outlet 214, for dispensing the physical substrate after adding the second unique identifier. The device 200’ further includes an identifier reading unit 220, which in the illustrated example is a scanner 220. The scanner 220 has a field of view 222, and is so positioned with respect to the printer 210 that the printer outlet 214 is within the field of view 222. Accordingly, the scanner 220 can scan (read) the identifiers) on a physical substrate when the physical substrate is located at the printer outlet 214.

[0247] Referring to Figs. 6, 7A and 7B, the system 200 further includes a transmitter unit, which can be a part of any one or both of the identifier adding unit 210 and the identifier reading unit 220, or as a separate unit (not shown in Figs. 7A and 7B). The system 200 further includes a processing circuitry and a memory, as a part of any one or both of the identifier adding unit 210 and the identifier reading unit 220, or as a separate unit (not shown in Figs. 7A and 7B).

[0248] In some examples, the identifier adding unit 210 can be operable to generate itself the second unique identifier, for each of the physical substrates. In some examples, the processing circuitry can be operable to generate the second unique identifier.

[0249] In some examples, the system 200 can include a linking unit, as a part of any one or both of the identifier adding unit 210 and the identifier reading unit 220, or as a separate unit (not shown in Figs. 7A and 7B), operable for linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other. It is to be understood herein that the description provided above for the identifier adding unit, identifier reading unit, transmitter unit, processing circuitry, memory, linking unit of a system for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility can apply to corresponding units of the system 200, as described with reference to Figs. 7A and 7B.

[0250] In general, in a method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility, the sending of the first and second data to the finking unit can include sending the first and second data under predetermined conditions. In some examples, the predetermined conditions should be necessarily met for the first and second unique identifiers to be linked to each other. In some examples, the linking unit can be operable to determine whether the predetermined conditions were met while sending of the first and second data, and can accordingly determine whether the first and second unique identifiers can be linked to each other or not. In some examples, the linking unit can be operable to determine based on a set of rules, in addition to or in alternative to determining based on the predetermined conditions, whether the first and second unique identifiers can be linked to each other or not, as described in detail herein further below.

[0251] In some examples, t phreedetermined conditions can be associated with time of sending each one of the first and second data. For instance, the predetermined conditions can include a condition that the time gap between the times of sending the first and second data is to be shorter than a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold can range from 1 second to 20 minutes, including all the individual values in between, each value being the predetermined threshold according to different examples of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0252] In some examples, the predetermined conditions can be associated with type of the first and second data and / or the first and second unique identifiers. For instance, the predetermined conditions can include a condition that the first and second unique identifiers and / or the first and second data, has to be of different type with respect to each other. It is to be understood herein that the type of an identifier is intended to mean the content of the identifier, or the information encoded by the identifier. The two identifiers (or data associated therewith) being of different types with respect to each other is intended to mean that the two identifiers encode different information. In some examples, the predetermined conditions can include a condition that the first and second unique identifiers are in fact located on same physical substrate. In some examples, the predetermined conditions can include a condition that the first and second unique identifiers must be read simultaneously.

[0253] In some examples, the predetermined conditions can include a condition that the first and second unique identifiers are located in a predetermined mutual disposition, i.e. at a predetermined distance from each other.

[0254] In some examples, sending the first and second data can be accompanied by sending information indicative of the predetermined conditions, for example, for the linking unit to determine whether the predetermined conditions were met or not.

[0255] In the examples in which the predetermined conditions are associated with time of sending each one of the first and second data, the information indicative of the predetermined conditions can be timestamps indicative of times when the first and second data were sent. For example, sending the information indicative of the predetermined conditions can include sending together with the first data a first timestamp indicative of a time when the first data was sent, and sending together with the second data a second timestamp indicative of a time when the second data was sent. The time gap between the times of sending the first and second data can be compared to a predetermined threshold to determine whether the first and second unique identifiers can be linked to each other or not.

[0256] In the examples in which the predetermined conditions are associated with type of the first and second data and / or the first and second unique identifiers, the information indicative of the predetermined conditions can be any information indicating that the type of the first and second data and / or the first and second unique identifiers are different from each other. In the examples in which the predetermined conditions include a condition that the first and second unique identifiers are located on same physical substrate, the information indicative of the predetermined conditions can include an image of the physical substrate and / or a message that the first and second unique identifiers have been read from the same physical substrate.

[0257] In the examples in which the predetermined conditions include a condition that the first and second unique identifiers must be read simultaneously, the information indicative of the predetermined conditions can be that the first and second data are sent via a single message, or as a single packet of data. In the examples in which the predetermined conditions include a condition that the first and second unique identifiers must be at a pre-determined mutual disposition, the information indicative of the predetermined conditions can include an image of the physical substrate and / or a message that the first and second unique identifiers are positioned as required.

[0258] It is to be understood herein that a transmitter unit of a system for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility at least partially based on physical substrates attachable to the physical assets, can be operable to send the first and second data under predetermined conditions, and to perform some or all of the corresponding steps associated therewith, as described herein above.

[0259] In general, the linking unit, located whether at the local facility, outside the local facility, or at the remote facility, can be operable to perform linking of the first and second unique identifiers in a manner as described herein below with reference to methods and systems for facilitating managing physical assets disposed at a local facility, each asset having attached thereto a physical substrate with a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier.

[0260] The description provided herein above about the physical substrates, attachment means, identifiers, adding identifiers onto the physical substrates, uniqueness of the identifiers with respect to the physical substrates and / or physical assets, local facility, remote facility, apply to the corresponding features of the methods and systems described below, for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility.

[0261] In general, a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility can include receiving a first data associated with the first unique identifier, and a second data associated with the second unique identifier. The method can further include determining, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other. For instance, if one or more rule / s of the set of rules are fulfilled, then determine that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other, and if one or more rules of the set of rules are not fulfilled, then determine that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other.

[0262] In response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other, the method can include linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other. In general, linking two identifiers to each other can include establishing an association between the two identifiers and storing that association in a database. In some examples, association between two identifiers can mean that reference to any one of the two identifiers can lead / guide to the other one of the two identifiers. In some examples, the two identifiers being linked to each other means that any one of the two identifiers can be read for retrieving information about the other one or both of the identifiers. In some examples, linking two identifiers to each other can include establishing a virtual link (or association) between the two identifiers and storing that virtual association in a database. In some examples, the method can include optionally a step of resetting upon determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other. In some examples, the method can include optionally a step of generating a notification (interchangeably referred to herein as alert) that the first and second identifiers have not been linked to each other, for example, in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other. The alert can be generated for a user or operator to know that the first and second identifiers could not be linked to each other, and accordingly, a troubleshooting or error correction can be initiated.

[0263] It is to be understood herein that the linking method can be at least partially computer implementable. In other words, one or more of the steps of the linking method can be performed or implemented by a computer or a processor-controlled hardware.

[0264] It is to be understood herein that in some examples, the method can be at least partially performed at the local facility.

[0265] It is to be understood herein that in some examples, the method can be at least partially performed outside the local facility.

[0266] It is to be understood herein that in some examples, the method can be at least partially performed at the remote facility.

[0267] Reference is now made to Fig. 8 illustrating an exemplary flow chart of a method 300 for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, for example the physical assets 2 at the facility 1, described above with reference to Fig. 1. Each physical asset has attached thereto a physical substrate with a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier. The description provided herein above about the physical substrates, attachment means, identifiers, adding identifiers onto the physical substrates, uniqueness of the identifiers with respect to the physical substrates and / or physical assets, local facility, remote facility, apply to the corresponding features of the method 300.

[0268] In the illustrated example, the method 300 includes, at step 310, receiving a first data associated with the first unique identifier, and at step 320, receiving a second data associated with the second unique identifier. In some examples, the steps 310 and 320 can be implemented collectively as a single step and the first and second data can be received simultaneously. The method 300 includes, at step 330, determining, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other. If it is determined that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other, then the method, at step 340, includes linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other.

[0269] In some examples, the method 300 can include optional (accordingly, shown as dotted in Fig. 8) step 350 of generating a notification (or alert) that the first and second unique identifiers cannot be linked in response to determining at step 330 that tire first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other.

[0270] It is to be understood herein that the description provided herein above for the steps of a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets at a local facility can apply to corresponding steps of the method 300.

[0271] It is to be understood herein that a method for managing one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility can be at least partially computer implementable. In other words, one or more of the steps of the method can be performed or implemented by a computer or a processor-controlled hardware.

[0272] In some examples, the method 300 can include optionally a step of resetting upon determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other. In general, the set of rules can include rales which define whether the first and second identifiers, associated with which the first and second are received, are to be linked to each other or not.

[0273] In some examples, the set of rules can be associated with a sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data. For instance, the set of rules can include a time rule that the time gap between the times of sending the first and second data is to be shorter (or less) than a predetermined sending time gap threshold to determine that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other. The predetermined sending time gap threshold can range from 1 second to 20 minutes, including all the individual values in between, each value being the predetermined sending time gap threshold according to different examples of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0274] In some examples, the set of rules can be associated with a receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data. For instance, the set of rules can include a time rule that the time gap between the times of receiving the first and second data is to be shorter (or less) than a predetermined receiving time gap threshold to determine that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other. The predetermined receiving time gap threshold can range from 1 second to 20 minutes, including all the individual values in between, each value being the predetermined receiving time gap threshold according to different examples of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0275] In some examples, the set of rules can be associated with type of the first and second data and / or the first and second unique identifiers. For instance, the set of rules can include a type rule that the first and second unique identifiers and / or the first and second data has to be of different type with respect to each other to determine that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other. It is to be understood herein that the type of an identifier is intended to mean the content of the identifier, or the information encoded by the identifier. The two identifiers (or data associated therewith) being of different types with respect to each other is intended to mean that the two identifiers encode different information and the information (or type of information) included in the first data associated with the first identifier is different from the information (or type of information) included in the second data associated with the second identifier.

[0276] In some examples, the set of rales can include a rale that the first and second unique identifiers must be associated with a same physical substrate and / or a same physical asset to determine that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0277] In some examples, the set of rales can include a rule that the first and second unique identifiers must be read simultaneously to determine that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0278] In some examples, the set of rules can include a rule that the first and second unique identifiers must be positioned adjacent to each other to determine that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

[0279] In some examples, receiving the first and second data can be accompanied by- receiving information indicative of one or more predetermined conditions, for example, to be determined whether the set of rules fulfilled or not. The predetermined conditions can be one or more of: sending time of the first and second data, an image of the physical substrate, or any other predetermined conditions described herein above. In some examples, a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility can include determining based on at least one of the above-mentioned rules whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other.

[0280] In other words, in some examples, the set of rules can include at least one of the above- mentioned rules.

[0281] In some examples, a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility can include determining based on at least two of the above-mentioned rules whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other.

[0282] In other words, in some examples, the set of rules can include at least two of the above- mentioned rules. The at least two rules can be any two rules (in any combination) of the above-mentioned rules. For instance, as illustrated in Fig. 9 depicting an exemplary- flow chart of a method 400 for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, for example the physical assets 2 at the facility 1, described with reference to Fig. 1. Each physical asset has attached thereto a physical substrate with a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier. It is to be understood herein that all of the description provided herein above with respect to a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, generally and the method 300, can apply to corresponding features / steps of the method described below. The method 400 is same as method 300 with the only' difference being that the step of determining, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other includes determining, based on a first rule and a second rule, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other. All other steps are same and the corresponding description of these steps of tire method 300 can apply to the steps of the method 400.

[0283] For instance, the method 400 includes, at step 410, receiving a first data associated with the first unique identifier, and at step 420, receiving a second data associated with the second unique identifier. In some examples, the steps 410 and 420 can be implemented collectively as a single step and the first and second data can be received simultaneously. The method 400 includes, at step 430-1, determining, based on whether a first rule of a set of rules is fulfilled or not, to link or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other. If it is determined that the first rule is fidfilled, then the method, at step 430-2, determining, based on whether a second rule of a set of rules is fulfilled or not, to link or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other. If it is determined that the second rule is fidfilled, then the method, at step 440, includes linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other.

[0284] In some examples, the method 400 can include optional (accordingly, shown as dotted in Fig. 9) step 440-1 of generating a notification (or alert) that the first and second unique identifiers cannot be linked in response to determining at step 430-1 that the first rule is not fidfilled. In some examples, the method 400 can include optional (accordingly, shown as dotted in Fig. 9) step 440-2 of generating a notification (or alert) that the first and second unique identifiers cannot be linked in response to determining at step 430-2 that the second rule is not fulfilled.

[0285] It is to be understood herein that the description provided herein for the steps of a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets at a local facility can apply to corresponding steps of the method 400.

[0286] It is to be understood herein that the first rule can be any one of the rules of set of rules described herein above. Further, the second rule can be any one of the rules of set of rules described herein above.

[0287] It is to be understood herein that a method for managing one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility can be at least partially computer implementable. In other words, one or more of the steps of the method can be performed or implemented by a computer or a processor-controlled hardware. In the methods illustrated in Figs. 8 and 9, such steps can be each of the steps shown in these figures.

[0288] In general, a method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility can be at least partially performed by a system for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, which can include a processor (or a processing circuitry) which can execute computer instructions to perform one or more functions (steps) of the methods described herein above. The processing circuitry' can include one or more processors that are configured to operate in accordance with programmed instructions. In some examples, processing circuitry can include circuitry in the form of an integrated control circuit that is configured to perform the steps of the methods described herein. The system can further include a memory, and the processing circuitry can communicate with therewith. The memory can include one or more volatile or nonvolatile data storage devices or can represent a data storage function of a device. For example, the memory can include a non- volatile data storage device for storing programmed instructions or data for operation of the system in accordance with some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0289] All or some of the description provided herein above and below, about the physical substrates, attachment means, identifiers, adding identifiers onto the physical substrates, uniqueness of the identifiers with respect to the physical substrates and / or physical assets, local fecility, remote facility, management of physical assets, operations of management of the physical assets can apply to corresponding features of the system for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility' described herein.

[0290] In the example illustrated in Fig. 10, the system 500 for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, as schematically illustrated includes a processing circuitry 510 and a memory 520. All of the description provided above with respect to the processing circuitry and the memory can apply to the processing circuitry' 510 and a memory 520. In some examples, the system can include a set of rules stored in a database 530 separate from the memory 520. In some examples, the database 530 and the memory 520 can be single unit.

[0291] In some examples, a system for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility can be located at a local fecility and a corresponding method can be performed at the local facility.

[0292] In some examples, a system for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility can be located outside a local fecility and a corresponding method can be performed outside the local fecility.

[0293] In some examples, a system for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local fecility can be located at a remote facility and a corresponding method can be performed at the remote fecility.

[0294] In some examples or one or more aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, the first unique identifier can be generated at a facility outside the local fecility. In some examples, the physical substrate can be at least partially generated at a fecility outside the local fecility, for example a first unique identifier can be added to the physical substrate at the facility outside the local facility. In some examples, the facility outside the local facility can be a remote facility.

[0295] In some examples or one or more aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, the second unique identifier can be generated at a facility outside the remote facility. In some examples, the second unique identifier can be added to the physical substrate at a facility outside the remote facility. In some examples, the facility outside the remote facility can be a local facility. In such examples, the remote facility becomes aware of the second unique identifier only upon receipt of the second data by the remote facility.

[0296] Reference is now made to Fig. 11 illustrating a block diagram 600 schematically depicting a method, and corresponding system, according to an example of the presently- disclosed subject matter, for management of a plurality of physical assets 2 disposed at a local facility 1 and facilitating such management by a remote facility 1000 .

[0297] The remote facility- 1000 provides a set 5 of physical substrates 10, each in its first state SI, i.e., having in a first substrate portion 10-1 bearing a first unique identifier 12 , and a second substrate portion 10-2 with a vacant space for adding therein a second unique identifier.

[0298] In the illustrated example, the remote facility 1000 is a tracking service provider facility, which performs operations associated with tracking of a physical asset within and / or outside the local facility and thus generates the corresponding first identifier for, and adds it to, all the substrates in the set 5.

[0299] In the present example, the first unique identifier 12 includes two identifier components, of which one is a tracking optimized code (TOC) 12-1, and the other is a barcode 12-2. The barcode 12-2 is optional and it can encode the same information as the TOC 12-1..

[0300] At the local facility 1, an identifier adding unit 210 adds to the second portion 10-2 of each physical substrate 10, a corresponding second unique identifier 14 generated by the local facility and associated with operation(s) related to storage (or in any way handling) of the physical assets at the local facility 1. In the illustrated example, the local facility is a warehouse, and accordingly, tire second unique identifier 14 is a warehouse management system (WMS) identifier generated by the warehouse and associated with handlingof the physical assets at the warehouse.

[0301] The local facility operates to attach the physical substrates 10 to the corresponding physical assets 2. lire second unique identifiers 14 can be added onto the physical substrates either before their attachment to the corresponding physical assets 2 or after that.

[0302] For each of the physical asset 10 being (or to be) managed, an identifier reading unit 220 reads at least the first unique identifier 12 from the corresponding physical substrate 10, and a first data associated with the first identifier 12 is sent to a linking unit by a transmitter unit 230. The identifier reading unit 220 can read the first unique identifier 12 from tire physical substrate 10, and / or the transmitter unit 230 can send the first data, either before the attachment of the physical substrate 10 to the corresponding physical asset 2 or after that.

[0303] For each of the physical assets 10 being (or to be) managed, a second data associated with the corresponding second unique identifier 14 is also sent to the linking unit. In some examples, the second data can be obtained by reading, by the identifier reading unit 220, the second unique identifier 14 from the physical substrate 10. In some examples, the second data can be obtained directly from the identifier adding unit 210, or any other unit that generated and / or stored the second unique identifier and / or the second data. In the illustrated example, the linking unit is located in a system 500 separate from the local facility 1 as well as the remote facility 1000. In some examples, shown as dotted in Fig. 11, the linking unit can be located at the local facility 1 or the remote facility 1000.

[0304] For each pair of the first and second data, the linking unit in the system 500 determines based on a set of rules whether to link the corresponding first and second unique identifiers 12 and 14 to each other using the first and second data. The linking unit (virtually) links the first and second unique identifiers 12 and 14 to each other in response to determining that the set of rules are fulfilled by the first and second data. In case, the set of mles are not fulfilled, an alert is generated that the first and second unique identifiers for a pair of first and second data have not been linked to each other.

[0305] Once the first and second unique identifiers corresponding to a physical substrate are linked to each other, at any stage of management of the corresponding physical asset, any one or more of the identifiers on the physical substrate can be scanned (or read) based on the environment or conditions in which the physical substrate is located at the time of scanning, and any operation corresponding to any of the identifiers can be performed.

[0306] It is to be understood herein that the TOC component 12-1 of the first identifier 12 can be uncapable of being added to the physical substrates 10 under the same conditions as the barcode 14, and / or the local facility 1 can be uncappable of adding the TOC 12-1 to the physical substrate under the same conditions as the barcode 14. The remote facility 1000 can thus include specialized environment / conditions and / or equipment to add the TOC 12-1 (or any other identifier requiring specialized environment / conditions and / or equipment).

[0307] It is to be understood that the physical substrates 10, identifiers 12 and / or 14, and physical assets 2 of the method and system described with respect to Fig. 11 can respectively include one or more features of any of the physical substrates, identifiers, and physical assets described herein with respect to Figs. 1 to 4. Further, it is to be understood herein that the identifier adding unit 210, the identifier reading unit 220, and the transmitter unit 230 of the method and system described with respect to Fig. 11 can respectively include one or more features of any of the identifier adding unit, the identifier reading unit, the transmitter unit, and their corresponding operations described herein with respect to Figs. 5 to 7B. Further, it is to be understood herein that the linking unit of the method and system described with respect to Fig. 11 can respectively include one or more features of the linking units, and their corresponding operations described herein with respect to Figs. 6 and 8 to 10. Further, it is to be understood herein that the system 500 of the method and system described with respect to Fig. 11 can respectively include one or more features of the system 500, and its corresponding operations described herein with respect to Figs. 8 to 10.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility, the method being at least partially computer implementable and comprising: receiving from a remote facility different from the local facility one or more physical substrates attachable to said one or more physical assets, each physical substrate comprising a first substrate portion occupied by a first unique identifier, and a second substrate portion having a vacant space; adding a second unique identifier in the vacant space, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; reading from the physical substrate at least the first unique identifier; sending to a linking unit a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other; and attaching the physical substrate to a respective physical asset of the one or more physical assets to be managed, the physical substrate having the first and second unique identifiers at least after having been attached to the physical asset.

2. The method according to Claim 1, further comprising generating the second unique identifier uniquely for the physical substrate.

3. The method according to Claim 1 or 2, further comprising reading the second unique identifier from the physical substrate, and determining the second data based thereon.

4. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, wherein said reading the first unique identifier comprises reading the first unique identifier after said addition of the second unique identifier in the vacant space.

5. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein said sending the first and second data to the linking unit includes sending the first and second data under predetermined conditions, said predetermined conditions being necessary to be met for the first and second unique identifiers to be linked to each other.

6. A system for managing one or more physical assets at a local facility at least partially based on physical substrates attachable to the physical assets, said physical substrates at least after having been attached to the physical assets carrying identifiers, the system comprising: an identifier adding unit operable to receive from a remote facility different from the local facility one or more physical substrates attachable to said one or more physical assets, each comprising a first substrate portion occupied by a first unique identifier and a second substrate portion having a vacant space, said identifier adding unit being further operable to add a second unique identifier in the vacant space, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; an identifier reading unit operable to read from the physical substrate at least the first unique identifier; and a transmitter unit operable to send, to a linking unit a first data associated with the first unique identifier and a second data associated with the second unique identifier for linking of the first and second unique identifiers to each other.

7. The system according to Claim 6, further comprising a processing circuitry operable to generate the second unique identifier uniquely for the at least one physical substrate.

8. The system according to Claim 6 or 7, wherein said identifier reading unit is operable to read the second unique identifier from the physical substrate, wherein the second data is determined based on said reading of the second unique identifier.

9. The system according to any one of Claims 6 to 8, wherein said identifier reading unit is operable to read the first unique identifier after addition of the second unique identifier in the vacant space.

10. The system according to any one of Claims 6 to 9, wherein said identifier adding unit comprises a substrate inlet operable to receive the physical substrate prior to adding the second unique identifier, and a substrate outlet for dispensing the physical substrateafter adding the second unique identifier, wherein said identifier reading unit is operable to read the first unique identifier at the substrate outlet.

11. The system according to Claim 10, wherein the identifier reading unit has a field of view including at least partially the substrate outlet.

12. The system according to any one of Claims 6 to 11, wherein the identifier reading unit is mounted to the identifier adding unit.

13. The system according to any one of Claims 6 to 12, wherein the identifier adding unit and the identifier reading unit constitute a single unit.

14. The system according to any one of Claims 6 to 13, wherein the identifier adding unit includes a printer.

15. The system according to any one of Claims 6 to 14, wherein the identifier reading unit includes an imaging device.

16. The system according to Claim 15, wherein the imaging device includes a scanner.

17. The system according to Claim 5 or any one of Claims 8 to 16, when dependent on Claim 7, wherein the transmitter unit constitutes a part of the processing circuitry.

18. The system according to any one of Claims 5 to 16, wherein the transmitter unit being configured to send the first and second data to the linking unit is configured to send the first and second data under predetermined conditions, said predetermined conditions being necessary to be met for the first and second unique identifiers to be linked to each other.

19. The method according to Claim 5, or the system according to Claim 18, wherein the predetermined conditions are associated with times of sending the first and second data.

20. The method or system according to Claim 19, wherein the predetermined conditions are associated with a sending time gap between the sending the first and second data.

21. The method or system according to Claim 20, wherein the predetermined conditions include a condition that the sending time gap must be less than a predetermined sending time gap threshold.

22. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5 or Claims 19 to 21, or the system according to any one of Claims 6 to 21, wherein the first unique identifier was generated at a facility other than the local facility.

23. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5 or Claims 19 to 22, or the system according to any one of Claims 6 to 22, wherein the local facility is a logistics facility.

24. The system according to Claim 18 or any one of Claims 19 to 23, when dependent at least indirectly on Claim 18, wherein the transmitter unit is operable to send the first and second data accompanied by information indicative of the predetermined conditions.

25. The system according to Claim 24, wherein the transmitter unit is operable to: send together with the first data a first timestamp indicative of a time when the first data was sent, and send together with the second data a second timestamp indicative of a time when the second data was sent, said first and second time stamps constituting at least partially the information indicative of the predetermined conditions .

26. The method according to Claim 5 or any one of Claims 19 to 23, when dependent at least indirectly on Claim 5, wherein said sending the first and second data is accompanied by sending information indicative of the predetermined conditions.

27. The method according to Claim 2.6, wherein said sending the information indicative of the predetermined conditions comprises sending together with the first data a first timestamp indicative of a time when the first data was sent, and sending together with the second data a second timestamp indicative of a time when the second data was sent, saidfirst and second timestamps constituting at least partially the information indicative of the predetermined conditions.

28. A physical substrate obtainable as a part of the method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, Claims 19 to 23, or Claims 26 to 27, said physical substrate being obtainable after the step of said adding the second unique identifier in the vacant space.

29. A set of physical substrates comprising a plurality of physical substrates, each being the physical substrate according to Claim 28, wherein each of the first and second identifiers of each physical substrate being unique relative to the first and second identifiers of all other physical substrates from said plurality of physical substrates.

30. A physical substrate attachable to a physical asset for management of said physical asset, the physical substrate comprising: a first unique identifier, said first unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; and a second unique identifier, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate.

31. A set of physical substrates comprising a plurality of physical substrates, each being attachable to a physical asset of one or more physical assets for management of said one or more physical assets, each physical substrate comprising: a first unique identifier, said first unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate; and a second unique identifier, said second unique identifier being generated uniquely for the physical substrate.

32. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, Claims 19 to 23, or Claims 26 to 27, or the system according to any one of Claims 6 to 25, or the physical substrate according to Claim 28 or 30, or the set of physical substrates according to Claim 29 or 31, wherein the first unique identifier is at least one of barcode, QR code, RFID, and Tracking Optimized Code.

33. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, Claims 19 to 23, Claims 26 to 27, or Claim 32, or the system according to any one of Claims 6 to 25 or Claim 32, or the physical substrate according to any one of Claims 28, 30, or 32, or the set of physical substrates according to any one of Claims 29, 31, or 32, wherein the second unique identifier is at least one of barcode, QR code, and RFID.

34. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, Claims 19 to 23, Claims 26 to 27, or Claims 32 to 33, or the system according to any one of Claims 6 to 25 or Claims 32 to 33, or the physical substrate according to any one of Claims 28, 30, 32, or 33, or the set of physical substrates according to any one of Claims 29, 31, 32, or 33, wherein the first unique identifier is usable for tracking a location of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached.

35. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, Claims 19 to 23, Claims 26 to 27, or Claims 32 to 34, or the system according to any one of Claims 6 to 25 or Claims 32 to 34, or the physical substrate according to any one of Claims 28, 30, 32, 33, or 34, or the set of physical substrates according to any one of Claims 29, 31, 32, 33, or 34, wherein the second unique identifier includes a Local Facility Management System (LFMS) ID of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached.

36. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, Claims 19 to 23, Claims 26 to 27, or Claims 32 to 35, or the system according to any one of Claims 6 to 25 or Claims 32 to 35, wherein the linking unit is located outside the local facility.

37. The method or system according to Claim 36, wherein the linking unit is located at the remote facility.

38. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, Claims 19 to 23, Claims 26 to 27, or Claims 32 to 35, or the system according to any one of Claims 6 to 25 or Claims 32 to 35, wherein the linking unit is located at the local facility.

39. The system according to Claim 38, further comprising the linking unit.

40. The system according to Claim 38 or 39, wherein the linking unit is operable to: receive the first data; receive the second data; determine, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other; and link the first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other.

41. The system according to Claim 40, wherein the linking unit is operable to generate an alert in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other.

42. The system according to Claim 41 , wherein the linking unit is operable to generate said alert as a notification that the first and second identifiers are not linked to each other.

43. The method according to Claim 38, further comprising, at the linking unit: receiving the first data; receiving the second data; determining, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other; and linking the first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other.

44. The method according to Claim 43, further comprising generating an alert in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other.

45. The method according to Claim 44, further comprising generating said alert as a notification that the first and second identifiers are not linked to each other.

46. The method according to any one of Claims 43 to 45, or the system according to any one of Claims 40 to 42, wherein the set of rules are associated with at least one of: a sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data;a receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data; and a type of information included in the first and second data.

47. The method or system according to Claim 46, wherein the set of rules include a time rule that at least one of: the sending time gap must be less than a predetermined sending time gap threshold, and the receiving time gap must be less than a predetermined receiving time gap threshold for determining that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

48. The method or system according to Claim 46 or 47, wherein the set of rules include a type rule that the type of information included in the first data is different from the type of information included in the second data for determining that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

49. The system according to any one of Claims 6 to 25, Claims 32 to 42, or Claims 46 to 48, wherein the transmitter unit is operable to obtain the second data from at least one of: a processing circuitry that generates the second unique identifier, and a database that stores the second unique identifier.

50. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, Claims 19 to 23, Claims 26 to 27, Claims 32 to 38, or Claims 43 to 48, further comprising obtaining the second data from at least one of: a processing circuitry that generates the second unique identifier, and a database that stores the second unique identifier.

51. A method for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, each physical asset having attached thereto a physical substrate with a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier, the method being at least partially computer implementable and comprising: receiving a first data associated with the first unique identifier; receiving a second data associated with the second unique identifier; determining, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other; andlinking the first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other.

52. The method according to Claim 51, further comprising generating an alert in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other.

53. The method according to Claim 52, further comprising generating said alert as a notification that the first and second identifiers are not linked to each other.

54. A system for facilitating managing of one or more physical assets disposed at a local facility, each physical asset having attached thereto a physical substrate with a first unique identifier and a second unique identifier, the system comprising: a processor; and a computer readable memory' comprising instructions which when executed by the processor cause the processor to: receive a first data associated with the first unique identifier; receive a second data associated with the second unique identifier; determine, based on a set of rules, whether or not to link the first and second identifiers to each other; and link the first and second unique identifiers to each other in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are to be linked to each other.

55. The system according to Claim 54, wherein said computer readable memory further comprises instructions which when executed by the processor cause the processor to generate an alert in response to determining that the first and second identifiers are not to be linked to each other.

56. The system according to Claim 55, wherein said computer readable memory further comprises instructions which when executed by the processor cause the processor to generate said alert as a notification that the first and second identifiers are not linked to each other.

57. The method according to any one of Claims 51 to 53, or the system according to any one of Claims 54 to 56, wherein the set of rules are associated with at least one of: a sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data; a receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data; and a type of information included in the first and second data.

58. The method or system according to Claim 57, wherein the set of rules include a time rule that at least one of: the sending time gap must be less than a predetermined sending time gap threshold, and the receiving time gap must be less than a predetermined receiving time gap threshold for determining that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

59. The method or system according to Claim 57 or 58, wherein the set of rules include a type rule that the type of information included in the first data is different from the type of information included in the second data for determining that the first and second unique identifiers are to be linked to each other.

60. The method or system according to any one of Claims 57 to 59, wherein the set of rules are associated with at least two of: the sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data; the receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data; and the type of information included in the first and second data.

61. The method or system according to any one of Claims 57 to 60, wherein the set of rules are associated with all of: the sending time gap between sending the first data and the second data; the receiving time gap between receiving the first data and the second data; and the type of information included in the first and second data.

62. The system according to any one of Claims 54 to 61, being located at the local facility.

63. The method according to any one of Claims 51 to 53 or Claims 57 to 61, being performed at the local facility.

64. The method according to Claim 63 or the system according to Claim 62, wherein the first unique identifier was generated at a facility outside the local facility.

65. The method according to Claim 63 or 64, or the system according to Claim 62 or 64, wherein the physical substrate was at least partially generated at a facility outside the local facility, wherein the first unique identifier was added to the physical substrate at the facility outside the local facility.

66. The system according to any one of Claims 54 to 61, being located at a remote fecility different from the local fecility.

67. The method according to any one of Claims 51 to 53 or Claims 57 to 61, being performed at a remote facility different from the local facility.

68. The method according to Claim 67, or the system according to Claim 66, wherein the first unique identifier was generated at the remote facility.

69. The method according to Claim 67 or 68, or the system according to Claim 66 or 68, wherein the physical substrate was at least partially generated at the remote facility, wherein the first unique identifier was added to the physical substrate at the remote facility.

70. The method according to any one of Claims 67 to 69, or the system according to Claim 66 or any one of Claims 68 to 69, wherein the remote facility becomes aware of the second unique identifier only upon receipt of the second data.

71. The method according to any one of Claims 67 to 70, or the system according to Claim 66 or any one of Claims 68 to 70, wherein the second identifier is generated and added to the physical substrate outside of the remote facility.

72. The method according to any one of Claims 51 to 53, Claims 57 to 61, Claims 63 to 65, or Claims 67 to 71, or the system according to any one of Claims 54 to 62, Claims 64 to 66, or Claims 68 to 71, wherein the first unique identifier is at least one of barcode, QR code, RFID, and Tracking Optimized Code.

73. The method according to any one of Claims 51 to 53, Claims 57 to 61, Claims 63 to 65, or Claims 67 to 72, or the system according to any one of Claims 54 to 62, Claims 64 to 66, or Claims 68 to 72, wherein the second unique identifier is at least one of barcode, QR code, and RFID.

74. The method according to any one of Claims 51 to 53, Claims 57 to 61, Claims 63 to 65, or Claims 67 to 73, or the system according to any one of Claims 54 to 62, Claims 64 to 66, or Claims 68 to 73, wherein the first unique identifier is usable for tracking a location of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached.

75. The method according to any one of Claims 51 to 53, Claims 57 to 61, Claims 63 to 65, or Claims 67 to 74, or the system according to any one of Claims 54 to 62, Claims 64 to 66, or Claims 68 to 74, wherein the second unique identifier includes a Local Facility Management System (LFMS) ID of the physical asset to which the physical substrate is attached.

76. The method according to any one of Claims 51 to 53, Claims 57 to 61, Claims 63 to 65, or Claims 67 to 75, or the system according to any one of Claims 54 to 62, Claims 64 to 66, or Claims 68 to 75, for facilitating managing one or more physical assets at least at the local facility.

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