Checking and controlling of handling steps of a unit of goods

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for the computer-implemented checking and controlling of handling steps of a unit of goods. The method comprises: * sending an execution request to execute a handling step, * receiving a detection message relating to the detection of an individual identifier provided by an individual marker of the unit of goods, wherein the detection message further comprises log data which identify the handling step, and one or more second sensor values for one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the unit of goods, * identifying a data set (148; 168) with a digital value object uniquely assigned to the unit of goods using the digital copy of the detected individual identifier, * entering the log data in the identified data set (148; 168), * checking the one or more second sensor values for agreement with one or more value-forming physical properties of the unit of goods according to the digital value object within predefined tolerances, * in the event that the one or more second sensor values of the detection message deviate beyond the predefined tolerances, updating the digital value object using the deviating one or more second sensor values, * reserving the digital value object and the unit of goods for a goods delivery and / or a provision of the optionally reserved unit of goods for the goods delivery by the goods sender, and wherein the reservation comprises an automatic adjustment in the shared data set in the DLT system, which dataset is assigned to the digital value object.

Description

[0001] Control and management of processing steps of a unit of goods

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a method for the computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods. Furthermore, the invention relates to a distributed ledger system (DLT) node of a DLT system for the computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods, a DLT system for the computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods, and a computer program for the monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods.

[0004] Known approaches for tracking goods units use blockchains. For example, US 2022 / 0277405 A1 describes a method for adapting a production process, an edge device of an industrial control system, and a method for a product ordering process. At least one node of a first participant in a blockchain network is configured to publish order transactions in the blockchain network. Published order transactions are validated by the blockchain network. At least one node of a second participant in the blockchain network analyzes validated order transactions in the blockchain network by identifying validated order transactions.Furthermore, the at least one node of the second participant extracts order parameters, sends the order parameters to a simulation system, receives a capacity parameter from the simulation system, generates an offer based on the capacity parameter, and adapts the production process based on the offer if the at least one node of the first participant accepts the offer.

[0005] The invention is based on the object of creating an improved method which is suitable for monitoring and controlling processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods.

[0006] The object underlying the invention is achieved by the features of the independent patent claims. Embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent patent claims.

[0007] Embodiments include a method for the computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods, using a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods and a DLT system with a plurality of DLT nodes. The provision of the unit of goods comprises at least one storage and / or delivery of the unit of goods.

[0008] The DLT system comprises at least one smart contract that it provides. The at least one smart contract comprises program instructions for sending an execution request for a processing step, entering log data of the processing step, and checking sensor values ​​of one or more recorded value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit during the provision of the commodity unit. The commodity unit is provided with an individual physical marker that provides an individual identifier for the commodity unit. The individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the individual physical marker can be captured as a sensor value using an electronic sensor and uniquely identifies the individual commodity unit.

[0009] A data set managed by at least one of the DLT nodes of the plurality of DLT nodes is provided, which comprises the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods.

[0010] The digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification associated with the digital copy of the individual identifier, which comprises one or more value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. The digital valuable item further comprises a value specification of a monetary value associated with the individual commodity unit, which is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit.

[0011] The method comprises using at least one smart contract:

[0012] • Sending an execution request to execute a processing step of the commodity unit during the provision of the commodity unit by the DLT node of the DLT system managing the data set via a network, wherein the execution request comprises the digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the digital asset,

[0013] • Receiving a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit during the processing step of the goods unit using a first electronic sensor from the DLT node of the DLT system managing the data set via the network, wherein the detection message comprises the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a first sensor value detected using the first physical sensor, wherein the detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the goods unit, wherein the received detection message further comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable item, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors,

[0014] • Identifying the data record managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message with the digital asset uniquely assigned to the unit of goods using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier,

[0015] • Entries of the log data in the identified data set,

[0016] • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item within predefined first tolerances,

[0017] • upon a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message beyond the predefined first tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message,

[0018] • Reservation of the digital valuable item and the unit of goods for a delivery of goods and / or provision of the potentially reserved unit of goods for the delivery of goods by the sender of goods, and wherein the reservation comprises an automatic adjustment in the shared data set in the DLT system which is assigned to the digital valuable item.

[0019] Embodiments make it possible to monitor and control processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods using a digital asset uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods. This digital asset is comprised of one or more data sets managed in a DLT system, and one or more data sets are provided by these for monitoring and controlling the provision or processing steps of the unit of goods during the provision.

[0020] Through the corresponding procedure, processing steps of the physical goods unit are mapped in the digital world by the digital valuable item provided by the data set. Furthermore, using the data set with the digital valuable item, processing steps of the physical goods unit can be initiated or initiated using at least one smart contract.

[0021] The digital valuable item represents a type of digital copy of the commodity unit. The digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of an individual identifier of the commodity unit, which is integrated into the commodity unit using the physical marker or is permanently assigned to the commodity unit. Thus, the commodity unit and the digital valuable item comprise identical identifiers, i.e. identical identities. Furthermore, the digital valuable item comprises a specification with one or more value-creating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. This specification maps sensory-detectable physical properties of the individual commodity unit. Thus, the digital valuable item, as a digital copy of the commodity unit, comprises a digital copy or a digital summary of value-creating physical properties of the individual commodity unit.These physical properties are the physical properties of the commodity unit that characterize it and determine its value. Finally, the digital valuable item also includes an indication of the monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit. This monetary value is determined depending on the value-creating physical properties of the individual commodity unit, which the digital valuable item also includes.

[0022] The digital valuable always includes an individual identifier, which uniquely and verifiably identifies it as an individual unit of goods, as well as information on the physical properties of the individual unit of goods, from which a monetary value of the corresponding unit of goods can be determined. Thus, the digital valuable can be traded as a kind of digital copy of the individual physical unit of goods, for example, representing the corresponding unit of goods. For example, assigning the digital valuable to a natural or legal person is equivalent to ownership of the unit of goods.

[0023] Assigning a digital asset to a natural or legal person includes, for example, a signature of the digital asset using a cryptographic signature key assigned to the corresponding natural or legal person, so that the assignment can be verified using a cryptographic signature verification key assigned to the corresponding natural or legal person. The cryptographic signature key is, for example, a private cryptographic key of an asymmetric key pair. The cryptographic signature verification key is, for example, a public cryptographic key of the same asymmetric key pair.An assignment of the cryptographic signature verification key and thus the signature key to the natural or legal person can be implemented, for example, using a certificate, such as a PKI certificate, which includes the cryptographic signature verification key.

[0024] The digital valuable or the digital copy of the individual identifier contained in the digital valuable can, for example, be used to identify the unit of goods for which the execution of a processing step is to be initiated using the execution request. For example, an assignment of the digital valuable to the DLT node sending the execution request or to a natural or legal person sending the execution request using the corresponding DLT node can be a prerequisite for executing the requested processing step. Such an assignment can, for example, be implemented using a digital signature or secured in a cryptographically verifiable manner. For example, the data set with the valuable includes the corresponding assignment, such as a digital signature of the digital valuable.For example, the execution request includes the corresponding assignment, such as a digital signature of the digital valuable item.

[0025] In addition, the execution of the processing step is recorded and logged by entering the log data into the data record. This makes it possible to trace which processing step(s) were performed. For example, it is also possible to track the current location and / or condition of the goods unit.

[0026] Finally, the current second sensor values ​​recorded during the processing step are checked. These second sensor values ​​describe the recorded value-forming physical properties of the goods unit in the recording message. If the recorded second sensor values ​​or recorded physical properties of the goods unit deviate from the physical properties of the same goods unit according to the digital valuable item beyond the predefined first tolerances, the digital valuable item is updated using the deviating second sensor values. This ensures that the digital valuable item always reflects the current value-forming physical properties of the goods unit. For example, the value-forming physical properties of the goods unit include at least a quantity of goods orthe second sensor values ​​comprise at least one sensor value which quantifies a quantity of goods comprised by the unit of goods.

[0027] The processing step during the provision of the goods unit can, for example, be a processing step during storage and / or delivery of the goods unit. For example, it can be production, procurement, storage, relocation, further processing, dispatch or delivery, and / or receipt of the corresponding goods unit.

[0028] The term distributed ledger technology describes a technology used to record transactions or the status of transactions. In contrast to the classic approach, in which a ledger acts as a general ledger, usually managed by a single entity, any number of essentially equal copies of the ledger are maintained in a decentralized manner by different parties. Parties with at least one corresponding node in the DLT system can, for example, be senders of goods, recipients of goods, producers of goods, or suppliers of goods. Parties can also overlap, such as the producer of goods and the supplier of goods as a single party. Furthermore, a party with at least one DLT node can be a savings bank, a bank, a banking institution, a financial institution, a payment service provider, a fintech, and / or a credit institution.In this context, "bank" should not be understood in a restricted sense, encompassing savings banks, banking institutions, financial institutions, credit institutions, payment service providers, fintechs, etc. A regulator with at least one node can also be designated as a party or participant in the DLT system to perform specific functions, such as compliance with regulatory requirements, such as the prevention of money laundering or mandatory sanction or embargo checks. At least one node in the DLT system can assume the function of a notary to ensure the uniqueness of each transaction and prevent the duplicate use of DLT-based money units.

[0029] A reservation and the generation of reservation data can be made, for example, based on the following points:

[0030] Existing contractual obligations, in particular prior to the creation of a smart contract,

[0031] Existing smart contract between two parties,

[0032] Explicit order of a party with or without the existence of a smart contract, forecast of a party regarding expected deliveries of goods within a defined period,

[0033] A party's prediction of inadmissible risks or legal requirements, as a refusal to deliver and reservation (negative reservation).

[0034] A negative reservation can, for example, also include all recipients of goods in a region or country in order to ensure legally compliant compliance with embargo regulations, for example.

[0035] In this context, "reservation data" includes all data and information related to a reservation managed by a DLT account. Reservation data includes, for example, the party entitled to receive the unit of goods, usually the recipient of the goods, the duration of the reservation, payment obligations of a party directly related to the reservation, in particular the recipient of the goods, a waiting list, etc. Reservation data can be stored as shared data records on different DLT nodes assigned to different parties.

[0036] Through early, immediate reservation and automatic adjustment of the shared data set in the DLT system assigned to the digital valuable item, all subsequent and / or potentially parallel process steps are immediately updated in the DLT system long before a physical provision or delivery of a unit of goods. Such parallel process steps may include additional (re)procurement of the unit of goods or parts thereof by the sender of the goods, such as (re)production of at least parts of the unit of goods. Furthermore, parallel financing steps with a bank may be affected.

[0037] For example, the reservation, especially a binding reservation, can positively influence the creditworthiness of the sender of the goods and / or trigger the provision and / or granting of credit. On the other hand, a reservation and at least partial transmission of reservation data to a bank can serve as security for the bank with regard to the sender of the goods, but also with regard to the recipient of the goods. The bank or credit institution can be integrated as a party with at least one node in the DLT system. This reservation data can be transmitted to at least one connected Manufacturing Execution System (MES), at least one Enterprise Resource Planning System (ERP system), and at least one partner of the DLT system and used appropriately.

[0038] Based on the reservations, a digital warehouse is immediately created, which is stored on at least one DLT node and managed by at least one DLT node. This digital warehouse represents a digital twin of the physical warehouse / stock of the goods sender and / or the goods producer. This digital warehouse, which includes all associated digital valuables, is advantageously stored and / or managed on the DLT node of the goods sender and / or the goods producer. Appropriate measures are taken to ensure that newly added transactions or transaction states are incorporated into all designated copies or partial copies of the ledger and that an agreement (consensus) is reached regarding the current state of the ledger.

[0039] According to embodiments, the method may comprise that with the reservation of the digital valuable item and the unit of goods, the order value and / or the monetary value of the unit of goods according to the digital valuable item is reserved at the expense of the recipient of the goods and / or in favor of the sender of the goods, in particular is reserved in an eWallet.

[0040] In this context, “eWallet” refers to any form of digital account, as a data area in which monetary values ​​can be deposited for the benefit and at the disposal of the holder.

[0041] According to the embodiment, it can advantageously be included that the goods recipient applies for and / or carries out financing of the order value and / or the monetary value of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item from a bank, in particular applies for and / or carries out this financing automatically, whereby the monetary value is reserved for the goods sender upon reservation of the goods unit. The reservation of the monetary value for the goods sender can also take the form of a temporary credit and / or authorization of disposal, for example as a conditional payment for payment transactions between parties stored in the smart contract and / or for payment transactions whose purpose is stored in the smart contract.

[0042] According to the embodiment, it can advantageously be included that with the reservation of the corresponding monetary value in favor of the sender of the goods, an automatic payment (conditional payment) dependent on the delivery of the goods is implemented, wherein the payment of the reserved amount of money is made according to at least one of the following conditions:

[0043] - automatically after automatic confirmation of delivery by the sender (especially sensor values ​​of the sender),

[0044] - after confirmation of delivery by the sender or supplier of the goods;

[0045] - after delivery to the recipient of the goods and / or confirmation of delivery by the recipient of the goods or supplier of the goods.

[0046] In this case, “confirmation” advantageously includes an at least partially analogous process, such as

[0047] - to send an execution request,

[0048] - Receiving a detection message of the detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit, and

[0049] - to identify the data record managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message with the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the unit of goods using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier and

[0050] - to enter the log data into the identified data set.

[0051] According to embodiments, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message comprises updating the one or more value-generating physical properties of the goods unit included in the digital valuable item. For example, deviations of the detected second sensor values ​​or the detected physical properties of the goods unit from the previous physical properties of the same goods unit according to the digital valuable item can be taken into account by the digital valuable item beyond the predefined first tolerances and represented by the update.For example, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message further comprises updating the value information of the monetary value assigned to the individual unit of goods contained in the digital valuable item. For example, changes in the monetary value assigned to the unit of goods based on the value-forming physical properties, which result from the deviations in the detected second sensor values ​​or the detected value-forming physical properties, can be taken into account by the digital valuable item and represented by the update. For example, an update of the value information only occurs under the prerequisite of a change in the monetary value resulting from the deviations in the value-forming physical properties.

[0052] If the digital asset is digitally signed, updating the digital asset includes, for example, signing the updated digital asset. If the DLT node managing the data set with the digital asset has the signature key to sign the updated digital asset, the updated digital asset is signed, for example, by the corresponding DLT node. If the DLT node managing the data set with the digital asset does not have the signature key to sign the updated digital asset, a signature request to sign the updated digital asset is sent, for example, to another DLT node in the DLT system that has the signature key. In response to the signature request, the digital asset encrypted with the corresponding signature key is received, for example.For example, the signature request includes the updated digital valuable. For example, the signature request includes the signed previous digital valuable. For example, the signature request and the response to the signature request, i.e. the digital valuable encrypted with the corresponding signature key, are exchanged between the DLT nodes of the DLT system via an encrypted network connection. For example, a prerequisite for signing the updated digital valuable is a successful consistency test of the data contained in the updated digital valuable. The consistency check includes, for example, checking whether the monetary value of the digital valuable stated by the updated digital valuable results from the value-creating physical properties according to the updated digital valuable.The consistency check includes, for example, additionally or alternatively checking whether the digital copy of the individual identifier according to the updated digital valuable item is consistent with the digital copy of the individual identifier according to the updated digital valuable item.

[0053] According to embodiments, the digital valuable item is further assigned a value logic that defines the dependency of the monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit on the value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit. This value logic can be used to determine the monetary value depending on the value-forming physical properties of the commodity unit. For example, using the value logic, the value information contained in the digital valuable item can be verified based on the value-forming physical properties of the commodity unit.For example, using the value logic, an updated monetary value of the individual commodity unit can be determined based on recorded second sensor values ​​that define value-forming physical properties of the commodity unit that differ from the previous value-forming physical properties of the commodity unit according to the digital valuable object.

[0054] For example, the value logic may also take into account raw material prices of raw materials that were used to manufacture, produce and / or provide the unit of goods.

[0055] According to embodiments, the plurality of DLT nodes comprises at least one pair of DLT nodes comprising a first DLT node and a second DLT node. The DLT node receiving the acquisition message is one of the two DLT nodes of the pair of DLT nodes. The dataset is a dataset shared between the first DLT node and the second DLT node. A first partial dataset of the shared dataset comprising the digital asset is managed by the first DLT node. A second partial dataset of the shared dataset comprising the digital asset is managed by the second DLT node.

[0056] The method further comprises using the at least one smart contract:

[0057] • Transmitting a first update message from the DLT node receiving the detection message to the other of the two DLT nodes of the pair of DLT nodes, wherein the first update message comprises the digital copy of the detected individual identifier, the entered protocol data, and the one or more second sensor values ​​of the one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit,

[0058] • Identifying the partial data set of the shared data set managed by the DLT node receiving the first update message using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier included in the first update message,

[0059] • Updating the identified partial data set of the split data set using the received first update message by the DLT node receiving the first update message, wherein the updating comprises: o entering the received protocol data in the identified partial data set, o checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the first update message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the unit of goods according to the digital valuable item within the predefined second tolerances, o for a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the first update message beyond the predefined second tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the first update message.

[0060] For example, the dataset can be implemented as a split dataset in the DLT system, comprising two subdatasets managed by two DLT nodes of the DLT system. Upon receipt of a capture message and entry of data from the capture message into one of the two subdatasets, the method enables, for example, an update of the other of the two subdatasets. This allows, for example, the two subdatasets to be synchronized. For example, both subdatasets contain the digital asset.

[0061] Updating involves transmitting a first update message. This first update message contains a digital copy of the recorded individual identifier, which can be used to identify the other partial data set to be updated. Furthermore, the execution of the processing step can also be recorded by the other partial data set using the first update message and logged in the other partial data set by entering the log data transmitted with the first update message. This way, for example, the other partial data set also makes it possible to trace which processing step(s) were executed. For example, it also makes it possible to trace the current location and / or condition of the goods unit.

[0062] Finally, the second sensor values ​​provided by the first update message, which were recorded during the processing step, are checked. If the recorded second sensor values ​​or recorded physical properties of the goods unit deviate from the physical properties of the same goods unit according to the digital valuable item beyond the predefined first tolerances, the digital valuable item is updated using the deviating second sensor values ​​in the other partial data set. This ensures that the digital valuable item always reflects the current value-generating physical properties of the goods unit in the other partial data set.For example, the first update message comprises the one or more second sensor values ​​of the one or more recorded value-creating physical properties of the commodity unit in the form of a copy of the updated digital valuable item recorded in the partial data set managed by the DLT node sending the first update message.

[0063] If the digital asset is digitally signed, updating the digital asset includes, for example, signing the updated digital asset. If the DLT node receiving the first update message has the signature key to sign the updated digital asset, the updated digital asset is signed, for example, by the corresponding DLT node. If the DLT node managing the data set with the digital asset does not have the signature key to sign the updated digital asset, a signature request to sign the updated digital asset is sent, for example, to another DLT node in the DLT system that has the signature key. In response to the signature request, the digital asset encrypted with the corresponding signature key is received, for example.For example, the signature request includes the updated digital valuable. For example, the signature request includes the signed previous digital valuable. For example, the signature request and the response to the signature request, i.e. the digital valuable encrypted with the corresponding signature key, are exchanged between the DLT nodes of the DLT system via an encrypted network connection. For example, a prerequisite for signing the updated digital valuable is a successful consistency test of the data contained in the updated digital valuable. The consistency check includes, for example, checking whether the monetary value of the digital valuable stated by the updated digital valuable results from the value-creating physical properties according to the updated digital valuable.The consistency check includes, for example, additionally or alternatively checking whether the digital copy of the individual identifier according to the updated digital valuable item is consistent with the digital copy of the individual identifier according to the updated digital valuable item.

[0064] According to embodiments, the provision of the goods unit involves a provision of the goods unit from a goods sender to a goods recipient. The first DLT node of the pair of DLT nodes is assigned to the goods sender, and the second DLT node of the pair of DLT nodes is assigned to the goods recipient. For example, the provision of the goods unit involves a delivery of the goods unit from the goods sender to the goods recipient. For example, the processing step of the goods unit involves a dispatch of the goods unit from the goods sender to the goods recipient or a receipt of the dispatched goods unit by the goods recipient. Embodiments can have the advantage that a delivery of the goods unit or processing steps of the goods unit during the delivery can be monitored and controlled using the digital valuable item.

[0065] For example, the provision of the goods unit comprises a delivery of the goods unit from the sender to the recipient. The processing steps of the goods unit comprise, for example, processing steps that are carried out during the delivery of the goods unit. Embodiments make it possible, for example, to monitor and control such processing steps of a goods unit during the delivery of the goods unit from a sender to a recipient in a DLT system using a shared data set assigned to the goods unit. For this purpose, a digital copy of an individual physical marker of the goods unit is used, which the shared data set comprises and through which a digital valuable object uniquely assigned to the individual goods unit is formed.Through the corresponding procedure, processing steps of the physical goods unit are mapped in the digital world by the digital asset provided by the shared data set. Furthermore, using the shared data set with the digital asset, processing steps of the physical goods unit can be initiated or initiated using at least one smart contract.

[0066] Using the digital copy of the individual identifier provided by the physical marker of the goods unit, for example, the shared data set with the digital valuable item can be determined, which represents the digital valuable item. Furthermore, protocol data identifying the processing step of the goods unit can be entered into the shared data set. For example, an at least partial correspondence of the protocol data with reference data for predefined processing steps of the goods unit, for example according to the at least one smart contract, can be checked. The reference data, for example, identifies a processing step to be carried out. For example, the reference data defines where, when, or within which time frame, which measures should be applied to the goods unit, or what should happen to the goods unit.Using the reference data, it can be verified whether the executed processing step is actually the processing step to be executed and / or whether the processing step was performed in the intended form. For example, upon successful verification, data from the acquisition message is entered into the first sub-data record of the split data set and / or data from the first update message is entered into the second sub-data record of the split data set.

[0067] This split data set is, for example, a data set that comprises a first partial data set on the first DLT node and a second partial data set on the second DLT node. Authorization to edit the first partial data set, i.e., write authorization, can only be granted to the first DLT node (or another authorized DLT node), and thus, for example, to a sender of goods. Authorization to edit the second partial data set, i.e., write authorization, can only be granted to the second DLT node (or another authorized DLT node), and thus, for example, to a recipient of goods.Furthermore, as a result of an access restriction of the DLT system, for example, only the sender of the goods may have read authorization to read the first partial data set via the first DLT node (or the further authorized DLT node) and only the recipient of the goods may have read authorization to read the second partial data set via the second DLT node (or the further authorized DLT node).

[0068] For example, the at least one smart contract, which is executed on the two DLT nodes with the two sub-datasets of the split dataset, is configured to ensure data consistency between the two sub-datasets. For example, mirror-image, i.e., identical, data can be implemented in both sub-datasets of the split dataset using synchronous data maintenance.

[0069] For example, the DLT system uses one or more blockchains to log the data set and its changes. A blockchain or blockchain is a continuously expandable list of data arranged in individual blocks. New blocks are created, for example, using a consensus process and successively appended to an existing blockchain using cryptographic methods. For cryptographically secure chaining, each block of the blockchain contains a key value calculated using a cryptographic process, such as a cryptographically secure hash, of the block preceding the respective block in the blockchain. Furthermore, a new block contains, for example, a timestamp and / or data that must be entered into the blockchain or the corresponding block.A blockchain is characterized by a chaining (chaining principle) of the data blocks contained in the blockchain, which form a linked sequence of data blocks that is continued over time. The blockchain can be stored in a DLT system distributed across a plurality of DLT nodes, i.e. decentralized. To ensure that all copies of the decentralized blockchain are identical, a consensus mechanism is used. Based on a so-called consensus protocol, an algorithmic voting procedure, it is determined whether there is consensus on the entry of a new block in the blockchain. The cryptographic procedure for chaining the blocks can ensure that the blockchain cannot be subsequently changed. The resulting blockchain, i.e. the chain of blocks, is therefore immutable and tamper-proof.

[0070] A blockchain can therefore implement non-repudiation, i.e. by using digital signatures when entering data into the blockchain, cryptographic information can be stored in the blockchain, which provides forgery-proof proof that participants have undeniably deposited certain data.

[0071] The blockchain can be either public or private, with restricted access. Data is stored in the blockchain in plaintext, for example. Data is stored in the blockchain in encrypted form, for example.

[0072] For example, for each update or other change to the data set, a corresponding entry is made in the blockchain so that the corresponding update or change can be logged in an immutable, forgery- and tamper-proof manner.

[0073] The dataset secured by the blockchain can, for example, be a shared dataset managed by at least two DLT nodes among the majority of DLT nodes in the DLT system. The dataset secured by the blockchain can, for example, be a non-shared dataset managed by only one DLT node among the majority of DLT nodes in the DLT system.

[0074] For example, the DLT system does not use a blockchain to secure the dataset, such as a shared dataset. Rather, the security of the shared dataset is based, for example, on a direct data exchange between the DLT nodes of the participating parties that manage the partial datasets of the shared dataset, as well as on direct data validation by the corresponding DLT nodes. Such direct data exchange can be implemented, for example, via peer-to-peer communication between the DLT nodes or the DLT servers on which the corresponding DLT nodes are implemented. The use of a restricted-access DLT system can have the advantage over a public blockchain that access to the data managed by the DLT system is restricted. For example, the participants of the DLT system each have access to only one DLT node assigned to them.For example, data from shared data sets within the DLT system is transmitted only between the DLT nodes between which the shared data set is shared. For example, transmission occurs only between the first DLT node, such as a sender of goods, and the second DLT node, such as a recipient of goods. Unicast is used for transmission, meaning that each transmitted data is addressed to a single recipient, i.e., a single DLT node. In contrast to transmission via broadcast, as is the case with numerous blockchain solutions, transmission via unicast has the advantage that only the sender and recipient are aware of the transmitted data.

[0075] Since transactions in a blockchain are usually visible to all validating nodes, for example when transactions to be entered are transmitted within the blockchain network via broadcast, this can lack confidentiality. A blockchain usually stores data as transactions in individual blocks, which are linked to one another and managed redundantly in a distributed peer-to-peer network. As a result of redundant management, a large number of nodes have access to all data stored in the blockchain. In contrast, limiting communication to direct communication between the DLT nodes managing the partial data sets can ensure both data security and the confidentiality of the data stored in the shared data set. This can be achieved by limiting communication to the transactions to be mapped, i.e.The data to be stored in a shared data set is transferred within the DLT system only between the affected DLT nodes, i.e., those DLT nodes between which the corresponding data set is shared. These are, for example, only the first DLT node, such as the sender of the goods, and the second DLT node, such as the recipient of the goods. The delivery of goods is controlled by one or more smart contracts executed on the participating nodes. In this case, storage in a blockchain or other data set visible to all DLT nodes does not take place.

[0076] For this purpose, a data set shared by the participating DLT nodes is used. This data set comprises a first (partial) data set, which is managed, for example, by the DLT node of the sender of the goods, and a second (partial) data set, which is managed, for example, by the DLT node of the recipient of the goods. The two (partial) data sets should correspond to each other and reflect the view of the respective responsible node. For example, only the responsible DLT node is authorized to change the corresponding part or partial data set of the shared data set. The partial data sets and thus the transactions stored in the corresponding partial data sets are each transmitted to the other DLT node. For example, only changes to the corresponding partial data set are transmitted to the other DLT node. For example, the data transmitted to the other DLT node is signed.Using the signature, the other DLT node can verify whether the changes are correct or have been authorized by the signing DLT node and thus by the participants assigned to the corresponding DLT node.

[0077] For example, it is not necessary for the first and second partial data sets to be identical. For example, one partial data set can contain one or more data values ​​that differ from the other partial data set, for example with regard to a delivery of goods, for example with regard to the quantity of the corresponding unit of goods to be delivered and / or other physical properties of the corresponding unit of goods. Tolerances within which deviations are acceptable can, for example, be predefined. Alternatively or additionally, a semi-automatic or fully automatic handshake can take place between the two DLT nodes managing the two partial data sets until agreement is reached on individual differing data values ​​in the data set, for example the unit of goods to be delivered and its properties, i.e. the deviations have been resolved.

[0078] Embodiments can thus have the advantage that, based on the data set distributed across two DLT nodes and / or the previously described additional features for comparing the (partial) data sets, an approach for confidentially processing transactions between the two DLT nodes is provided. Furthermore, securing the transactions and increasing data security between the DLT nodes is enabled. Communication between the DLT nodes of the plurality of DLT nodes comprised by the DLT system takes place, for example, via transport or communication connections secured by the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol.Furthermore, communication with the DLT nodes from outside the DLT system, for example when the sender of the goods accesses the first DLT node with a computer system assigned to the sender of the goods and / or when the recipient of the goods accesses the second DLT node with a computer system assigned to the recipient of the goods, also takes place via communication connections secured by TLS.

[0079] For example, all communication connections are secured with TLS. The security principle within the DLT system is based, for example, on peer-to-peer communication between the DLT nodes and the need-to-know principle. Peer-to-peer communication is based on computer-to-computer connections between equal computers. The need-to-know principle, or necessity principle, as a security goal for data, requires that access to the corresponding data not only requires basic access authorization, but that the data to be accessed is also directly necessary for the fulfillment of a specific task. Even if a DLT node has access to data of a certain or a certain security level, the need-to-know principle prohibits access if the corresponding data is not directly required by that DLT node to fulfill a specific task.

[0080] For example, each DLT node only receives the data that concerns it. Therefore, even a compromised DLT node cannot leak information, as it is not involved in managing datasets, such as shared datasets, of other DLT nodes, and data within the DLT system is not publicly accessible or published.

[0081] Embodiments can have the advantage that, for example, encryption of the data in the data sets, such as the partial data sets of shared data sets, can be dispensed with. Data can be entered and stored in the partial data sets in plain text. The need-to-know principle ensures that relevant data is only exchanged between the participating DLT nodes. This provides effective protection of sensitive information against unauthorized access. The network architecture used in the DLT system thus already ensures effective data security and confidentiality. No data is sent to other DLT nodes that does not directly concern them or the participants assigned to them (need-to-know principle). This contrasts with the approach of a classic blockchain.To securely store sensitive data in a blockchain, this data must be entered and stored in encrypted form. Alternatively, only the results of applying a one-way function, such as a hash function, to the corresponding data are entered and stored. Due to broadcasting among all nodes in the system, a blockchain is typically visible to all nodes in the system, so sensitive information in a blockchain may need to be protected by additional measures.

[0082] For example, the data stored in the data sets of the DLT nodes, such as in sub-data sets of shared data sets, is stored in encrypted form. If data is encrypted in the sub-data sets of the shared data set, this can advantageously lead to the level of security for the corresponding data being further increased, for example, based on an already existing basic protection provided by the network architecture, and not just serving to implement basic protection. For example, the data in the data sets is entered in encrypted form and / or the data sets are stored in encrypted form. For example, the data in the sub-data sets of the shared data set is entered in encrypted form and / or the sub-data sets are stored in encrypted form. According to embodiments, no broadcasting takes place within the DLT system, as would be the case when using a blockchain.For example, communication between the DLT nodes is based on a unicast or direct communication between the participating DLT nodes, for example via a dedicated communication connection.

[0083] Embodiments make it possible, for example, to ensure mirror-image data regarding the transfer of goods on both sides, for example, at the recipient and the sender, in the form of the first and the first partial data sets. This mirror-image data can also be integrated, for example, on both sides into connected enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.

[0084] The resulting mirror-image data and synchronous data maintenance are advantageous for the digital integration of ordering, delivery, and financial processes between business partners, such as the goods recipient and the goods sender. For example, consistent data quality can be ensured and mutually measurable, for example, using key performance indicators (KPIs). The implementation of in-process validation ensures the sustainability of previously achieved data quality and thus prevents gradual deterioration. By creating a common location for the data inventory using the DLT system, for example in the form of shared data sets, to monitor the provision of goods units, reconciliation effort is reduced.For example, the effort required for subsequent account reconciliation can be significantly reduced or, ideally, even eliminated entirely for all involved business partners. This can contribute to improving data quality and process efficiency. For example, the amount of manual work can be reduced.

[0085] Embodiments may further have the advantage of providing a computer-implemented method that enables tracking, i.e., tracing of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the corresponding unit of goods, such as distribution of the unit of goods. Different processing steps or process steps can be tracked at different processing locations or processing sites.

[0086] Communication with the DLT system or with DLT servers of the DLT system, which provide DLT nodes of the DLT system, takes place via a network. For example, the DLT system is a restricted-access DLT system. For example, communication takes place in encrypted form. The DLT system comprises a plurality of DLT nodes. For example, in addition to a DLT node of a goods recipient and a DLT node of a goods sender, the DLT system comprises further DLT nodes. These further DLT nodes can be, for example, nodes of a goods producer, which may be the same as or different from the goods sender, a node for implementing a KYC (Know Your Customers) instance, a node for implementing a notary, a node for implementing a bank, a node for implementing a payment instance or an eWallet, i.e., an electronic or virtual wallet.

[0087] The at least one smart contract is stored, for example, on one or more of the DLT nodes of the DLT system that are involved in monitoring and controlling the processing steps of the goods unit. The smart contract comprises program instructions configured to monitor and control the processing steps of the goods unit. The processing steps include, for example, processing steps that are carried out during the manufacture of goods, in particular automated manufacture of goods, the purchase of goods, in particular automated purchase of goods, the storage of goods, in particular automated storage of goods, the shipment of goods, in particular automated shipment of goods, and / or the receipt of goods, in particular automated receipt of goods.

[0088] In order to provide the individual identifier of the goods unit, which can be detected by an electronic sensor, the goods unit is provided with an individual physical marker which is introduced into the goods unit or attached to the goods unit, comprises the corresponding indicator and makes this available for sensory detection. The marker is an individual marker because it provides an individual identifier. This individual physical marker, which can be detected or read by an electronic sensor, is attached to the goods unit, for example, or introduced into the goods unit in the form of a tracer. The goods unit is provided with the individual physical marker and thus with the individual identifier, for example, during a first processing step at a first location at a first time or before.In particular, the unit of goods is provided with the individual physical marker and thus with the individual identifier during its production, immediately after its production or during its initial storage.

[0089] For example, the individual physical marker is implemented in the form of a tag attached to the goods unit and / or the packaging of the goods unit, such as a label, a QR code, or an RFID tag. For example, the label or the QR code comprises the individual identifier as a machine-readable inscription or embossing. For example, the individual identifier is stored in a memory of the RFID tag. For example, the individual physical marker is implemented in the form of a chemical and / or physical tracer incorporated into the goods unit. For example, the individual identifier is encoded in the tracer in chemical and / or physical form. For example, this tracer is a tracer that can be generated using chemical and / or physical methods, e.g., a programmable or configurable tracer.Such a tracer can, for example, be added to and / or applied to the corresponding goods unit in traces in order to uniquely identify the corresponding goods unit as a tracer or physical marker with an individual identifier of the goods unit. By capturing the individual identifier provided by the individual physical marker, the corresponding goods unit can thus be uniquely identified.

[0090] For example, the unit of goods is provided with the physical marker directly during production, packaging and / or filling, which can be attached as a tag to the unit of goods, such as a packaging included in the unit of goods, or can be incorporated into the unit of goods as a tracer.

[0091] The unique identifier is a unique code that is uniquely assigned to an individual commodity unit. This means that no two commodity units whose provision is controlled and managed using the DLT system are assigned identical identifiers, i.e., identical codes. Thus, each of the physical markers contains an identifier that is different from the identifiers of the other markers.

[0092] The individual identifier provided by the individual physical marker of the goods unit can be captured and digitized using an electronic sensor, i.e., a physical capture device. The resulting digital copy of the individual identifier is used to generate a digital valuable item that is uniquely assigned to the individual goods unit and can be stored in a data record of the DLT system. When the physical individual marker and the individual identifier provided by it are captured during a processing step, the digital copy of the individual identifier is sent to the DLT system via a network as part of a capture message. The individual identifier can be used to identify the digital valuable item assigned to the corresponding goods unit and the data record(s) containing this valuable item.For example, depending on the protocol data included in the capture message, the digital asset is handled by the DLT system to digitally map the physical processing steps and / or to achieve additional digital measures that directly and / or indirectly affect the digital asset.

[0093] For example, the detection message further includes sensor values ​​of one or more value-generating physical properties of the goods unit, which are also detected by a physical sensor during the detection of the goods unit's processing step. The corresponding physical properties of the goods unit are detected by the corresponding physical sensor, for example, in a contactless and / or contact-based manner. For example, the detected one or more physical properties of the goods unit include a weight, a surface, a surface property, a fill level, a composition, a purity, a structure, a density, a color, and / or a vibration of the goods unit.The corresponding recorded sensor values ​​of the one or more value-forming physical properties are included in the recording message, for example in the form of a measurement data set, which is provided to the DLT system as part of the received recording message via the network.

[0094] A commodity unit, for example, is one or more packaged commodity elements, such as a pallet of goods. A commodity unit, for example, is a bulk commodity, i.e., a transported good or a commodity that is unpackaged, such as a fluid or bulk material.

[0095] The unique identifier provided by the individual physical marker serves as a kind of fingerprint of the individual commodity unit, by which the individual commodity unit can be uniquely identified. For example, a material comprised by the individual commodity unit itself is suitable as a fingerprint due to its unique structure, composition, and / or other physical or chemical properties, i.e., it can serve as an individual physical marker providing a unique identifier to uniquely identify the individual commodity unit.

[0096] During an initial capture of the individual identifier provided by the individual physical marker, for example during registration of the goods unit or the digital valuable item assigned to the physical goods unit, an electronic sensor is used, which is, for example, part of a device that attaches or inserts the individual physical marker with the individual identifier to the goods unit and / or inserts it into the goods unit. For example, the attachment or insertion of the individual physical marker can also be one of the processing steps for the goods unit.

[0097] A processing step generally means any step in the course of active handling of the goods unit during production, procurement, storage (in / re-)storage and / or delivery of the goods unit, such as a change in at least one of the physical properties of the goods, for example a production of the goods unit, an assembly of the goods unit, a change in the mass of the goods unit, a processing step of the goods unit, a change in the packaging of the goods unit, etc. Furthermore, a processing step includes, for example, a change in the position and / or location of the goods unit.

[0098] A unit of goods here means any unit, such as a pallet, stack, container, bundle, group, silo filling, etc., of goods in any state, such as a preliminary and / or intermediate stage, i.e. as a semi-finished product, up to the finished product, which is delivered to the recipient of the goods and / or received by the recipient of the goods.

[0099] The digital asset contained in the data set, for example, a shared data set, serves as a crypto anchor. For example, log data for each processing step of the goods unit during the delivery of the goods unit is stored in the corresponding data set with the digital asset. This allows the corresponding log data or the processing step identified by this log data to be assigned to the corresponding digital asset. This allows the processing step performed in the physical world for the physical asset unit to be mapped in the digital world for the digital asset.

[0100] Embodiments further enable, for example, digital processing of a provision of a unit of goods. This provision includes, for example, an order for goods and / or receipt of goods by a goods recipient, as well as the manufacture of goods, procurement of goods, storage of goods, reservation of goods, and / or shipment of goods by the goods sender. In particular, embodiments enable immediate automated corresponding processing of the digital valuable item or an adaptation of the digital valuable item and / or data associated with the digital valuable item in the respective DLT nodes of the DLT system.

[0101] Data assigned to the digital valuable item in the data set, such as a shared data set, is supplemented, for example, by the protocol data recorded during the recording of the processing step. Such recording of a processing step or a corresponding supplementation occurs in particular when the location of the goods unit changes during the execution of a processing step, for example, immediately at the beginning of the corresponding processing step, during the corresponding processing step, and / or immediately after the completion of the corresponding processing step.A corresponding recording of the processing step includes a recording of the individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the individual physical marker with an electronic sensor configured for this purpose, a recording of protocol data which identify the corresponding processing step, a recording of one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit with one or more second physical sensors configured for this purpose, a transmission of a recording message to the DLT system, a check or an identity check of the digital copy of the recorded individual identifier transmitted with the recording message, a check of the data transmitted with the recording message and an entry of data transmitted with the recording message in a corresponding data record of the DLT system.

[0102] In the course of a delivery of goods, the method comprises, for example, the sender of the goods using one or more smart contracts, upon entry of data from an order confirmation into the split data set, e.g., the first partial data set, reserving and preparing for dispatch the unit of goods to be delivered for the recipient of the goods. For example, upon entry of data from a delivery order and / or the order confirmation into the second partial data set, e.g., upon use of one or more smart contracts, an amount of a digital currency managed by the DLT system, which is assigned to the recipient of the goods, is reserved for payment of the ordered units of goods for the delivery of goods, i.e., the unit of goods. In this case, "reservation" always means "goods reservation" and vice versa, unless otherwise stated.

[0103] In the DLT system, a digital twin of the commodity unit in the form of a digital valuable item containing the corresponding copy can be provided and managed using the digital copy of the recorded individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the physical marker. For this digital twin of the commodity unit in the form of a digital valuable item, the value-creating physical properties of the commodity unit are recorded using one or more physical sensors and incorporated into the digital valuable item. Furthermore, a monetary value of the individual commodity unit is determined based on the value-creating physical properties and incorporated into the digital valuable item.

[0104] The goods unit can, for example, be recorded using different sensors or different physical sensors. The sensors used can be used to record physical properties of the goods unit. The sensors can also be used to identify the goods unit by recording an individual identifier provided by the individual physical marker, which uniquely identifies the individual goods unit. The physical goods unit itself can be configured as a data source for the individual identifier, for example using tagging. For example, a tag ID or an identifier provided by a tag can represent a unique identity of the corresponding goods unit. Using this tag ID, for example, a unique digital identity of the same goods unit can be implemented in the form of a digital copy of the corresponding tag ID.

[0105] During tagging, the goods unit and / or packaging of the goods unit can be provided with an individual physical marker, which assigns the goods unit a unique physical identity in the form of an individual identifier provided by the marker. A digital copy of the individual identifier can be registered or stored as a crypto anchor in the DLT system or in one or more data sets managed by the DLT system in the form of a digital valuable item containing the corresponding identifier and assigned to the goods unit. The corresponding individual identifier can, for example, be assigned to and / or included in a delivery order created during the processing of a delivery of the goods unit, an order confirmation, and / or a goods issue protocol.For example, the individual identifier can be recorded using one or more electronic sensors assigned to the sender of the goods.

[0106] The corresponding individual identifier can, for example, be assigned to and / or included in a goods receipt protocol created by the recipient of the goods during the processing of a delivery of the goods unit. For example, the individual identifier can be recorded using one or more electronic sensors assigned to the recipient of the goods.

[0107] In the DLT system, for example, a digital twin of the commodity unit can be provided using a digital valuable item containing a digital copy of the commodity unit's individual identifier. For this digital twin in the form of the digital valuable item, one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit are defined in the form of a corresponding specification and recorded using one or more physical sensors.

[0108] Based on one or more sensor-detected consumption levels, such as remaining fill levels and / or interim consumption, such as fill level changes, delivery orders for goods deliveries to meet the recipient's replenishment needs can be created fully or semi-automatically, for example, using one or more smart contracts. In the case of fully automated creation, the created delivery orders do not require additional approval by an authorized user. In the case of semi-automated creation, the created delivery orders must also be approved by an authorized user.For example, upon delivery of a unit of goods by a sender of goods, for example using one or more smart contracts, the unit of goods to be delivered is reserved in the form of the unit of goods for the recipient of the goods and prepared for dispatch upon entry of data from an order confirmation into a first partial data set of a split data set. For example, upon entry of the data from the delivery order and / or the order confirmation into the second partial data set, an amount of a digital currency managed by the DLT system, which is assigned to the recipient of the goods, is reserved for payment of the ordered units of goods of the delivery of goods, i.e., the unit of goods, for example using one of the several smart contracts.

[0109] If the goods unit is removed from the sender's warehouse, where it is provided, and transported to a receiving and / or usage site of the recipient, this can also be recorded, for example, using geofencing. Corresponding log data from processing steps of the goods unit recorded using geofencing are included, for example, in a goods issue log and / or the log data of a recording notification comprising the goods issue log. The log data are logged in a data record of the DLT system, for example, a shared data record of the DLT system, for example when the data of the goods issue log or the associated log data are entered.

[0110] Furthermore, for example, the arrival of the goods unit at a receiving and / or usage site of the goods recipient can be recorded, for example, using geofencing. Corresponding log data from processing steps of the goods unit recorded using geofencing are included, for example, in a goods receipt log and / or the log data of a recording notification comprising the goods receipt log. The log data are logged in a data record of the DLT system, for example, a shared data record of the DLT system, for example, when the data of the goods receipt log or the associated log data are entered.

[0111] For example, in a delivery of goods, the manufacturing site, storage site, and / or shipping site, as well as the receiving and / or usage site, are each assigned to the sender and recipient of the goods. Using the DLT system, for example, digital twins are implemented in the form of digital valuables of the corresponding goods units, which are assigned to specific sites or locations via the recorded log data.

[0112] For example, a method can be implemented that uses a DLT system and smart contracts to process, automate, monitor, and / or track goods movements between the sender and recipient. Furthermore, a method can be implemented that is configured for automated payment processing for a unit of goods to be delivered and / or delivered during the goods movement.

[0113] In the most general case, for example, a system can be implemented that includes sensors for recording goods units or processing steps of the corresponding goods units, e.g., their production, storage, warehousing, removal from a warehouse, shipping, receiving, and / or use or consumption, as well as one or more smart contracts that can record and evaluate the condition and / or location of the goods units based on a signal received from the sensors. Furthermore, an ordering process for the corresponding goods units can be mapped in the DLT system and automated using the one or more smart contracts.

[0114] For example, a commodity value can be determined and recorded through a price offer and price acceptance using one or more smart contracts in the DLT system. For example, depending on the signaling of an actually delivered quantity of goods, the amount to be paid per quantity of goods is determined based on an agreed commodity price. Pricing can be based, for example, on the monetary value assigned to the commodity unit by means of the digital valuable, which is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. For example, the price to be paid for the commodity unit is the corresponding monetary value of the commodity unit determined by the digital valuable.A payment transaction for this amount to be paid can, for example, be carried out using digital money, which can, for example, be automatically transferred directly between an eWallet or electronic wallet of the sender of the goods implemented in the DLT system and an eWallet or electronic wallet of the recipient of the goods to settle the amount to be paid. The digital money can, for example, be a cryptocurrency and / or a digital currency, in particular digitized commercial bank money. Furthermore, by paying for the unit of goods, a transfer of ownership of the delivered unit of goods from the sender of the goods to the recipient of the goods is triggered, for example, and registered in the DLT system or a shared data set. Such a system can link the unit of goods, i.e. a physical object, with the digital, e.g.programmable money.

[0115] According to embodiments, the individual marker is a passive marker. For example, the passive marker comprises an individual identifier of the corresponding product unit arranged on the product unit in the form of an optoelectronically detectable code. For example, the passive marker comprises a physical and / or chemical tracer that the product unit comprises or is incorporated into the product unit. This tracer comprises the individual identifier, for example, in the form of a physical and / or chemical coding.

[0116] The individual physical marker can, for example, be a packaging marker attached to a packaging or container of the goods unit. The individual physical marker can, for example, be a product marker that is monolithically connected to the goods unit and / or incorporated into or mixed with it.

[0117] For example, an individual passive marker, such as an individual chemical and / or physical tracer, which provides an individual identifier of the goods unit that can be detected by physical sensors, is used to identify, authenticate and / or verify the authenticity of the goods unit.

[0118] According to embodiments, the individual marker is an active marker configured to provide the individual identifier of the unit of goods or a digital copy of the individual identifier using an electromagnetic signal transmitted by the marker.

[0119] For example, an individual active marker, such as an RFID tag or an NFC tag, which actively transmits the individual identifier of the goods unit or a digital copy of the individual identifier to an electronic sensor, is used to verify the identity, authenticity and / or genuineness of the goods unit.

[0120] For example, the individual physical marker is implemented as a packaging marker in the form of a tag attached to the goods unit and / or the packaging of the goods unit, such as a label, a QR code or an RFID tag. For example, the label or the QR code comprises the individual identifier as a machine-readable inscription or embossing. For example, the individual identifier is stored in a memory of the RFID tag. For example, the individual physical marker is implemented as a product marker in the form of a chemical and / or physical tracer introduced into the goods unit. For example, the individual identifier is encoded in the tracer in chemical and / or physical form. For example, this tracer is a tracer that can be generated using chemical and / or physical methods, e.g., a programmable or configurable tracer.Such a tracer can, for example, be added to and / or applied to the corresponding goods unit in traces in order to uniquely identify the corresponding goods unit as a tracer or physical marker with an individual identifier of the goods unit. By capturing the individual identifier provided by the individual physical marker, the corresponding goods unit can thus be uniquely identified, for example.

[0121] The unique identifier provided by the individual physical marker serves as a kind of fingerprint of the individual commodity unit, by means of which the individual commodity unit can be uniquely identified. For example, a material comprised by the individual commodity unit is itself suitable as a fingerprint due to its unique structure, composition, and / or other physical or chemical properties, i.e., it can serve as an individual physical marker providing a unique identifier to uniquely identify the individual commodity unit.

[0122] During tagging, the goods unit and / or the packaging of the goods unit can be provided with an individual physical marker, which, as a physical anchor, assigns the individual identifier to the goods unit as a unique identity that can be detected by sensors. A digital copy of this individual identifier provided by the physical marker can be registered or stored as a crypto anchor in the DLT system or a data record of the DLT system. A corresponding digital copy of the individual identifier can, for example, be included in details of a delivery order, details of an order confirmation, details of a goods issue protocol, and / or details for quality management purposes, etc. For example, the individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the individual physical marker can be detected by a physical sensor assigned to a goods sender.The recorded data is automatically sent, for example, in the form of a recording message to the DLT system or a DLT node assigned to the sender of the goods.

[0123] A corresponding digital copy of the individual identifier can, for example, be included in the information in a goods receipt protocol. For example, the individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the individual physical marker can be recorded using a physical sensor assigned to a goods recipient. The recorded data is automatically sent, for example, in the form of a recording message to the DLT system or a DLT node assigned to the goods recipient.

[0124] According to embodiments, the goods unit in the associated data set of the DLT system with the digital valuable item of the goods unit is assigned a first specification, which determines one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit. The received detection message comprises one or more second sensor values ​​for the one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the first specification, which are detected by one or more second physical sensors.

[0125] Using the at least one smart contract, the method further comprises checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message for compliance with the one or more physical properties to be met by the goods unit according to the shared data set, within first predefined tolerances. For example, it can be checked whether the dispatched goods unit still meets the previous value-defining physical properties that the goods unit should have, for example, according to the manufacturing data.

[0126] According to embodiments, the log data of the capture message comprises an identifier of a processing location at which the captured processing step was performed.

[0127] By recording the identifier of the processing location, for example, the position tracking of the goods unit can be implemented during processing. Depending on the position of the goods unit, procedural steps can be initiated. For example, geofencing can be integrated into the process using the identifiers of the processing location.

[0128] If, for example, the goods unit is removed from a warehouse of a sender of goods where it is stored and transported to a receiving and / or usage site of a recipient of goods, this can also be recorded, for example, using geofencing. Corresponding log data recorded using geofencing is, for example, included in the goods issue log and / or the log data of a recording notification that includes the goods issue log. For example, this data is also logged in the associated data record of the DLT system, such as a split data record, when the data of the goods issue log or the associated log data is entered.

[0129] Furthermore, for example, the arrival of the goods unit at a receiving and / or usage site of the goods recipient can be recorded, for example, using geofencing. Corresponding log data recorded using geofencing is included, for example, in the goods receipt log and / or the log data of a recording notification that includes the goods receipt log. For example, this data is also logged in the associated shared dataset of the DLT system, such as a shared dataset, when the data of the goods receipt log or the associated log data is entered.

[0130] For example, a manufacturing site, storage site, and / or shipping site, as well as a receiving and / or usage site, are each assigned to the sender or recipient of the corresponding goods. Using the DLT system, for example, digital twins are implemented in the form of digital valuables of the corresponding goods units, which are assigned to specific sites or locations via the recorded log data.

[0131] Geofencing refers to the automated triggering of an action by crossing a geolocated boundary on the earth's surface or in the air. For example, when a unit of goods leaves a sender's warehouse, the creation of an outgoing goods report can be triggered, and / or when the unit of goods arrives at a receiving and / or usage site of the recipient, the creation of an incoming goods report can be triggered. Crossing a geolocated boundary can be determined, for example, by detecting a signal emitted by an active physical marker of the unit of goods. Crossing a geolocated boundary can be determined, for example, by detecting a passive physical marker of the unit of goods using a suitable sensor located within the geolocated boundary.

[0132] For example, a method can be implemented that uses a DLT system and smart contracts to process, automate, monitor, and / or track goods movements during the provision of goods units, for example, between senders and recipients. Furthermore, a method can be implemented that is configured for automated payment processing for a unit of goods to be delivered and / or delivered during the goods movement.

[0133] Capturing identifiers from processing locations can also be implemented using RFID gates, for example. For example, the same data as described above with regard to geofencing can be captured using RFID gates and logged in the DLT system.

[0134] For example, a process can also be implemented using RFID gates that uses a DLT system and smart contracts to process, automate, monitor, and / or track goods movements during the provision of goods units, for example, between senders and recipients of goods. Furthermore, a process can be implemented that is configured for automated payment processing for a unit of goods to be delivered and / or delivered during the goods movement.

[0135] According to embodiments, the acquisition message further comprises one or more digital signatures created using one or more cryptographic signature keys. Entering data from the acquisition message into the data set requires successful verification of the one or more digital signatures using one or more cryptographic signature verification keys.

[0136] According to embodiments, the detection message or at least a portion of the data included in the detection message is signed using a cryptographic signature key associated with the detecting first electronic sensor. Entering the signed data of the detection message into the identified data set or the identified partial data set of a split data set includes, for example, successfully verifying the corresponding signature using a cryptographic signature verification key associated with the detecting first electronic sensor.

[0137] According to embodiments, the detection message or at least a portion of the data included in the detection message is signed using a cryptographic signature key associated with the detecting second electronic sensor. Entering the signed data of the detection message into the identified data set or the identified partial data set of a split data set includes, for example, successfully verifying the corresponding signature using a cryptographic signature verification key associated with the detecting second electronic sensor.

[0138] Embodiments may have the advantage that only authorized sensors, or sensors that have a valid signature key for creating signatures that can be successfully verified with the stored signature verification key, can successfully report data capture to the DLT system or one or more DLT nodes of the DLT system by means of a capture message. Thus, logging of a corresponding processing step is carried out, for example, only based on data such as the digital copy of the captured individual identifier, log data, and / or second sensor values ​​provided by one or more authorized sensors.

[0139] According to embodiments, the execution request includes reference data that identify the processing step to be executed. The method further includes checking the received protocol data for at least partial agreement with the reference data.

[0140] The reference data, for example, identifies the processing step to be executed. After the processing step has been executed, the received protocol data can then be used to check whether the actually executed processing step matches the processing step requested according to the execution request or the reference data.

[0141] The capture message is received in response to the sending DLT node sending an execution request to execute the corresponding processing step using the at least one smart contract. The execution request initiates the corresponding processing step or the execution of the corresponding processing step. For example, the at least one smart contract can be configured to initiate the sending of the execution request by the corresponding DLT node and thus the execution of the captured processing step.

[0142] The execution request is signed, for example, with a designated signature key provided by the DLT node and / or the smart contract. This signature can be verified with a complementary signature verification key and can thus prove the DLT node's authorization to initiate the execution step.

[0143] According to embodiments, the execution request is sent in response to the receipt of a consumption message by the DLT node, which subsequently receives the acquisition message. The consumption message indicates that, for example, a goods recipient or a goods sender has detected an inventory level for goods units of a category into which the goods unit falls using an electronic sensor, has reached a predefined threshold.

[0144] Based on one or more sensor-detected consumption levels, such as remaining fill levels and / or interim consumption, such as fill level changes, delivery orders for goods deliveries to meet a replenishment requirement, such as that of a goods recipient, can be created fully or semi-automatically, for example, using one or more smart contracts. In the case of fully automated creation, the created delivery orders do not require additional approval by an authorized user. In the case of semi-automated creation, the created delivery orders must also be approved by an authorized user.

[0145] In the case of a fully automated creation of a delivery order for a delivery of the goods unit, the participants involved, i.e. the sender and recipient of the goods, can, for example, agree on rules for automatic processing, which are automatically followed and implemented by at least one smart contract.

[0146] For automated ordering and payment, for example, a system can be implemented that includes sensors for recording goods units or processing steps of the corresponding goods units, e.g., their production, storage, warehousing, removal from a warehouse, shipping, receiving, and / or use or consumption, as well as one or more smart contracts that can record and evaluate the condition and / or location of the goods units based on signals received from the sensors. Furthermore, an ordering process for the corresponding goods units can be mapped in the DLT system and automated using the one or more smart contracts.

[0147] For example, a commodity value can be determined and recorded through a price offer and price acceptance using one or more smart contracts in the DLT system. For example, depending on the signaling of an actually delivered quantity of goods, the amount to be paid per quantity of goods is determined based on an agreed commodity price. Pricing can be based, for example, on the monetary value assigned to the commodity unit by means of the digital valuable, which is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. For example, the price to be paid for the commodity unit is the corresponding monetary value of the commodity unit determined by the digital valuable.A payment transaction for this amount to be paid can, for example, be carried out using digital money, which can, for example, be automatically transferred directly between an eWallet or electronic wallet of the sender of the goods implemented in the DLT system and an eWallet or electronic wallet of the recipient of the goods to settle the amount to be paid. The digital money can, for example, be a cryptocurrency and / or a digital currency, in particular digitized commercial bank money. Furthermore, by paying for the unit of goods, a transfer of ownership of the delivered unit of goods from the sender of the goods to the recipient of the goods is triggered, for example, and registered in the DLT system or a shared data set. Such a system can link the unit of goods, i.e. a physical object, with the digital, e.g.programmable money.

[0148] For example, the payment of the amount to be paid can also be carried out using a trigger method, in which a transfer receipt is automatically generated and sent via a smart contract, allowing the payment to be made using the traditional method, such as an IBAN-to-IBAN transfer. Using the trigger method, a reservation of funds in the amount to be paid can also be implemented. For example, the corresponding reservation is made with the help of a third party, such as a bank.

[0149] According to embodiments, the method comprises initializing the provision of the goods unit in the DLT system. The initialization comprises:

[0150] • Receiving a provision request which defines a provision specification with one or more value-creating physical properties to be fulfilled by the unit of goods to be provided within predefined second tolerances,

[0151] • Selecting the unit of goods for provision using the first digital asset specification of the unit of goods and the provision specification, wherein selecting the unit of goods comprises adding the digital asset of value to the data set.

[0152] To initialize the provision, the unit of goods to be provided is selected, for example. This selection is made, for example, using a provision specification that defines one or more value-creating physical properties that the unit of goods to be provided must meet. Based on this provision specification, a unit of goods can be selected whose digital valuable item comprises a first specification with one or more value-creating physical properties that correspond to the one or more value-creating physical properties of the provision specification within predefined second tolerances. For this purpose, for example, a selection is made from a plurality of available units of goods orFrom the digital valuables of the majority of available commodity units, a commodity unit is selected based on the one or more value-creating physical properties of the digital valuable item assigned to it.

[0153] For example, the selection of the commodity unit can also include producing the corresponding commodity unit with one or more value-creating physical properties that correspond to the specifications of the provision specification for the value-creating physical properties. If, for example, no suitable commodity unit or no commodity unit with suitable value-creating physical properties is available, a corresponding commodity unit can be produced. In this case of production or production of the commodity unit in response to the provision request, the provision request is, for example, a commodity production request, and the provision specification is a production specification with one or more value-creating physical properties that must be met by the commodity unit to be produced.

[0154] According to embodiments, the method comprises initializing a delivery of goods in the DLT system. Initializing the delivery of goods in the DLT system comprises, for example, creating a split data set with a first partial data set of a goods sender and a second partial data set of a goods recipient. For example, the goods sender first creates a partial data set, i.e., the second partial data set, to log a delivery order from the goods sender. This delivery order is then sent to the goods recipient, where the other partial data set, i.e., the first partial data set of the split data set, is created to process the received delivery order.

[0155] For example, initializing the delivery of goods includes:

[0156] • Receiving a delivery order from a goods recipient by a second DLT node assigned to the goods recipient for goods to be delivered by a goods sender to the goods recipient, wherein the delivery order specifies one or more physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered as a specification, for example one or more value-forming physical properties, wherein the physical properties comprise at least a quantity of goods to be delivered,

[0157] • Creation of a partial data set of a split data set by the DLT node assigned to the recipient of the goods, which manages the created partial data set, and entries of at least one or more physical properties of the delivery order by the DLT node assigned to the recipient of the goods in the created partial data set using the at least one smart contract.

[0158] For example, the goods recipient registers as a potential customer or a goods recipient in the DLT system when and / or during the creation of the partial data record by the DLT node assigned to the goods recipient.

[0159] The delivery order defines one or more physical properties to be met by the delivered unit of goods. Furthermore, the delivery order specifies, for example, an order price from the recipient of the goods for the unit of goods. The recipient's order price is a price indication of a price at which the recipient of the goods wishes to purchase the unit of goods. For example, the one or more physical properties include one or more value-creating physical properties. For example, depending on the one or more physical properties, a monetary value is or is determined for the unit of goods to be delivered. The order price is determined, for example, using this monetary value. For example, the order price is the determined monetary value.

[0160] To initialize the delivery of goods, the at least one smart contract includes, for example, program instructions configured to enter and check delivery orders and order confirmations. During the initialization of the delivery of goods, for example, a delivery order from the recipient of the goods is received, and with this, a partial data record of the sender of the goods is created. A smart contract, in particular as a program structure, can at least partially map the rights and / or obligations, also called regulations, from a contract, such as a legally binding contract that was concluded in non-digital physical form, for example, verbally, in paper, written, and / or text form, between the recipient of the goods and the sender of the goods. Depending on the embodiment, the initialization of the delivery of goods also includes:

[0161] • Transmitting at least one copy of the created partial data record of the goods recipient from the DLT node assigned to the goods sender to a DLT node assigned to the goods sender,

[0162] • Creating a further partial data set of the goods sender managed by the DLT node assigned to the goods sender, whereby a shared data set comprising both partial data sets is implemented on the two DLT nodes of the DLT system, and updating the created partial data set of the goods sender by the DLT node assigned to the goods sender based on the received copy of the partial data set of the goods recipient, wherein the updating comprises entering at least one or more of the physical properties of the copy of the partial data set of the goods recipient in the partial data set of the goods sender, wherein the at least one or more entered physical properties comprise the quantity of goods to be delivered,

[0163] • Receiving an order confirmation from the sender of goods via the network by the sender of goods’ DLT node, wherein the order confirmation includes a further specification of the one or more physical properties of the goods to be delivered,

[0164] • Checking the specification of the order confirmation for compliance with the specification of the delivery order using at least one smart contract,

[0165] • Updating the partial data record of the sender of goods by the DLT node assigned to the sender of goods using a check result from checking the specification of the order confirmation,

[0166] • Transmitting at least one update message from the DLT node assigned to the sender of the goods to the DLT node assigned to the recipient of the goods,

[0167] • Updating the partial data record of the goods recipient by the goods sender’s DLT node using the transmitted update message.

[0168] The sender's order confirmation specifies one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered. For example, the order confirmation confirms the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered specified in the delivery order. Furthermore, the order confirmation specifies, for example, an order price for the unit of goods at which the sender is willing to deliver the unit of goods. For example, the order confirmation confirms the recipient's order price according to the delivery order. For example, the one or more physical properties include one or more value-creating physical properties. For example, a monetary value is or is determined for the unit of goods to be delivered depending on the one or more physical properties. The order price is determined, for example, using this monetary value.For example, the order price is the specific monetary value.

[0169] For example, the sender selects a specific unit of goods for delivery based on one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered, e.g., according to the delivery order or order confirmation. The selection is made, for example, using the digital valuable item of the unit of goods or the individual identifier of the unit of goods contained in the digital valuable item. By selecting the unit of goods, it is reserved, for example, for the recipient of the goods. A corresponding reservation is made, for example, by assigning the digital valuable item of the unit of goods to the recipient of the goods. The physical marker of the unit of goods, which provides the individual identifier of the unit of goods, can be used to ensure that the selected unit of goods is reserved for the recipient of the goods.

[0170] For example, upon receipt of the order confirmation, the recipient of the goods has the opportunity to select a specific unit of goods for delivery that meets one or more of the physical properties specified for the unit of goods to be delivered, for example, according to the delivery order or order confirmation. The selection is made, for example, using the digital valuable item of the unit of goods or the individual identifier of the unit of goods contained in the digital valuable item. By selecting the unit of goods, it is reserved, for example, for the recipient of the goods.

[0171] • A corresponding reservation is made, for example, by assigning the digital valuable item of the goods unit to the goods recipient. The physical marker of the goods unit, which provides the individual identifier of the goods unit, can be used to ensure that the selected goods unit is reserved for the goods recipient. The reservation can in particular include that no other party (potential goods recipient) sees the goods unit (end of display) and / or is offered it (end of offer). A reservation can advantageously include that when a goods unit is reserved, another potential goods recipient is automatically entered on a digital waiting list, in particular with a defined prioritization. The digital waiting list can advantageously be managed on a node of the DLT system, in particular.be stored, advantageously as a shared data set in the DLT system. In the event that the primary transaction between the sender and recipient is not realized, only partially realized, and / or reversed, a potential recipient can automatically move up from the waiting list to the position of the now valid recipient, so that a new, now valid reservation is made for the moved-up recipient. Advantageously, a delivery of goods that has already been partially started can be automatically redirected to the now valid, subsequent recipient. Analogously, the reservation for a recipient moved up in this way can also include an automatic adjustment in the shared data set in the DLT system that is assigned to the digital valuable item.

[0172] For example, the monetary value of the goods unit, which is determined depending on the value-creating physical properties of the individual goods unit and encompassed by the digital valuable item, corresponds to the order price, in particular to the order price confirmed by the sender of the goods, on which the recipient of the goods and the sender of the goods have agreed.

[0173] In response to the creation of the partial data record of the goods recipient with the delivery order, for example, a partial data record of the goods sender and thus the split data record is created and an order confirmation is entered.

[0174] Depending on the embodiment, the DLT node assigned to the goods recipient receives the delivery order in the form of the goods sender's partial data record from the DLT node assigned to the goods sender. Initializing the goods delivery in this case includes, for example:

[0175] • Receiving a delivery order from the goods recipient by the DLT node assigned to the goods sender for goods to be delivered by the goods sender to the goods recipient, wherein the delivery order specifies one or more physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered as a specification, for example one or more value-forming physical properties, wherein the physical properties comprise at least a quantity of goods to be delivered,

[0176] • Creating the partial data set of the goods sender managed by the DLT node assigned to the goods sender and entries of at least one or more physical properties of the delivery order by the DLT node assigned to the goods sender in the created partial data set of the goods sender using the at least one smart contract, • Transmitting at least one copy of the partial data set of the goods sender from the DLT node assigned to the goods sender to the DLT node assigned to the goods recipient,

[0177] • Receiving an order confirmation from the sender of goods via the network by the DLT node assigned to the sender of goods, wherein the order confirmation includes a further specification of the one or more physical properties of the goods to be delivered,

[0178] • Checking the specification of the order confirmation for compliance with the specification of the delivery order using at least one smart contract,

[0179] • Updating the partial data record of the sender of goods by the DLT node assigned to the sender of goods using a check result from checking the specification of the order confirmation,

[0180] • Transmitting at least one update message from the DLT node assigned to the sender of the goods to the DLT node assigned to the recipient of the goods,

[0181] • Updating the consignee’s partial data record by the DLT node assigned to the consignee using the transmitted update message.

[0182] For example, the generation of the shared data set can also be initiated by the DLT node assigned to the sender of the goods.

[0183] According to embodiments, the method further comprises, in the course of an initial registration of the goods unit:

[0184] • Receiving a registration request, wherein the registration request includes the digital valuable of the unit of goods to be registered,

[0185] • Entries of the digital valuable item in a registration record.

[0186] In order for a unit of goods to be used for provision using the DLT system and a digital asset associated with the corresponding unit of goods, an initial registration of the unit of goods or the digital asset associated with the unit of goods is necessary. For this purpose, the digital asset is registered in the DLT system, i.e., stored in a registration record.

[0187] According to embodiments, the method further comprises, in the course of an initial registration of the goods unit:

[0188] • Receiving a registration request, wherein the registration request comprises a digital copy of the recorded individual identifier of the goods unit to be registered, wherein the registration request further comprises registration data comprising one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit,

[0189] • Creating the digital valuable item using the received individual identifier of the commodity unit and the received one or more value-forming physical properties of the commodity unit, wherein the creation of the digital valuable item comprises determining the monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit depending on the received value-forming physical properties of the commodity unit, which is added to the digital valuable item as a value indication,

[0190] • Entries of the digital valuable item in a registration record.

[0191] For a unit of goods to be used for provision using the DLT system and a digital asset assigned to the corresponding unit of goods, an initial registration of the unit of goods or the digital asset assigned to the unit of goods is necessary. For this purpose, the digital asset is registered in the DLT system, i.e., stored in a registration record. The digital asset serves as a digital equivalent of the physical unit of goods.

[0192] For example, registering the commodity unit involves creating the digital valuable item of the commodity unit. The digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit to be registered and a specification associated with the digital copy of the individual identifier, which comprises one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit to be registered. These value-generating physical properties are provided, for example, by the registration data. Furthermore, the digital valuable item comprises an indication of a monetary value associated with the commodity unit to be registered. This monetary value is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit to be registered.

[0193] A corresponding registration occurs, for example, upon the production of the corresponding unit of goods. Production of the unit of goods can, for example, occur independently of a delivery order and / or an order confirmation. For example, production can be triggered by a delivery order and / or an order confirmation.

[0194] For example, manufacturing data for the unit of goods is also assigned to the digital valuable item. For example, the digital valuable item comprises the corresponding manufacturing data. The manufacturing data for the unit of goods comprises, for example, one or more of the following information: information on a manufacturing date, information on a manufacturing location, information on a manufacturing process, for example in general form according to a general specification and / or in the form of specific information on individual process parameters of the individual manufacturing process, material data, for example in general form according to a general specification and / or in the form of specific information on individual physical properties of the individual unit of goods, and / or information on an expiration date. For example, the manufacturing data comprises information on one or more initial value-creating physical properties of the unit of goods according to the first specification.

[0195] In particular, specific information on individual process parameters of the individual manufacturing process and / or specific information on individual physical properties of the individual goods unit can be advantageous, as this allows the properties, possible uses, and / or necessary application parameters for the use of the goods unit to be precisely determined, for example by the recipient of the goods. Furthermore, the recipient of the goods can use this information to check whether the specific goods unit is actually suitable for its intended use.

[0196] According to embodiments, creating the data record managed by at least one of the DLT nodes with the digital valuable item of the provided unit of goods comprises:

[0197] • Selection of the unit of goods using the registration record,

[0198] • Entries of the digital valuable item of the selected unit of goods in the data set,

[0199] • on entering the digital valuable item in the data record, entering a usage note in the registration data record.

[0200] Thus, a unit of goods can be selected, for example, using the registration data record and assigned to the data record by entering the digital valuable item. This corresponds, for example, to reserving the specific unit of goods for provision using the corresponding data record. The usage note in the registration data record can, for example, prevent the registered unit of goods from being used for and / or assigned to another provision.

[0201] In the case of a shared dataset, creating the first partial dataset managed by the first DLT node comprises, according to embodiments:

[0202] • Selection of the unit of goods using the registration record,

[0203] • Entries of the digital valuable item of the selected unit of goods in the first partial data set,

[0204] • on the entry of the digital valuable item in the first partial data set, entries of a usage note in the registration data set.

[0205] Thus, a unit of goods can be selected, for example, using the registration data record and assigned to the first partial data record and thus to the shared data record by entering the digital valuable item. This corresponds, for example, to reserving the specific unit of goods for provision using the shared data record. The usage note in the registration data record can, for example, prevent the registered unit of goods from being used for another provision and / or assigned to another provision.

[0206] For example, if the provision of a unit of goods involves a delivery of the unit of goods from a sender to a recipient, the unit of goods can be assigned to the corresponding delivery by registering the digital valuable item. This corresponds, for example, to reserving the specific unit of goods for delivery to the recipient. The usage note in the registration data record can, for example, prevent the registered unit of goods from being used for another delivery and / or assigned to another delivery.

[0207] The process allows, for example, a reservation of the goods unit for delivery and / or the provision of the, if reserved, goods unit for delivery by the sender of the goods. Such a reservation and / or provision occurs, for example, in response to order acceptance or in response to a counteroffer by the sender of the goods.

[0208] A corresponding reservation and / or provision includes, for example, an automatic adjustment or a corresponding entry in the shared data set in the DLT system that is assigned to the digital valuable item.

[0209] According to embodiments, the registration data record is the data record that comprises the digital asset of value. Creating the data record managed by one of the DLT nodes comprises sending a commodity creation request, which includes a creation specification of one or more value-generating physical properties that must be fulfilled by the commodity unit to be created. The registration request is received in response to the sending of the commodity creation request.

[0210] The corresponding goods production request can, for example, be a request to produce the corresponding goods unit by manufacturing it according to the production specification. During the production process, the goods unit is registered in the corresponding data record as a registration data record in the DLT system.

[0211] The goods production request, for example, initiates the production of the goods unit. The production of the goods unit can, for example, comprise production, assembly, packaging and / or filling of the goods unit. For example, the goods unit is provided with the physical marker directly during production, e.g. production, assembly, packaging and / or filling, which can, for example, be attached as a tag to the goods unit, e.g. to a packaging included in the goods unit, or can be incorporated into the goods unit as a tracer. Upon the production of the goods unit, for example, the registration request is received in response to the sending of the goods production request and an initial registration of the produced goods unit takes place.

[0212] According to embodiments, the registration data record is the first partial data record. Creating the first partial data record managed by the first DLT node comprises sending a goods production request, which includes a production specification of one or more value-generating physical properties that must be fulfilled by the goods unit to be produced. The registration request is received in response to the sending of the goods production request.

[0213] The corresponding goods production request can, for example, be a request to produce the corresponding goods unit by manufacturing it according to the production specification. During the production process, the goods unit is registered in the first partial data set as a registration data record in the DLT system.

[0214] The individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the individual physical marker is recorded, for example, using an electronic sensor assigned to the goods sender and is logged using a recording message with log data in the shared data set, which is assigned to the digital valuable item of the recorded goods unit or contains the corresponding digital valuable item. For example, the log data includes a goods management log and / or a goods issue log of the goods sender or is provided in the form of a goods management log and / or a goods issue log. The corresponding recording message is forwarded, for example, to a DLT node of the goods sender for logging in the shared data set.

[0215] The individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the individual physical marker is recorded, for example, using an electronic sensor assigned to the goods recipient and is logged using a recording message with log data in the shared data set, which is assigned to the digital valuable item of the recorded goods unit or contains the corresponding digital valuable item. For example, the log data includes a goods management log and / or a goods receipt log of the goods recipient or is provided in the form of a goods management log and / or a goods receipt log. The corresponding recording message is forwarded, for example, to a DLT node of the goods recipient for logging in the shared data set.

[0216] An update of the shared data set for logging a processing step of the goods unit in the course of a delivery of the goods unit occurs, for example, in a processing step in the form of a dispatch of the goods unit by the sender of the goods, a receipt or acceptance of the goods unit by the recipient of the goods.

[0217] Furthermore, the shared data set can, for example, log an order for goods by the recipient of the goods and / or an acceptance of the order by the sender of the goods.

[0218] By using one or more smart contracts, the sender of goods reserves and makes available, for example, the unit of goods to be delivered to the recipient of goods upon entering the order confirmation data into the first partial data set. For example, by using one of the multiple smart contracts, upon entering the delivery order data and / or the order confirmation data into the second partial data set, an amount of a digital currency managed by the DLT system, which is assigned to the recipient of goods, is reserved for payment of the unit of goods to be delivered.

[0219] For example, an additional DLT node is provided in the DLT system, which is a warehouse node, for example, of the goods sender. For example, the DLT node of the goods sender is also configured as a warehouse node. The warehouse node manages, for example, a (partial) data record of a digital warehouse, which is assigned to the digital valuable item of the goods unit or contains the corresponding digital valuable item, and logs processing steps of the goods unit during warehousing. For example, the digital valuable item can be provided for the generation of one or more smart contracts with a goods recipient, for example in a function as an online shop. The goods recipient can be, for example, an end consumer of the goods unit or an intermediary.

[0220] Updates to the (partial) data record of the warehouse node, which is assigned to the digital valuable item of the goods unit or contains the corresponding digital valuable item, as a result of recorded processing steps of the goods unit during warehousing, are carried out, for example, analogously to the update of a data record, such as a split data record, for recording processing steps of the goods unit during delivery to the goods recipient. In the case of a non-split data record of the warehouse node, for example, there is no need to transmit the update to other DLT nodes.

[0221] The DLT system can, for example, also be in contact with a blockchain, possibly segment-wise, and / or with a hyper-DLT, for example via an API (Application Programming Interface) for further functionalization.

[0222] During the delivery of the goods unit, for example, the digital valuable item is removed from the (partial) data set of the warehouse node, or a corresponding removal note is entered, and the digital valuable item is assigned to the shared data set of the sender and recipient. For example, a corresponding smart contract is generated, in particular by the sender and recipient, which is assigned to the digital valuable item and regulates its handling during the delivery of the goods unit from the sender to the recipient. For example, a smart contract template for creating a corresponding smart contract is provided, for example, via an interface of a DLT server of the DLT system.When creating the split data set, the sender's and / or recipient's sub-data set can be newly created, or an existing data set can be integrated into the split data set. The former option can be used for new customers, for example, while the latter option can be used for existing customers.

[0223] The process enables, for example, the recipient of the goods to have the sender reserve the unit of goods for delivery using at least one smart contract and the digital asset. This can be done, for example, as a request by the recipient of the goods within the framework of a framework agreement.

[0224] Based on the smart contract as an agreement between the sender of goods and the recipient of goods, which also includes, for example, a price for the unit of goods, the recipient of goods receives from the sender of goods access to the sender's inventory, so that the recipient of goods can reserve the unit of goods using the digital asset assigned to the corresponding unit of goods. This can, for example, give the recipient of goods a guarantee of goods availability. For example, using one or more smart contracts, upon entry of the delivery order data and / or the order confirmation into the second partial data set, an amount of a digital currency managed by the DLT system, which is assigned to the recipient of goods, is reserved for payment of the ordered units of goods for the delivery of goods, i.e. the unit of goods.

[0225] For example, from the sender's perspective, when the recipient reserves a unit of goods, the amount to be paid is reserved in the recipient's eWallet for the sender's benefit. Upon reserving the corresponding amount of money in the recipient's eWallet, the sender receives a message, for example, that the amount of money is reserved and will be automatically transferred to the sender's eWallet when the recipient accepts the unit of goods. This allows the sender to receive a guarantee of the availability of the amount to be paid. For example, the reserved amount of money is based on the value stated in the digital valuable item of the corresponding unit of goods. For example, the reserved amount of money corresponds to the monetary value stated in the digital valuable item.For example, if the monetary value indicated by the digital asset is updated, the reservation of the amount of money or the reserved amount of money is also updated.

[0226] By reserving the amount to be paid in the recipient's eWallet for the benefit of the sender, an automatic payment (conditional payment) dependent on the delivery of goods can be implemented. Payment of the reserved amount is made automatically, for example, upon confirmed delivery or confirmation of delivery, or upon successful delivery or confirmation of successful delivery.

[0227] For example, when a unit of goods is shipped, the status of the unit of goods is set to sent. If there is a corresponding consensus between the sender and recipient, the amount of money reserved in the recipient's eWallet is transferred to the sender's eWallet. With this payment, the status of the unit of goods or the digital valuable is set, for example, to paid. For example, upon payment or upon setting the status of the digital valuable to paid, a release is sent to a transport service provider for delivery to the recipient.

[0228] By reserving the digital goods unit, the goods recipient can, for example, apply for financing of the order value, i.e. the monetary value of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item. This means that financing can already be implemented at the time of the order or the goods reservation. For example, the corresponding financed amount of money is reserved in favor of the goods sender for the reservation of the goods unit for the goods recipient. By reserving the corresponding amount of money in favor of the goods sender, an automatic payment (conditional payment) dependent on the delivery of the goods can be implemented, for example. The payment of the reserved amount of money is made automatically, for example, with the confirmed delivery or a confirmation of the delivery or upon a successful delivery or a confirmation of a successful delivery.

[0229] If a transport service provider delivers the goods unit to the recipient, the status of the goods unit or the digital valuable item is set to "sent", for example. Receipt of the shipped goods unit by the recipient is confirmed, for example, by the recipient passing through an RFID gate with a physical marker in the form of an RFID tag, or by scanning a physical marker in the form of an NFC tag, or by scanning a QR code provided by the physical marker, or similar. If there is a consensus between the sender and the recipient regarding one or more physical properties of the delivered goods unit, such as the quantity of goods, the amount of money reserved in the recipient's eWallet for the benefit of the sender is transferred to the sender's eWallet. With payment, i.e.the transfer of the reserved amount of money, a status of the digital goods unit is set to paid, for example.

[0230] For example, the sender of goods allows the recipient of goods to select individual payment terms. For example, the recipient of goods is provided with the corresponding payment terms for selection using the smart contract. For example, the sender of goods sets an interest rate for the recipient of goods for an extension of the payment term. For example, the interest rates are staggered according to the length of the payment term granted. For example, the longer the payment term granted, the higher the interest. For example, no interest is charged for an immediate payment. For example, a payment within a payment term of 30 days will incur 3% interest per year. For example, a payment within a payment term of 60 days will incur 4% interest per year. For example, a payment within a payment term of 90 days will incur 5% interest per year.

[0231] For example, an invoice for the delivery loan is issued upon payment of the goods unit and is calculated using at least one smart contract. The invoice is registered, for example, in the DLT nodes of the sender and recipient of the goods. This can ensure, for example, a consensus between the sender and recipient of the goods underlying the invoice.

[0232] The conclusion of a legal transaction underlying the delivery of the unit of goods occurs, for example, through an order confirmation from the sender of the goods. For example, the corresponding legal transaction can also be concluded through implied action.

[0233] For example, the price to be paid for a unit of goods can be set by agreement between the sender and the recipient. For example, the price can also be set unilaterally by the sender, for example, in an online shop. For example, the reservation of the unit of goods can also take place in a corresponding online shop. For example, the price is set based on the value stated in accordance with the digital asset of the corresponding unit of goods.

[0234] By reserving the goods unit, the recipient of the goods also receives digital access to the right to accept the goods unit. Upon acceptance of the goods unit, digitally confirmed in at least one smart contract, an invoice is automatically generated and paid. Further advantages for the sender of the goods may include, for example, a waiver of credit insurance and / or a prepayment arrangement.

[0235] If, for example, the order is not accepted, the reservation of the goods unit with the sender and the reservation of the funds in the recipient's eWallet are canceled. For example, an order can be canceled by canceling the reservation. For example, the sender can cancel the reservation of the funds, or the recipient can cancel the reservation of the goods unit.

[0236] According to embodiments, the method further comprises logging a delivery of the goods unit in the DLT system. The at least one smart contract further comprises program instructions for entering and checking a goods issue log during a delivery of the goods unit from the goods sender to the goods recipient. Using the at least one smart contract, the logging comprises:

[0237] • Receiving an outgoing goods protocol from the goods sender via the network by the first DLT node, wherein the outgoing goods protocol comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the outgoing goods unit detected by a first physical sensor assigned to the goods sender and one or more second sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the outgoing goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable item, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors assigned to the goods sender, wherein the one or more second sensor values ​​comprise at least one second sensor value which quantifies the quantity of goods delivered,

[0238] • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol for compliance with the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered according to the digital valuable item within the predefined first tolerances, wherein the checked second sensor values ​​comprise a first sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered,

[0239] • Updating the first partial data set by the first DLT node using a test result of checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol,

[0240] • Transmitting at least a second update message from the first DLT node to the second DLT node,

[0241] • Updating the second partial data set by the second DLT node using the transmitted second update message.

[0242] According to embodiments, the method further comprises validating the delivery of the goods unit in the DLT system. The at least one smart contract further comprises program instructions for validating the delivery of the goods units. The validation comprises, using the at least one smart contract:

[0243] • Checking parameters of a validation message for validating the delivery of the unit of goods by the first DLT node, wherein the parameters comprise at least one quantity of goods to be validated, wherein checking the parameters comprises checking the quantity of goods to be validated for compliance with the second sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered within one of the predefined first tolerances,

[0244] • if the quantity of goods to be validated matches the second sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered within the corresponding predefined first tolerance, updating the first partial data set by the first DLT node, wherein the updating comprises registering the validation message by the first DLT node in the first partial data set,

[0245] • Transmitting at least a third update message from the first DLT node to the second DLT node,

[0246] • Updating the second partial data set by the second DLT node using the third update message, wherein updating the second partial data set comprises registering the validation message in the second partial data set.

[0247] During the initialization of the goods delivery, a split data set is generated on two DLT nodes of a restricted-access DLT system. This split data set comprises, for example, a first partial data set of a goods sender, which is managed by a first DLT node assigned to the goods sender, and a second partial data set of a goods recipient, which is managed by a second DLT node assigned to the goods recipient. First, for example, following receipt of a delivery order comprising a first specification of the goods unit to be delivered, one or more physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered according to the first specification are entered into the second partial data set of the split data set managed by the second DLT node. These one or more entered physical properties according to the first specification comprise at least one quantity of goods to be delivered.These registered one or more physical properties according to the first specification include, for example, one or more value-creating physical properties to be fulfilled by the unit of goods to be delivered.

[0248] This second partial data set, or the one or more physical properties entered in the second partial data set according to the first specification, are transmitted to the first DLT node of the goods sender. The first DLT node creates the first partial data set of the split data set, in which the one or more physical properties are entered according to the first specification. The one or more physical properties entered according to the first specification comprise at least one quantity of goods to be delivered. As a result, both partial data sets of the split data set thus contain, for example, identical data.

[0249] Upon receipt of an order confirmation comprising a second specification of the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered, the first DLT node checks the second specification for compliance with the first specification using the at least one smart contract and updates the first partial data set using the result of checking the second specification.

[0250] For example, the order confirmation includes the second specification in the form of a digital valuable item that is assigned to a unit of goods selected by the sender for delivery.

[0251] If the second specification matches the first specification, updating the first partial data set using the check result includes, for example, entering a confirmation of the first specification. For example, updating the first partial data set using the check result includes entering the second specification in addition to the first specification into the first partial data set. For example, to confirm the first specification, the digital asset received with the order confirmation is entered into the first partial data set.

[0252] If the second specification deviates from the first specification, updating the first partial data set using the test result includes, for example, replacing or updating the physical properties according to the first specification with the deviating physical properties according to the second specification. For example, during the updating of the first partial data set, the deviating physical properties according to the second specification are entered into the first partial data set in addition to the first specification. For example, the second specification is entered into the first partial data set in addition to the first specification.

[0253] Furthermore, an update message is transmitted from the first DLT node to the second DLT node. For example, the update message indicates whether the second specification matches the first specification. If one or more physical properties according to the second specification deviate from the first specification, the update message identifies, for example, the deviating one or more physical properties according to the second specification. For example, the first update message comprises the entire second specification or a copy of the second specification. For example, the update message comprises the second specification in the form of the digital asset associated with the unit of goods.

[0254] Such a deviation of one or more physical properties according to the second specification from the first specification can occur, for example, because only a certain minimum quantity of goods is available for delivery or the unit of goods is only delivered in certain quantity units, e.g., the size of a tank wagon or a tank truck. Such a deviation of one or more physical properties according to the second specification from the first specification can occur, for example, because the deliverable product properties differ from the ordered product properties. For example, there may only be one deliverable unit of goods with (partially) differing physical properties in stock.

[0255] The second DLT node updates the second partial data set of the split data set using the update message transmitted by the first DLT node. If the second specification matches the first specification, updating the second partial data set using the corresponding update message includes, for example, entering a confirmation of the first specification. For example, updating the second partial data set using the first update message includes entering the second specification in addition to the first specification into the second partial data set.

[0256] If the second specification deviates from the first specification, updating the second partial data set using the first update message includes, for example, replacing or updating the physical properties according to the first specification with the deviating physical properties according to the second specification. For example, during the updating of the second partial data set, the deviating physical properties according to the second specification are entered into the second partial data set in addition to the first specification. For example, the second specification is entered into the second partial data set in addition to the first specification.

[0257] If the second specification deviates from the first specification, a “handshake” is performed between the first DLT node and the second DLT node, for example, to compare the first specification with the second specification so that the first and second specifications resulting from the comparison match.

[0258] A handshake, also known as a handshake in German, refers to an automated negotiation process between two participants, in this case the two DLT nodes, through an exchange of data, in this case information on the physical properties of the goods to be delivered. In this case, the handshake can be used to establish the conditions of a goods delivery before the physical delivery of the unit of goods begins. Using at least one smart contract, for example, a handshake protocol is executed between the two DLT nodes, the result of which is an adjustment of one or both specifications until an identical match, i.e., identity, exists between these two specifications.

[0259] For example, the handshake can confirm the second specification according to the transmitted digital valuable or, if the second specification is not acceptable to the goods recipient due to a discrepancy, the goods sender can select an alternative goods unit with an alternative specification during the handshake and repeat the preceding steps with an alternative digital valuable assigned to the alternative goods unit. Otherwise, a modification or adjustment of the selected goods unit can be made during the handshake, resulting in an adjustment of the digital valuable, and the preceding steps can be repeated with the adjusted digital valuable for the adjusted goods unit. Such an adjustment can, for example, be a processing step for the corresponding goods unit.

[0260] If the second specification matches the first specification, a confirmation message is transmitted, for example, from the first DLT node to the sender of the goods via the network. A match between the second specification and the first specification occurs, for example, when the two specifications are identical, i.e., there is an identical match. A match between the second specification and the first specification occurs, for example, when there are no deviations that exceed a predefined tolerance range. The confirmation message indicates to the sender of the goods, for example, that an agreement on the corresponding delivery of goods has been reached between the recipient of the goods and the sender of the goods. Furthermore, the confirmation message contains, for example, the specification of the corresponding delivery of goods. For example, the corresponding confirmation message serves as a trigger for initiating the corresponding delivery of goods.

[0261] Furthermore, the delivery of goods is logged in the DLT system. If the physical delivery of goods is carried out, i.e. if the unit of goods to be delivered leaves a warehouse of the sender of the goods, an outgoing goods log is created. The corresponding outgoing goods log comprises one or more sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the outgoing unit of goods according to the second specification, which are recorded by one or more physical sensors assigned to the sender of the goods. The outgoing goods log therefore specifies, for one or more physical properties for which target values ​​are given in the second specification, measured values ​​recorded by sensors, which reflect the actual condition of the outgoing unit of goods with regard to the corresponding physical properties. The corresponding sensor values ​​comprise at least one sensor value which represents the delivered, i.e.outgoing, quantity of goods quantified.

[0262] The goods issue log, for example, is a recording notification of a processing step of the goods unit in the form of goods issue or goods dispatch. This goods issue is executed, for example, in response to an execution request to dispatch the corresponding goods unit.

[0263] The first DLT node of the sender receives the outgoing goods protocol from the sender via the first network and checks the one or more first sensor values ​​of the outgoing goods protocol for compliance with the one or more physical properties of the goods to be delivered. This check determines whether the one or more sensor values ​​of the outgoing goods protocol match one or more physical properties according to the shared data set within predefined tolerances. If no such match exists, a warning is sent to the sender and / or the recipient, for example. Such a warning can, for example, trigger a subsequent delivery by the sender if the delivery quantity is too low. Such a warning can, for example, result in the delivery process being stopped if a product property does not meet the specifications.In this case, for example, either the recipient of the goods must agree to the deviating specification and the delivery will be made, or the order will be canceled. As an alternative to cancellation, the delivery date can be changed to a date on which the goods unit meeting the specifications is available.

[0264] The goods issue log, for example, is a recording notification of a processing step of the goods unit in the form of goods issue or goods dispatch. This goods issue is executed, for example, in response to an execution request to dispatch the corresponding goods unit.

[0265] For example, the presence of such a warning may trigger a review of the deviating physical properties upon arrival of the goods unit by the recipient of the goods. For example, such a warning may require confirmation of the deviating physical properties by the recipient of the goods for successful final validation of the delivery of the goods.

[0266] The first partial data set is updated by the first DLT node using the result of the check of the one or more sensor values ​​of the goods issue log. For example, the update comprises an entry of the goods issue log and / or one or more of the sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log. For example, all sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log are entered. For example, only those sensor values ​​are entered that differ from the values ​​entered in the first partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered.For example, for sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol which match the values ​​entered in the first partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered, only a confirmation is entered in the first partial data set that the corresponding values ​​for the physical properties match the recorded sensor values.

[0267] Furthermore, an update message is transmitted from the first DLT node to the second DLT node. This update message includes, for example, the goods issue log and / or one or more of the sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log. For example, the second update message includes all sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log. For example, the update message includes only those sensor values ​​that differ from the values ​​entered in the first partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered.For example, the update message for sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol that match the values ​​for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered entered in the first partial data set only includes a confirmation that the corresponding values ​​for the physical properties according to the split data set match the recorded sensor values.

[0268] The second DLT node updates the second partial data set of the split data set using the corresponding update message. For example, the update includes an entry in the goods issue log and / or one or more of the sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log. For example, all sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log are entered. For example, only those sensor values ​​that differ from the values ​​entered in the second partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered are entered.For example, for sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol that match the values ​​entered in the second partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered, only a confirmation is entered in the second partial data set that the corresponding values ​​for the physical properties match the recorded sensor values.

[0269] Finally, the delivery of goods is validated in the DLT system. For this purpose, parameters of a validation message for validating the delivery of goods are checked by the first DLT node. The checked parameters of the validation message include at least one specification of the quantity of goods delivered that is to be validated. Checking the corresponding parameters includes checking the quantity of goods to be validated for compliance with the sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered according to the goods issue protocol within a predefined tolerance. If the quantity of goods to be validated matches the sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered within the predefined tolerance, the first partial data set is updated by the first DLT node using the validation message. The updating includes registering the validation message by the first DLT node in the first partial data set.For example, during registration, an identifier of the validation message is entered into the first partial data set. For example, a check value, such as a hash value, of the validation message is entered into the first partial data set. For example, one or more parameters of the validation message are entered into the first partial data set. For example, the validation message is entered into the first partial data set.

[0270] A hash value is the result of applying a hash function, also called a hash function, to an input, also called a key. A hash function is a mapping that maps a large input set, the keys, to a smaller target set, the hash values. A hash function is therefore generally not injective. For example, the input set can contain elements of different lengths, while the elements of the target set generally have a fixed length.

[0271] For example, validation is triggered by the receipt of a validation message or by the generation of a validation message. For example, the generation of a validation message is triggered by the receipt of an acknowledgment of the delivered goods unit from the goods recipient. For example, an acknowledgment of receipt is received in the form of a goods receipt report.

[0272] Furthermore, the first DLT node transmits another update message to the second DLT node. This update message includes, for example, the data of the validation message entered into the first partial data set during the update. The update message includes, for example, the complete, updated first partial data set. The update message includes, for example, the validation message.

[0273] The second DLT node updates the second partial data set using the corresponding update message. Updating the second partial data set includes registering the validation message in the second partial data set. For example, during registration, an identifier of the validation message is entered into the second partial data set. For example, a check value, such as a hash value, of the validation message is entered into the second partial data set. For example, one or more parameters of the validation message are entered into the second partial data set. For example, the validation message is entered into the second partial data set.

[0274] Processing with respect to the individual participants in a delivery of the goods unit, i.e., the sender and recipient, takes place, for example, on DLT nodes of the DLT system, which are assigned to the respective participants. The DLT system comprises a plurality of DLT servers. Two or more DLT nodes of two or more participants can be located, for example, on one and the same DLT server of the DLT system. For example, the DLT nodes of different participants are located on different DLT servers of the DLT system.

[0275] For example, a single smart contract is used to execute the process for computer-implemented control of the delivery of goods. For example, a plurality of smart contracts are used. For example, the individual smart contracts of the plurality of smart contracts are each configured to execute specific sub-processes, such as initialization, logging, and / or validation.

[0276] A smart contract defines a set of conditions recorded in a DLT system that trigger automated, self-executing actions when at least some of these predefined conditions are met. A smart contract comprises program instructions that map agreed-upon rules or corresponding conditions. Such a smart contract, which defines rules for a plurality of participants, cannot be changed unilaterally. Rather, a change requires, for example, consensus among the majority of participants. Such consensus may, for example, require the approval of a majority of the majority of participants and / or all participants of the majority of participants. For example, changes to the smart contract are logged. This provides a complete history of changes to the smart contract.

[0277] The network through which the DLT nodes are accessed is, for example, a TCP / IP network. The DLT nodes can be hosted on one or more servers. The DLT system can establish secure connections between the DLT servers and the DLT nodes hosted therein. However, the DLT nodes can also be implemented locally on computer systems assigned to the participants.

[0278] The one or more physical sensors of the goods sender comprise one or more physical measuring devices for recording measurement data or sensor values. Measurement data is data that quantitatively or qualitatively describe the physical and / or chemical properties of a measurement object. Such properties include, for example, weight, volume, temperature, humidity, pressure, grain size, sound field sizes, brightness, pH value, ionic strength, electrochemical potential, conductivity, viscosity, and / or translucency. Measurement data is recorded using physical or chemical effects and converted into an electrical signal that can be further processed electronically. For example, the corresponding electrical signal containing the recorded measurement data is cryptographically encrypted. For this purpose, symmetric, asymmetric, or hybrid cryptographic encryption can be used, for example.This allows the corresponding measurement data to be protected from unauthorized access, for example. Furthermore, or alternatively, the corresponding electrical signal containing the recorded measurement data can be digitally signed. This allows, for example, the authenticity of the corresponding measurement data to be verified.

[0279] Embodiments may have the advantage of implementing bidirectional receivables settlement. This includes, for example, a 2-way match and / or a 3-way match. Furthermore, fully automated settlement is enabled, for example.

[0280] With the 2-way match, a matching declaration of intent regarding delivery conditions for the delivery of goods, such as physical properties of the delivered unit of goods and / or a price of the goods to be delivered, can be implemented using at least one smart contract and documented using the DLT system.

[0281] The "2" in the name 2-Way Match means that the delivery order and order confirmation are validated. During a 2-way match, delivery conditions for the delivery of goods, such as physical properties of the delivered unit of goods and / or a price of the goods to be delivered, are compared according to the delivery order and order confirmation. This ensures that they match, i.e. are identical, or that any deviations do not exceed a predefined tolerance range. This 2-way match is implemented, for example, in the form of the first DLT node checking information according to the order confirmation when it is entered into the first partial data set. For example, the delivery order includes an initial price specification for the goods to be delivered. A price specification is information that results in a price to be paid for the unit of goods to be delivered.For example, the price is identical to the price to be paid. For example, the price to be paid can be derived or calculated from the price. If the price refers to the entire quantity of goods to be delivered, the price corresponds to the price of the unit of goods to be delivered. For example, the first price is a price per delivered quantity of goods. If a price is specified per delivered quantity of goods, the actual price to be paid depends on the actual quantity of goods delivered. A price per delivered quantity of goods, such as per piece, per weight, or per volume, must be multiplied by the quantity of goods delivered to determine the price to be paid for the unit of goods delivered. For example, this first price is entered into the second partial data set by the second DLT node according to the delivery order and transmitted to the first DLT node for entry into the first partial data set.For example, the order confirmation includes a second price for the goods to be delivered, in particular a second price per quantity of goods delivered. For example, this second price is checked by the first DLT node according to the order confirmation for a match with the first price and is entered into the first partial data set during the update of the first partial data set using the order confirmation. This check can, for example, implement the 2-way match, or the 2-way match includes this check, for example. During a 2-way match, a price for the unit of goods to be delivered can be compared according to the delivery order and order confirmation. Furthermore, the update message sent to the second DLT node regarding the update of the first partial data set using the order confirmation includes the second price.For example, the second price information transmitted in this way is entered from the first DLT node into the second.

[0282] If the first price differs from the second price in such a way that they are not identical or the difference exceeds a predefined tolerance range, a handshake is initiated between the first DLT node and the second DLT node to compare the prices. The resulting prices are, for example, identical or have a remaining difference that does not exceed the predefined tolerance range.

[0283] With the 3-way match, delivery conditions resulting from the 2-way match, along with the information in the goods issue log regarding the actually delivered unit of goods, can be compared with the corresponding information in the validation message and documented using the DLT system. One or more delivery conditions for the delivery of goods, such as the price of the goods to be delivered, result from the 2-way match and are not, for example, part of the goods issue log. One or more delivery conditions for the delivery of goods, such as the physical properties of the delivered goods, may differ from the result of the 2-way match. The actual values ​​for these delivery conditions, such as the quantity of goods actually delivered, are therefore recorded using the goods issue log.This allows you to check for any deviations from the result of the 2-way match, and these deviations can be taken into account when validating the validation message. The "3" in the name 3-way match means that the corresponding validation is based on both the goods issue log and the validation message, in addition to the result of the 2-way match based on the delivery order and the order confirmation.

[0284] A real order contains information about certain physical properties of the goods to be delivered, which may differ during the actual delivery for efficiency and / or production reasons. For example, a real order also contains information about certain physical properties that may differ during the actual delivery due to naturally occurring variations. Therefore, for example, physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered are recorded by sensors upon delivery by the sender of the goods and logged in the outgoing goods log. These sensory-recorded physical properties of the delivered unit of goods according to the outgoing goods log are recorded, for example, as physical properties of the actually delivered unit of goods in the shared data set of the DLT system and used as the basis for checking the validation message.

[0285] For example, a real order defines a specific quantity of the ordered goods to be delivered. However, for reasons of efficiency, it can be advantageous to fully fill transport vehicles for transporting the goods to be delivered, for example in the case of bulk goods, so that the actual delivered quantity may differ from the ordered quantity. For example, a larger quantity is delivered than ordered. This actual delivered quantity can be recorded using sensors and logged in the goods issue log. For example, a real order defines certain physical properties of the ordered goods. However, for production reasons, only goods units with physical properties that differ from those defined in the order can be produced. In this case, for example, the goods recipient must either agree to the deviating specification and delivery will take place, or the order will be canceled.For example, production of the goods unit to be delivered with the specified physical properties may be temporarily unavailable, perhaps because necessary raw materials and / or raw materials with certain required physical properties are temporarily unavailable for production. Likewise, certain production resources, such as systems or system components, may be temporarily unavailable for production. In this case, as an alternative to cancellation, there is the option of changing the delivery date to a date on which the goods unit meeting the specifications is available or can be produced.

[0286] For example, in the course of a 3-way match, a price indication of the price of the goods to be delivered, in particular a price indication per quantity of goods resulting from the 2-way match, and an indication of the actually delivered quantity of goods contained in the goods issue protocol are compared with the corresponding information for price and quantity of goods contained in the validation message. Additionally or alternatively, a total price for the delivered unit of goods is determined from a price indication per quantity of goods resulting from the 2-way match and the information for the actually delivered quantity of goods contained in the goods issue protocol and compared with a corresponding information for the total price contained in the validation message.For example, the validation message is created using the smart contract, whereby the 3-way match can ensure that the delivery conditions specified in the validation message are consistent with the delivery conditions agreed upon based on the delivery order and order confirmation, as well as the actual delivery conditions according to the goods issue protocol. Furthermore, the smart contract can, for example, trigger a payment of an invoice amount resulting from the validation message. A corresponding check of the validation message using the smart contract can thus replace traditional invoice verification.

[0287] The aforementioned approach can be particularly advantageous for deliveries such as mass product deliveries, where delivery conditions of a delivery order and / or order confirmation may deviate, such as the actual final quantity delivered. In this case, the actual delivery conditions can be determined based on the goods issue log. In other cases, the delivery conditions are set as essentially unchangeable. For example, in the case of a packaged goods unit, the quantity of the goods unit to be delivered is determined by the order confirmation or the result of a handshake between the sender and recipient of the goods. The corresponding specified delivery conditions can therefore be adopted, for example, from the order confirmation or the result of the 2-way match. In such a case, the 3-way match serves to check the correspondingly adopted delivery conditions in the validation message using the goods issue log.This allows, for example, errors regarding the actual delivery conditions to be identified during validation, ensuring that these are taken into account in the validation message or that the validation message is based on the actual delivery conditions. In this case, corresponding deviations or errors can trigger the sending of a warning and / or a correction, for example, through a subsequent delivery or the delivery of a correct unit of goods by the sender of the goods.

[0288] The goods unit can, for example, be recorded using different sensors. The sensors used can be used to record physical properties of the goods unit. The sensors can also be used to identify the goods unit. The goods unit itself is provided with a physical marker, for example by tagging the corresponding physical object, whereby the goods unit is configured with the marker as a data source for identification. For example, an individual identifier of the goods unit provided by means of a physical marker, such as a tag, can represent a unique identifier of the corresponding goods unit or assign a unique identity to the goods unit. Using such an individual identifier, such as a tag ID, a unique digital identity of the goods unit can be implemented, for example.

[0289] During tagging, the goods unit and / or any packaging or container of the goods unit included in the goods unit can each be provided with an individual marker with an individual identifier or a unique identity. A digital copy of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker or the unique identity of the goods unit can be registered or stored as a crypto anchor in the DLT system or the data set, such as a shared data set. A copy of the corresponding individual identifier can, for example, be included in the details of the delivery order, the order confirmation, and / or the goods issue log. For example, the individual identifier provided by the individual marker can be detected by a physical sensor assigned to the goods sender and logged, for example, in a goods issue log of the goods sender.For example, the individual identifier provided by the individual marker can be detected by a physical sensor assigned to the goods recipient and logged, for example, in a goods receipt log of the goods recipient. The individual marker can, for example, be implemented with a tag attached to the goods unit and / or the packaging of the goods unit, e.g. a QR code or an RFID tag. For example, the individual marker can be implemented with a chemical and / or physical tracer incorporated into the goods unit. Such tracers are, for example, tracers that can be programmed using chemical and / or physical methods, which can be added to the corresponding goods unit in traces and give it a fingerprint in the form of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker.

[0290] For example, an individual identifier provided by an individual passive marker, such as a chemical and / or physical tracer, which can be detected by physical sensors, is used to identify, authenticate and / or verify the authenticity of the unit of goods.

[0291] For example, an identity provided by an individual active marker, such as an RFID tag, which actively transmits data of the goods unit, is used to identify, authenticate and / or verify the authenticity of the goods unit.

[0292] In the DLT system, a digital twin of the commodity unit can thus be provided in the form of the digital valuable object with the copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit, for which, for example, value-forming physical properties are defined and recorded by means of physical sensors.

[0293] Based on sensor-detected consumption levels, such as remaining fill levels or interim consumption, delivery orders for a delivery of goods to meet the recipient's replenishment needs can be created fully or semi-automatically, for example using one or more smart contracts. In the case of fully automated creation, the created delivery orders do not require additional approval by an authorized user. In the case of semi-automated creation, the created delivery orders must also be approved by an authorized user.

[0294] For example, the sender of goods reserves and makes available the unit of goods to be delivered to the recipient of goods, e.g., using one or more smart contracts, upon entering the order confirmation data into the first partial data set. For example, upon entering the delivery order data and / or the order confirmation data into the second partial data set, an amount of a digital currency managed by the DLT system, which is assigned to the recipient of goods, is reserved for payment of the units of goods delivered, e.g., using one of the several smart contracts.

[0295] If the unit of goods is removed from a warehouse of the sender of the goods, where it is provided, and transported to a place of use of the recipient of the goods, this can also be recorded, for example by means of geofencing. This recording data is included, for example, in the goods issue log. For example, this data is also logged in the shared data set of the DLT system when the data from the goods issue log is entered. Furthermore, for example, the arrival of the unit of goods at the recipient of the goods's place of use can be recorded, for example by means of geofencing. This recording data is included, for example, in a goods receipt log. For example, this data is also logged in the shared data set of the DLT system when the data from the goods receipt log is entered. The warehouse and place of use are each assigned to the sender of the goods and the recipient of the goods.Using the DLT system, for example, digital twins of the corresponding goods units are implemented.

[0296] For example, a method can be implemented that uses a DLT system and smart contracts to process, automate, monitor, and / or track goods movements between the sender and recipient of goods. Furthermore, the method can be implemented that is configured for automated payment processing for the corresponding goods units.

[0297] In the most general case, for example, a system can be implemented that includes sensors for recording units of goods or processing steps of the corresponding units of goods, e.g. their production, storage, warehousing, removal from a warehouse, shipping, receiving and / or use or consumption, as well as one or more smart contracts that can record and evaluate the condition and / or location of the units of goods depending on a signal received from the sensors. In addition, an ordering process for the corresponding units of goods can be mapped in the DLT system and automated using one or more smart contracts. For example, a value of goods can also be determined and logged through price offers and price acceptance using one or more smart contracts in the DLT system.For example, the amount to be paid is determined depending on the signaling of an actually delivered quantity of goods on the basis of an agreed price for the goods per quantity of goods. The pricing can, for example, be based on the monetary value assigned to the unit of goods by means of the digital valuable item, which is determined depending on the value-creating physical properties of the individual unit of goods. For example, the price to be paid for the unit of goods is the corresponding monetary value of the unit of goods determined by the digital valuable item. A payment transaction for this amount to be paid can, for example, be carried out using digital money, which can, for example, be transferred directly between an eWallet or electronic wallet of the sender of the goods implemented in the DLT system and an eWallet or electronic wallet of the sender of the goods.The amount to be paid can be automatically transferred to the recipient's electronic wallet. The digital money can be, for example, a cryptocurrency and / or a digital currency, in particular digitized commercial bank money. Furthermore, payment for the unit of goods triggers, for example, a transfer of ownership of the delivered unit of goods from the sender of the goods to the recipient of the goods and registers this transfer in the DLT system or a shared data set. Such a system can be used to link the unit of goods, i.e., a physical object, with digital, e.g., programmable, money.

[0298] The system functions, for example, in such a way that the signals provided by the sensors in the form of a goods issue log and / or a goods receipt log are evaluated by one of the multiple smart contracts, compared with the status of the order or goods delivery process according to the shared data set, and logged in the shared data set. Furthermore, using one or more smart contracts, a semi- or fully automated transfer of the payment amount between the eWallets or electronic wallets is initiated.

[0299] According to embodiments, the method further comprises the first DLT node signing the data transmitted from the first DLT node to the second DLT node. The at least one smart contract is configured on the second DLT node to verify the signatures of the transmitted data.

[0300] Embodiments can have the advantage that the authenticity of data transmitted by the first DLT node to the second DLT node can be verified using the corresponding signatures. This ensures that the second partial data set is updated by the second DLT node based on data signed and thus authorized by the first DLT node. To sign the data, the first DLT node uses, for example, a first signature key. This first signature key is, for example, a first private cryptographic key of a first asymmetric cryptographic key pair. This first signature key is stored, for example, in a protected memory area of ​​the first DLT node.For example, the second DLT node and / or the smart contract executed on the second DLT node comprises a first signature verification key for validating signatures created using the first signature key. This first signature verification key is, for example, a first public cryptographic key of the first asymmetric cryptographic key pair.

[0301] Data security can be implemented or increased, for example, using cryptographic means such as hashing and / or encryption. An asymmetric cryptographic key pair comprises a public cryptographic key, which is shared with or made available to third parties, and a private cryptographic key, which is not shared with or made available to third parties. The public cryptographic key enables the third party to decrypt data encrypted by the owner of the asymmetric key pair using the private cryptographic key. Furthermore, the public cryptographic key enables the third party to encrypt data, so that only the owner of the asymmetric key pair can decrypt the encrypted data using the private cryptographic key.The private key, on the other hand, allows the owner of the asymmetric key pair to encrypt data so that it can be decrypted by third parties using the public cryptographic key. Furthermore, the private cryptographic key allows the owner of the asymmetric key pair to decrypt data encrypted with the public cryptographic key. Thus, the private cryptographic key enables the owner of the asymmetric key pair to sign data, for example, while the public cryptographic key allows any third party to verify a corresponding signature.

[0302] A digital signature is an asymmetric cryptosystem in which a sender uses a secret signature key (i.e., a private cryptographic key) to calculate a value for a digital message, also called a digital signature. This value allows anyone, using a public signature verification key (i.e., a public cryptographic key), to verify the irrefutable authorship of the owner of the signature key and the integrity of the message.

[0303] The signature can, for example, be an encrypted hash value of the signed data, in particular a hash value encrypted with a private cryptographic key. The private cryptographic key is, for example, associated with a public cryptographic key, which serves as the signature verification key. The public cryptographic key is provided, for example, as part of a certificate.

[0304] A "certificate" here refers to a digital certificate, also known as a public key certificate. Such certificates, based on asymmetric key pairs, implement a so-called public key infrastructure (PKI). Such a certificate is structured data used to assign a public key of an asymmetric cryptosystem to an entity, such as a person, an organization, a computer system, or a DLT node. A certificate can, for example, contain a public key and be signed. For example, the certificate can conform to the X.509 standard or another standard.

[0305] The PKI provides a system for issuing, distributing, and verifying digital certificates. In an asymmetric cryptosystem, a digital certificate serves to confirm or define the authenticity of a public key and its permissible scope of application and validity. The digital certificate itself is protected by a digital signature, the authenticity of which can be verified using the public key of the certificate issuer. To verify the authenticity of the issuer key, a digital certificate is used. In this way, a chain of digital certificates can be established, each of which confirms the authenticity of the public key with which the previous certificate can be verified. Such a chain of certificates forms a so-called validation path or certification path.PKI participants must be able to rely on the authenticity of the last certificate, the so-called root certificate, and the key certified by this certificate without the need for an additional certificate. The root certificate is managed by a so-called root certification authority, whose assumed authenticity forms the basis for the authenticity of all PKI certificates. A certificate can be associated with a digital signature if the private cryptographic key associated with the public cryptographic key was used to generate the digital signature to be verified. By making a certificate available to the public in association with a public key, users of asymmetric cryptosystems are able to associate the public key with an entity, such as a person, an organization, a computer system, or a DLT node.

[0306] According to embodiments, the method further comprises signing the data transmitted from the second DLT node to the first DLT node by the second DLT node. The at least one smart contract is configured on the first DLT node to verify the signatures of the transmitted data.

[0307] Embodiments can have the advantage that the authenticity of data transmitted by the second DLT node to the first DLT node can be verified using corresponding signatures. This ensures that the first partial data set is updated by the first DLT node based on data signed and thus authorized by the second DLT node. To sign the data, the second DLT node uses, for example, a second signature key. This second signature key is, for example, a second private cryptographic key of a second asymmetric cryptographic key pair. This second signature key is stored, for example, in a protected memory area of ​​the second DLT node.For example, the second DLT node and / or the smart contract running on the second DLT node comprises a second signature verification key for validating signatures created using the second signature key. This second signature verification key is, for example, a second public cryptographic key of the second asymmetric cryptographic key pair.

[0308] According to embodiments, the data transmission between the first DLT node and the second DLT node takes place via one or more communication connections cryptographically protected by end-to-end encryption.

[0309] Embodiments may have the advantage of ensuring that data transmitted between DLT nodes within the DLT system is effectively protected against man-in-the-middle attacks. The encryption may be, for example, symmetric encryption, asymmetric encryption, or hybrid encryption. For example, encryption is performed using the TLS encryption protocol.

[0310] According to embodiments, establishing the one or more cryptographically protected communication connections comprises mutual authentication of the first DLT node and the second DLT node.

[0311] Embodiments may have the advantage that, based on mutual authentication, both DLT nodes can verify with whom they are communicating via the respective communication connections. Thus, the first DLT node of the goods recipient can verify that it is actually communicating with the DLT node associated with the goods sender, i.e., the first DLT node. Furthermore, the second DLT node of the goods sender can verify that it is actually communicating with the DLT node associated with the goods recipient, i.e., the second DLT node.

[0312] According to embodiments, checking the second specification for compliance with the first specification during initialization is a check for identity. Embodiments can have the advantage of ensuring that there is an identity between the first specification according to the delivery order and the second specification according to the order confirmation. Such an identity means that the goods recipient and the goods sender have agreed on an identical specification for the unit of goods to be delivered. In this case, for example, identical specifications are stored in both partial data sets of the split data set. If the first and second specifications differ from one another, a handshake protocol can be executed between the two DLT nodes, for example using the at least one smart contract, the result of which is an adjustment of one or both specifications until an identity is achieved.

[0313] According to embodiments, if the one or more physical properties according to the second specification entered into the first partial data set differ from the one or more physical properties according to the first specification from the second partial data set, the initializing further comprises performing a handshake between the first DLT node and the second DLT node to compare the first specification of the second partial data set and the second specification of the first partial data set such that the first and second specifications resulting from the comparison match.

[0314] The handshake can, for example, be an automatic or a semi-automatic handshake. In the case of an automatic handshake, tolerance ranges for the parameters to be negotiated are defined for the recipient and sender of the goods. In this case, deviations between parameters can be achieved by adjusting them within the respective tolerance ranges. In the case of a semi-automatic handshake, one of the two participants or a DLT node assigned to the corresponding participant receives a suggestion for a parameter value that differs from the participant's own suggestion for the corresponding parameter. This deviating parameter value can be confirmed, for example, by receiving a user input from the corresponding participant.If the corresponding parameter value is confirmed by user input, a confirmation of the proposed parameter value can be sent to the proposing second participant during the handshake. Alternatively, a counter-proposal for the different parameter value can be received by receiving user input from the corresponding participant. During the handshake, this counter-proposal for the different parameter value can be sent to the second participant. The second participant either confirms the counter-proposal by sending a corresponding confirmation during the handshake or makes a new counter-proposal. This process can be continued, for example, until an agreement on the corresponding parameter value is reached or until a predefined termination criterion is met.A corresponding termination criterion can, for example, be a predefined maximum number of suggestions for a parameter value, an expiration of a predefined maximum time period for negotiating a parameter value, or the receipt of a user input that explicitly rejects a current suggestion for the corresponding parameter value.

[0315] The handshake can be executed or at least initiated by one or more smart contracts. Preferably, iterations of the automatic or semi-automatic handshake between the DLT nodes of the negotiating partners can be carried out by entering proposals into the respectively managed part of the shared data set, which is then transmitted to the DLT node of the negotiating partner. All changes thus remain traceable and can be reviewed by the negotiating partners. Transparency thus prevails between the negotiating partners regarding the parameters to be negotiated, since their own proposal is entered in their own part of the shared data set and the counter-proposal is entered in the other part of the shared data set. Embodiments can have the advantage of providing an effective method for aligning different specifications according to the delivery order and order confirmation, i.e.different proposals for the specification between the recipient of the goods and the sender of the goods can be provided.

[0316] According to embodiments, checking the second specification for compliance with the first specification during initialization is checking for compliance within predefined third tolerances according to the at least one smart contract.

[0317] Embodiments can have the advantage that there is no need for identity between the specifications. Thus, deviations within predefined tolerances are permissible. For example, the sender of goods can adapt the specification of the goods to be delivered, such as the quantity of goods to be delivered, within predefined limits, i.e., the tolerances, to its capabilities for delivering the requested unit of goods.

[0318] According to embodiments, initializing further comprises performing a handshake between the first DLT node and the second DLT node to compare the first specification of the second partial data set and the second specification of the first partial data set if one or more deviations between the one or more physical properties according to the second specification entered into the first partial data set and the one or more physical properties according to the first specification from the second partial data set are greater than the predefined third tolerances. The handshake causes the first and second specifications resulting from the comparison to match within the predefined third tolerances.

[0319] Embodiments may have the advantage of providing an effective method for aligning different specifications according to the delivery order and order confirmation, i.e., different specification proposals between the goods recipient and the goods sender. Using the at least one smart contract, for example, a handshake protocol is executed between the two DLT nodes, the result of which is an adjustment of one or both specifications until deviations between the two specifications are only within the corresponding predefined tolerances.

[0320] According to embodiments, the program instructions comprised by the at least one smart contract are further configured to enter and check goods receipt logs during goods deliveries from the sender to the recipient. Logging the goods delivery in the DLT system further includes:

[0321] • Receiving a goods receipt protocol from the goods recipient via the first network by the second DLT node, wherein the goods receipt protocol comprises one or more second sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the incoming goods unit according to the first specification, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors assigned to the goods recipient, wherein the one or more second sensor values ​​comprise at least one second sensor value which quantifies the quantity of goods delivered,

[0322] • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the goods receipt protocol for compliance with the one or more physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered according to the split data set as well as with the one or more first sensor values ​​according to the goods issue protocol within predefined fourth tolerances using the at least one smart contract, wherein the checked second sensor values ​​comprise at least the second sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered, • Updating the second partial data set by the second DLT node using a test result of checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the goods receipt protocol,

[0323] • Transmitting at least one update message from the second DLT node to the first DLT node,

[0324] • The first DLT node updates the first partial data set using the update message.

[0325] Embodiments can have the advantage that the logging of the delivery of goods includes not only the goods issue log of the sender of the goods for the actually sent unit of goods but also a goods receipt log of the recipient of the goods for the actually received unit of goods.

[0326] When the physical delivery of goods is received by the recipient of the goods, i.e. when the unit of goods to be delivered reaches the recipient's warehouse, a goods receipt protocol is created. The corresponding goods receipt protocol includes one or more sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the incoming unit of goods according to the first specification, which are recorded using one or more physical sensors assigned to the recipient of the goods. The goods receipt protocol therefore specifies sensor-recorded measured values ​​for one or more physical properties for which target values ​​are specified in the first specification, which reflect the actual condition of the incoming unit of goods with regard to the corresponding physical properties. The corresponding sensor values ​​include at least one sensor value that quantifies the delivered, i.e. incoming, quantity of goods.

[0327] The first DLT node of the goods recipient receives the goods receipt protocol from the goods recipient via the first network and checks the one or more second sensor values ​​of the goods receipt protocol for compliance with the one or more physical properties of the goods to be delivered. This checks whether the one or more sensor values ​​of the goods receipt protocol match one or more physical properties according to the shared data set within predefined tolerances. If no such match exists, a warning is sent to the goods recipient and / or the goods sender, for example. Such a warning can trigger a subsequent delivery by the goods sender, for example, if the delivery quantity is too low.For example, such a warning notice may require confirmation of the deviating physical properties by the recipient of the goods for a successful final validation of the delivery of the goods.

[0328] The second partial data set is updated by the second DLT node using the result of the check of the one or more first sensor values ​​of the goods receipt log. For example, the update comprises an entry of the goods receipt log and / or one or more of the sensor values ​​specified by the goods receipt log. For example, all sensor values ​​specified by the goods receipt log are entered. For example, only those sensor values ​​are entered that differ from the values ​​entered in the second partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered.For example, for sensor values ​​in the goods receipt log that match the values ​​entered in the second partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered, only a confirmation is entered in the first partial data set that the corresponding values ​​for the physical properties match the recorded sensor values. Furthermore, an update message is transmitted from the second DLT node to the first DLT node. The update message includes, for example, the goods receipt log and / or one or more of the sensor values ​​specified by the goods receipt log. For example, the update message includes all sensor values ​​specified by the goods receipt log. For example, the update message only includes those sensor values ​​that differ from the values ​​entered in the second partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered.For example, the update message for sensor values ​​of the goods receipt protocol that match the values ​​for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered entered in the second partial data set only includes a confirmation that the corresponding values ​​for the physical properties according to the split data set match the recorded sensor values.

[0329] The first DLT node updates the first partial data set of the split data set using the update message. For example, the update comprises an entry of the goods receipt log and / or one or more of the sensor values ​​specified by the goods receipt log. For example, all sensor values ​​specified by the goods receipt log are entered. For example, only those sensor values ​​that differ from the values ​​entered in the first partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered are entered. For example, for sensor values ​​of the goods receipt log that match the values ​​entered in the first partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered, only a confirmation that the corresponding values ​​for the physical properties match the recorded sensor values ​​is entered in the first partial data set.

[0330] The one or more second physical sensors of the goods sender comprise one or more physical measuring devices for acquiring measurement data or sensor values. Such measurement data is data that quantitatively or qualitatively describe the physical and / or chemical properties of a measurement object. Such properties include, for example, weight, volume, temperature, humidity, pressure, grain size, sound field sizes, brightness, pH value, ionic strength, electrochemical potential, conductivity, viscosity, and / or translucency. Measurement data is acquired using physical or chemical effects and converted into an electrical signal that can be further processed electronically. For example, the corresponding electrical signal containing the acquired measurement data is cryptographically encrypted. Symmetric, asymmetric, or hybrid cryptographic encryption can be used for this purpose.This allows the corresponding measurement data to be protected from unauthorized access, for example. Furthermore, or alternatively, the corresponding electrical signal containing the recorded measurement data can be digitally signed. This allows, for example, the authenticity of the corresponding measurement data to be verified.

[0331] According to embodiments, the validation message includes an invoice. Embodiments can have the advantage that an invoice for the delivery of goods is checked during the validation of the validation message. This ensures that the invoice's statements regarding the physical properties of the delivered unit of goods match the actual physical properties of the delivered unit of goods. In particular, it can be ensured that the information underlying the invoice regarding the quantity of the delivered unit of goods matches the actual quantity of goods delivered.

[0332] According to embodiments, the program instructions comprised by the at least one smart contract are further configured to create the invoice. The invoice is created by the first DLT node using the at least one smart contract. The validation message parameters can be checked during the invoice creation process. Embodiments can have the advantage that invoice creation can be directly integrated into the validation of the goods delivery. For example, registering the created invoice in the DLT system successfully completes the verification of the goods delivery.

[0333] By using one or more smart contracts, additional duties and taxes, such as sales tax, can be calculated and added to the invoice amount during the invoice creation process.

[0334] According to embodiments, the invoice is received by a first ERP system of the sender of goods that creates the invoice. Embodiments can have the advantage that the DLT system can be combined with an ERP system, for example, an existing ERP system, of the sender of goods. The DLT system or the shared data set managed by the DLT system represents a single point of truth for the delivery of goods. For example, validating the invoice requires registration at least in the first partial data set on the first DLT node. For example, registration includes entering an invoice number of the invoice in the first partial data set.

[0335] For example, both the sender and the recipient of the goods each have their own independent ERP systems, while the shared data set provided in the DLT system serves as the single point of truth for both parties, i.e. the recipient of the goods as well as the sender.

[0336] An ERP system refers to an application software or IT system, or a multitude of intercommunicating application software or IT systems, used to support a company's resource planning. Complex ERP systems, for example, are divided into subsystems, i.e., application modules, which can be combined as needed. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) refers to the corporate task of planning, controlling, and managing personnel and resources such as capital, operating resources, materials, and information and communication technology in a timely and needs-based manner.

[0337] A core function of ERP in manufacturing companies is material requirements planning to ensure that all materials required to manufacture products and / or components are available at the right place, at the right time and in the right quantity.

[0338] For example, the ERP systems of the sender and recipient can be configured to create and / or compile data relevant to the delivery of goods and make it available to the DLT system. For example, the recipient's ERP system creates the delivery order and / or the goods receipt log and sends them to the second DLT node. For example, the sender's ERP system creates the order confirmation, the goods issue log, and / or the validation message and sends them to the first DLT node.

[0339] According to embodiments, the data entered into the shared data set provided in the DLT system during the logging of the goods delivery are mirror-image data of the goods delivery from the first ERP system of the goods sender and / or a second ERP system of the goods recipient. The first and / or second ERP system are configured to control the processing of the goods delivery. By entering the mirror-image data, data consistency between the shared data set and the ERP systems is ensured.

[0340] Embodiments can have the advantage of implementing data consistency between the shared data set and the ERP systems of the sender and / or recipient. The shared data set represents a single point of truth for both participants or their mutually independent ERP systems. For example, the first DLT node receives the delivery order from the recipient's ERP system. For example, the second DLT node receives the delivery order from the sender's ERP system. The data entered in the shared data set reflects the data of the goods delivery stored in the first and / or second ERP system.

[0341] According to embodiments, the processing of the delivery of goods is controlled by the at least one smart contract, the program instructions of which are further configured to control the processing of the delivery of goods.

[0342] Embodiments can have the advantage that the delivery of goods can be processed by the at least one smart contract. In this case, for example, neither the recipient nor the sender of goods require an ERP system to process the delivery of goods. For example, a computer system of the recipient of goods can send the delivery order directly to the second DLT node via the first network, or the first DLT node can receive the delivery order directly from the recipient's computer system. For example, a computer system of the sender of goods can send the order confirmation directly to the first DLT node via the first network.

[0343] According to embodiments, the first network is, for example, a public network. For example, the first network is the Internet or another existing wide area network, such as a wireless or Ethernet-based network within a company or between participating companies.

[0344] Accordingly, depending on the embodiment, the first network may, for example, be an intranet.

[0345] According to embodiments, a prerequisite for the second DLT node to receive the delivery order from the recipient of goods is successful authentication of the recipient of goods by the second DLT node. Embodiments can have the advantage that, through successful authentication of the recipient of goods, the first DLT node can ensure that the delivery order actually originates from the recipient of goods and is authorized by them. Authentication can be performed, for example, using a first user name and a first password, which the recipient of goods must provide to the second DLT node for successful authentication. Other authentication methods, for example, using cryptographic methods, chip cards, and / or biometric data, can also be provided.

[0346] According to embodiments, a prerequisite for the first DLT node to receive the order confirmation from the goods sender is successful authentication of the goods sender by the first DLT node. Embodiments can have the advantage that, through successful authentication of the goods sender, the second DLT node can ensure that the order confirmation actually originates from the goods sender and is authorized by the sender. Authentication can be performed, for example, using a second user name and a second password, which the goods recipient must provide to the second DLT node for successful authentication. Other authentication methods, for example, using cryptographic methods, chip cards, and / or biometric data, can also be provided.

[0347] According to embodiments, a prerequisite for the first DLT node receiving the outgoing goods protocol from the goods sender is successful authentication of the goods sender by the first DLT node. Embodiments can have the advantage that the second DLT node can ensure, by successfully authenticating the goods sender, that the outgoing goods protocol actually originates from the goods sender and is authorized by the sender. Authentication can be performed, for example, using a second user name and a second password, which the goods recipient must provide to the second DLT node for successful authentication. Other authentication methods, for example using cryptographic methods, chip cards, and / or biometric data, can also be provided.

[0348] According to embodiments, a prerequisite for the second DLT node to receive the goods receipt protocol from the goods recipient is successful authentication of the goods recipient by the second DLT node. Embodiments can have the advantage that, through successful authentication of the goods recipient, the first DLT node can ensure that the goods receipt protocol actually originates from the goods recipient and is authorized by the recipient. Authentication can be performed, for example, using a first user name and a first password, which the goods recipient must provide to the second DLT node for successful authentication.

[0349] According to embodiments, a prerequisite for the use of the delivery order of the goods recipient by the second DLT node is a successful signature verification of a signature of the delivery order by the second DLT node.

[0350] Embodiments may have the advantage that the authenticity of the delivery order can be verified based on the signature of the delivery order, i.e., the second DLT node can check whether the received delivery order is actually authorized by the recipient of the goods. To sign the delivery order, the recipient of the goods uses, for example, a third signature key. This third signature key is, for example, a third private cryptographic key of a third asymmetric cryptographic key pair. For example, the second DLT node and / or the smart contract executed on the second DLT node comprises a third signature verification key for validating signatures of the recipient of the goods that were created using the third signature key.This third signature verification key is, for example, a third public cryptographic key of the third asymmetric cryptographic key pair.

[0351] According to embodiments, a prerequisite for the use of the order confirmation of the goods sender by the first DLT node is a successful signature verification of a signature of the order confirmation by the first DLT node.

[0352] Embodiments may have the advantage that the authenticity of the order confirmation can be verified based on the signature of the order confirmation, i.e., the first DLT node can check whether the received order confirmation is actually authorized by the sender of the goods. To sign the order confirmation, the sender of the goods uses, for example, a fourth signature key. This fourth signature key is, for example, a fourth private cryptographic key of a fourth asymmetric cryptographic key pair. For example, the first DLT node and / or the smart contract executed on the first DLT node comprises a fourth signature verification key for validating signatures of the sender of the goods created using the fourth signature key.This fourth signature verification key is, for example, a fourth public cryptographic key of the fourth asymmetric cryptographic key pair.

[0353] According to embodiments, a prerequisite for the use of the goods issue protocol of the goods sender by the first DLT node is a successful signature verification of a signature of the goods issue protocol by the first DLT node.

[0354] Embodiments can have the advantage that the signature of the goods issue log can be used to verify the authenticity of the goods issue log, i.e., the first DLT node can verify whether the received goods issue log is actually authorized by the goods sender. For example, to sign the order confirmation, the goods sender uses the fourth signature key, whose signatures the first DLT node can validate with the fourth signature verification key.

[0355] According to embodiments, a prerequisite for the use of the goods receipt protocol of the goods recipient by the second DLT node is a successful signature verification of a signature of the goods receipt protocol by the second DLT node.

[0356] Embodiments can have the advantage that the authenticity of the goods receipt log can be verified based on the signature of the goods receipt log, i.e., the second DLT node can verify whether the received goods receipt log is actually authorized by the goods recipient. To sign the goods receipt log, the goods recipient, for example, uses the third signature key, whose signatures the second DLT node can validate with the signature verification key.

[0357] According to embodiments, the first DLT node and the second DLT node are provided by one or more DLT servers of the DLT system. For example, the first DLT node and the second DLT node are implemented on the same DLT server of the DLT system. For example, the first DLT node and the second DLT node are implemented on two different DLT servers of the DLT system.

[0358] According to embodiments, the one or more DLT servers of the DLT system are located in one or more data centers secured against unauthorized access. Embodiments can have the advantage that unauthorized physical access to the DLT servers and thus to the DLT nodes implemented on the DLT servers can be prevented by the access security. This physical access or access security can, for example, be implemented in addition to cryptographic access security, which prevents unauthorized access to the DLT servers or the DLT nodes via the first network, for example, the Internet. This cryptographic access security includes, for example, successful authentication as a prerequisite for access to the DLT nodes via the first network.For example, authentication requires the correct specification of a username and password by the participant, such as the sender or recipient of goods, to whom the corresponding DLT node is assigned. For example, multi-factor authentication, such as two-factor authentication, is required for successful authentication.

[0359] Access security for a data center includes, for example, controlling access to the data center and using an alarm system to secure the data center premises. The alarm system includes, for example, an intrusion detection system (IDS), i.e., an electronically operated device used to protect the property. An intrusion detection system is configured, for example, to prevent burglaries through deterrence, to notify emergency services such as the police and / or a private security company in the event of a burglary, to minimize the time required for burglars to respond, to alert the immediate vicinity and any persons present, and / or to reconstruct an actual burglary.

[0360] According to embodiments, data transmission between the DLT nodes takes place via a second network.

[0361] For example, the second network, i.e., the network for communication between the DLT system and other computer systems, is a different network from the first network, i.e., the network for communication between the DLT nodes of the DLT system. For example, the second network is a network independent of the first network. For example, the second network is the same network as the first network.

[0362] Depending on the embodiment, the second network is a private or a public network. In the case of a private network, the second network is, for example, an intranet. In the case of a public network, the second network is, for example, the Internet.

[0363] According to embodiments, the program instructions comprised by the at least one smart contract are further configured to trigger an electronic payment transaction. The payment transaction is triggered by the smart contract upon registration of the validation message in the DLT system.

[0364] Embodiments may have the advantage that payments and postings can be made in real time. Embodiments may further have the advantage that an electronic payment transaction is triggered by the registration of the validation message in the DLT system, i.e., by a successful validation of the goods delivery in the DLT system. For example, the payment transaction is triggered by the registration of the validation message in the first partial data set and / or the second partial data set. For example, the registered validation message specifies the amount to be paid in the electronic payment transaction.

[0365] Payment transactions can be linked to data streams from validation and kept in a closed data loop.

[0366] According to embodiments, the triggered electronic payment transaction is a transfer from a bank account of the recipient of the goods to a bank account of the sender of the goods.

[0367] According to embodiments, the triggered electronic payment transaction is an IBAN transfer from an IBAN account of the recipient of the goods to an IBAN account of the sender of the goods.

[0368] According to embodiments, the triggered electronic payment transaction is a transaction of an amount of programmable money executed using the DLT system.

[0369] Embodiments may have the advantage that the transaction of the amount of programmable money can take place within the DLT system. Thus, the transaction can be triggered by registering the validation message and executed directly in the DLT system, for example, using the at least one smart contract.

[0370] Programmable money refers to a digital form of money in which the user can program inherent logic for conditional uses based on attributes of the digital money itself. Examples of this include triggering a transaction after one or more conditions are met, such as time, location, type of use, etc. In particular, unless expressly stated otherwise, "programmable money" shall include all digital forms of money, such as digital money, programmable money, conditional money, stablecoins, or cryptocurrencies, as defined by leading financial institutions (European Central Bank (ECB), World Bank Group, World Trade Organization (WTO), etc.) and / or as customary in business.

[0371] For example, a payment infrastructure is provided that allows both the sender and recipient of goods to jointly use a programmable currency. Furthermore, this allows for validation of goods deliveries and settlement to be carried out in a closed data loop.

[0372] According to embodiments, the DLT system is configured to transfer the invoice amount to be paid from a programmable money account of the goods recipient to a programmable money account of the goods sender. Preferably, the DLT system can be configured to transform a fiat money amount of a fiat money account assigned to the goods recipient into an amount of programmable money in the goods recipient's programmable money account. Furthermore, the DLT system can be configured to at least partially transform the invoice amount transferred in the form of programmable money in the goods sender's programmable money account into a fiat money amount in a fiat money account assigned to the goods sender.

[0373] Embodiments may have the advantage that the transaction can be processed using programmable money. For this purpose, the recipient's fiat money amount can be converted into an amount of programmable money, which is used at least in part to pay for the delivered unit of goods. The invoice amount received from the sender of goods in the form of programmable money as payment for the delivered unit of goods can then be converted into a fiat money amount. This fiat money amount can be credited to the sender of goods in a fiat money account assigned to the sender.

[0374] Fiat money refers to a traditional currency, i.e., a state-established means of exchange and payment that is artificially created, unbacked, and unlimited. In other words, it is an economic asset without intrinsic value that serves as a medium of exchange.

[0375] According to embodiments, the payment transaction is logged in the DLT system using the at least one smart contract. Furthermore, electronic account statements regarding the logged payment transaction are issued to the recipient and / or the sender of the goods using the smart contract.

[0376] Embodiments can have the advantage that, in addition to executing the electronic payment transaction, electronic account statements regarding the corresponding payment transaction are also issued to the recipient and / or sender of the goods. The account statements are issued, for example, according to the MT940 standard. MT940 (MT = Message Type) is the SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) or Banking Communication Standard for the electronic transmission of account statement data.

[0377] According to embodiments, the invoice amount to be paid is blocked in the goods recipient's account for programmable money using at least one smart contract.

[0378] Embodiments may have the advantage that automated payment processing for the delivery of the unit of goods can be implemented.

[0379] The digital money can, for example, be a cryptocurrency and / or a digital currency, in particular digitized commercial bank money. Furthermore, payment for the unit of goods triggers, for example, a transfer of ownership of the delivered unit of goods from the sender of the goods to the recipient of the goods and registers this transfer in the DLT system or the shared data set. Such a system can implement a link between the unit of goods, i.e., a physical object, and digital, e.g., programmable, money.

[0380] The method enables, for example, the recipient of the goods to have the sender reserve the unit of goods for delivery using at least one smart contract and the digital valuable item. This can be done, for example, as a request by the recipient of the goods within the framework of a framework agreement.

[0381] Based on an agreement between the sender and recipient, which also includes, for example, a price for the unit of goods, the recipient receives access to the sender's inventory, allowing the recipient to reserve the unit of goods using the digital valuable or the copy of the valuable's unique identifier included in the digital valuable. This allows the recipient to obtain, for example, a guarantee of the availability of the goods.

[0382] For example, using one or more smart contracts, upon entering the data of the delivery order and / or the order confirmation into the second partial data set, an amount of a digital currency managed by the DLT system, which is assigned to the recipient of the goods, is reserved for the payment of the ordered units of goods of the delivery of goods, i.e. the unit of goods.

[0383] For example, from the sender's perspective, when the recipient reserves the goods unit, the amount to be paid is reserved in the recipient's eWallet for the sender's benefit. Upon reserving the corresponding amount in the recipient's eWallet, the sender receives a notification that the amount has been reserved and will be automatically transferred to the sender's eWallet upon receipt of the goods unit. This allows the sender, for example, to receive a guarantee that the amount to be paid will be available.

[0384] The conclusion of a legal transaction underlying the delivery of the unit of goods occurs, for example, through an order confirmation from the sender of the goods. For example, the corresponding legal transaction can also be concluded through implied action.

[0385] For example, the price to be paid for a unit of goods can be set by agreement between the sender and the recipient. For example, the price can also be set unilaterally by the sender, for example, in an online shop. For example, the reservation of the unit of goods can also take place in a corresponding online shop.

[0386] For example, by reserving the goods unit, the recipient also receives digital access to the right to accept the goods unit. Upon acceptance of the goods unit, digitally confirmed in at least one smart contract, the invoice is automatically generated and paid. Further advantages for the sender may include, for example, a waiver of credit insurance and / or a prepayment arrangement.

[0387] If, for example, the order is not accepted, the reservation of the goods unit with the sender and the reservation of the funds in the recipient's eWallet are canceled. For example, an order can be canceled by canceling the reservation. For example, the sender can cancel the reservation of the funds, or the recipient can cancel the reservation of the goods unit.

[0388] For example, the reservation of money can be used as an instrument to provide a payment guarantee if necessary. Digital money can be reserved for a specific transaction, for example, before the invoice is issued. This provides the sender with a guarantee that the amount to be paid will be available upon delivery of the unit of goods and the invoice is issued. By integrating digital money, a payment guarantee can be ensured without an intermediary, such as a trustee. This can have the advantage of making additional services provided by third parties, such as letters of credit or credit insurance, obsolete.

[0389] A letter of credit describes a payment condition, for example in the form of a commercial or contractual clause, which a recipient of goods or buyer provides to a sender of goods or seller. The letter of credit is implemented, for example, as an abstract promise of debt by a credit institution or bank, for example in the form of an agency agreement, under which the bank undertakes to make a payment to a specific payee, i.e. the sender of the goods, within a specific period of time and against presentation of specific documents, in accordance with the instructions of the client, i.e. the recipient of the goods. The letter of credit defines which documents the sender of the goods must make available to the bank so that, after successful verification of the documents, payment is made in the agreed form. For example, in addition to the recipient's bank, a sender's bank is also involved.For example, the sender's bank checks the documents first, followed by the recipient's bank. If both checks are positive, payment is made. The recipient's bank guarantees the agreed payment if the terms of the letter of credit are met.

[0390] Embodiments can have the advantage of making such letters of credit obsolete. For example, with the reservation of the goods unit by the recipient using the digital valuable item assigned to the goods unit, the above-described reservation of the monetary amount to be paid takes place, for example, based on the monetary value of the goods unit comprised by the digital valuable item in an eWallet of the recipient for the benefit of the sender. Confirmation of the delivery or receipt of goods in the DLT system, for example, triggers the payment of the reserved monetary amount from the recipient's eWallet to an eWallet of the sender. Thus, it can be cryptographically secured that the sender receives a corresponding monetary amount as payment upon successful delivery of the goods unit with a correct monetary value based on its value-generating physical properties.

[0391] Digital money can be reserved for a transaction or payment for a unit of goods, for example, even before the invoice is issued. This way, the seller or sender of goods can receive a guarantee that the money for payment of the unit of goods will be available upon delivery of the unit of goods and the invoice is issued. By integrating digital money into the process, a corresponding payment guarantee can be ensured without an intermediary or the verification of numerous documents, such as sea waybills, etc. This makes products and / or services provided by third parties, such as letters of credit or credit insurance, obsolete.

[0392] With traditional factoring, two risk factors arise for a buyer of one of the receivables. On the one hand, the corresponding receivable might not exist; on the other hand, the payer might not be able to pay the receivable, i.e., a default could occur. By linking the digitized physical commodity unit using the digital valuable item as a digital twin of the physical commodity unit with the value from the associated invoice, which is accessible on the DLT system, digitally secured receivables can be created that are digitally securitized using the dual control principle. This can, for example, eliminate the risk that the corresponding receivable does not exist. Furthermore, the receivable is based on an actual transaction. This can be useful, for example, for assessing money laundering activities.This increases the security for the buyer of a receivable, while reducing the risk and reducing factoring costs. This effect also applies when multiple receivables are securitized using the DLT system.

[0393] For example, clearly attributable and tamper-proof sustainability data, such as manufacturing data integrated into validated order items in the DLT system, can be used to adjust supply chain financing costs based on sustainable criteria. This creates incentives for sustainable production.

[0394] The digital money can, for example, be a cryptocurrency, stablecoins, tokens, and / or a digital currency, in particular a digital representation of FIAT money, including digitized commercial bank money and / or digital central bank money. Furthermore, the payment of the commodity unit can, for example, result in a real-time transfer of ownership, i.e., a so-called atomic swap, which can be digitally secured and thus legally secure through registration in the DLT system.

[0395] It can be advantageous that payment for the unit of goods can be made immediately and that warehousing on the part of the recipient and the sender can be reduced or eliminated entirely. For example, a production process for units of goods can be adapted by the sender to the consumption of the recipient virtually in real time. Furthermore, the correctness of the delivered unit of goods, for example the quantity of goods contained in the delivered unit of goods, can be checked. For example, the authenticity and / or integrity of the unit of goods and / or the packaging of the unit of goods can also be checked. For this purpose, individual physical markers, for example in the form of programmable tags, can be used. These assign each unit of goods a unique identity documented in the DLT system in the form of a sensor-detectable individual identifier.

[0396] The method further comprises, for example, providing at least one eWallet to the goods recipient and / or the goods sender using the DLT system. For example, the corresponding eWallets are each eWallets with a minimum value or a minimum balance of eCash, i.e., a digital currency. For example, eWallets are provided for the goods recipient and the goods sender to implement payment transactions, for example, to exclusively implement payment transactions between the goods recipient and the goods sender. A corresponding eWallet can, for example, be designed similarly to a digital notary escrow account or a trust account. The eCash is, for example, FIAT money in digital form and not, for example, bank money.

[0397] For example, the recipient orders goods using the at least one smart contract, assigns a monetary value to the goods unit using the at least one smart contract and / or the digital copy of the individual marker, and blocks an eCash amount equivalent to the assigned value in an eWallet of the recipient for the benefit of the sender. The monetary value can be assigned, for example, using sensor values ​​of the goods unit, which were recorded using one or more electronic sensor measurements and / or sensor monitoring. The corresponding sensor measurements include, for example, recording the individual physical marker of the goods unit and / or recording at least one physical property of the goods unit.

[0398] An eCash blocking of a monetary value as eCash in an eWallet of the goods sender using at least a smart contract in favor of the goods recipient occurs, for example, upon a binding order for goods by the goods recipient, for example as a security deposit or a deposit. In particular, the blocked eCash amount can be a fraction, for example, a predefined fraction of the value of the goods unit or the amount to be paid for the goods unit.

[0399] For example, an activation, i.e., resolution, of the eCash block can be carried out using the at least one smart contract, in particular after a successful delivery of the goods unit by the sender of the goods and / or a successful acceptance of the goods unit by the recipient of the goods.

[0400] For example, the DLT system can comprise at least one additional DLT node assigned to a lender of a loan for the goods recipient and / or the goods sender. For example, at least a portion of the data relating to the goods order, goods reservation, and / or eCash blocking is forwarded to the lender's at least one DLT node, for example, from the shared data set of the goods sender and the goods recipient. This is done, for example, using at least one smart contract. For example, this is done using at least one additional smart contract assigned to the lender.

[0401] For example, the lender may grant credit to the recipient and / or sender of goods automatically depending on the reservation of goods and / or the eCash blocking.

[0402] For example, the lender can automatically unlock a value as eCash in the eWallet of the recipient and / or sender of the goods depending on the order of goods, reservation of goods and / or the eCash blocking.

[0403] For example, goods production and / or goods planning of the goods sender can be automatically initiated in an MES (Manufacturing Execution System) and / or ERP system of the goods sender by the goods order of the goods recipient.

[0404] An MES system refers to a process-oriented level of a multi-layered production management system. It differs from production planning systems (i.e., ERP systems) in its direct connection to distributed process automation systems, enabling real-time management, control, and monitoring of production. This includes, for example, data acquisition and processing such as shop floor data acquisition (SDA), machine data acquisition (MDA), and personnel data acquisition, as well as other processes that have a timely impact on the manufacturing / production process.

[0405] The at least one smart contract can, for example, be implemented by a system of partial smart contracts. The at least one smart contract and / or the individual partial smart contracts can be stored, for example, at different locations in the DLT system, such as on different DLT nodes. A monetary value of a unit of goods is determined, for example, using a contract, the at least one smart contract, an online shop, and / or third-party influences, such as the sender's manufacturing costs for the production of the unit of goods and / or market prices, for example for materials and / or workpieces used to produce the unit of goods.

[0406] For the automated provision of a unit of goods, such as automated ordering and payment, a system can be implemented in the most general case, for example, which includes sensors for recording units of goods or processing steps of the corresponding units of goods, e.g., their production, storage, warehousing, removal from a warehouse, shipping, receiving, and / or use or consumption, as well as one or more smart contracts that can record and evaluate the condition and / or location of the units of goods depending on a signal received from the sensors. Furthermore, an ordering process for the corresponding units of goods can be mapped in the DLT system and automated using the one or more smart contracts.

[0407] For example, a commodity value can be determined and recorded through a price offer and price acceptance using one or more smart contracts in the DLT system. For example, depending on the signaling of an actually delivered quantity of goods, the amount to be paid per quantity of goods is determined based on an agreed commodity price. Pricing can be based, for example, on the monetary value assigned to the commodity unit by means of the digital valuable, which is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. For example, the price to be paid for the commodity unit is the corresponding monetary value of the commodity unit determined by the digital valuable.A payment transaction for this amount to be paid can, for example, be carried out using digital money, which can, for example, be automatically transferred directly between an eWallet or electronic wallet of the sender of the goods implemented in the DLT system and an eWallet or electronic wallet of the recipient of the goods to settle the amount to be paid.

[0408] The signals provided by the sensors, for example in the form of a goods issue log and / or goods receipt log, can be evaluated in relation to the at least one smart contract. The corresponding signal is compared, for example, with the status of the order or goods delivery process according to the shared data set and logged in the shared data set. Furthermore, using the at least one smart contract, a semi- or fully automatic transfer of the amount to be paid for the delivery of the goods unit is initiated between the eWallets of the goods recipient and the goods sender.

[0409] It can be advantageous that payment for the unit of goods can be made immediately and that warehousing on the part of the recipient and the sender can be reduced or eliminated entirely. For example, a production process for units of goods can be adapted by the sender to the consumption of the recipient virtually in real time. Furthermore, the correctness of the delivered unit of goods, for example the quantity of goods contained in the delivered unit of goods, can be checked. For example, the authenticity and / or integrity of the unit of goods and / or the packaging of the unit of goods can also be checked. For this purpose, individual physical markers, for example in the form of programmable tags, can be used. These assign each unit of goods a unique identity documented in the DLT system in the form of a sensor-detectable individual identifier.

[0410] Further embodiments include a shared data set of a DLT system, in particular a restricted-access DLT system, for computer-implemented control of a goods delivery from a goods sender to a goods recipient using the DLT system. The shared data set comprises a first partial data set. The first partial data set is a first partial data set managed by a first DLT node assigned to the goods sender. Furthermore, the shared data set comprises a second partial data set. The second partial data set is a second partial data set managed by a second DLT node assigned to the goods recipient.

[0411] For example, the second partial data set comprises information on one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered from a delivery order as a first specification. The physical properties of the first specification comprise at least a quantity of goods to be delivered. For example, the second partial data set comprises information on a second specification of the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered according to an order confirmation. For example, the second partial data set comprises a test result of a test of the second specification. For example, the second partial data set comprises one or more first sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods according to a goods issue protocol, which are recorded using one or more physical sensors assigned to the goods sender.The one or more first sensor values ​​comprise at least one first sensor value that quantifies the quantity of goods delivered. For example, the second partial data set comprises a test result of a check of the first sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol. For example, the second partial data set comprises one or more second sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the goods unit according to a goods receipt protocol, which properties are recorded by means of one or more physical sensors assigned to the goods recipient. The one or more second sensor values ​​comprise at least one second sensor value that quantifies the quantity of goods delivered. For example, the second partial data set comprises a test result of a check of the second sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol. For example, the second partial data set comprises a registration of a validation message for validating the delivery of goods.For example, the registration includes information on one or more parameters of the validation message. For example, the parameters include at least a quantity of goods to be validated. For example, the second partial data set includes a test result of a check of the parameters of the validation message.

[0412] For example, the first partial data set comprises information on one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered from a delivery order as a first specification. The physical properties of the first specification comprise at least a quantity of goods to be delivered. For example, the first partial data set comprises information on a second specification of the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered according to an order confirmation. For example, the first partial data set comprises a test result of a test of the second specification. For example, the first partial data set comprises one or more first sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods according to a goods issue protocol, which are recorded using one or more physical sensors assigned to the goods sender.The one or more first sensor values ​​comprise at least one first sensor value that quantifies the quantity of goods delivered. For example, the first partial data set comprises a test result of a check of the first sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol. For example, the first partial data set comprises one or more second sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the goods unit according to a goods receipt protocol, which properties are recorded using one or more physical sensors assigned to the goods recipient. The one or more second sensor values ​​comprise at least one second sensor value that quantifies the quantity of goods delivered. For example, the first partial data set comprises a test result of a check of the second sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol. For example, the first partial data set comprises registration of a validation message for validating the delivery of goods.For example, the registration includes information on one or more parameters of the validation message. For example, the parameters include at least a quantity of goods to be validated. For example, the first partial data record includes a test result of a check of the parameters of the validation message.

[0413] For example, the shared data set is the result of executing one or more of the aforementioned steps of the method for computer-implemented control of the delivery of goods. For example, the shared data set is the result of executing each of the aforementioned steps of the method for computer-implemented control of the delivery of goods.

[0414] The shared dataset, which is distributed across two DLT nodes and includes the two (partial) datasets of the recipient and sender, can have the advantage of providing an effective approach for the confidential processing of transactions between the two DLT nodes. Furthermore, such a shared dataset enables effective transaction security and increases data security between the DLT nodes.

[0415] The shared data set may be used in any method according to one or more embodiments of the present description. Furthermore, the data set may be subject to, and processed and updated by, the aforementioned methods.

[0416] Further embodiments include using a shared data set according to one or more embodiments of the present description to initialize the delivery of goods in the DLT system. The shared data set can be used for initialization in any method according to one or more embodiments of the present description.

[0417] Further embodiments include using a shared data set according to one or more embodiments of the present description to log the delivery of goods in the DLT system. The shared data set can be used for logging in any method according to one or more embodiments of the present description.

[0418] Further embodiments include using a shared data set according to one or more embodiments of the present description to validate the delivery of goods in the DLT system. The shared data set can be used for validation in any method according to one or more embodiments of the present description.

[0419] Further embodiments include a DLT node of a DLT system for the computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods using a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods. The provision of the unit of goods includes at least storage and / or delivery of the unit of goods.

[0420] The commodity unit is provided with an individual physical marker, which provides a unique identifier for the commodity unit. The individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the individual physical marker can be captured as a sensor value using an electronic sensor and uniquely identifies the individual commodity unit.

[0421] A dataset managed by the DLT node is provided, which comprises the digital asset uniquely assigned to the individual commodity unit. The digital asset comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification associated with the digital copy of the individual identifier, which comprises one or more value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. The digital asset further comprises a value specification of a monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit, which is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit.

[0422] The DLT node is implemented on a DLT server of the DLT system. The DLT server comprises a processor and a memory with program instructions. The program instructions provide at least one smart contract on the DLT node. The at least one smart contract includes program instructions for sending an execution request for a processing step, entering log data from the processing step, and checking sensor values ​​of one or more recorded value-generating physical properties of the goods unit during the provision of the individual goods unit.

[0423] Execution of the program instructions by the processor causes the processor to control the DLT node to:

[0424] • Sending an execution request to execute a processing step of the commodity unit in the course of providing the commodity unit, wherein the execution request comprises the digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the digital valuable item,

[0425] • Receiving a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit during the processing step of the goods unit using a first electronic sensor by the DLT node of the DLT system managing the data set via a network, wherein the detection message comprises the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a first sensor value detected using the first physical sensor, wherein the detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the goods unit, wherein the received detection message further comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable item, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors,

[0426] • Identifying the data record managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message with the digital asset uniquely assigned to the unit of goods using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier,

[0427] • Entries of the log data in the identified data set,

[0428] • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item within predefined first tolerances,

[0429] • upon a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message beyond the predefined first tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message.

[0430] For example, the DLT node is configured to execute one or more of the aforementioned method steps according to an exemplary embodiment of the method for monitoring and controlling processing steps of a goods unit during the provision of the goods unit. For example, the DLT node is configured to execute each of the aforementioned method steps of the DLT node assigned to the goods recipient according to an exemplary embodiment of the method for monitoring and controlling processing steps of the goods unit during the provision of the goods unit, in particular a delivery of the goods unit.For example, the DLT node is configured to execute each of the aforementioned method steps of the DLT node assigned to the goods sender according to an exemplary embodiment of the method for controlling and controlling processing steps of the goods unit in the course of providing the goods unit, in particular delivering the goods unit.

[0431] According to further embodiments, the DLT node is configured for computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the delivery of the unit of goods from a sender of goods to a recipient of goods. For example, the DLT system is a restricted-access DLT system. The program instructions providing the at least one smart contract include program instructions for entering and checking delivery orders and order confirmations.

[0432] Execution of the program instructions by the processor causes the processor to control the DLT node so that the DLT node executes the following in the course of initializing the delivery of goods in the DLT system:

[0433] • Receiving a delivery order from the goods recipient for a goods unit to be delivered by the goods sender to the goods recipient by the DLT node via a network, wherein the delivery order specifies one or more physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered as a first specification, wherein the physical properties of the first specification comprise at least a quantity of goods to be delivered,

[0434] • Creating a first data set managed by the DLT node and entries of at least one or more physical properties of the delivery order by the DLT node in the second partial data set using the at least one smart contract, wherein the second partial data set is a second part of a data set shared between the DLT node and another DLT node of the DLT system assigned to the sender of the goods,

[0435] • Transmitting at least the second partial data set from the DLT node to the other DLT node,

[0436] • Receiving at least one update message from the further DLT node about an update of the first partial data set using a first test result of a test of a second specification of the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered according to an order confirmation for compliance with the first specification,

[0437] • The DLT node updates the second partial data set using the update message.

[0438] According to further embodiments, the DLT node is configured for the computer-implemented control and management of processing steps of a goods unit during a delivery of the goods unit from a goods sender to a goods recipient. For example, the DLT system is a restricted-access DLT system. The program instructions providing the at least one smart contract comprise program instructions for entering and checking goods issue logs during goods deliveries from the goods sender to the goods recipient. The execution of the program instructions by the processor of the DLT node causes the processor to further control the DLT node in such a way thatthat the DLT node carries out the following in the course of logging the delivery of goods in the DLT system: • receiving at least one second update message from the further DLT node about an update of the first partial data set using a second test result of a test of one or more first sensor values ​​of a goods issue protocol for compliance with the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered according to the split data set within predefined first tolerances, wherein the one or more first sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol are recorded by means of one or more first physical sensors assigned to the goods sender, wherein the tested first sensor values ​​comprise at least the first sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered,

[0439] • second update of the second partial data set by the DLT node using the second update message.

[0440] According to further embodiments, the DLT node is configured for computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during delivery of the unit of goods from a sender of goods to a recipient of goods. For example, the DLT system is a restricted-access DLT system. The program instructions providing the at least one smart contract include program instructions for validating the delivery of goods. The execution of the program instructions by the processor of the DLT node causes the processor to further control the DLT node such that the DLT node executes the following in the course of validating the delivery of goods in the DLT system:

[0441] • Receiving at least one third update message from the further DLT node about an update of the first partial data set using a validation message, wherein the update of the first partial data set using the validation message comprises a registration of the validation message in the first partial data set, wherein the update of the first partial data set using the validation message confirms a successful check of parameters of the validation message by the further DLT node, wherein the parameters comprise at least one quantity of goods to be validated, wherein the checking of the parameters comprises checking the quantity of goods to be validated for compliance with the first sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered within a predefined second tolerance,

[0442] • third updating of the second partial data set by the DLT node using the third update message, wherein the third updating of the second partial data set comprises registering the validation message in the second partial data set.

[0443] For example, the DLT node is configured to execute one or more of the aforementioned method steps of the DLT node assigned to the goods recipient according to an exemplary embodiment of the method for computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a goods unit during the provision of the goods unit, in particular for delivery of the goods unit from the goods sender to the goods recipient. For example, the DLT node is configured to execute each of the aforementioned method steps of the DLT node assigned to the goods recipient according to an exemplary embodiment of the method for computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a goods unit during the provision of the goods unit, in particular for delivery of the goods unit from the goods sender to the goods recipient.

[0444] For example, the DLT node is configured to execute one or more of the aforementioned method steps of the DLT node assigned to the goods sender according to an exemplary embodiment of the method for computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a goods unit during the provision of the goods unit, in particular for delivery of the goods unit from the goods sender to the goods recipient. For example, the DLT node is configured to execute each of the aforementioned method steps of the DLT node assigned to the goods sender according to an exemplary embodiment of the method for computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of the goods unit during the delivery of the goods unit, in particular for delivery of the goods unit from the goods sender to the goods recipient.

[0445] A "processor" is understood here to be a logic circuit used to execute program instructions. The logic circuit can be implemented on one or more discrete components, in particular on one or more chips. In particular, a "processor" is understood to be a microprocessor or a microprocessor system comprising multiple processor cores and / or multiple microprocessors.

[0446] A “program” or “program instructions” is understood here, without limitation, to mean any type of computer program that contains machine-readable instructions for controlling a functionality of the computer.

[0447] The term “memory” refers here to both volatile and non-volatile memory, in particular electronic memory or digital storage media.

[0448] "Non-volatile memory" refers to electronic memory for the permanent storage of data. Non-volatile memory can be configured as non-modifiable memory, also known as read-only memory (ROM), or as modifiable memory, also known as non-volatile memory (NVM). In particular, this can be an EEPROM, such as a Flash EEPROM, also known as Flash. Non-volatile memory is characterized by the fact that the data stored on it is retained even after the power supply is turned off.

[0449] "Volatile memory" is defined here as an electronic memory for the temporary storage of data, characterized by the fact that stored data is lost after the power supply is switched off. In particular, this can be a volatile random access memory (RAM) or a volatile processor memory.

[0450] A "protected memory area" is understood here to be an area of ​​an electronic memory to which access, i.e., read or write access, is only possible via a processor of the corresponding electronic device. According to embodiments, access by the processor coupled to the memory is only possible if a necessary condition is met. This can be, for example, a cryptographic condition, in particular, successful authentication and / or successful authorization verification of an access request.

[0451] A "communication interface" is defined here as an interface through which data can be received and sent. The communication interface can be configured as contact-based or contactless. The communication interface can be an internal or external interface, which is connected to an associated device, for example, via a cable or wirelessly.

[0452] Communication can, for example, take place via a network. A "network" is understood here to mean any transmission medium with a connection for communication, in particular a local connection or a local network, in particular a local area network (LAN), a private network, in particular an intranet, or a virtual private network (VPN). For example, a computer system can have a standard wireless interface for connecting to a WLAN. Furthermore, it can be a public network, such as the Internet. Depending on the embodiment, this connection can also be established via a mobile network.

[0453] A “mobile network” is understood here and below to mean a digital cellular mobile network, which can be constructed according to a mobile communications standard such as GSM, UMTS, LTE, CDMA or another standard.

[0454] The process is carried out, for example, using a wireless data connection, a cloud, a Virtual Private Network (VPN), the Internet and / or the World Wide Web. This refers to a system of electronic hypertext documents, so-called web pages, which can be accessed via the Internet and are written in HTML (Hypertext Markup Language). A Virtual Private Network is a network with network connections that cannot be viewed by third parties. A network to which a VPN binds its participants is sometimes also called a dedicated network. The dedicated network can lead to a physical network into which external devices can be integrated with the help of a VPN via a special (VPN) gateway (end-to-site VPN). The VPN participants thus become part of the dedicated network and can now be addressed directly from there, practically as if they were located in the middle of the dedicated network.In this respect, the VPN participants are also referred to as a virtual network.

[0455] Further embodiments include a DLT system for the computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods using a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods. The provision of the unit of goods includes at least storage and / or delivery of the unit of goods.

[0456] The commodity unit is provided with an individual physical marker, which provides a unique identifier for the commodity unit. The individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the individual physical marker can be captured as a sensor value using an electronic sensor and uniquely identifies the individual commodity unit.

[0457] The DLT system comprises at least one DLT node. A data set managed by the DLT node is provided, which contains the digital asset uniquely assigned to the individual commodity unit.

[0458] The digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification associated with the digital copy of the individual identifier, which comprises one or more value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. The digital valuable item further comprises a value specification of a monetary value associated with the individual commodity unit, which is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit.

[0459] The DLT node is implemented on a DLT server of the DLT system. The DLT server comprises a processor and a memory. The DLT system includes at least one smart contract, which it provides. The at least one smart contract includes program instructions for sending an execution request for a processing step, entering log data of the processing step, and checking sensor values ​​of one or more recorded value-generating physical properties of the goods unit during the provision of the individual goods unit.

[0460] The DLT system comprises, using the at least one smart contract: • Sending an execution request to execute a processing step of the commodity unit during the provision of the commodity unit by the DLT node of the DLT system managing the data set via a network, wherein the execution request comprises the digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the digital valuable item,

[0461] • Receiving a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit during the processing step of the goods unit using a first electronic sensor by the DLT node of the DLT system managing the data set via the network, wherein the detection message comprises the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a first sensor value detected using the first physical sensor, wherein the detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the goods unit, wherein the received detection message further comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable item, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors,

[0462] • Identifying the data record managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message with the digital asset uniquely assigned to the unit of goods using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier,

[0463] • Entries of the log data in the identified data set,

[0464] • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item within predefined first tolerances,

[0465] • upon a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message beyond the predefined first tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message.

[0466] For example, the DLT system is configured to execute one or more of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments of the method for monitoring and controlling processing steps of a goods unit during the provision of the goods unit. For example, the DLT system is configured to execute each of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments of the method for computer-implemented monitoring and controlling processing steps of the goods unit during the provision of the goods unit.

[0467] Further embodiments include a computer program for monitoring and controlling processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods using a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods and a DLT system with a plurality of DLT nodes. The provision of the unit of goods comprises at least one storage and / or delivery of the unit of goods.

[0468] The commodity unit is provided with an individual physical marker, which provides a unique identifier for the commodity unit. The individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the individual physical marker can be captured as a sensor value using an electronic sensor and uniquely identifies the individual commodity unit.

[0469] A dataset managed by at least one of the DLT nodes of the plurality of DLT nodes is provided, which comprises the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual commodity unit. The digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification associated with the digital copy of the individual identifier, which comprises one or more value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. The digital valuable item further comprises a value specification of a monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit, which is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit.

[0470] The computer program provides at least one smart contract. The at least one smart contract includes program instructions for sending an execution request for a processing step, entering log data from the processing step, and checking sensor values ​​of one or more recorded value-generating physical properties of the goods unit during the provision of the individual goods unit.

[0471] The computer program includes program instructions for:

[0472] • Sending an execution request to execute a processing step of the commodity unit during the provision of the commodity unit by the DLT node of the DLT system managing the data set over a network, wherein the execution request includes the digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the digital asset,

[0473] • Receiving a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit during the processing step of the goods unit using a first electronic sensor by the DLT node of the DLT system managing the data set via the network, wherein the detection message comprises the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a first sensor value detected using the first physical sensor, wherein the detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the goods unit, wherein the received detection message further comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable item, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors,

[0474] • Identifying the data record managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message with the digital asset uniquely assigned to the unit of goods using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier,

[0475] • Entries of the log data in the identified data set,

[0476] • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the capture message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item within predefined first tolerances, for a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the capture message beyond the predefined first tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the capture message.

[0477] For example, the computer program is configured to execute one or more of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments of the method for monitoring and controlling processing steps of a goods unit during the provision of the goods unit. For example, the computer program is configured to execute each of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments of the method for monitoring and controlling processing steps of the goods unit during the provision of the goods unit.In further embodiments, a computer-readable data carrier or a computer-readable medium, in particular a non-volatile storage medium, is defined which stores program instructions thereon which, when executed by at least one processor (or at least one electronic device), configure the at least one processor (or the at least one electronic device) to carry out a method according to one of the preceding embodiments for monitoring and controlling processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods. The program instructions may correspond to the program instructions of the computer program according to embodiments. It should be understood that, furthermore, multiple data carriers or media may be provided which configure individual processors or electronic devices for executing the provided methods.

[0478] Embodiments of the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. They show:

[0479] Figure 1 shows a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary method for controlling and controlling processing steps of a unit of goods in the course of providing the unit of goods,

[0480] Figure 2 shows a schematic flow diagram of a further exemplary method for controlling and controlling processing steps of a unit of goods in the course of providing the unit of goods,

[0481] Figure 3 is a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary method for the initial registration of the goods unit,

[0482] Figure 4 is a schematic flow diagram of another exemplary method for the initial registration of the goods unit,

[0483] Figure 5 is a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary method for creating a data record with a digital valuable item,

[0484] Figure 6 is a schematic flow diagram of another exemplary method for creating a data record with a digital valuable item,

[0485] Figure 7A is a schematic flow diagram of a first part of an exemplary method for controlling and controlling processing steps in the course of a delivery of a unit of goods,

[0486] Figure 7B is a schematic flow diagram of a second part of an exemplary method for controlling and controlling processing steps in the course of a delivery of a unit of goods,

[0487] Figure 8 is a schematic flow diagram of logging a processing step in the course of a delivery of goods using a goods receipt protocol,

[0488] Figure 9 shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary DLT system for monitoring and controlling the processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of a unit of goods. Figure 10 shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary DLT system for monitoring and controlling the processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of a unit of goods.

[0489] Figure 11 is a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary method for controlling and controlling processing steps in the course of a delivery of a unit of goods,

[0490] Figure 12 is a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary method for controlling and controlling processing steps in the course of a delivery of a unit of goods,

[0491] Figure 13 is a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary method for controlling and controlling processing steps in the course of a delivery of a unit of goods,

[0492] Figure 14 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary system for monitoring and controlling processing steps in the course of a delivery of a unit of goods, including electronic payment transactions,

[0493] Figure 15A shows a first part of a first exemplary graphical user interface,

[0494] Figure 15B shows a second part of a first exemplary graphical user interface, and

[0495] Figure 16 shows a second exemplary graphical user interface.

[0496] Elements of the following embodiments that correspond to one another are identified by the same reference numerals.

[0497] Figure 1 shows an exemplary method for the computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods, using a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods and a DLT system with a plurality of DLT nodes. The provision of the unit of goods includes at least storage and / or delivery of the unit of goods.

[0498] The DLT system comprises at least one smart contract that it provides. The at least one smart contract includes program instructions for sending an execution request for a processing step, entering log data of the processing step, and checking sensor values ​​of one or more recorded value-generating physical properties of the goods unit during the provision of the goods unit.

[0499] The commodity unit is provided with an individual physical marker, which provides a unique identifier for the commodity unit. The individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the individual physical marker can be captured as a sensor value using an electronic sensor and uniquely identifies the individual commodity unit.

[0500] A data set managed by at least one of the DLT nodes of the plurality of DLT nodes is provided, which comprises the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods.

[0501] The digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification associated with the digital copy of the individual identifier, which comprises one or more value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. The digital valuable item further comprises a value specification of a monetary value associated with the individual commodity unit, which is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit.

[0502] The method is executed using the at least one smart contract. In block 300, an execution request for executing a processing step of the commodity unit during the provision of the commodity unit by the DLT node of the DLT system managing the data set is sent over a network. The execution request includes the digital copy of the unique identifier of the commodity unit provided by the digital asset.

[0503] In block 302, a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit during the processing step of the goods unit using a first electronic sensor is received via the network by the DLT node of the DLT system managing the data set. The detection message comprises the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a first sensor value detected using the first physical sensor. The detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the goods unit. In addition, the received detection message comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-generating physical properties of the goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable item, which are detected using one or more second physical sensors.

[0504] In block 304, using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier, the data set managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message and containing the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the unit of goods is identified. In block 306, the protocol data is entered into the identified data set. In block 308, the one or more second sensor values ​​of the capture message are checked for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the unit of goods according to the digital valuable item within predefined first tolerances. In block 310, if the one or more second sensor values ​​of the capture message deviate beyond the predefined first tolerances, the digital valuable item is updated using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the capture message.

[0505] For example, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message comprises updating the one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit comprised by the digital valuable item. For example, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message further comprises updating the value indication of the monetary value comprised by the digital valuable item, which is assigned to the individual commodity unit. For example, an update of the value indication only occurs under the condition of a change in the monetary value resulting from the deviations in the value-generating physical properties.

[0506] In block 318, the reservation of the goods unit and the digital valuable item takes place. The reservation is made, for example, for a single goods recipient, a group of goods recipients, or by excluding at least one goods recipient from the provision and / or delivery of the goods unit (negative reservation). In block 318, the digital valuable item of the goods unit is updated using the data related to the reservation (reservation data) using the digital copy of the recorded, individual identifier managed by the DLT node. This reservation data is entered as log data, in particular as an update of the digital valuable item and / or entry in at least one DLT node.

[0507] Each of the steps 300 to 318 of the method according to Figure 1 may be optional.

[0508] Figure 2 shows another exemplary method for the computer-implemented monitoring and control of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods, using a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods and a DLT system with a plurality of DLT nodes. The provision of the unit of goods involves, for example, the provision of the unit of goods from a sender of goods to a recipient of goods. The provision of the unit of goods includes at least storage and / or delivery of the unit of goods.

[0509] The plurality of DLT nodes comprises at least one pair of DLT nodes comprising a first DLT node and a second DLT node. A dataset is provided, managed by the two DLT nodes of the pair of DLT nodes, which dataset comprises the digital asset uniquely assigned to the individual commodity unit. The dataset is a dataset shared between the two DLT nodes of the pair of DLT nodes, i.e., the first DLT node and the second DLT node. A first partial dataset of the shared dataset containing the digital asset is managed by the first DLT node. A second partial dataset of the shared dataset containing the digital asset is managed by the second DLT node.

[0510] If the provision of the goods unit is a provision of the goods unit from a goods sender to a goods recipient, the first DLT node of the pair of DLT nodes is assigned to the goods sender and the second DLT node of the pair of DLT nodes is assigned to the goods recipient.

[0511] The commodity unit is provided with an individual physical marker, which provides a unique identifier for the commodity unit. The individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the individual physical marker can be captured as a sensor value using an electronic sensor and uniquely identifies the individual commodity unit.

[0512] The DLT system comprises at least one smart contract that it provides. The at least one smart contract includes program instructions for sending an execution request for a processing step, entering log data of the processing step, and checking sensor values ​​of one or more recorded value-generating physical properties of the goods unit during the provision of the goods unit.

[0513] The digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification associated with the digital copy of the individual identifier, which comprises one or more value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit. The digital valuable item further comprises a value specification of a monetary value associated with the individual commodity unit, which is determined depending on the value-generating physical properties of the individual commodity unit.

[0514] The method is executed using the at least one smart contract. In block 300, an execution request for executing a processing step of the commodity unit during the provision of the commodity unit is sent over a network by one of the two DLT nodes of the pair of DLT nodes that manages the data set or a partial data set of the shared data set. The execution request comprises the digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the digital asset. For example, the execution request is sent in response to the receipt of a consumption message by the DLT node that subsequently receives the capture message.The consumption report indicates that, for example, on the part of a recipient of goods or a sender of goods, a stock level for goods units of a category into which the goods unit falls, as recorded by an electronic sensor, has reached a predefined threshold.

[0515] Based on one or more sensor-recorded consumption levels, such as remaining fill levels and / or interim consumption, such as fill level changes, delivery orders for goods deliveries to cover a replenishment requirement, such as that of a goods recipient, can be created fully or semi-automatically, for example using one or more smart contracts.

[0516] In block 302, a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the commodity unit during the processing step of the commodity unit using a first electronic sensor is received via the network by the DLT node of the DLT system that sent the execution request. The detection message comprises the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a first sensor value detected using the first physical sensor. The detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the commodity unit. In addition, the received detection message comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit according to the specification of the digital valuable item, which are detected using one or more second physical sensors.

[0517] In block 304, using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier, the data set or the partial data set of the split data set managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message and containing the digital asset uniquely assigned to the commodity unit is identified. In block 306, the protocol data is entered into the identified partial data set. In block 308, the one or more second sensor values ​​of the capture message are checked for compliance with the one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit according to the digital asset within predefined first tolerances.In block 310, upon a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message beyond the predefined first tolerances, the digital valuable item in the identified partial data set is updated using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message.

[0518] For example, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message comprises updating the one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit comprised by the digital valuable item. For example, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message further comprises updating the value indication of the monetary value comprised by the digital valuable item, which is assigned to the individual commodity unit. For example, an update of the value indication only occurs under the condition of a change in the monetary value resulting from the deviations in the value-generating physical properties.

[0519] In block 312, an update message is transmitted from the DLT node receiving the acquisition message to the other of the two DLT nodes in the pair of DLT nodes. The first update message includes the digital copy of the acquired unique identifier, the registered log data, and the one or more second sensor values ​​of the one or more acquired value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit. In block 314, the partial data set of the shared data set managed by the DLT node receiving the first update message is identified using the digital copy of the acquired unique identifier included in the first update message. In block 316, the identified partial data set of the shared data set is identified using the received first update message by the DLT node receiving the first update message.Updating comprises entering the received protocol data into the identified partial data set. Furthermore, the one or more second sensor values ​​of the first update message are checked for compliance with the one or more value-generating physical properties of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item within the predefined second tolerances. If the one or more second sensor values ​​of the first update message deviate beyond the predefined second tolerances, the digital valuable item is updated in the identified partial data set using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the first update message.

[0520] For example, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message comprises updating the one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit comprised by the digital valuable item. For example, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message further comprises updating the value indication of the monetary value comprised by the digital valuable item, which is assigned to the individual commodity unit. For example, an update of the value indication only occurs under the condition of a change in the monetary value resulting from the deviations in the value-generating physical properties.

[0521] In block 318, the reservation of the goods unit and the digital valuable item takes place analogously to the execution in Figure 1. The reservation is made, for example, for a goods recipient. The reservation data is entered as a split data set at least on the DLT node of the goods sender and on the DLT node of the goods recipient.

[0522] Each of steps 300 to 318 of the method according to Figure 2 may be optional.

[0523] Figure 3 shows an exemplary method for initially registering the commodity unit in the DLT system. In block 320, a registration request for registering the commodity unit is received. The registration request includes the digital asset of the commodity unit to be registered. In block 322, the digital asset of value is entered into a registration data record.

[0524] Each of the steps 320 to 322 of the method according to Figure 3 may be optional.

[0525] Figure 4 shows another exemplary method for initially registering the commodity unit in the DLT system. In block 330, a registration request is received. The registration request includes a digital copy of the captured unique identifier of the commodity unit to be registered. The registration request further includes registration data comprising one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit. In block 332, a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the commodity unit to be registered is created using the received unique identifier of the commodity unit and the received one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit.Creating the digital asset of value includes determining the monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit based on the received value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit, which is added to the digital asset as a value indication. In block 334, the digital asset of value is entered into a registration data record. Each of steps 330 to 334 of the method according to Figure 4 can be optional.

[0526] Figure 5 shows an exemplary method for creating a data record managed by at least one of the DLT nodes with a digital valuable item of the commodity unit to be provided. In block 340, the commodity unit is selected using the registration data record. In block 342, the digital valuable item of the selected commodity unit is entered into the data record. The commodity unit selected using the registration data record is assigned to the corresponding data record by entering the digital valuable item. In block 344, upon entering the digital valuable item into the data record, a usage note is entered into the registration data record. This corresponds, for example, to a reservation of the specific commodity unit for provision using the corresponding data record.The usage note in the registration data record can, for example, prevent the registered unit of goods from being used for another provision and / or assigned to another provision.

[0527] In the case of a split dataset, the created dataset is, for example, a first partial dataset of the split dataset, which is managed, for example, by a DLT node of a goods sender. In this case, the digital valuable item of the selected goods unit is entered into the partial dataset in block 342. The goods unit selected using the registration dataset is assigned to the corresponding partial dataset by entering the digital valuable item.

[0528] Each of steps 340 to 344 of the method according to Figure 5 may be optional.

[0529] Figure 6 shows a further exemplary method for creating a data record managed by at least one of the DLT nodes with a digital valuable item of the commodity unit to be provided. In block 350, a commodity creation request is sent. The commodity creation request comprises a creation specification of one or more value-creating physical properties that must be fulfilled by the commodity unit to be created. The corresponding commodity creation request can, for example, be a request to create the corresponding commodity unit by manufacturing it according to the creation specification. After the commodity unit has been created in response to the sent commodity creation request, in block 352, in response to the sending of the commodity creation request, a registration request for the initial registration of the created commodity unit in the DLT system is received.The registration request includes a digital copy of the captured individual identifier of the commodity unit to be registered. The registration request further includes registration data comprising one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit. In block 354, a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the commodity unit to be registered is created using the received individual identifier of the commodity unit and the received one or more value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit. Creating the digital valuable item includes determining the monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit based on the received value-generating physical properties of the commodity unit, which is added to the digital valuable item as a value indication. In block 356, the data record for registering the generated commodity unit is created.In block 358, the digital valuable item is entered into the corresponding data record, which is managed by a DLT node of the DLT system for monitoring and controlling the processing steps of the commodity unit during the provision of the commodity unit and which also serves as the registration data record. The commodity unit is thus registered in the corresponding data record as a registration data record in the DLT system during its production.

[0530] For example, the data record or registration data record is a first partial data record of a shared data record, which is managed, for example, by a DLT node of a goods sender.

[0531] Each of the steps 350 to 356 of the method according to Figure 6 may be optional.

[0532] Figures 7A and 7B show a further exemplary method for monitoring and controlling processing steps of a goods unit during the provision of the goods unit. The provision of the goods unit involves a delivery of the goods unit from a goods sender to a goods recipient using a DLT system, for example, a restricted-access DLT system. The DLT system comprises a first DLT node assigned to the goods sender and a second DLT node assigned to the goods recipient. Furthermore, the DLT system provides at least one smart contract, which includes program instructions for entering and checking delivery orders, order confirmations, and / or goods issue logs during goods deliveries from the goods sender to the goods recipient and / or for validating the goods deliveries.

[0533] The method includes initializing the goods delivery in the DLT system, logging the goods delivery in the DLT system, and validating the goods delivery in the DLT system. The initialization is shown in Figure 7A, and the logging and validation are shown in Figure 7B.

[0534] In block 200, a delivery order from the goods recipient is received by the second DLT node via a first network. The delivery order is a delivery order for goods to be delivered by the goods sender to the goods recipient. The delivery order specifies one or more physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered as a first specification, which include at least a quantity of goods to be delivered.

[0535] In block 202, for example, as a result of receipt of the delivery order, the second partial data record managed by the second DLT node is created. This second partial data record is a second partial data record of a split data record. The corresponding split data record is a data record that comprises the first partial data record on the first DLT node and a second partial data record on the second DLT node. Authorization to edit the first partial data record, i.e., write authorization, is held exclusively by the first DLT node, and thus by the sender of the goods, while authorization to edit the second partial data record, i.e., write authorization, is held exclusively by the second DLT node, and thus by the recipient of the goods.For example, due to access restrictions in the DLT system, only the sender of the goods has read authorization to read the first partial data set via the first DLT node and only the recipient of the goods has read authorization to read the second partial data set via the second DLT node.

[0536] During the creation of the second partial data set, the second DLT node further enters at least one or more physical properties of the delivery order into the second partial data set using the at least one smart contract. These entered one or more physical properties include at least one quantity of goods to be delivered.

[0537] The delivery order defines one or more physical properties to be met by the delivered unit of goods. Furthermore, the delivery order specifies, for example, an order price from the recipient of the goods for the unit of goods. The recipient's order price is a price specification of a price at which the recipient of the goods wishes to purchase the unit of goods. For example, the one or more physical properties include one or more value-creating physical properties. For example, depending on the one or more physical properties, a monetary value is or is determined for the unit of goods to be delivered. The order price is determined, for example, using this monetary value.

[0538] For example, the order price is the specific monetary value.

[0539] In block 204, this second partial data set or the one or more physical properties entered in the second partial data set are transmitted to the first DLT node of the goods sender according to the first specification of the delivery order. In block 206, the first DLT node creates the first partial data set of the split data set, in which one or more physical properties are entered according to the first specification. The one or more physical properties entered according to the first specification comprise at least one quantity of goods to be delivered. As a result, both partial data sets of the split data set thus comprise, for example, identical data, provided that there is agreement on the individual parameters of the specification between the goods sender and the goods recipient, as explained below.

[0540] In block 208, the first DLT node receives an order confirmation from the sender of goods via the first network, which includes a second specification of the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered. Upon receipt of an order confirmation, the first DLT node checks the second specification for compliance with the first specification in block 210 using the at least one smart contract, and in block 212 updates the first partial data set using the result of checking the second specification.

[0541] For example, the order confirmation includes the second specification in the form of a digital valuable item, which is assigned to a unit of goods selected by the sender for delivery. The selection of the unit of goods is carried out, for example, using one of the methods shown in Figure 5 or 6.

[0542] If the second specification matches the first specification, updating the first partial data set using the test result includes, for example, entering a confirmation of the first specification. For example, updating the first partial data set using the test result includes entering the second specification in addition to the first specification into the first partial data set.

[0543] For example, to confirm the first specification, the digital valuable item received with the order confirmation is entered into the first partial data record.

[0544] If the second specification deviates from the first specification, updating the first partial data set using the test result includes, for example, replacing or updating the physical properties according to the first specification with the deviating physical properties according to the second specification. For example, during the updating of the first partial data set, the deviating physical properties according to the second specification are entered into the first partial data set in addition to the first specification. For example, the second specification is entered into the first partial data set in addition to the first specification.

[0545] For example, to update the first partial data set, the digital valuable item received with the order confirmation is entered into the first partial data set.

[0546] The sender's order confirmation specifies one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered. For example, the order confirmation confirms the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered specified in the delivery order. Furthermore, the order confirmation specifies, for example, an order price for the unit of goods at which the sender is willing to deliver the unit of goods. For example, the order confirmation confirms the recipient's order price according to the delivery order. For example, the one or more physical properties include one or more value-creating physical properties. For example, a monetary value is or is determined for the unit of goods to be delivered depending on the one or more physical properties. The order price is determined, for example, using this monetary value.For example, the order price is the specific monetary value.

[0547] For example, the sender selects a specific unit of goods for delivery based on one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered, e.g., according to the delivery order or order confirmation. The selection is made, for example, using the digital valuable item of the unit of goods or the individual identifier of the unit of goods contained in the digital valuable item. By selecting the unit of goods, it is reserved, for example, for the recipient of the goods. A corresponding reservation is made, for example, by assigning the digital valuable item of the unit of goods to the recipient of the goods. The physical marker of the unit of goods, which provides the individual identifier of the unit of goods, can be used to ensure that the selected unit of goods is reserved for the recipient of the goods.

[0548] For example, upon receipt of the order confirmation, the recipient of the goods has the opportunity to select a specific unit of goods for delivery that meets one or more of the physical properties specified for the unit of goods to be delivered, e.g., according to the delivery order or order confirmation. The selection is made, for example, using the digital valuable item of the unit of goods or the individual identifier of the unit of goods contained in the digital valuable item. By selecting the unit of goods, it is reserved, for example, for the recipient of the goods. A corresponding reservation is made, for example, by assigning the digital valuable item of the unit of goods to the recipient of the goods. The physical marker of the unit of goods, which provides the individual identifier of the unit of goods, can be used to ensure that the selected unit of goods is reserved for the recipient of the goods.

[0549] For example, the monetary value of the goods unit, which is determined depending on the value-creating physical properties of the individual goods unit and encompassed by the digital valuable item, corresponds to the order price, in particular to the order price confirmed by the sender of the goods, on which the recipient of the goods and the sender of the goods have agreed.

[0550] Furthermore, in block 214, an update message is transmitted from the first DLT node to the second DLT node. For example, the update message indicates whether the second specification matches the first specification. If one or more physical properties according to the second specification deviate from the first specification, the update message identifies, for example, the deviating one or more physical properties according to the second specification. For example, the update message includes the entire second specification or a copy of the second specification.

[0551] For example, the update message includes the second specification in the form of the digital asset associated with the unit of goods.

[0552] In block 216, the second DLT node updates the second partial data set, i.e., the second partial data set of the split data set, using the update message. If the second specification matches the first specification, updating the second partial data set using the update message includes, for example, entering a confirmation of the first specification. For example, updating the second partial data set using the update message includes entering the second specification in addition to the first specification into the second partial data set.

[0553] If the second specification deviates from the first specification, updating the second partial data set using the update message includes, for example, replacing or updating the physical properties according to the first specification with the deviating physical properties according to the second specification. For example, during the updating of the second partial data set, the deviating physical properties according to the second specification are entered into the first partial data set in addition to the first specification. For example, the second specification is entered into the first partial data set in addition to the first specification.

[0554] For example, to update the first partial data set, the digital valuable item received with the order confirmation is entered into the second partial data set.

[0555] If the second specification deviates from the first specification, for example, a handshake is performed between the first DLT node and the second DLT node to compare the first specification and the second specification so that the first and second specifications resulting from the comparison match.

[0556] For example, the handshake can confirm the second specification according to the transmitted digital valuable or, if the second specification is not acceptable to the goods recipient due to a discrepancy, the goods sender can select an alternative goods unit with an alternative specification during the handshake and repeat the preceding steps with an alternative digital valuable assigned to the alternative goods unit. Otherwise, a modification or adjustment of the selected goods unit can be made during the handshake, resulting in an adjustment of the digital valuable, and the preceding steps can be repeated with the adjusted digital valuable for the adjusted goods unit. Such an adjustment can, for example, be a processing step according to the methods in Figure 1 or 2.

[0557] If the second specification matches the first specification, a confirmation message is transmitted from the first DLT node to the sender of the goods via the network, for example. A match between the second specification and the first specification occurs, for example, when there is an identity. A match between the second specification and the first specification occurs, for example, when there are no deviations that exceed a predefined tolerance range. The confirmation message indicates to the sender of the goods, for example, that an agreement on the corresponding delivery of goods has been reached between the recipient of the goods and the sender of the goods. Furthermore, the confirmation message includes, for example, the specification of the corresponding delivery of goods, for example in the form of the digital valuable item. For example, the corresponding confirmation message serves as a trigger to initiate the corresponding delivery of goods.

[0558] Each of steps 200 to 216 of the method of Figure 7A may be optional.

[0559] The method from Figure 7A is preferably continued in Figure 7B with logging the delivery of goods in the DLT system. If the physical delivery of goods is carried out, i.e. if the unit of goods to be delivered leaves a warehouse of the sender, a goods issue log is created. The corresponding goods issue log comprises one or more sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the outgoing unit of goods according to the second specification, which are recorded using one or more physical sensors assigned to the sender. The goods issue log therefore specifies, for one or more physical properties for which target values ​​are specified in the second specification, measured values ​​recorded by sensors, which reflect the actual condition of the outgoing unit of goods with regard to the corresponding physical properties.The corresponding sensor values ​​include at least one sensor value which quantifies the delivered, i.e. outgoing, quantity of goods.

[0560] The goods issue log, for example, is a recording notification of a processing step of the goods unit in the form of goods issue or goods dispatch. This goods issue is executed, for example, upon an execution request to dispatch the corresponding goods unit. For example, the digital valuable item is checked using the goods issue log according to the method in Fig. 1 or 2.

[0561] In block 220, the first DLT node of the sender receives the outgoing goods protocol from the sender via the first network and, in block 222, checks the one or more first sensor values ​​of the outgoing goods protocol for a match with the one or more physical properties of the goods to be delivered. This check determines whether the one or more sensor values ​​of the outgoing goods protocol match one or more physical properties according to the shared data set within predefined tolerances. If no such match exists, a warning is transmitted, for example, to the sender and / or the recipient. Such a warning can, for example, trigger a subsequent delivery by the sender if the delivery quantity is too low.For example, such a warning may trigger a review of the deviating physical properties upon arrival of the goods unit by the recipient of the goods. For example, such a warning may require confirmation of the deviating physical properties by the recipient of the goods for successful final validation of the delivery of the goods.

[0562] The goods issue log, for example, is a recording notification of a processing step of the goods unit in the form of goods issue or goods dispatch. This goods issue is executed, for example, upon an execution request to dispatch the corresponding goods unit. For example, the digital valuable item is checked using the goods issue log according to the method in Fig. 1 or 2.

[0563] In block 224, the first partial data set is updated by the first DLT node using the result of the check of the one or more first sensor values ​​of the goods issue log. For example, the update comprises an entry of the goods issue log and / or one or more of the sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log. For example, all sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log are entered. For example, only those sensor values ​​are entered that differ from the values ​​entered in the first partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered.For example, for sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol that match the values ​​entered in the first partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered, only a confirmation is entered in the first partial data set that the corresponding values ​​for the physical properties match the recorded sensor values.

[0564] In block 226, an update message is transmitted from the first DLT node to the second DLT node. The update message includes, for example, the goods issue log and / or one or more of the sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log. For example, the update message includes all sensor values ​​specified by the goods issue log. For example, the update message includes only those sensor values ​​that differ from the values ​​entered in the first partial data set for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered.For example, the update message for sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol that match the values ​​for the physical properties of the goods unit to be delivered entered in the first partial data set only includes a confirmation that the corresponding values ​​for the physical properties according to the split data set match the recorded sensor values.

[0565] The update message is, for example, an update...

Claims

P a t e n t a n s p r ü c h e 1. A method for the computer-implemented control and monitoring of processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods using a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods and a DLT system (182) with a plurality of DLT nodes, wherein the provision of the unit of goods comprises at least one storage and / or delivery of the unit of goods, wherein the DLT system (182) comprises and provides at least one smart contract, wherein the at least one smart contract comprises program instructions for sending an execution request of a processing step, entering log data of the processing step, and checking sensor values ​​of a sensor system of one or more recorded value-generating physical properties of the unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods, as well as for entering and checking delivery orders and order confirmations,wherein the commodity unit is provided with an individual physical marker which provides an individual identifier of the commodity unit, wherein the individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the individual physical marker is detectable as a sensor value using an electronic sensor (114; 134) and uniquely identifies the individual commodity unit, wherein a data set (148; 168) managed by at least one of the DLT nodes of the plurality of DLT nodes is provided, which data set comprises the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual commodity unit, wherein the digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification assigned to the digital copy of the individual identifier, which specification comprises one or more value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit,wherein the digital valuable item further comprises a value indication of a monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit, which is determined as a function of the value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit, wherein the method using the at least one smart contract comprises: • Sending an execution request to execute a processing step of the goods unit during the provision of the goods unit by the DLT node of the DLT system (182) managing the data set (148; 168) via a network, wherein the execution request comprises the digital copy of the individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the digital valuable item, • Receiving a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit in the processing step of the goods unit using a first electronic sensor (114; 134) by the DLT node of the DLT system (182) managing the data set (148; 168) via the network, wherein the detection message contains the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a detection signal generated using the first physical sensor (114;134), wherein the detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the goods unit, wherein the received detection message further comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable object, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors (114; 134); • Identifying the data record (148; 168) managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message with the digital Valuable item using the digital copy of the recorded individual identifier, • entries of the protocol data in the identified data set (148; 168), • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the acquisition message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item within predefined first tolerances, for a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the acquisition message beyond the predefined first tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the acquisition message, • Reservation of the digital valuable item and the unit of goods for a delivery of goods and / or provision of the, if reserved, unit of goods for the delivery of goods by the sender of goods, and wherein the reservation comprises an automatic adjustment in the shared data set in the DLT system which is assigned to the digital valuable item.

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein with the reservation of the digital valuable item and the unit of goods, the order value and / or the monetary value of the unit of goods according to the digital valuable item is reserved at the expense of the recipient of the goods and / or in favor of the sender of the goods, in particular is reserved in an eWallet.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the recipient of the goods requests financing of the order value and / or the monetary value of the unit of goods according to the digital valuable item, and wherein the monetary value is reserved for the benefit of the sender of the goods upon reservation of the unit of goods for the recipient of the goods.

4. Method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that with the reservation of the corresponding monetary value in favor of the sender of the goods, an automatic payment dependent on the delivery of the goods is implemented, wherein the payment of the reserved amount of money is made according to at least one of the following conditions: - automatically after automatic confirmation of delivery by the sender, - after confirmation of delivery by the sender or supplier of the goods; - after delivery to the recipient of the goods and / or confirmation of delivery by the recipient of the goods or supplier of the goods.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein updating the digital valuable item using the different one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message comprises: updating the one or more value-forming physical properties of the commodity unit comprised by the digital valuable item and / or updating the value indication of the monetary value comprised by the digital valuable item which is assigned to the individual commodity unit.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the digital valuable object is further assigned a value logic which defines the dependence of the monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit on the value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit.

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the individual marker is a passive individual marker, which for example comprises an optoelectronically detectable code arranged on the goods unit, which comprises the individual identifier of the goods unit, or a physical and / or chemical tracer to which the individual marker is assigned, or an active individual marker configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal comprising the individual identifier of the unit of goods for detecting the individual marker.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the log data of the detection message comprises an identifier of a processing location at which the detected processing step was carried out.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition message further comprises one or more digital signatures created using one or more cryptographic signature keys, wherein entering data of the acquisition message into the data set (148; 168) requires successful verification of the one or more digital signatures using one or more cryptographic signature verification keys.

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the execution request comprises reference data identifying the dispatch step to be executed, the method further comprising checking the received protocol data for at least partial agreement with the reference data.

11. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises initializing the provision of the unit of goods in the DLT system (182), wherein the initialization comprises: • Receiving a provision request which defines a provision specification with one or more value-creating physical properties to be fulfilled by the unit of goods to be provided within predefined second tolerances, • Selecting the commodity unit for provision using the first specification of the digital item of the commodity unit and the provision specification, wherein selecting the commodity unit comprises adding the digital item of value to the data set (148; 168).

12. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises, in the course of an initial registration of the unit of goods: • Receiving a registration request, wherein the registration request comprises a digital copy of the recorded individual identifier of the goods unit to be registered, wherein the registration request further comprises registration data comprising one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit, • Creating the digital valuable item using the received individual identifier of the commodity unit and the received one or more value-forming physical properties of the commodity unit, wherein the creation of the digital valuable item comprises determining the monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit depending on the received value-forming physical properties of the commodity unit, which is added to the digital valuable item as a value indication, • Entries of the digital valuable item in a registration record.

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of DLT nodes comprises at least one pair of DLT nodes having a first DLT node and a second DLT node, wherein the DLT node receiving the detection message is one of the two DLT nodes of the pair of DLT nodes, wherein the data record (148, 168) is a data record transmitted between the first DLT node and the second DLT node is a shared data set, wherein a first partial data set (168) of the shared data set (148, 168) with the digital valuable object is managed by the first DLT node, wherein a second partial data set (148) of the shared data set (148, 168) with the digital valuable object is managed by the second DLT node, wherein the method using the at least one smart contract further comprises: • Transmitting a first update message from the DLT node receiving the detection message to the other of the two DLT nodes of the pair of DLT nodes, wherein the first update message comprises the digital copy of the detected individual identifier, the entered protocol data, and the one or more second sensor values ​​of the one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit, • Identifying the partial data set (148; 168) of the shared data set (148, 168) managed by the DLT node receiving the first update message using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier included in the first update message, • Updating the identified partial data set (148; 168) of the split data set (148, 168) using the received first update message by the DLT node receiving the first update message, wherein the updating comprises: o entering the received protocol data in the identified partial data set (148; 168), o checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the first update message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the unit of goods according to the digital valuable item within the predefined second tolerances, o for a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the first update message beyond the predefined second tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the first update message.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein creating the first partial data set (168) managed by the first DLT node comprises: • Selection of the unit of goods using the registration record, • Entries of the digital valuable item of the selected unit of goods in the first partial data set (168), • to the entries of the digital valuable item in the first partial data set (168), entries of a usage note in the registration data set, or wherein the registration data set is the first partial data set (168), wherein creating the first partial data set (168) managed by the first DLT node comprises sending a goods creation request which comprises a creation specification of one or more value-creating physical properties to be fulfilled by the goods unit to be created, wherein the registration request is received in response to the sending of the goods creation request.

15. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the provision of the goods unit is a provision of the goods unit from a goods sender to a goods recipient, wherein the first DLT node of the pair of DLT nodes is assigned to the goods sender and the second DLT node of the pair of DLT nodes is assigned to the goods recipient.

16. The method according to claim 12, wherein the sending of the execution request occurs in response to a receipt of a consumption message by the DLT node receiving the detection message, wherein the consumption message indicates that a stock level for goods units of a category into which the goods unit falls, detected by the goods recipient by means of an electronic sensor, has reached a predefined first threshold value or that a stock level for goods units of the category into which the goods unit falls, detected by the goods sender by means of an electronic sensor, has reached a predefined second stock threshold value.

17. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the method further comprises logging a delivery of the goods unit in the DLT system (182), wherein the at least one smart contract further comprises program instructions for entering and checking a goods issue log in the course of a delivery of the goods unit from the goods sender to the goods recipient, wherein the logging using the at least one smart contract comprises: • Receiving an outgoing goods protocol from the goods sender via the network (184) by the first DLT node, wherein the outgoing goods protocol comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the outgoing goods unit detected by a first physical sensor (134) assigned to the goods sender and one or more second sensor values ​​for the one or more physical properties of the outgoing goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable object, which are detected by one or more second physical sensors (134) assigned to the goods sender, wherein the one or more second sensor values ​​comprise at least one second sensor value which quantifies the quantity of goods delivered, • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol for compliance with the one or more physical properties of the unit of goods to be delivered according to the digital valuable item within the predefined first tolerances, wherein the checked second sensor values ​​comprise a first sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered, • Updating the first partial data set (168) by the first DLT node using a test result of checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the goods issue protocol, • Transmitting at least one second update message from the first DLT node to the second DLT node, • Updating the second partial data set (148) by the second DLT node using the transmitted second update message.

18. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the method further comprises validating the delivery of the unit of goods in the DLT system (182), wherein the at least one smart contract further comprises program instructions for validating the delivery of the units of goods, wherein the validation using the at least one smart contract comprises: • Checking parameters of a validation message (194) for validating the delivery of the unit of goods by the first DLT node, wherein the parameters comprise at least one quantity of goods to be validated, wherein checking the parameters comprises checking the quantity of goods to be validated for compliance with the second sensor value quantifying the delivered quantity of goods within one of the predefined first tolerances, • if the quantity of goods to be validated matches the second sensor value quantifying the quantity of goods delivered within the corresponding predefined first Ill Tolerance, updating the first partial data set (168) by the first DLT node, wherein the updating comprises registering the validation message (194) by the first DLT node in the first partial data set (168), • Transmitting at least a third update message from the first DLT node to the second DLT node, • Updating the second partial data set (148) by the second DLT node using the third update message, wherein updating the second partial data set (148) comprises registering the validation message (194) in the second partial data set (148).

19. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the program instructions comprised by the at least one smart contract are further configured to trigger an electronic payment transaction, wherein the triggering of the payment transaction by the smart contract occurs upon registration of the validation message (194) in the DLT system (182), wherein the triggered electronic payment transaction is, for example, a transaction of an amount of programmable money executed using the DLT system (182), wherein the DLT system (182) is, for example, configured to transfer the invoice amount to be paid from a programmable money account of the goods recipient to a programmable money account of the goods sender,wherein the DLT system (182) is further configured, for example, to transform a fiat money amount of a fiat money account assigned to the goods recipient into an amount of programmable money in the goods recipient's account for programmable money, and / or wherein the payment transaction is logged, for example, using the at least one smart contract in the DLT system (182), wherein, for example, electronic account statements about the logged payment transaction are issued to the goods recipient and / or the goods sender using the smart contract.

20. The method according to claim 16, wherein, using the at least one smart contract, the invoice amount to be paid is blocked in the account of the recipient of the goods for programmable money.

21. DLT node of a DLT system (182) for the computer-implemented control and management of processing steps of a goods unit during the provision of the goods unit using a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual goods unit, wherein the provision of the goods unit comprises at least storage and / or delivery of the goods unit, wherein the goods unit is provided with an individual physical marker which provides an individual identifier of the goods unit, wherein the individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the individual physical marker is detectable as a sensor value using an electronic sensor (114; 134) and uniquely identifies the individual goods unit, wherein a data record (148; 168) managed by the DLT node is provided which comprises the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual goods unit,wherein the digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification associated with the digital copy of the individual identifier, which specification comprises one or more value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit, wherein the digital valuable item further comprises a value indication of a monetary value associated with the individual commodity unit, which is determined as a function of the value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit, wherein the DLT node is implemented on a DLT server (140; 160) of the DLT system (182), wherein the DLT server (140; 160) comprises a processor (142; 162) and a memory with program instructions (144; 164), wherein the program instructions (144;164) at least one smart contract is provided on the DLT node, wherein the at least one smart contract comprises program instructions for sending an execution request of a processing step, entering log data of the processing step and checking sensor values ​​of one or more recorded value-forming physical properties of the goods unit in the course of providing the individual goods unit, wherein execution of the program instructions (144; 164) by the processor (142; 162) causes the processor to control the DLT node to:; • Sending an execution request to execute a processing step of the commodity unit in the course of providing the commodity unit, wherein the execution request comprises the digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit provided by the digital valuable item, • Receiving a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit in the processing step of the goods unit using a first electronic sensor (114; 134) by the DLT node of the DLT system (182) managing the data set (148; 168) via a network, wherein the detection message contains the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a detection signal generated using the first physical sensor (114;134), wherein the detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the goods unit, wherein the received detection message further comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable object, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors (114; 134); • Identifying the data record (148; 168) managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message with the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the unit of goods using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier, • entries of the protocol data in the identified data set (148; 168), • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item within predefined first tolerances, • upon a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message beyond the predefined first tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message.

22. DLT system (182) for the computer-implemented control and management of processing steps of a unit of goods in the course of providing the unit of goods using a digital valuable item that is uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods, wherein the provision of the unit of goods includes at least storage and / or delivery of the goods unit, wherein the goods unit is provided with an individual physical marker which provides an individual identifier of the goods unit, wherein the individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the individual physical marker is detectable as a sensor value using an electronic sensor (114; 134) and uniquely identifies the individual goods unit, wherein the DLT system comprises at least one DLT node, wherein a data record (148;168) is provided, which comprises the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual commodity unit, wherein the digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification assigned to the digital copy of the individual identifier, which specification comprises one or more value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit, wherein the digital valuable item further comprises a value indication of a monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit, which is determined as a function of the value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit, wherein the DLT node is implemented on a DLT server (140; 160) of the DLT system (182), wherein the DLT server (140; 160) has a processor (142;162) and a memory, wherein the DLT system (182) comprises and provides at least one smart contract, wherein the at least one smart contract comprises program instructions for sending an execution request of a processing step, entering log data of the processing step and checking sensor values ​​of one or more recorded value-forming physical properties of the goods unit in the course of providing the individual goods unit, wherein the DLT system (182) using the at least one smart contract comprises:; • Sending an execution request to execute a processing step of the goods unit during the provision of the goods unit by the DLT node of the DLT system (182) managing the data set (148; 168) via a network, wherein the execution request comprises the digital copy of the individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the digital valuable item, • Receiving a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit in the processing step of the goods unit using a first electronic sensor (114; 134) by the DLT node of the DLT system (182) managing the data set (148; 168) via the network, wherein the detection message contains the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a detection signal generated using the first physical sensor (114;134), wherein the detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the goods unit, wherein the received detection message further comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable object, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors (114; 134); • Identifying the data record (148; 168) managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message with the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the unit of goods using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier, • entries of the protocol data in the identified data set (148; 168), • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item within predefined first tolerances, • upon a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message beyond the predefined first tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message.

23. A computer program for monitoring and controlling processing steps of a unit of goods during the provision of the unit of goods using a digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual unit of goods and a DLT system (182) with a plurality of DLT nodes, wherein the provision of the unit of goods comprises at least storage and / or delivery of the unit of goods, wherein the unit of goods is provided with an individual physical marker which provides an individual identifier of the unit of goods, wherein the individual identifier of the unit of goods provided by the individual physical marker is detectable as a sensor value using an electronic sensor (114; 134) and uniquely identifies the individual unit of goods, wherein a data set (148; 168) managed by at least one of the DLT nodes of the plurality of DLT nodes is provided,which comprises the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the individual commodity unit, wherein the digital valuable item comprises a digital copy of the individual identifier of the commodity unit and a specification assigned to the digital copy of the individual identifier, which specification comprises one or more value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit, wherein the digital valuable item further comprises a value indication of a monetary value assigned to the individual commodity unit, which is determined depending on the value-forming physical properties of the individual commodity unit, wherein the computer program provides at least one smart contract, wherein the at least one smart contract contains program instructions for sending an execution request of a processing step,entering log data of the processing step and checking sensor values ​​of one or more recorded value-forming physical properties of the goods unit in the course of providing the individual goods unit, wherein the computer program comprises program instructions for: • Sending an execution request to execute a processing step of the goods unit during the provision of the goods unit by the DLT node of the DLT system (182) managing the data set (148; 168) via a network, wherein the execution request comprises the digital copy of the individual identifier of the goods unit provided by the digital valuable item, • Receiving a detection message of a detection of the individual identifier provided by the individual marker of the goods unit in the processing step of the goods unit using a first electronic sensor (114; 134) by the DLT node of the DLT system (182) managing the data set (148; 168) via the network, wherein the detection message contains the digital copy of the detected individual identifier in the form of a detection signal generated using the first physical sensor (114;134), wherein the detection message further comprises protocol data identifying the corresponding processing step of the goods unit, wherein the received detection message further comprises one or more second sensor values ​​of one or more detected value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the specification of the digital valuable object, which are detected by means of one or more second physical sensors (114; 134); • Identifying the data record (148; 168) managed by the DLT node receiving the capture message with the digital valuable item uniquely assigned to the unit of goods using the digital copy of the captured individual identifier, • entries of the protocol data in the identified data set (148; 168), • Checking the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message for compliance with the one or more value-forming physical properties of the goods unit according to the digital valuable item within predefined first tolerances, • upon a deviation of the one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message beyond the predefined first tolerances, updating the digital valuable item using the deviating one or more second sensor values ​​of the detection message.

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