ERP SKU Classification Using Context-Specific ML Models

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing SKU classification methods overlook diverse perspectives, leading to inconsistent categorization and are time-consuming and error-prone, hindering scalability and accuracy in data management, supply chain optimization, and regulatory compliance.

Innovation Solution

A machine learning-based classification system that integrates natural language processing and calibrated support vector machines, leveraging context-specific rules and regulatory guidelines for accurate SKU classification, seamlessly integrating with ERP systems for real-time data synchronization and management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual classification processes are used, then flexibility and adaptability to diverse SKU perspectives are maintained, but time consumption and error rates increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to diverse SKU perspectivesVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the classification task by creating multiple specialized classifier models, each trained on specific datasets representing different SKU perspectives (e.g., retail, manufacturing, supply chain). Each classifier handles a specific classification context, allowing the system to process diverse SKU types efficiently while maintaining adaptability to different classification requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical classification processes with an automated machine learning-based classification system. The system uses trained classifier models that automatically process SKU data, eliminating the need for manual classification while maintaining high adaptability through configurable classifiers that can be trained on diverse datasets representing different business perspectives.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual classification processes are used, then flexibility in handling diverse SKU perspectives is maintained, but accuracy and consistency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in handling diverse SKU perspectivesVSAvoidclassification accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the classification problem into multiple specialized classifier models, each trained on specific datasets representing different SKU perspectives. This segmentation allows each classifier to achieve high accuracy for its specific domain while the collective system maintains flexibility across diverse SKU types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes parameters by training classifier models with different parameters and configurations tailored to specific SKU perspectives. Each classifier can be optimized with specific training data, features, and parameters relevant to its classification context, thereby achieving high accuracy for diverse classification scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If existing classification techniques are used, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but scalability and usability are hindered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplementation simplicityVSAvoidscalability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal classification system where a single platform supports multiple classifier models that can handle diverse SKU classification requirements. The system provides a unified interface and common infrastructure that can scale to handle increasing numbers of SKUs and classification contexts without requiring separate manual processes for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-training multiple classifier models on diverse datasets representing different SKU perspectives before deployment. These pre-trained classifiers are ready to immediately process new SKU data, enabling the system to scale efficiently without requiring manual classification for each new SKU type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Quantity of substance

If existing classification techniques are used, then resource requirements are minimized, but classification accuracy and usability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource requirementsVSAvoidclassification accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple classifier models into a single integrated classification system. By combining the capabilities of multiple specialized classifiers trained on different datasets, the system achieves high classification accuracy across diverse SKU perspectives while consolidating resource requirements into a unified platform rather than requiring separate systems for each classification scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12567035B2Classification as-a-service for enterprise resource planning systems
Publication Date: 2026.03.03 DELL PROD LP
  • US12567035B2 patent drawing
  • US12567035B2 patent drawing
  • US12567035B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The technology described herein is directed towards product classification across multiple contexts within an enterprise environment, e.g., based on stock keeping unit (SKU-) related data. Relevant SKU attributes and patterns for each context are used to train machine learning-based classification models, which are then used to classify descriptive data of a product, such as one or more modules of a SKU. In one implementation, natural language processing and vectorization of input data are described to provide appropriate input to the trained classifier. Context-specific rules derived from domain knowledge and regulatory guidelines can be integrated to refine the classifications made by the model. The system incorporates integration with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, enabling efficient data management and classification within an existing infrastructure.