Packaging Line Traceability via Sequence Number Computation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Previous-generation packaging lines lack the flexibility and computational efficiency to provide reliable traceability for perishable products, especially in high-production environments, due to decentralized control and resource-intensive logging of unique identifiers.
Innovation Solution
A Packaging System with centralized automation, a Marking System for applying unique identifiers, a Verification System for accuracy, and a Package Tracing Algorithm that computes Primary Package Sequence Numbers and Production Times to enable efficient traceability with reduced computational demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If decentralized control and logging of unique identifiers is used in previous-generation packaging lines, then traceability can be implemented, but computational resource demand increases and system complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the traceability functionality into the centralized Line Controller by integrating the Package Tracing Algorithm and repository, eliminating the need for separate decentralized logging systems. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliable traceability through a unified control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The Line Controller is designed to perform multiple functions including production control, data management, and traceability operations. By making the Line Controller universal and multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for specialized decentralized control systems, thereby reducing system complexity while ensuring reliable traceability.
2Reliability
If unique identifiers are logged for each packaged product in high-production environments, then traceability is achieved, but production rate decreases due to resource-intensive operations
Solution Approach 1:
The Package Tracing Algorithm pre-computes and stores essential traceability data (Primary Package Sequence Numbers and Production Times) in the repository during the packaging process. This preliminary action ensures that traceability information is readily available without requiring resource-intensive logging operations at the point of use, thereby maintaining high production rates.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of logging detailed unique identifiers for each product, the system uses simplified copied data representations (sequence numbers and production times) that capture the essential traceability information. This copying approach significantly reduces computational resource demand while maintaining adequate traceability for defect identification and recall operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If customized line automation software is used in previous-generation packaging lines, then specific functionality is achieved, but adaptability and versatility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the automation software into standardized, modular components that can be independently configured and deployed. The Line Controller uses a standardized software architecture with configurable parameters, allowing different packaging line configurations without requiring custom software development. This segmentation enables high adaptability while simplifying the ease of manufacture through standardized software components.
Data Source
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AI summary
A Packaging System comprising: • a Packaging Line configured to produce and pack Primary Packages to form Secondary Packages, Secondary Packages being produced in a sequential order and formed with Primary Packages provided in a sequential order; and • a Package Tracing System configured to allow Primary Packages to be traced; wherein the Package Tracing System is configured to: • compute, for each Secondary Package, a Primary Package Sequence Number for the first Primary Package in the Secondary Package and a Primary Package Sequence Number for the last Primary Package in the Secondary Package; • compute, for each Secondary Package, a Primary Package Production Time for the first Primary Package in the Secondary Package and a Primary Package Production Time for the last Primary Package in the Secondary Package, based on the corresponding Primary Package Sequence Numbers; and • store in a repository Primary Package Production Times for the first and the last Primary Packages in the Secondary Packages, along with associated Secondary Package Identifiers.