Stacked Container Storage With Weight Sensors for Stock Accuracy

The patent replaces manual visual inspection of bottle stock with an automated electronic weighing system. Weight sensors continuously measure the total weight of bottles in each crate, and a central processing unit calculates the number of bottles by comparing measured weight against known individual bottle weights. This mechanical-to-electronic substitution enables precise stock monitoring while maintaining the space-efficient wire mesh crate structure.

The patent divides the inventory tracking system into crate-level segments, where each crate is independently monitored by its own weight sensors and identification system. The central processing unit maintains separate digital records for each crate, tracking the specific wine type, vintage, and bottle count for each location. This segmentation allows multiple wine varieties to be stored simultaneously while simplifying tracking through localized, independent monitoring zones.

The patent implements a self-service monitoring system where weight sensors automatically and continuously measure bottle inventory without human intervention. The system autonomously transmits weight data to the central processing unit, which automatically calculates bottle counts and updates inventory records. This self-service approach eliminates manual counting labor while maintaining system simplicity through automated, hands-free operation.

The patent integrates weight sensors into the existing crate structure, allowing the same hardware component to serve multiple functions: structural support for the crate and measurement element for inventory monitoring. The central processing unit performs multiple tasks including receiving weight data, calculating bottle counts, tracking inventory levels, and generating alerts when thresholds are reached. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by combining structural and sensing roles in single components.