Unified Supply Chain Tracking via Partial ID Pattern Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inventory control and management systems require users to remember and input multiple specific identification numbers to track items or orders across different systems within a supply chain, leading to inefficiencies and resource wastage, as they lack effective capabilities for tracking or searching based on partial identification number entries.
Innovation Solution
A system that consolidates supply chain information into a single interface, allowing users to track items or orders using any identification number, including partial entries, through pattern matching techniques, and provides secure access via a globally-distributed network, enabling efficient tracking across various life cycle milestones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional tracking systems use multiple specific identification numbers for different systems, then tracking accuracy is maintained, but user operation complexity increases and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identification number into multiple components (prefix, sequential number, suffix) that can be independently analyzed. This allows the system to process partial entries by matching against known patterns and formats from different supply chain systems, maintaining tracking accuracy while reducing user burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that sits between the user input and the multiple supply chain systems. This intermediary automatically analyzes the partial identification number, determines which system it belongs to, and routes the query appropriately, eliminating the need for users to manually select systems or enter complete identification numbers.
2Measurement precision
If users interface with multiple separate systems to track orders, then system-specific tracking precision is maintained, but time consumption increases and resource efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal tracking interface that can handle identification numbers from multiple supply chain systems (warehouse, carrier, distributor) through a single entry point. The system maintains the precision of each individual system by preserving their specific identification formats and query protocols, while providing unified access that eliminates the need to switch between multiple interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of the partial identification number to determine its origin system and format before routing the query. This preliminary action includes analyzing the number's structure, length, and pattern to identify which supply chain system it belongs to, preparing the appropriate query parameters in advance, and thus reducing the time needed for actual tracking.
3Measurement precision
If conventional systems require complete identification numbers for tracking, then data query accuracy is maintained, but ease of operation decreases and user error increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial action by allowing users to enter only a portion of the identification number (such as a sequential portion or recognizable segment) rather than requiring the complete number. The system compensates for the missing information by using pattern matching, format analysis, and system identification algorithms to retrieve the correct tracking data, thus maintaining query accuracy while significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter requirements from requiring complete, exact identification numbers to accepting partial patterns with variable characteristics. The system adjusts its search parameters dynamically based on the input provided, using techniques such as wildcard matching, format-based filtering, and system-specific pattern recognition to maintain data query accuracy despite reduced input requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for the efficient tracking of a product or service within the product or service's life cycle within a supply chain. Implementations of the present invention including at least one of a method, a process, a system, an apparatus, a computer-readable medium, and a data stream. The methods and systems of the present invention providing a user with the capability to track an item or order, shipment status, or to check an inventory quantity utilizing any one of a plurality of identification numbers. The methods and systems of the present invention also providing the user with the capability to track an item or order, shipment status, or to check an inventory quantity utilizing a partial identification number. The methods and systems of the present invention further providing for secure access via a globally-distributed computer network, such as the Internet. A graphical user interface is provided that is intuitive and user friendly.