JP2004280676A - Returnable container management system, and returnable container with rfid chip managed by this system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system capable of managing the location in a predetermined date of each returnable container. <P>SOLUTION: This returnable container management system 100 comprises client terminals 1a-1h arranged in a plurality of facilities constituting the trip process of each returnable container, a management server 3 connectable from each client terminal through a network 2, an RFID chip mounted on each returnable container and storing first identification information for identifying each returnable container, and an RFID reader connected to each client terminal to read the first identification information stored in the RFID chip. Each client terminal transmits the first identification information of each returnable container read by the RFID reader to the management server with second identification information for identifying each client terminal. The management server stores the transmitted first identification in association with the transmitted second identification information and the receiving date of the first identification information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a system for managing returnable containers (such as returnable glass bottles used as containers for food and beverages) and a returnable container with an RFID chip managed by the system.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, returnable containers such as returnable glass bottles have been used for beverage containers such as beer, sake and milk. The returnable container is a container that is repeatedly used by collecting, emptying, washing, refilling the contents, and commercializing the empty containers. Returnable containers can be said to be environmentally friendly containers because they are reused as they are and do not generate garbage and save raw materials and production energy.
[0003]
Such returnable containers are manufactured by a container maker and then supplied to a food / beverage maker or bottler, where the contents are filled and shipped as a product. The shipped goods are delivered to consumers through a distribution process by wholesalers and retailers. The empty returnable container after the consumer has used the contents is returned to the retailer or sent to the municipal government for separate collection, and collected through the collection company. Empty containers returned to retailers or collected by collectors are returned to food and beverage manufacturers and bottlers, and defective empty or returned defective containers are discarded. While a new returnable container is manufactured for replenishment, a non-defective non-defective product is cleaned and reused. Returnable containers that have been reused become empty containers as consumers use the contents, and are returned to food and beverage manufacturers and bottlers again. As described above, the returnable container repeats the so-called trip process including replenishment of new returnable containers, filling of contents, distribution, collection of empty containers, and reuse (or disposal) many times.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, conventionally, the actual situation is that the trip process of each returnable container is not managed. Therefore, for example, it is not possible to check the number of trip cycles (the number of times of repeating the trip process) of each container, and the selection of containers to be discarded depends solely on the visual evaluation of the container appearance, such as the presence or absence of scratches. There is a problem that objective evaluation such as selection based on the frequency of use cannot be performed. In addition, it does not manage the trip process of returnable containers, in other words, effectively promotes the distribution and collection of returnable containers due to not managing the location of each returnable container at a predetermined date and time. Alternatively, there is a problem that the quality keeping period of the contents cannot be managed efficiently.
[0005]
The present invention has been made to solve the problems of the related art, and provides a system capable of managing the location of each returnable container at a predetermined date and time, and a returnable container with an RFID chip managed by the system. As an issue.
[0006]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above problem, according to the present invention, as described in claim 1, client terminals arranged in a plurality of facilities constituting a trip process of a returnable container can be connected to each of the client terminals via a network. A management server, an RFID chip attached to each returnable container and storing first identification information for identifying each returnable container, and a first identification information stored in the RFID chip connected to each of the client terminals. The client terminal transmits the first identification information of each returnable container read by the RFID reader together with the second identification information for identifying the client terminal to the management server. , The management server includes the transmitted first identification information in the transmitted first identification information. And identification information, in association with the reception time of the first identification information, and provides a returnable container management system characterized by storing stores them.
[0007]
According to the invention according to claim 1, each client terminal sends the first identification information of each returnable container read by the RFID reader together with the second identification information for identifying each client terminal to the management server via the network. The management server is configured to associate the transmitted first identification information with the transmitted second identification information and the reception date and time of the first identification information, and store and associate these. You. Therefore, the management server stores and stores the first identification information for identifying each returnable container, the second identification information for identifying the client terminal, and the date and time when the first identification information was received. . In other words, the location (represented by the second identification information) of each returnable container (represented by the first identification information) at the predetermined date and time (represented by the reception date and time) is stored and saved. , Can be managed by the management server.
[0008]
The plurality of facilities constituting the trip process of the returnable container include, for example, a shipping department of a container maker, a receiving department and a shipping department of a bottler, a receiving department and a shipping department of a wholesaler, a receiving department and a selling department of a retailer, In addition, the shipping department of the collection company can be exemplified. Examples of the client terminal include a personal computer, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistance), and a mobile phone that can be connected to a network. The arrangement of the client terminal at the facility is not limited to the case where the client terminal is fixedly arranged at the facility, but also includes the case where an employee engaged in each facility carries the client terminal. . Examples of the network include a LAN and a WAN in addition to the Internet. Also, as the RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip and the RFID reader, the first identification information stored in the RFID chip is transmitted by a radio frequency, and the transmitted radio frequency is received by the RFID reader to perform the first identification. Various configurations can be adopted as long as the information can be decoded. In addition, as the first identification information, an ID number to which a number including a different number or symbol is assigned to each returnable container can be exemplified. As the second identification information, similarly to the first identification information, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which a different ID number is assigned to each client terminal and this is input to the client terminal. In such a case, an IP address (Internet Protocol Address) can be used as the second identification information.
[0009]
Preferably, as described in claim 2, the management server stores in advance the date and time of manufacture of each returnable container in association with the first identification information of each returnable container. Based on the reception date and time of the first identification information transmitted from the client terminal and the production date and time of the returnable container having the first identification information stored in advance, the elapsed time after the production of the returnable container is calculated. For the second identification information transmitted together with the first identification information, the number of times stored and stored in association with the first identification information is calculated, and the calculated elapsed time and / or number is equal to or greater than a predetermined value set in advance. It is configured to determine whether or not.
[0010]
According to the invention according to claim 2, the elapsed time after the manufacture of the returnable container having the first identification information at the time when the first identification information is transmitted from the predetermined client terminal is calculated. Further, the number of times the second identification information is stored and stored (corresponding to the number of trip cycles) at the time is calculated. Further, it is determined whether or not the calculated elapsed time and / or number is equal to or more than a predetermined value set in advance. Therefore, when the calculated elapsed time or the number of trip cycles is equal to or more than a predetermined value, for example, it is necessary to dispose of the returnable container having the first identification information with respect to the client terminal arranged in the receiving section of the bottler. And that a new returnable container needs to be manufactured and refilled. As described above, according to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to sort containers to be discarded by objective evaluation based on the elapsed time after production and the number of trip cycles without relying solely on visual evaluation of the container appearance. It is possible, and thus, it is possible to accurately indicate the timing of refilling a new returnable container. In addition, in order to store and store the date and time of manufacture of each returnable container in advance in association with the first identification information of each returnable container, for example, the client terminal arranged in the shipping department of the container maker sends the first identification information together with the first identification information. 1 It is possible to adopt a configuration in which the date and time of manufacture of the returnable container having the identification information is input, and these are transmitted to the management server and stored. The predetermined value set in advance for the elapsed time may be, for example, 5 years, and the predetermined value set in advance for the number of trip cycles may be, for example, 20 to 30 times.
[0011]
Preferably, as described in claim 3, the management server corresponds to a plurality of second identification information stored and saved in association with the first identification information of each returnable container, and each of the plurality of second identification information. The average elapsed time from when the returnable container arrives for the first time from the client terminal having one second identification information to the client terminal having the other second identification information based on the reception date and time of the first identification information. Is calculated, and when the first identification information and the second identification information are transmitted from a predetermined client terminal, the reception date and time of the first identification information and the other second identification information from the client terminal having the second identification information Based on the calculated average elapsed time until reaching the client terminal having the first time, the first identification information after a predetermined time elapses Configured to predict the location of the returnable containers having.
[0012]
According to the invention according to claim 3, first, the plurality of second identification information stored and stored in association with the first identification information of each returnable container, and the first first information corresponding to each of the plurality of second identification information. Based on the reception date and time of the identification information, an average elapsed time from when each returnable container reaches a client terminal having another second identification information for the first time from a client terminal having one second identification information is calculated. . More specifically, from a client terminal having one second identification information (for example, a client terminal arranged in a shipping department of a bottler) to a client terminal having another second identification information (for example, a receiving department of a wholesaler) The average elapsed time until the first arrival at the client terminal located at the same time is calculated for each returnable container based on the past stored data (the reception date and time of the first identification information transmitted from each client terminal). You.
[0013]
Next, according to the invention according to claim 3, when the first identification information and the second identification information are transmitted from the predetermined client terminal, the management server determines the date and time of reception of the first identification information and the second identification information. Based on the calculated average elapsed time from when the client terminal having the identification information reaches the client terminal having the other second identification information for the first time, based on the calculated first elapsed time, Predict the location of the returnable container. More specifically, for example, when the first identification information and the second identification information are transmitted from a client terminal (hereinafter, referred to as a bottler terminal) arranged in a shipping department of the bottler as the predetermined client terminal, Since the average elapsed time from when the terminal arrives at the other client terminal for the first time is calculated as described above, it is set in advance using the reception date and time of the first identification information transmitted from the bottler terminal as a starting point. After the elapse of the predetermined time, it is possible to predict the returnable container having the first identification information to reach which client terminal or to locate between the client terminals. it can. More specifically, for example, it is calculated that the average elapsed time from when a bottler terminal first reaches a client terminal (hereinafter, referred to as a retailer terminal) located in the retailer's receiving section is 3 days. Assuming that the predetermined time set in advance is three days, the returnable container having the first identification information after three days from the reception date and time of the first identification information transmitted from the bottler terminal. Would be expected to reach the retailer's terminal.
[0014]
As described above, according to the invention of claim 3, since the location of each returnable container after a predetermined time has elapsed can be predicted, the returnable container (a product filled with contents) can be predicted based on the prediction result. ), The location and the date and time of the excess or deficiency are known in advance, and it is possible to notify a predetermined client terminal that it is necessary to insert a new returnable container (including a product filled with contents), It has the advantage that it is possible to notify in advance to a client terminal located at a position where a returnable container (including a product filled with contents) will stay, that it is necessary to promote distribution. .
[0015]
Preferably, as set forth in claim 4, the management server stores in advance a quality keeping period for each type of contents to be filled in the returnable container, and the management server stores the contents in the returnable container. When the first identification information and the type and the filling date and time of the contents filled in the returnable container having the first identification information are transmitted from the first client terminal arranged in the facility for filling the first identification information, The type and the filling date and time of the transmitted contents are stored and stored in association with the information, and the first identification information is transmitted from the second client terminal disposed in the facility where the returnable container filled with the contents is distributed. The content is filled based on the reception date and time of the transmitted first identification information and the filling date and time stored and associated with the first identification information. And calculating the elapsed time, extracting a quality holding period corresponding to the type of the transmitted content stored and stored in association with the transmitted first identification information, and calculating the calculated elapsed time and the It is configured to calculate a difference from the extracted quality holding period.
[0016]
According to the invention according to claim 4, first, first identification information is sent from a first client terminal (for example, a client terminal located in a shipping department of a bottler) arranged in a facility for filling returnable containers with contents. And when the type and filling date and time of the content filled in the returnable container having the first identification information are transmitted, the type and filling date and time of the transmitted content are associated with the first identification information. Is stored. Next, when the first identification information is transmitted from a second client terminal (for example, a client terminal arranged in the receiving department of a retailer) arranged in a facility where the returnable container filled with the contents is distributed. Based on the reception date and time of the transmitted first identification information and the filling date and time stored and stored in association with the first identification information, an elapsed time after filling the contents is calculated. Here, in the management server, since the quality holding period is stored and stored in advance for each type of the contents to be filled in the returnable container, the transmission and storage period stored and stored in association with the transmitted first identification information is stored. It is possible to extract a quality keeping period according to the type of the content. The management server is configured to calculate the difference between the elapsed time calculated as described above and the extracted quality holding period.
[0017]
As described above, according to the invention according to claim 4, the difference between the elapsed time after filling the contents and the quality keeping period (hereinafter, referred to as a time difference) is calculated. If it is longer than the quality holding period (time difference> 0), it is determined that the first identification information and the contents filled in the returnable container having the first identification information need to be discarded by a predetermined client terminal (for example, , The second client terminal), and if the elapsed time is shorter than the quality holding period and the difference between the two is equal to or less than a predetermined value (predetermined value <time difference <0), the second Notifying a predetermined client terminal (for example, a second client terminal) that the quality retention period of the contents filled in the returnable container having the first identification information and the first identification information is imminent. It is a function. Thus, according to the invention according to claim 4, the management server calculates the difference between the elapsed time since filling the returnable container with the contents and the quality keeping period, and notifies the client terminal of the difference. Because it is possible, it is possible to ensure the safe management of the quality of the contents compared to the case where the wholesaler or retailer who distributes the returnable container filled with the contents only manages the quality retention period independently. In addition to this, it is possible to instruct a bottler or the like to introduce a new product as needed.
[0018]
Preferably, the RFID chip has a size of 2000 μm square or less, more preferably 1000 μm square or less, and more preferably, from the viewpoint of facilitating attachment to the returnable container and not impairing the aesthetic appearance. Has a size of 400 μm square or less and a thickness of 60 μm or less.
[0019]
The RFID chip is attached to the returnable container by, for example, attaching the cured ink to a portion to which the cured ink is applied in a step of applying and curing the cured ink on the side surface or the bottom surface of the returnable container as described in claim 5. Can be
[0020]
According to the invention according to claim 5, a printing process for printing a product name or the like can be used or diverted during a manufacturing process of a returnable container such as a returnable glass bottle, so that a new process only for attaching an RFID chip is used. It has the advantage that it is not required. The timing of attaching the RFID chip to the returnable container may be before or after the application of the curing ink, or during the application of the curing ink. Alternatively, the RFID chip may be mixed with the curing ink to apply the mixture. It is also possible to configure so that
[0021]
Alternatively, as described in claim 6, the RFID chip is attached to the returnable container by applying the cured resin to a side surface or a bottom surface of the returnable container, and attaching the cured resin to a portion to which the cured resin is applied. It is also possible.
[0022]
According to the invention according to claim 6, during the manufacturing process of the returnable container such as the returnable glass bottle, since various coating processes can be shared or diverted, a new process only for attaching the RFID chip is not required. Has advantages. The RFID chip can be attached to the returnable container either before or after the application of the cured resin or during the application of the cured resin. Alternatively, the RFID chip is mixed with the cured resin and the mixture is applied. It is also possible to configure so that
[0023]
Alternatively, as described in claim 7, the RFID chip can be attached to the returnable container by attaching a label having the RFID chip attached to a side surface or a bottom surface of the returnable container.
[0024]
According to the invention according to claim 7, during the manufacturing process of the returnable container such as the returnable glass bottle, since the label attaching process can be used or diverted, a new process only for attaching the RFID chip is not required. It has the advantage that. Note that a label to which an RFID chip is attached can be attached using a generally used labeling device.
[0025]
In the case where the returnable container is a polymer bottle manufactured by in-mold molding, the RFID chip is previously set in a mold used in the in-mold molding, as described in claim 8. By performing the in-mold molding, it is possible to attach to the returnable container, and in this case also, there is an advantage that a new process only for attaching the RFID chip is not required.
[0026]
Preferably, as set forth in claim 9, a third case is attached to a plastic case accommodating a plurality of returnable containers or a pallet on which the plastic case is placed, and third identification information for identifying each plastic case or pallet is stored. Further comprising an RFID chip, wherein the management server stores the plastic case or the pallet in association with the first identification information of each returnable container contained in the plastic case or contained in the plastic case placed on the pallet. The management server transmits the third identification information read by the RFID reader and the second identification information for identifying each client terminal from each client terminal. If the information is transmitted, it is recorded in association with the transmitted third identification information. Extracting each stored first identification information, associating each of the extracted first identification information with the transmitted second identification information and the reception date and time of the transmitted third identification information, These are configured to be stored.
[0027]
In a returnable container in an actual trip process, a plurality of returnable containers are stored in a returnable container plastic case, and the plastic case is often placed on a pallet and transported. Therefore, it is inconvenient to read the information stored in the RFID chips attached to each returnable container one by one, and it is only necessary to attach the RFID chips to a plastic case or a pallet and read the information stored therein. If it can be constructed as described above, the reading operation will be simplified and convenient.
[0028]
According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, an RFID chip which is attached to a plastic case or a pallet on which the plastic case is placed and stores third identification information for identifying each plastic case or the pallet is further provided. The server stores in advance the third identification information of the plastic case or the pallet in association with the first identification information of each returnable container accommodated in the plastic case or the plastic case placed on the pallet. Is done. In other words, the relationship between the plastic case or the pallet and each returnable container housed in the plastic case or housed in the plastic case placed on the pallet is stored and stored in advance. The first identification information and the third identification information associated therewith are, for example, the first identification information and the second identification information read from a predetermined client terminal (for example, a client terminal arranged in a shipping department of a bottler). (3) By transmitting the identification information only once to the management server, the identification information may be stored and saved.
[0029]
Next, when the third identification information read by the RFID reader and the second identification information for identifying each client terminal are transmitted from each client terminal, the management server transmits the third identification information to the transmitted third identification information. The first identification information stored in association with the first identification information is extracted, and the extracted first identification information is added to the transmitted second identification information and the reception date and time of the transmitted third identification information. These are stored in association with each other. In other words, by simply reading and transmitting the third identification information of the plastic case or pallet and transmitting the same, each returnable container (the first identification information) associated with the plastic case or pallet (represented by the third identification information). (Represented by the identification information) is extracted, and the location (represented by the second identification information) of the extracted returnable container at a predetermined date and time (represented by the reception date and time of the third identification information) is stored and saved. Will be.
[0030]
As described above, according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, it is not necessary to read out the first identification information stored in the RFID chip attached to each returnable container one by one by reading at least once, and the plastic Only by reading the third identification information stored in the RFID chip attached to the case or the pallet, the location of each returnable container at a predetermined date and time can be managed, and there is an advantage that the reading operation is extremely simplified. As the third identification information, similarly to the first identification information, an ID number to which a number including a different number or symbol is assigned to each plastic case or pallet can be exemplified.
[0031]
Preferably, as described in claim 10, in the management server, various kinds of information such as information on contents to be filled in the returnable container are previously stored and stored, and the management server is a consumer via a network. The first identification information of the returnable container read by the RFID reader connected to the consumer terminal is transmitted from the consumer terminal, and the transmitted first identification information is transmitted. It is configured to determine whether or not is stored and, if so, to transmit the various information to the consumer terminal.
[0032]
According to the invention according to claim 10, when the first identification information of the returnable container read by the RFID reader connected to the consumer terminal is transmitted from the consumer terminal, the management server transmits the first identification information. It is determined whether or not the first identification information is stored. In other words, conventionally, the fact that the product was purchased was authenticated by a sticker affixed to the container or a stamp to be stamped at a retail store. In the invention according to claim 11, however, the fact that the product was purchased was stored in the RFID chip. It is configured to authenticate the fact of purchase based on whether the first identification information is legitimate. As a result, if stored and stored (if it is authenticated), it is configured to transmit various information such as information on contents filled in the returnable container to the consumer terminal. . The information to be sent to the consumer terminal may be, for example, an advertisement for product sales promotion filled with the contents, a description of the method of use or characteristics of the product, a questionnaire regarding the product, or a content filled in the returnable container. In addition to information on goods, various kinds of information that can lead to sales promotion of commodities, such as prize winning and lottery guidance for consumers, fortune-telling, etc. can be exemplified.
[0033]
As described above, according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is not limited to managing the location of each returnable container at a predetermined date and time as described above, and the fact that the returnable container is purchased based on the first identification information stored in the RFID chip is determined. It is advantageous in that authentication can be performed and useful information can be provided to consumers, bottlers and the like according to the authentication result.
[0034]
Preferably, as described in claim 11, various information such as information on contents filled in the returnable container is previously stored in the RFID chip attached to each of the returnable containers.
[0035]
According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, since various information such as information on contents to be filled in the returnable container is stored and stored in the RFID chip in advance, the consumer can read the information stored and stored by the RFID reader. Accordingly, there is an advantage that various information can be obtained quickly without accessing the management server.
[0036]
According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a returnable container with an RFID chip, which is managed by the returnable container management system according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects.
[0037]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0038]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a returnable container management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a returnable container management system (hereinafter, referred to as a management system) 100 according to the present embodiment includes client terminals 1a to 1h arranged at a plurality of facilities configuring a trip process of a returnable container. A management server 3 connectable from the client terminals 1a to 1h via the network 2;
[0039]
Here, the returnable container managed by the management system 100 according to the present embodiment is a container that is repeatedly used by collecting empty containers, washing the containers, filling the contents again, and commercializing the empty containers. As returnable containers, glass bottles and polymer bottles are preferably used. Examples of the polymer of the polymer bottle include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate, polycarbonate, and a polymer obtained by copolymerizing a small amount of a copolymer component with these polymers. In addition, examples of the polymer bottle include a single-layer structure bottle and a multi-layer structure bottle. Particularly, as the multi-layer structure bottle, the above-described polymer is used for the upper and lower two layers of the three-layer structure, while the intermediate layer is used. Examples of the layer include a bottle using a polymer having gas barrier properties such as an ethylene vinyl alcohol polymer or a heat-resistant polymer such as a polyarylate polymer.
[0040]
In addition, the trip process means a series of processes including production of a new returnable container, filling and distribution of contents, collection of an empty container, and reuse (or disposal). As shown by the dashed arrow in FIG. 1, the returnable container is manufactured by a container maker and then supplied to a bottler where the contents are filled and shipped as a commodity. The shipped goods are delivered to consumers through a distribution process by wholesalers and retailers. The empty returnable container after the consumer has used the contents is returned to the retailer or sent to the municipal government for separate collection, and collected through the collection company. Empty containers returned to the retailer or collected by the collector are returned to the bottler and, as described below, are partially discarded based on the time elapsed since manufacture and the number of trip cycles. A new returnable container will be manufactured for refilling, while the rest will be cleaned and reused. The reused returnable container becomes an empty container as the consumer uses the contents, and is returned to the bottler again.
[0041]
In the present embodiment, as the facilities constituting the above-described trip process, the client terminal 1a is in the shipping department of the container maker, the client terminal 1b is in the receiving department of the bottler, the client terminal 1c is in the shipping department, and the wholesaler's A client terminal 1d is arranged in the receiving section, a client terminal 1e is arranged in the shipping section, a client terminal 1f is arranged in the receiving section of the retailer, a client terminal 1g is arranged in the selling section, and a client terminal 1h is arranged in the shipping section of the collecting company. Have been. Each of the client terminals 1a to 1h can be constituted by a personal computer, a PDA, or a mobile phone connectable to the network 2.
[0042]
The management system 100 according to the present embodiment is connected to an RFID chip (not shown) that is attached to each returnable container and stores first identification information for identifying each returnable container, and each of the client terminals 1a to 1h. And an RFID reader (not shown) for reading the first identification information stored in the RFID chip.
[0043]
The RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip according to the present embodiment has a size of 2000 μm square or less, more preferably 1000 μm square or less, from the viewpoint of facilitating attachment to the returnable container and not impairing the aesthetic appearance. And more preferably have a dimension of 400 μm square or less and a thickness of 60 μm or less, and a memory for storing the first identification information, and for transmitting the first identification information to the RFID reader by radio frequency. Transmission circuit. In addition to simply using the RFID chip for transmitting information, the RFID chip itself updates and stores information such as the number of trip cycles described below and what kind of trip process has been performed, and connects to the client terminals 1a to 1h. In order to be able to promptly check with the RFID reader that has been used, it is necessary to use an RFID chip having a memory capable of updating and storing and a transmission / reception circuit and use an RFID reader having an information transmission function as an RFID reader. good. In addition, since a known device is applied to the RFID chip and the RFID reader itself, detailed description thereof is omitted.
[0044]
The first identification information according to the present embodiment is an ID number to which a number including a different number or symbol is assigned to each returnable container, and thereby each returnable container can be identified. In addition, as information stored in the RFID chip, in addition to the first identification information, each returnable container and its contents such as a container maker name, a bottler name, a type of contents to be filled in the container, and a product name in the market are managed. It is also possible to include various pieces of information useful for the operation.
[0045]
Hereinafter, a method of attaching the RFID chip to each returnable container will be specifically described.
[0046]
In the present embodiment, the existing returnable container manufacturing process (printing process, various coating processes, label attaching process, etc.) is used or diverted without providing a new process only for attaching the RFID chip. The mounting method that allows for the manufacturing time and the manufacturing cost is prevented. Specifically, one of the following four types of mounting methods is appropriately selected according to the type of the returnable container, the convenience of each production line, and the like.
[0047]
(1) Mounting method using cured ink
In this method, in a step of applying and curing a hardening ink on the side or bottom surface of the returnable container (the printing process can also be used or diverted), an RFID chip is attached to a portion to which the hardening ink is applied, so that the RFID is attached to the returnable container. A chip is to be attached. In addition, from the viewpoint of preventing the separation of the RFID chip, a concave portion corresponding to the size of the RFID chip is formed on the side surface or the bottom surface of the returnable container (the concave portion can be formed in the process of forming the returnable container). In the step of applying and curing the curing ink on the region including the concave portion, it is preferable to attach an RFID chip in the concave portion. The timing of attaching the RFID chip to the returnable container may be before or after the application of the hardened ink, or during the application of the hardened ink. Alternatively, the RFID chip may be mixed with the hardened ink to apply the mixture. It is also possible to configure so that In addition, as a method of applying the cured ink, a known printing method such as screen printing can be applied. Further, as the curable ink, an ultraviolet curable ink, a visible light curable ink, and an electron beam curable ink can be used, but it is particularly preferable to use an ultraviolet curable ink because the RFID chip is hardly heated.
[0048]
(2) Mounting method using cured resin
In this method, in a step of applying and curing a cured resin on the side surface or the bottom surface of the returnable container (the coating process can also be used or can be diverted), an RFID chip is attached to a portion to which the cured resin is applied, so that the RFID is attached to the returnable container. A chip is to be attached. In addition, from the viewpoint of preventing the separation of the RFID chip, a concave portion corresponding to the size of the RFID chip is formed on the side surface or the bottom surface of the returnable container (the concave portion can be formed in the process of forming the returnable container). In the step of applying and curing the cured resin in the region including the concave portion, it is preferable to attach an RFID chip in the concave portion. The timing at which the RFID chip is attached to the returnable container may be before or after the application of the cured resin, or during the application of the cured resin. Alternatively, the RFID chip may be mixed with the cured resin to apply the mixture. It is also possible to configure so that In addition, as a method of applying the cured resin, a known application method such as spray coating or dipping can be applied. Further, as the curable resin, an active energy ray curable resin such as an ultraviolet ray or a visible ray, or a thermosetting resin can be used. The active energy ray-curable resin is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include, for example, acrylic resins, unsaturated polyester resins, urethanized unsaturated polyester resins, and the like, particularly for improving the strength of glass bottles. It is preferable to use an acrylic resin that is frequently used for the above. Examples of the active energy ray-curable acrylic resin include a reactive compound having two or more (meth) acryloyl groups in a molecule, and one (meth) acryloyl group in a molecule as necessary. One having a monofunctional monomer having the same can be exemplified. The thermosetting resin is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include an epoxy resin and a urethane resin.
[0049]
In the methods (1) and (2), in order to attach the RFID chip to a predetermined portion of the returnable container, for example, a dispenser device or the like that is controlled to move in the X-Y direction is used. Or on or with a coating agent. As a result, the RFID chip can be stably adhered without peeling from the returnable container.
[0050]
(3) Mounting method using labels
In this method, a label having an RFID chip attached to a side or bottom surface of a returnable container (for example, using a dispenser device or the like controlled to move in the XY directions, attaching the RFID chip to the label together with ink or the like). (The label attaching step can be used or diverted) to attach the RFID chip to the returnable container. Note that a label to which an RFID chip is attached can be attached using a generally used labeling device.
[0051]
(4) Mounting method using in-mold molding
This method is a method applicable when the returnable container is a polymer bottle manufactured by in-mold molding, in which an RFID chip is previously set in a mold used for in-mold molding, and the in-mold molding is performed. Thereby, the RFID chip is attached to the returnable container. More specifically, a method of placing and molding an RFID chip in a mold when molding a preform or a bottle product by injection molding from pellets of a polymer raw material, or stretching a preform to produce a bottle product It is possible to apply a method of placing an RFID chip in a mold for molding and molding the same.
[0052]
As described above, the RFID chip storing the first identification information is attached to each returnable container and shipped from the container maker, and the trip process proceeds.
[0053]
The first identification information of each returnable container read by the RFID reader connected to each of the client terminals 1a to 1h is transmitted through each of the client terminals 1a to 1h together with the second identification information for identifying each of the client terminals 1a to 1h, Sent to the management server 3. Here, as the second identification information, similarly to the first identification information, a different ID number is assigned in advance to each of the client terminals 1a to 1h, and this is input to the client terminals 1a to 1h through a keyboard or the like. In addition to the above, when the network 2 is composed of the Internet, it is also possible to use an IP address (Internet Protocol Address) as the second identification information.
[0054]
The management server 3 associates the transmitted first identification information with the transmitted second identification information and the reception date and time of the first identification information, and stores and stores these. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the contents of data stored and saved in the management server 3. As shown in FIG. 2A, for a returnable container having predetermined first identification information “A”, first, an RFID reader connected to a client terminal 1a arranged in a shipping department of a container maker attaches an RFID chip to an RFID chip. The stored first identification information “A” is read, and the first identification information “A” and the second identification information “1a” of the client terminal 1a are transmitted from the client terminal 1a to the management server 3. Accordingly, the first identification information “A” is associated with the second identification information “1a” and the date and time of reception of the first identification information “A” (substantially equal to the reception date and time of the second identification information “1a”). Stored. Next, the returnable container having the first identification information "A" goes on a trip process, and the first identification information "A" is read by the RFID reader connected to the client terminal 1b arranged in the receiving section of the bottler. As a result, the first identification information “A” and the second identification information “1b” of the client terminal 1b are transmitted from the client terminal 1b to the management server 3, and the first identification information “A” contains the second identification information “A”. The information “1b” and the date and time of reception of the first identification information “A” (substantially equal to the date and time of reception of the second identification information “1b”) are associated and stored. Hereinafter, the first identification information “A” includes the second identification information “1h” of the client terminal 1h arranged in the shipping department of the collection company, and the reception date and time of the first identification information “A” (the second identification information “ 1h "is substantially equal to the reception date and time), and the same procedure is repeated until the information is stored and stored. The returnable container having the first identification information “A” collected by the collection company is returned to the bottler, and the first identification information “A” is again returned to the RFID reader connected to the client terminal 1 b disposed in the receiving section of the bottler. Is read from the client terminal 1b, the first identification information “A” and the second identification information “1b” of the client terminal 1b are transmitted to the management server 3, and are converted to the first identification information “A”. , The second identification information “1b” and the reception date and time of the first identification information “A” (substantially equal to the reception date and time of the second identification information “1b”) are stored and stored in association with each other. The operation described above is executed for each returnable container, and for returnable containers having first identification information “B” different from the first identification information “A”, data having contents as shown in FIG. Is stored in the management server 3. As shown in FIG. 1, empty returnable containers after the consumer has used the contents may be returned to a retailer, returned to a bottler via a wholesaler, but in this embodiment, In the return route, the RFID reader connected to the client terminal arranged at the retailer or the wholesaler does not read the first identification information, and returns to the client terminal 1b arranged at the receiving section of the bottler again for the first time. It is configured to read the first identification information.
[0055]
As described above, in the management server 3, the location of each returnable container identified by the first identification information at the predetermined date and time (corresponding to the reception date and time of the first identification information) (specified by the second identification information). Are stored in the management server 3, and these are managed by the management server 3, and as will be described later, returnable containers are discarded, production of new returnable containers is replenished, returnable container locations are predicted, and contents are returned. It can be used for quality control period management and the like.
[0056]
Here, in the management server 3 according to the present embodiment, the client terminal 1a arranged in the shipping department of the container maker supplies the returnable container having the first identification information together with the first identification information read by the RFID reader. By inputting the manufacturing date and time and transmitting them to the management server 3, the manufacturing date and time of each returnable container is stored and stored in advance in association with the first identification information of each returnable container. Further, the management server 3 sets the date and time of reception of the first identification information transmitted from the predetermined client terminals 1b to 1h and the date and time of manufacture of the returnable container having the first identification information stored in advance as described above. It is configured to calculate the elapsed time after manufacturing the returnable container based on the returnable container. The management server 3 is configured to calculate the number of times the second identification information transmitted together with the first identification information is stored and associated in association with the first identification information. In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, for the returnable container having the first identification information “A”, the second identification information “1b” is stored and stored twice, and the second identification information “1b” is used for the second time. At the time of reception, the number of trip cycles (the number of times the trip process was repeated) means two times. In other words, calculating the number of times the second identification information is stored and stored is equivalent to calculating the number of trip cycles. Further, the management server 3 is configured to determine whether the calculated elapsed time and / or number is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.
[0057]
The management server 3 according to the present embodiment, when the calculated elapsed time or the number of trip cycles is equal to or greater than a predetermined value based on the determination result, sends a message to the client terminal 1b arranged in the receiving department of the bottler. It is configured to notify that the returnable container having the first identification information needs to be discarded and that a new returnable container needs to be manufactured and refilled. Therefore, it is possible to sort containers to be discarded by objective evaluation based on the elapsed time after production and the number of trip cycles, without relying solely on visual evaluation of the external appearance of containers, and thus, the timing of refilling new returnable containers. Can be indicated exactly. The predetermined value set in advance for the elapsed time may be, for example, 5 years, and the predetermined value set in advance for the number of trip cycles may be, for example, 20 to 30 times.
[0058]
In addition, the management server 3 according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of second identification information stored and stored in association with the first identification information of each returnable container, and the first identification information corresponding to each of the plurality of second identification information. On the basis of the reception date and time of the identification information, an average elapsed time from when each returnable container reaches a client terminal having one second identification information to a client terminal having another second identification information for the first time is calculated. Is configured. In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, for the returnable container having the first identification information “A”, the date and time when the first identification information “A” is received from the client terminal 1b having the second identification information “1b”, The date and time when the first identification information "A" was received from the client terminal 1c having the second identification information "1c" is stored and stored twice each, and the return date of the returnable container having the first identification information "A" is set to the second date. The average elapsed time from when the client terminal 1b having the identification information "1b" reaches the client terminal 1c having the second identification information "1c" for the first time is calculated as the average value of the difference between the two reception dates and times. Will be.
[0059]
When the first identification information and the second identification information are transmitted from the predetermined client terminal, the management server 3 transmits the reception date and time of the first identification information and another second identification information from the client terminal having the second identification information. Based on the calculated average elapsed time until reaching the client terminal having the information, configured to predict a location of the returnable container having the first identification information after a predetermined time has elapsed. ing. In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, when the second identification information “1b” is transmitted with respect to the returnable container having the first identification information “A”, the client terminal 1b having the second identification information “1b” transmits the second identification information. 2 Since the average elapsed time until the first arrival at the client terminal 1c having the identification information “1c” has been calculated (similarly, the average elapsed time from the client terminal 1b to the first arrival at the other client terminals 1d to 1h). It is assumed that the average elapsed time is also calculated), and after a lapse of a predetermined time set in advance, starting from the reception date and time of the first identification information “A” at the time when the second identification information “1b” is transmitted. Whether the returnable container having the first identification information “A” reaches any client terminal or is located between any client terminals. It is possible to predict the location Urn returnable containers.
[0060]
As described above, according to the management server 3 according to the present embodiment, the location of each returnable container after the lapse of the predetermined time can be predicted, and based on the prediction result, the returnable container (the contents are filled) is returned. Predetermined client terminals (for example, the client) can know in advance the location and date and time at which the number of products (including products) is excessive or deficient, and indicate that it is necessary to insert new returnable containers (including products filled with contents). Notify the terminal 1b) or notify in advance that distribution should be promoted to a client terminal located at a position where returnable containers (including goods filled with contents) will stay. It has advantages such as being able to.
[0061]
Further, in the management server 3 according to the present embodiment, a quality holding period is stored and stored in advance for each type of contents to be filled in the returnable container. The management server 3, when the first identification information and the type and the filling date and time of the contents filled in the returnable container having the first identification information are transmitted from the client terminal 1c arranged in the shipping department of the bottler, The type and the filling date and time of the transmitted contents are stored and stored in association with the first identification information. Further, when the first identification information is transmitted from the client terminals 1d to 1g arranged in the facility where the returnable container filled with the contents is distributed, the management server 3 receives the transmitted first identification information. Based on the date and time and the filling date and time stored and stored in association with the first identification information, an elapsed time since filling of the contents is calculated, and stored and stored in association with the transmitted first identification information. A quality holding period corresponding to the type of the transmitted contents is extracted, and a difference between the calculated elapsed time and the extracted quality holding period is calculated.
[0062]
The management server 3 according to the present embodiment, based on the calculation result, when the elapsed time is longer than the quality holding period, the first identification information and the contents filled in the returnable container having the first identification information. It is configured to notify the client terminals 1d to 1g that the disposal of the object is necessary. If the elapsed time is shorter than the quality holding period and the difference between the two is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the first identification information and the returnable container having the first identification information are filled. It is configured to notify the client terminals 1d to 1g that the quality keeping period of the contents is imminent. Therefore, compared to the case where the wholesaler or the retailer who distributes the returnable container filled with the contents only manages the quality keeping period independently, it is possible to ensure the safety management for the quality of the contents, If necessary, it is also possible to transmit a notification instructing introduction of a new product to the client terminal 1c arranged in the shipping department of the bottler.
[0063]
The management system 100 according to the present embodiment is attached to a plastic case containing a plurality of returnable containers or a pallet on which the plastic case is placed, and stores third identification information for identifying each plastic case or pallet. It is also possible to further comprise an RFID chip. In this case, the management server 3 associates the third identification of the plastic case or the pallet with the first identification information of each returnable container accommodated in the plastic case or the plastic case placed on the pallet. Information is stored and saved in advance. When the management server 3 transmits the third identification information read by the RFID reader and the second identification information for identifying each of the client terminals 1a to 1h from each of the client terminals 1a to 1h, The first identification information stored and stored in association with the transmitted third identification information is extracted, and the extracted first identification information is added to the transmitted second identification information and the transmitted second identification information. (3) The identification information is associated with the reception date and time, and these are stored and stored.
[0064]
According to such a configuration, it is not necessary to read the first identification information stored in the RFID chip attached to each returnable container one by one if it is read at least once, and the RFID attached to the plastic case or the pallet. Only by reading the third identification information stored in the chip, the location of each returnable container at a predetermined date and time can be managed, and there is an advantage that the reading operation is extremely simplified. Note that the third identification information in the present embodiment is an ID number to which a number composed of a different number, symbol, or the like is assigned to each plastic case or pallet, similarly to the first identification information.
[0065]
In addition, the management server 3 according to the present embodiment stores various information such as information on the contents filled in the returnable container (advertisement for sales promotion of the goods filled with the contents, description of the method of using the goods and the characteristics of the goods). In addition to information on the contents filled in the returnable container, such as a questionnaire on products, various information that can lead to sales promotion of products, such as prize winning and lottery guidance for consumers, fortune-telling, etc.) are stored and saved in advance. ing. In addition, the management server 3 is connectable from the consumer terminal 4 via the network 2, and the first identification information of the returnable container read by the RFID reader connected to the consumer terminal 4 is stored in the management server 3. 4 is configured to determine whether or not the transmitted first identification information is stored and stored, and to transmit the various types of information to the consumer terminal 4 if stored and stored. ing.
[0066]
As described above, the management system 100 according to the present embodiment not only manages the location of each returnable container at a predetermined date and time, but also authenticates the purchase fact based on the first identification information stored in the RFID chip, and performs authentication. There is an advantage that useful information can be provided to consumers, bottlers, and the like according to the result.
[0067]
Note that the RFID chip attached to each returnable container according to the present embodiment stores in advance various kinds of information similar to the information stored in the management server 3 (such as information on contents to be filled in the returnable container). It is preferable to store the information. Thereby, the consumer can obtain various information quickly without accessing the management server 3 by reading the stored information by the RFID reader connected to the consumer terminal 4. Will have.
[0068]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the returnable container management system of the present invention, each client terminal replaces the first identification information of each returnable container read by the RFID reader with the second identification identifying each client terminal. Along with the information, the information is transmitted to the management server via the network, and the management server associates the transmitted first identification information with the transmitted second identification information and the reception date and time of the first identification information, These are configured to be stored. Therefore, the management server stores and stores the first identification information for identifying each returnable container, the second identification information for identifying the client terminal, and the date and time when the first identification information was received. . In other words, the location (represented by the second identification information) of each returnable container (represented by the first identification information) at the predetermined date and time (represented by the reception date and time) is stored and saved. The management server has an excellent advantage that the location of each returnable container at a predetermined date and time, which has not been conventionally performed, can be managed.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a returnable container management system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the contents of data stored and saved in a management server shown in FIG. 1;
[Explanation of symbols]
1a to 1h client terminal 2 network 3 management server
4 ... Consumer terminal 100 ... Returnable container management system

Claims (12)

Client terminals respectively arranged at a plurality of facilities constituting the trip process of the returnable container,
A management server connectable from each of the client terminals via a network,
An RFID chip attached to each returnable container and storing first identification information for identifying each returnable container;
An RFID reader connected to each of the client terminals and reading first identification information stored in the RFID chip;
Each of the client terminals transmits the first identification information of each returnable container read by the RFID reader together with the second identification information for identifying each of the client terminals to the management server,
The returnable container, wherein the management server associates the transmitted first identification information with the transmitted second identification information and the reception date and time of the first identification information, and stores and associates them. Management system. In the management server, the date and time of manufacture of each returnable container is stored and stored in advance in association with the first identification information of each returnable container,
The management server,
Based on the reception date and time of the first identification information transmitted from the predetermined client terminal and the production date and time of the returnable container having the first identification information stored in advance, calculate the elapsed time after the production of the returnable container,
For the second identification information transmitted together with the first identification information, calculate the number of times of storage and storage in association with the first identification information,
The returnable container management system according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether or not the calculated elapsed time and / or number is equal to or more than a predetermined value. The management server,
Each returnable container is based on a plurality of second identification information stored and stored in association with the first identification information of each returnable container, and a reception date and time of the first identification information corresponding to each of the plurality of second identification information. Calculates an average elapsed time from when the client terminal having one second identification information reaches the client terminal having the other second identification information for the first time,
When the first identification information and the second identification information are transmitted from a predetermined client terminal, the reception date and time of the first identification information and the client terminal having the other second identification information from the client terminal having the second identification information 2. A position of the returnable container having the first identification information after a predetermined time elapses is estimated based on the calculated average elapsed time until the first arrival at the first time. Or the returnable container management system according to 2. In the management server, a quality holding period is stored and stored in advance for each type of contents to be filled in the returnable container,
The management server,
When the first client terminal arranged in the facility that fills the returnable container with the contents transmits the first identification information and the type and the filling date and time of the contents filled in the returnable container having the first identification information. In association with the first identification information, the type and the filling date and time of the transmitted contents are stored and stored,
When the first identification information is transmitted from the second client terminal arranged in the facility where the returnable container filled with the contents is distributed,
Based on the reception date and time of the transmitted first identification information and the filling date and time stored in association with the first identification information, calculate the elapsed time since filling the contents, and A quality retention period corresponding to the type of the transmitted content stored and stored in association with the first identification information is extracted, and a difference between the calculated elapsed time and the extracted quality retention period is calculated. The returnable container management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The method according to claim 1, wherein the RFID chip is attached to the returnable container by applying the curing ink to a side or a bottom surface of the returnable container and attaching the RFID chip to a portion to which the cured ink is applied. 4. The returnable container management system according to any one of 4. The RFID chip is attached to the returnable container by applying the cured resin to a side surface or a bottom surface of the returnable container and curing the RFID chip by attaching the RFID chip to a portion to which the cured resin is applied. 4. The returnable container management system according to any one of 4. The RFID tag according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the RFID chip is attached to the returnable container by attaching a label having the RFID chip attached to a side surface or a bottom surface of the returnable container. Returnable container management system. The returnable container is a polymer bottle manufactured by in-mold molding,
The returnable container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the RFID chip is attached to the returnable container by previously placing the RFID chip in a mold used for the in-mold molding and performing in-mold molding. Container management system. An RFID chip attached to a plastic case accommodating a plurality of returnable containers or a pallet on which the plastic case is placed, and storing third identification information for identifying each plastic case or the pallet;
The management server stores in advance the third identification information of the plastic case or the pallet in association with the first identification information of each of the returnable containers stored in the plastic case or the plastic case placed on the pallet. It is stored and stored
The management server, when the third identification information read by the RFID reader and the second identification information for identifying each client terminal are transmitted from each client terminal, the transmitted third identification information The first identification information stored in association with the first identification information is extracted, and the extracted first identification information is added to the transmitted second identification information and the reception date and time of the transmitted third identification information. The returnable container management system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein these are stored in association with each other. In the management server, various information such as information on contents to be filled in the returnable container is stored and stored in advance,
The management server is connectable from a consumer terminal via a network, and the first identification information of the returnable container read by an RFID reader connected to the consumer terminal is transmitted from the consumer terminal. And determining whether or not the transmitted first identification information is stored and stored, and transmitting and transmitting the various information to the consumer terminal if the first identification information is stored and stored. 10. The returnable container management system according to any one of claims 1 to 9. The RFID chip attached to each of the returnable containers stores in advance various information such as information on contents to be filled in the returnable container, according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein Returnable container management system. A returnable container with an RFID chip, which is managed by the returnable container management system according to claim 1.

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