JP7065788B2 - A distribution network that monitors, controls and optimizes the flow of liquid beverage products delivered to customers via containers. - Google Patents

Description

Cross-reference to related applications This application is filed on May 20, 2016, US Patent Provisional Application No. 62/339513, entitled "Monitoring, Controlling, and / or Optiming Flow of Products" and filed on July 16, 2016. US Pat. It has been incorporated.

The present disclosure relates generally to monitoring, control, and / or optimization of the flow of goods delivered to customers via containers flowing through the distribution network. In the alternative, the disclosed subject matter is spread within a geographic area, moves between locations or within locations, and has usage, content, or other relevant state information, containers, equipment, and /. Or include a distribution network that monitors, controls and optimizes the flow of liquid beverage products delivered to customers via resources.

The beer industry in the United States and other countries involves multiple parties that perform a specific role, from brewing beer to delivering beer, ultimately drinking beer and selling it to consumers who enjoy it in many ways. The United States has legal requirements to maintain a three-tier system that requires all beer to pass through distributors or wholesalers, but for many reasons, three-tier systems also make the beer industry in most other countries. It is the most popular form of operation. The distributor sells and markets on-site for the producer, the distributor sells the beer to the distributor, and the distributor finally supplies the beer to the consumer. Distributors also maintain a refrigerated warehouse for storing beer and a fleet of trucks for shipping beer to their final destination. Distributors also make sure that retailers always have fresh beer in stock. In some states, breweries are allowed to deliver on their own, in which case the brewery undertakes both production and delivery functions.

Of course, beer is sold to consumers in two main forms: in bottles or through barrels. Beer barrels are made from stainless steel or, more commonly, aluminum. The barrel has a single opening, called the "spout", at one end. "A tube called a spear extends from its opening to the other end. Most large breweries now use barrels with spears inside. Coupling fittings that are attached when the barrel is cut. There is also an automatic closing valve opened by (copling fitting). There is also a top spear opening that allows gas (usually carbon dioxide) to push the beer out of the barrel. The coupling fitting is the beer coming out of the barrel. It has one or two valves that control the flow of gas into the barrel and the barrel must be in an upright position, i.e., with an opening at the top for the beer to be distributed.

Barrels are usually the second largest asset of a brewery (the first is its production equipment), which is not under the control of the brewery. The industry average barrel disappearance is 4% to 5% per year, and owners usually do not know where and when they are losing barrels. The barrel deposit is only $ 30 to $ 50, but the cost of the barrel is $ 100 to $ 150. The deposit does not cover the cost of the barrel. Correlating deposits between the delivery side and the receiving side requires manual counting and is error prone. In order to track the position of the barrel, it is necessary to manually scan the barrel at each position.

Barrels are often stolen or misplaced by distributors. Therefore, when the brewery needs an empty barrel, the required barrel is not available because the required barrel has not yet been returned. Without visibility into where the barrels are and when they will be returned, it is difficult to anticipate and plan their needs.

The barrel maintenance schedule is also very important for maintaining product quality. However, without knowing the exact history of each barrel, it is impossible to determine a particular schedule. Without good measurements, breweries have little ability to optimize their barrel usage. Recording which barrels need to be serviced based on the number of times they have been used in the field requires manual counting and is error prone. Recording which barrels require which type of cleaning, based on the number of uses, also requires manual counting and is error prone.

When the barrels are returned, they must be manually scanned to determine the batch number, beer type, date, etc. When scanning individual barrels as they enter and leave the warehouse, one mistake can make the inventory inventory inaccurate. Correlating barrel serial numbers with delivery requires manual labor and is error prone.

Recording barrel inventories in refrigerated rooms, trucks, and warehouses requires manual counting and is error-prone. Although it is common practice to use thick paper labels to determine barrel content, fill date, etc., such labels are often peeled off and are prone to error. The end result is that retailers can inadvertently sell out certain styles of beer.

Beers are aged, some beers are fresher, and some beers are more aged. Beer that has not been pasteurized must be kept below a certain temperature threshold to avoid spoilage. Therefore, being sensitive to the needs of such products is an ongoing problem for distributors and distributors, as mistakes here can affect the acceptance of the brewer's products by customers. ..

Distributor delivery trucks are also a critical part of the beer industry, where human limits and incomplete information can cause numerous problems. Inside the truck, it is difficult / impossible to know exactly which barrel is inside the truck. Managing driver corps, monitoring compliance, and making real-time rerouting are difficult. It is difficult to record which barrels are in the truck daily as well as when the truck is driven for delivery and pickup. The driver may also attempt to disable the recording to hide an unplanned detour. It is difficult to get total mileage data and speed data from a truck. It is difficult to train new drivers on the route and it is difficult for drivers to learn the nuances of their consumer requirements.

One form that solves these problems may be the use of GPS tracking devices on beer barrels. However, tracking devices are often removed by barrel steals. Most GPS tracking devices include cell radios, GPS radios, and more, so they nominally cost $ 100. GPS tracking devices are also bulky and require power to operate. Most GPS tracking devices require a cell data plan to communicate back to the owner. This monthly fee is banned high for beer barrels. This cost and associated complications make GPS trackers banned high for beer barrels.

The brewery / distributor sells barrels to distributors (ie, restaurants, bars, etc.), but this does not mean that the barrels are spouted (ie, a few pints are put up for sale). .. Therefore, the brewery / distributor does not know if the seller needs a new barrel. Therefore, breweries and distributors need to visit distributor customers to check if a given barrel has a mouthpiece. Breweries and distributors also want to know if a barrel is "full at a restaurant", "empty at a distributor", and other logical states and transitions. Gathering this information is very time consuming and difficult and can require several round trips just to maintain the information.

After the barrels reach the distributor, it is difficult to determine when one line in the tap room can be exhausted due to the barrels in the refrigerating room. Distributors want to know how many cups they can sell, but barrel-level point-of-sale tracking is due to fluctuations in how beer is supplied and when and how barrels are replaced. Is inaccurate. A flow meter that measures how much liquid is removed from the barrel (and how much it fills the barrel) is: (1) in the line between the barrel and the handle in the bar. It must be installed inside (2) a valve attached to the barrel or (3) inside a valve inside the handle. Again, there is the problem of correlating barrel replacement with flowmeter measurements. Measuring the liquid level inside a container often requires breaking the container. A solution for weighing barrels to determine how full the barrels may require that each barrel be individually weighed, and the scale is a shelf material. May need to be transferred between barrels. All of this unreasonably complicates the use of barrels and the experience that sellers and consumers enjoy in using barrels.

There are also opportunities to improve the relationship between the brewery and the consumer. In the market, it is difficult to determine the marketing efficiency for a particular beer. Consumers want to get involved with their favorite beer. Consumers want to know when their favorite beer is available nearby. When a favorite beer is not available, consumers want to know the recommendations of another to taste. When traveling, it is difficult for consumers to find their favorite places and things.

Breweries want to get the attention of new consumers. It is difficult to blindly determine a consumer's drinking preferences (ie, beer type). Distributor POS terminals often do not distinguish which beer was sold. Consumers may want to be involved with a particular style of beer. Consumers also want to know when a promotion will take place.

In view of the above considerations, the beer industry today calls for significant improvements in the supply chain, including breweries, distributors, distributors, and consumers. The use and monitoring of beer barrels needs to be significantly improved throughout the beer supply chain for both industrial profitability and consumer protection and enjoyment. However, until this disclosure, such improvements have not been effective in addressing these concerns and opportunities satisfactorily.

In view of the above issues regarding the beer industry at the brewery, distributor, distributor, and consumer levels, this disclosure describes the flow of products delivered to consumers via containers flowing through the distribution network. Provides numerous innovations, improvements, and inventions in monitoring, controlling, and / or optimizing. The subject matter disclosed is spread within a geographical area, travels between locations or within locations, and has usage, content, or other relevant state information, via containers, equipment, and / or resources. Includes a distribution network that monitors, controls and optimizes the flow of liquid beverage products delivered to customers.

According to one aspect, the disclosed subject matter monitors and controls the flow of the liquid product for delivery to the consumer supplied by the distribution network for delivery of the liquid product via the liquid product distribution container. And provide an optimized liquid product distribution network. The liquid product distribution network includes at least one liquid product distribution container for transportation from the transportation position to the distribution position. The at least one liquid product distribution container includes a adaptably attached radio transmitter and microprocessor for sensing and transmitting multiple data measurements regarding the status of the liquid product distribution container. A quiesced reader or mobile radio signal reader receives multiple data measurements from a radio transmitter and operates within the distribution network to further communicate information about the multiple data measurements. Computer software systems are associated with radio signal readers for multiple data acquisition functions. Data collection functions include liquid product management functions, liquid product sales functions, and liquid product consumer management functions. The computer processing server system relates to a quiesced reader to process data and execute instructions associated with information about the data acquisition function. The computer processing server further communicates information about the data acquisition function to the Internet communication interface or the cloud interface. Sales reporting and marketing subsystems relate to computer processing server systems to interface with multiple computer processing systems that operate in connection with the ability to produce, deliver, sell, and consume liquid products. ..

In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a liquid product distribution network, such as a beer barrel, to monitor, control, and / or optimize the flow of liquid products delivered from a liquid product distribution container to a consumer. Provided is a liquid product distribution container device attached to a liquid product distribution container. The liquid product distribution container moves from position to position and distributes liquid products from a position in the distribution network. The liquid product distribution container device includes a casing for attaching it to the liquid product distribution container. The casing includes an enclosure and a mounting mechanism for mounting the casing in place in the liquid product distribution container. The liquid product distribution container device includes a power source for supplying electric power. A light indicator may be included to indicate the status of the liquid product distribution container device. The liquid product distribution container device includes a radio transmitter circuit that is secured within the enclosure. The radio / processing module processes the radio signal transmission of information about the liquid product distribution container. The antenna relates to a radio / processing module for transmitting and receiving radio signal transmissions between the radio / processing module and at least one quiescent reader and / or mobile device. The temperature sensor circuit senses the temperature of the liquid product distribution container and the generation of electronic signals about the temperature. The converter circuit senses the measured value of the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container and generates an electronic signal about the sensed measurement value. Microphone / sensor circuits for sensing sound and related data relate to the distribution of liquid products from the liquid product distribution container. The codec / digital signal processing circuit receives data and processing instructions from temperature sensors, converters, and microphone / sensor circuits, the location of the liquid product distribution container, the state of the liquid product distribution container, and the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container. Includes memory and computer instruction processing network for generating information about the state of. Processor instructions allow the radio transmitter device to operate to communicate information about the location of the liquid product distribution container, the status of the liquid product distribution container, and the status of the liquid product within the liquid product distribution container.

The liquid product distribution network of the present disclosure includes radio transmitters that provide wireless communication for accurate barrel determination even when the barrel is not visible / accessible. Radio transmitters also allow accurate barrel inventory inventory in the warehouse. The radio transmitter also allows for automatic real-time correlation of returned barrels as well as determination of barrel position and refrigeration room inventory inventory. The radio transmitter utilizes a regular mobile phone to detect barrels within a 100-foot radius in the background at a distance without visible barrels, without manual interaction.

Radio transmitters allow deposits to be correlated and barrel serial numbers to be automatically and accurately correlated to maintain inventory inventory. Radio transmitters and related software make it easy to look up barrel contents, filling dates, etc., and use regular cell phones as well as barrel flags for services based on number of turns in the field. can do.

The radio transmitter allows the barrel and its distributors and brands to be uniquely identified so that the barrel situation can be automatically relayed to the brewery / distributor. A distribution network mechanism that determines how full each barrel is attached to the barrel does not require the barrel to be shifted onto the scale for weight measurement. Radio transmitters connect within the distribution network to automatically relay filling data to the correct brewery / distributor.

By leveraging the cell telephone communication system, the radio transmitter does not require its own GPS and cell radio, allowing the cost of the radio transmitter to be less than $ 10. Also, the radio transmitter does not require a monthly cell data plan, has a small form factor, and can run on a regular lithium battery cell for 5 years.

By nominally operating for 5 years, the radio transmitter matches the normal 5 year service cycle of the barrel. The distribution network includes a barrel level measurement system that does not require container penetration. The barrel level measurement system separates acoustic measurements by (1) using ambient noise elimination and (2) timing measurements to match the acoustic impulses generated by the adjacent barrel. The level measurement system is not continuous, saves power when not measuring, and does not require any line penetration or handle / tap changes.

The distribution network includes a truck reader that enables real-time inventory inventory of delivery trucks. By placing the antenna at the end of the wire, the track reader main unit can be hidden and / or secured under a dash or seat. By connecting to the ODB2 port in the delivery truck, this unit is easy to install and can collect total mileage, speed, and other data from the vehicle. By integrating the Wi-Fi antenna, the unit can "store and forward", that is, collect data during the day and automatically download that data at night when the truck is returning to the base. .. The truck reader acts as a knowledge base for the delivery driver, with instructions on where to park, lock or access codes, best time to deliver, consumer contacts and instructions, and more. Record the information needed to make the delivery.

The truck reader enables real-time monitoring of trucks and drivers. For example, a truck reader can determine which driver is closest to the requested delivery, and whether the driver is on their route or has an unplanned detour, and so on.

By collecting data on the position and history of the barrel, the distribution network determines the state transition of the barrel. Part of the state transition is determined retroactively. For example, a lack of reading after a period can be retroactively determined for state transitions that occurred at the beginning of that period. A handoff between the sensing device and the position can determine the state change. For example, a barrel detected by a refrigerating room reader, but no longer detected by that reader, and subsequently detected by a truck reader, can cause a state change to "in delivery".

The distribution network may have determined that a barrel has been delivered to a seller (ie, a consumer such as a restaurant / bar), but may not know the seller or the exact time point. When a mobile sensor (such as a cell phone) detects / contacts the presence of a barrel at a location, the distribution network determines which seller the barrel went to, and now which seller is the barrel. Knowing that you have received the delivery schedule and other information can be retroactively determined.

By using the store-and-forward, the mobile sensor can download historical information from the radio transmitter 16 when it is detected by the seller. By using mesh networks and store-and-forwards at distributors, arriving barrels can communicate their arrival to other barrels at that distributor. When one of the older barrels leaves the seller and is returned to the brewery, the barrel transfers information from the newly arrived barrel while it was at the seller.

The distribution network includes a weighting mat on which branding can be integrated to allow a given type of barrel to correlate with position on the mat. The brewery can become a sponsor of their part of the mat and allow the total area of the mat to increase over time. The mat uses a radio transmitter to wirelessly determine where the barrel is on the mat in order to determine exactly which barrel is being weighed. By correlating the decrease in barrel level with the purchase of liquor, it is possible to determine which consumer purchased from which barrel. After the barrel is determined, the brewery, beer type, brewing date, etc. will be known.

By correlating the consumer position with the barrel position, (1) when the consumer's favorite beer barrel was swallowed, (2) the closest position to buy a glass of beer, (3). How likely it is that the beer has been brewed (ie, how empty the barrel is), (4) the barrel is no longer available, (5) how fresh the beer is. (Ie, when it was brewed) can be notified to the consumer. When a limited supply barrel is squeezed, the action of being squeezed can trigger a consumer alert that the barrel is currently available.

The distribution network is what consumers like / what consumers have previously purchased / what their friends like / what others drink / popular / freshest / longest aged / Similar to seasonal or special / from local breweries / from distant breweries / with special ingredients / limited supply, currently available with a sip Other beers can be shown. The distribution network can show consumers what other beers they like / previously purchased / similar to what is currently available with a sip, thereby introducing consumers to new breweries. can. The distribution network can indicate the brewing date of each beer, how long it has been aged, how long it has been spouted, and more.

By correlating the consumer purchase of a product with the marketing made to that consumer, it is possible to determine marketing efficiency and thereby improve future marketing. The brewery allows consumers to become a "sponsor" of a barrel to let them know where the barrel will move, when it will arrive where it is, and more. can do. If the consumer wants to be a barrel sponsor containing only one type of beer, a container can be allocated to his sponsorship at every brewery, so the actual container will be different for each brew. Even in some cases, he seems to "own" a particular barrel. This allows consumers to perceive that they are sponsers of a single barrel, while allowing the brewery to rotate their barrels normally.

New features that appear to represent the features of the disclosed subject matter are shown in the claims that are subsequently confined. However, the disclosed subject matter itself and preferred embodiments of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof are best understood by reference to the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments as read in connection with the accompanying drawings. To.

Since the present invention has been described in this way as a general theory, the attached drawings which are not necessarily drawn to the actual size will be referred to from now on.

It is a figure which shows the architecture of the liquid product distribution network of this disclosure. It is an exploded view which shows the radio transmitter of this disclosure. FIG. 3 is a three-dimensional view showing the PCB and battery assembly of the present disclosure, including components that perform the disclosed functions. It is a figure which showed and assembled the radio transmitter by the teaching of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows an exemplary aspect of attachment of the radio transmitter of this disclosure to the edge of a barrel. FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative switch configuration that uses a barrel metal surface to power on a radio transmitter. It is a figure which shows the exemplary embodiment of the anti-tamper mechanism which holds and fixes a radio transmitter in a barrel edge. It is a figure which shows the radio transmitter fixing mechanism which fixes the radio transmitter of this disclosure to a barrel edge. It is a figure which shows the alternative fixing mechanism which fixes the radio transmitter around the handle of a barrel. It is a figure which shows one Embodiment of the fluid level measuring mechanism for determining a barrel volume. It is a figure which shows various forms which fix the embodiment of the radio transmitter and the volume monitoring device of this disclosure. It is a figure which presents the alternative embodiment of the radio transmitter of this disclosure for fixing to the barrel opening of the top of a barrel. FIG. 3 shows a transducer-microphone configuration for use in a collar radio transmitter for determining barrel volume and other characteristics. It is a figure which shows the embodiment of the authorized mounting mechanism for fixing a radio transmitter to a barrel. It is a circuit block diagram which presents the radio transmitter architecture by a preferred embodiment of the system disclosed herein. FIG. 5 illustrates various hardware for use on delivery trucks operating within the liquid product distribution network of the present disclosure. It is a diagram providing various examples of events that can affect the barrel state transition as the monitored barrel 14 moves from different geographic areas. It is a figure which shows the arrangement of various barrels 14 on an exemplary mat for use in the system of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows the improved barrel use, monitoring, and reporting between the operation which occurs in a refrigerating room and the operation which occurs in a public room (public room) such as a restaurant or other location. FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary radio transmitter signal reader for tag detection and measurement according to the present disclosure. It is a figure which shows the arrangement of the filling reader which is related to the refrigerating room or other position for detecting and reporting the condition of a plurality of barrels. FIG. 22 shows an exemplary screen of a surveillance device applicable in FIG. 22. It is a figure which shows how the barrel situation can be sensed in the refrigerating room which has the metal door which closed the liquid product distribution network of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows the laminated structure of the weight measuring mat by the teaching of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows the weight measuring device or the measuring device integrated with the weight measuring mat of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows the relationship of the barrel radio transmitter with the weight measuring mat of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows the potential composition of the stacked barrel 14 which can be measured and monitored using the weight measuring mat of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows the various screens of the mobile device application of this disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary screen that may find use in mobile phones and tablets for detecting and reporting barrels 14 in various locations and data applicable to the monitoring and reporting of the present disclosure. It is a figure which shows the marketing feedback loop of the application of this disclosure. It is a figure which shows the data which can be reported by the current software. It is a figure which shows the customer editor display of the current system. It is a figure further showing the information which can be generated by the system of this disclosure in the delivery of a barrel 14 to show the barrel inventory and the situation.

One or more embodiments of the invention are described below. It should be noted that these and any other embodiments are exemplary and are intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. Although the invention is broadly applicable to different types of systems, it is not possible to include all possible embodiments and contexts of the invention in the present disclosure. As reading this disclosure, a number of alternative embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those of skill in the art.

FIG. 1 shows the architecture of the liquid product distribution network of the present disclosure. The liquid product distribution network (or distribution network) 10 is a system for monitoring, controlling, and / or optimizing the flow of products delivered to customers via containers flowing in the distribution network. In the alternative, the distribution network 10 is extended within a geographical area, moves between locations or within locations, and has usage, content, or other status information associated with them, equipment and / or. A system that monitors, controls, and / or optimizes resource usage.

FIG. 1 shows a distribution network 10 that can be considered to start with barrel 14 section 12. In barrel 14 section 12, a plurality of liquid product containers, in this case barrel 14, can be part of the distribution network 10. Through the use of the sensor and radio transmitter 16 associated with the barrel 14, the mesh network 18 results. The mesh network 18 has functions applicable to the brewery 20, the truck 22, the warehouse 24, the refrigerating room 26, the restaurant 28, and the distributor 30, and even the event venue 32.

The sensor / data acquisition section 34 is adjacent to the barrel 14 section 12 as the next integral part of the distribution network 10. The sensor / data acquisition section 34 can be a plurality of devices that receive the output from the barrel 14 section 12. The quiescent reader 36 can receive information from the mesh network 18 as well as mobile devices such as the mobile device 38, the mobile device 40, and the mobile device 42. As used herein, the sensing device 36/38 refers to any of the quiescent reader 36 and / or the mobile device 38, 40, 42 to be most appropriate in a particular context.

The sensor / data acquisition section 34 also provides associations with management software such as ERP system software 46, POS system software 48, and CMS system software 50 via interface 44. The ERP system software 46 provides the functionality of the brewery management software. The POS system software 48 provides the functions of the POS system. The CRM system software 50 provides the customer management software function of the distribution network 10.

The server section 52 provides an interface between the distribution network 10 and the Internet 54. Using the server computer 52, the server section 52 contains all application data and other resources that may be on the Internet and may be applicable to the operation of distribution network 10. Make it accessible from the distribution network 10.

The Reporting / Marketing / Sales (RMS) section 58 provides accounting and management functions via the mobile device 60, which can be any one of the mobile devices 38, 40, or 42. Further, a computer such as a desktop computer or a mainframe computer 62 can interface with the distribution network 10 by communicating with the server section 52. By using our RMS section 58, the brewery 20, the distributor 64, the distributor 30, and the customer 66 can benefit from the operation of the distribution network 10.

Also, delivery section 68 appears, which can be thought of as either an accessory of distribution network 10 or a portion of distribution network 10. Delivery section 68 can include a number of delivery trucks 70 equipped with various communications and display hardware 72 for communication with the individual radio transmitters 16 attached to the mesh network 18 and barrel 14. ..

Within the distribution network 10 system, the radio transmitter 16 is attached to the barrel 14 or other item to be tracked. The barrels 14 being tracked are not fixed in geographic location, but are moved based on the needs of the company tracking them, and thus the transmitter is moved in geographic location. The quiescent reader 36 and mobile devices 38, 40, 42 act as sensors and may or may not have a fixed geographic location.

The distribution network 10 software allows automatic reporting of the location of each barrel 14 and the condition of each barrel 14 and / or the condition of the contents of each barrel 14. In many applications, barrel 14 state / content tracking is more important than just barrel 14 position. For example, in the brewing industry, barrel 14 is "filled with IPA" from "empty", "IPA, distributor", "IPA, customer", "IPA, with a mouthpiece, customer", "empty, customer". It may change to. The distribution network 10 software automatically detects and updates the known state of the contents of each barrel 14 as follows.

Examples of events that can affect state transitions include entering and exiting certain geographic areas, arriving or departing from the vicinity of quiescent reader 36, receiving input events from related systems, and radio transmitters. 14 itself includes sensors, etc. The barrel 14 has a wireless radio transmitter 16. The position of the radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14 can be various positions on the barrel 14 to be more advantageous in terms of sensor reading, computational accuracy, and / or reception of wireless signals. The radio transmitter 16 is mounted on the outside of the barrel 14 without changing the barrel and without penetrating the barrel and has no direct shape to measure the liquid level inside the barrel 14 or the weight of the barrel 14.

The distribution network 10 software does not have to collect all measurements before calculating the state transitions. The distribution network 10 software may be distributed among a plurality of sensor radio transmitters 16 as well as a plurality of mobile devices 38 as well as a quiescent reader 36 and a server computer 56 on the Internet cloud 54. Each of these is considered a node within the distribution network 10. All nodes in distribution network 10 may be authorized to determine a state change in barrel 14 or mesh network 18 and then communicate that change to the rest of distribution network 10. RMS section 58 makes it possible to arbitrate all such state changes and record the final state of the barrel 14 or mesh network 18 for reporting to the user.

There may be buffering / delay between the triggering event during operation of the distribution network 10 and the final propagation of the state change in the rest of the distribution network 10. This is because collection from the radio transmitter 16, sensing and / or collection of data by the quiescent reader 36 or mobile device 38, and communication to the server section 52 may not occur in real time. For example, sensing and / or collection by the quiescent reader 36 may occur when there is no available connection to distribution network 10. In this case, the data is buffered until the connection is established, after which the barrel 14 state change propagates through the distribution network 10.

Examples of applications enabled by distribution network 10 include barrel 14 and content tracking, delivery truck 70 communications, status and location tracking of industrial or contractor equipment, shipping, tools, rented items, freight cars. , Pets, shopping carts, portable toilets, storage containers, food or beverage or product delivery containers, fuel tanks or fuel containers, etc.

The distribution network 10 enables optimization and efficiency in delivery, collection, and tracking of barrels 14 and / or barrel 14 contents. Tracking barrel 14 and detailed knowledge of barrel 14 contents include automatic restaurant menu changes, automatic inventory orders, supplier manufacturing forecast data, automatic marketing and advertising messages, warehouses and refrigeration rooms. Enables automatic real-time inventory inventory, automatic container check-in and automatic check-out, and optimization of replenishment delivery scheduling and / or routing in storage areas such as. The distribution network 10 can also determine how long a barrel 14 or similar part of the equipment has been used to trigger a maintenance schedule, automatically monitoring invoices, rental compliance, and generating alarms. Generated. The distribution network 10 further enables temperature monitoring of the contents for compliance with laws and regulations, reporting of "good" condition of the contents of barrel 14, and reporting of progress of temperature too high / too low.

Wireless technologies that can be used by distribution network 10 include Bluetooth®, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, GPRS, GSM®, CDMA, ultrasonic, infrared, etc., and examples of wired that can be used. The technologies are Ethernet®, optical, serial and others. The wireless capability 38 means that a scan of the barrel 14 can occur automatically in the background without any manual dialogue.

The wireless scan can occur at a distance with the barrel 14 not visible. Wireless scanning can occur at a distance without any special equipment. The use of the mobile device 38 means that anyone can detect the barrel 14 within a 100-foot radius, the radius of which depends on the exact capability of the mobile device. The wireless capability enables real-time automatic determination of container status without manual scanning. The wireless capability enables automatic real-time determination of container location without manual scanning. The radio transmitter is mounted on a pallet of a large number of barrels 14 and can work even inside a stacked set.

By leveraging a known mobile device 38, the radio transmitter 16 does not require its own GPS and cell radio, making it possible to reduce the cost of the radio transmitter to about $ 10 or less. The radio transmitter does not require a monthly cell data plan, has a small form factor, and can run on a regular lithium battery cell for more than 5 years. By operating for at least 5 years, the radio transmitter matches the normal 5 year service cycle of the barrel.

The radio transmitter 16 utilizes available connection points. If a quiesced reader 36 or mobile device 38 is nearby, the radio transmitter 16 defaults to communication with that device. However, if neither is in the vicinity, the radio transmitter 16 may choose to upgrade the communication to Wi-Fi. However, if Wi-Fi is also not available, the radio transmitter 16 may choose to upgrade the communication to cell data. In this way, communication is escalated to more expensive media only when needed.

By using the "store-and-forward" function, the distribution network 10 sends only summary information (eg, once a day, location) over the cell data network, which is later cheaper (ie, free). The entire history can be saved locally for uploading when the medium is available.

The POS terminal or POS 48 can supply sales data either directly to the sensor / data acquisition section 34 or to the Internet within the server section 52. Server section 52 aggregates the data, performs calculations to determine the filling level of each barrel 14, and outputs the resulting data and reports to brewery 20, distributor 64, distributor 30, and / or customer 66. Deliver to. Further, the server section 52 performs an action based on the determined filling data, for example, automatically reorders inventory.

Available direct or indirect data communication mechanisms and / or data communication protocols include wired, wireless, ad hoc, peer-to-peer, audio, optical, radio, serial, TCP / IP, UDP, Ethernet, etc. .. The mobile device 38 can have a wireless connection to the Internet (eg Wi-Fi), but the static reader 36 inside the refrigerator compartment of barrel 14 section 12 is on the wall of the refrigerator compartment that shields wireless communication. Due to this, it may require a non-wireless connection (eg, Ethernet® or serial signal line).

The distribution network 10 enables the collection of delivery data. Each radio transmitter 16 has a unique ID and can store information about the barrel 14 to which it is attached either in its own memory or on the server computer 56. Such history includes the delivery date to the distributor 30, which product is in the barrel 14, the type of product, when it was brewed, when the barrel 14 was filled, which distributor 64 is in the barrel 14. Did you deliver, temperature history, etc. included. If the data is stored on the radio transmitter 16, another radio transmitter 16 can transfer the data using a mesh network and / or the quiescent reader 36 and / or mobile. The device 38 receives the data and sends it to the server section computer 56, otherwise the data is already on the server computer 56 and is indexed by a unique ID. In addition, location, market data, sales history, and other information about the distributor 64 are stored on the server computer 56. All of this information is provided for the calculation of barrel 14 filling levels.

The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data regarding the position via the stationary reader 36. By examining the wireless signal received from each barrel 14, the quiescent reader 36 can determine the distance from each of its antennas to each barrel 14. This information can be used to generate a three-dimensional estimate of the position of each barrel 14. The stationary reader 36 is positioned in the refrigerator compartment so that the distance of each barrel 14 from the tap line can be determined. Typically, the stationary reader 36 is located near the place where the tap line passes through the wall of the refrigerating room to the public distribution area of the distributor 30 and / or the stacked barrels 14 and /. Alternatively, the barrel 14 on the shelf may be positioned vertically for best measurement. The position data is supplied to the calculation of the barrel 14 filling level.

The distribution network 10 allows the collection of data regarding the empty barrel 14. Normally, the refrigerating room is crowded and the empty barrel 14 tends not to be stored in it. The exit of the barrel 14 from the refrigerator is an indicator of whether the barrel 14 is full or empty (whether it is cut or not), and this data is used to calculate the barrel 14 filling level. Will be done.

The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data regarding distance. The distance of each barrel 14 from the tap wall is an indicator of whether the barrel 14 is cut or not, and this data is provided in the calculation of the barrel 14 filling level.

The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data regarding the delivery date. Since the barrel 14 is usually cut in the order of delivery, the delivery date is provided in the calculation of the barrel 14 filling level. In addition, the delivery date provides a measurement of hysteresis for other events such as barrel 14 leaving the refrigerator.

The distribution network 10 enables data collection on the radio transmitter 16. The distribution network 10 radio transmitter 16 may have additional sensors (temperature, shake sensor, etc.) on them, and the quiescent reader 36 collects data from these sensors and barrels them. 14 Supply for filling level calculation.

The distribution network 10 allows the collection of data regarding inputs to the barrel 14 filling level calculation. The quiescent reader 36, the mobile device 38, and the radio transmitter 16 enable the collection of data supplied to the method of determining the filling level of each barrel 14.

The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data regarding product information. The distribution network 10 knows the brand and product in each barrel 14, thereby knowing the type of product (IPA, pilsner, porter, bock, etc.). The brand, product, product type, and current sales rate for each such product are supplied to the barrel 14 filling level calculation.

The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data regarding the barrel 14 history. Server section 52 collects historical data (brands, products, sales rates by type, etc.) by calendar day (eg, working days vs. holidays) and by day of the week (eg, weekdays vs. weekends) and barrels this. 14 Supply for filling level calculation.

The distribution network 10 enables the collection of data about the distributor 30. Server section 52 stores information about each distributor 30 (eg, zip code, historical sales data, etc.) and supplies this data to the barrel 14 filling level calculation.

The distribution network 10 makes it possible to collect the importance of each data item for the calculation of the barrel 14 filling level. Importance weights are calculated from the input values supplied and then applied to each input value along with a threshold to determine a probabilistic answer to the following question.

-Is the barrel 14 (1) full and deliberately cut, (2) actually swallowed, or (3) emptied and off tap? ..

-(2) If the barrel 14 has a mouthpiece, how full is the barrel?

-When is it expected to be empty if barrel 14 is not yet empty?

-What is the consumption rate of the products in each barrel 14 at the distributor 30?

The margin of error is also determined for each of the above answers and the margin of error is fed back into the calculation. When a calculated probabilistic answer is determined to exceed a set threshold for each question, the question is considered to have a given answer.

Certain input data provides a validated answer to the question. For example, a barrel 14 delivered to distributor 30, stayed in the refrigerator long enough to be emptied, and then returned to distributor 64, the calculation verifies that the barrel 14 has been emptied. can do. When the barrel 14 is verified to have transitioned from the spouted state to the emptied and off-tapped state, previous time estimates are compared to actual time and feedback is estimated. Applied to the calculation to improve the value.

The distribution network 10 also supports actions that can be triggered based on the result of the calculation. For example, automatic reordering, product websites or open house updates that are or are scheduled to be swallowed, the current state or expectations of the barrel to interested users. Notification of the status to be, for example, to the barrel 14 sponser that their barrel 14 is about to be swallowed, has been swallowed, or has been emptied, the barrel 14 is emptied. Supplying speed to product forecasts, etc.

An alternative embodiment of the distribution network 10 may not include the static reader 36. When it is not possible to install the static reader 36 inside the distributor 30 refrigerator compartment, the radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14 can work in a bidirectional mode. In this mode, data is communicated between the barrels 14 with respect to their position and / or to determine their position in the refrigerator and / or to calculate their filling level. Each barrel 14 stores all or part of the data about that barrel 14 in the refrigerator compartment, after which the data stored on the transmitter is uploaded to the server section 52 as the barrel 14 exits the refrigerator compartment. To. This upload is automatically in the background by approaching the app for each mobile device 38 via the mobile device 38, and automatically when the barrel 14 encounters a static reader outside the refrigerating room. Can occur when returning to distributor 64 or brewery 20 or by any other suitable contact with radio transmitter 16.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of the radio transmitter 16 of the present disclosure. The assembly of the radio transmitter 16 includes an inner housing 81 capable of covering the printed circuit board (PCB) / battery assembly 82. After assembly, the inner housing 81 and the PCB / battery assembly 82 may be positioned within the outer housing 84. Note that FIGS. 2-7 show one possible housing and FIGS. 12 and 13 below show another possible housing as the collar radio transmitter 142.

FIG. 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the PCB and battery assembly of one embodiment of the present disclosure, including components that perform the disclosed functions. FIG. 3 further shows the general configuration of the PCB / battery assembly 82 including the battery 86 attached to the PCB 94. On the opposite side of the PCB 94 from the battery 86, a sensor 90 including a temperature sensor and other sensors and an antenna 92 appear. Codec / DSP 96 may also be found on PCB 88. FIG. 15 below provides a detailed further description of the electronic network existing on PCB 94.

The radio transmitter 16 is less than 1 inch high so that it fits into the lower edge of the barrel 14 as shown in FIG. 11A below. The shape of the curve is optimized to fit the three sizes of the barrel. The radio transmitter 16 does not cross the boundaries of the barrel 14 in any dimension. Therefore, the use of the distribution network 10 does not require physical changes to the distributor 30's lines, valves, or handles.

The use of the rechargeable battery 86 allows the radio transmitter 16 to be completely sealed, where only the outer electrical contacts are provided to charge the battery. The radio transmitter 16 includes an on-board temperature sensor for monitoring the barrel 14 temperature. The shake sensor determines if the barrel 14 is in transit. The sensor header 91 can also handle additional sensors. The orientation / polarization of the antenna 92 maximizes radio transmission intensity from either the top or bottom of the barrel 14. The battery 86 fits under the edge of the barrel 14 and is sized to have a life of at least 5 years. The battery 86 can be soldered to the PCB 88 to reduce costs. The distribution network 10 measurement system is not continuously supplied with power and therefore saves power when the measurement is not being made.

FIG. 4 shows and assembles the radio transmitter 16 according to the teachings of the present disclosure, where the width 92 allows the radio transmitter 16 to fit in either the upper or lower edge of the barrel 14. Looks less than an inch to do. The radio transmitter 16 further includes a curved edge 94 that can fit into at least three different types of barrel 14 configurations known at points along the curved edge 94. A single curved back engages barrels 14 of each size at different points along the curve, and epoxy / foam tape occupies a small amount of space for each size. Mounting can be by either rivets, such as those at point 96, or epoxy, such as those at space 98, in order to securely position the radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14. The waterproof IP67 achieved by epoxy sealing is half the adhesion to the barrel 14. This eliminates the need for O-rings or seals. Epoxy does not require surface treatment, reducing installation time and cost.

The outer housing 84 includes a "peeling" layer that allows destructive pulling of the tag that comes off the epoxy when the battery 86 is exhausted. The voids in the inner housing 80 are minimized to achieve an airtight seal. The use of very small and long "capillaries" allows pressure release when needed while maintaining waterproofness. The outer housing 84 includes a unique serial number, bar code, QR code®, or other coding visible on its outer flank. Note that the serial number of the outer housing 84 can be different from the radio serial number in order to discourage spoofing. The outer housing 84 may include various anti-tamper mechanisms to prevent unauthorized removal of the radio transmitter 16. The outer housing 84 may also include an integrated desiccant container to protect against condensation at varying temperatures.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of the attachment of the radio transmitter 16 of the present disclosure to the edge 100 of the barrel 14. For example, the epoxy layer 102 can be used to make the installation of the radio transmitter 16 reliable and waterproof to protect the PCB / battery assembly 82. The epoxy layer 102 may be applied to the mounting space 98, which provides a small volume to which sufficient proximity can be applied for the rigid setting of the radio transmitter 16 to the edge 100 of the barrel 14. The manufacturing step can be skipped by also using the same epoxy that attaches the housing to the barrel 14 to seal the joint between the housing halves. The housing 84 allows the radio transmitter 16 to be coupled to the three-dimensional curved barrel 14 surface, maximizing the adhesion and protection provided by the barrel 14 edging, while minimizing heat transfer from the barrel 14 body. To. The housing 84 can be completely sealed, but can still be switched on when installed.

An alternative switch configuration may be used that uses a sticker to seal the opening of the pin that activates the switch that toggles the radio transmitter 16 on. In this configuration, one-time activation is not reversible. Similar pin holes are used to activate the "connection mode" for maintenance of the radio transmitter 16. Such a sticker can cover the hole and make a watertight seal, and the edge of the sticker is protected by a plug-in edge in the outer housing 84 notch. An alternative could use a waterproof on / off switch through a screw that activates the hardware switch.

FIG. 6 shows an alternative switch configuration that uses a barrel 14 metal surface to power on the radio transmitter 16. Metal connection pins 104 and 106 can appear on the outside of the inner housing 80 to connect the relevant network on the PCB / battery assembly 82 to create a conductive circuit. That is, the connection pin 104 can make an electrical connection to the edge 100 of the barrel 14, which allows current to flow through the connection pin 106. The resulting circuit uses minimal voltage and current to provide an indication that the radio transmitter 16 is firmly secured to the edge 100 of the barrel 14. Also note that at attachment point 96, the radio transmitter 16 may be firmly positioned at the edge 100 of the barrel 14.

The radio transmitter 16 is protected under the edge 100 of the existing rolled barrel 14. A pin in contact with the metal shell of the barrel 14 closes the circuit for activating the switch. The housing can be completely sealed, but it can still be switched on when installed. The use of a rechargeable battery allows the unit to be completely sealed and only the outer electrical contacts are provided to charge the battery. The provision and electromagnetic induction loops or other non-contact charging mechanisms allow the housing to avoid electrical penetration, reduce manufacturing costs and allow for a more inaccurate interface between the housing and the charging station. do.

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of an outer housing 84 that holds and secures the radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14 edge 100. In FIG. 7, the outer housing 84 is secured to the barrel 14 edge 100 using screws or other fastening mechanisms 108. The inner housing 80 can occupy a position within the outer housing 84 to securely position the PCB / battery assembly 82 on the barrel 14 edge 100. In one embodiment, the permanent seal / shell 84 is permanently attached to the barrel 14, and the inner housing 16 is a removable portion that can be serviced. Since the radio transmitter 16 uniquely identifies the barrel 14, the distributor 64, and the brand, the situation of the barrel 14 can be automatically relayed to the brewery 20 or the distributor 64.

8A-8C show a radio transmitter fixing mechanism for fixing the radio transmitter of the present disclosure to the barrel 14 edge 100. In the example of FIGS. 8A-8C, the hook mechanism 110 can engage existing features of the barrel 14, such as a handle opening or a protruding edge 114. The protruding edge 114 is a component of the barrel 14 including the edge 100, the rolled edge 112, and the barrel 14 edge wall 114. The mounting mechanism 110 may be fixed in a position between the top surface 116 of the barrel 14 and the ridged edge 112 so that it cannot be removed without releasing the mounting mechanism. This mechanism extends into the space between the rolled edge 112 and the edge wall 114 and between the barrel 14 body 116 and the edge wall 114.

In another embodiment, the hook mechanism 120 engages an existing feature (handle opening or edging edge) on the barrel 14. In another embodiment, the radio transmitter 16 is attached to the barrel 14 like a "secure bracelet" around the exit 122 opening in the barrel 14 edge 100, after which the hook mechanism 120 is attached. Used to return to itself or secure to an extension of the outer housing 84.

The radio transmitter 16 may be attached to the protruding edge 114 of the barrel 14 instead of the barrel 14 body 116. The transfer of heat from the barrel 14 body to the ridge 114 is along the seam, and therefore heat transfer is slow, and a normal battery 86 can be used. The radio transmitter 16 is protected under an existing rolled barrel 14 edge 112 at either the top or bottom of the barrel 14. In either case, the PCB / battery assembly 82 is designed to fit snugly into it. For the example of mounting the upper edge 122, a button cell battery may be used. For the lower edge (shown below), a cylindrical cell battery is used. The outer housing 84 is bent back so that it engages well with the protruding edge 122.

FIG. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure in which the radio transmitter 16 can be attached to the barrel edge 100 using a secure bracelet 118. The radio transmitter 16 is mounted around the barrel 14 protruding edge 122 of the barrel edge 114. The bracelet 128 has a fastening point 120 of a radio transmitter outer housing 84 that passes through the opening of the barrel edge wall 114 and returns to itself, to which the bracelet end 122 is secured.

FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of a fluid level measuring mechanism comprising the use of a battery-powered ball 124 for determining the volume of beer 126 in a barrel 14. In this configuration, the sealed ball 124 transmits a periodic signal that can be detected through the metal of the barrel 14 wirelessly or mechanically. The balls 124 can withstand the high temperature cleaning cycles and chemicals used to prepare the barrel 14 for reuse. Placing one or more detection or communication devices, such as listening devices 128 and / or 130, outside the barrel 14 to measure the characteristics of the received signal, such as sound reflection, intensity, harmonics, etc. Can determine the amount of air or liquid in the barrel 14. Communication can be bidirectional, where the ball 124 can receive signals transmitted wirelessly or mechanically from outside the barrel 14. Two-way communication allows the ball to store data locally, perform a reset function, measure the received signal, modify the signal, and return it. The attenuation of the received signal due to the ball being in liquid vs. air helps determine the volume of liquid in the barrel 14.

The ball 124 can be battery operated or mechanically driven. The mechanical power source of the example can be a wound spring or expansion and contraction caused by a heating / cooling cycle of the barrel 14. With the measured values from the fluid level measuring mechanism communicated via the radio transmitter 16, the distribution network 10 can automatically relay the filling data to the correct brewery 20 / distributor 64. The distribution network 10 mechanism does not require any changes to the distributor 30's line, valve, or handle. The radio and sensor network of the distribution network 10 can automatically relay the filling data to the desired brewery 20 and / or distributor 64.

11A-11C show various forms of fixing embodiments of the radio transmitter 16 and volume monitoring device of the present disclosure. FIG. 11A shows a radio transmitter 16 attached to the bottom 134 of the barrel 14 at the inner portion of the lower edge 136 of the barrel 14. The radio transmitter 16 may be hidden under the lower edge 136 of the barrel 14, where no one sees it and knows that the barrel 14 is being tracked. Using the acoustic properties of the barrel 14, the radio transmitter 16 and the distribution network 10 can measure the liquid level from the outside of the barrel 14.

FIG. 11B shows one embodiment of the flow detection filling sensor 138 for use with the barrel 14. In addition to the radio transmitter 16 which may be attached to the side wall 139 of the barrel 14, a microphone 138 which forms part of the filling level measuring system of the barrel 14 appears. The microphone 138 captures ambient noise. The captured ambient noise can be subtracted from the signal measured from the barrel 14 in order to separate the noise originating from the inside of the barrel 14. The sound measurement system of the distribution network 10 separates the acoustic measurements by using ambient noise elimination at the same time as deciding the time of the measurements to correspond to the acoustic impulses generated by the adjacent barrels.

FIG. 11C shows another embodiment of the radio transmitter 16 as the collar radio transmitter 142. The collar radio transmitter 142 may be placed around the barrel outlet 144 to measure the fluid passing through the barrel outlet 144. The collar radio transmitter 142 can also extend beyond the top of the barrel 14 either surrounding us to extend the connection to the barrel 14. The collar radio transmitter 142 may be uncoupled around the barrel outlet 144 so that it falls off the barrel 14 body during sewage treatment, i.e. when the barrel 14 is turned upside down. Therefore, when the barrel 14 is hot to wash, the collar radio transmitter 142 does not come into contact with the body of the barrel 14. When the barrel 14 is returned to its upright position, the collar radio transmitter 142 returns to its home position and falls into contact with the body for operational use. When the barrel 14 is in the upright position, the collar radio transmitter 142 contacts the body of the barrel 14 to generate an acoustic impulse and / or to measure the acoustic properties of the barrel 14. The barrel 14 collar radio transmitter 142 may be uncoupled to facilitate cleaning around and underneath. By allowing easy cleaning around and underneath, the collar radio transmitter 142 maintains a sterile environment for the product that the barrel 14 owner enters and exits the barrel 14 through the barrel outlet 144. Enables.

12 and 13 present an alternative embodiment of the radio transmitter 16 of the present disclosure for fixing to a barrel opening 144 at the top of the barrel 14. The collar radio transmitter 142 is located below the barrel cap 140. The barrel cap 140 is removed by using the self-destructing tab 141, which releases the cap but also renders the cap unusable by peeling off the sides of the barrel cap 140. The collar radio transmitter 142 can detect the presence or absence of the barrel cap 140. The event of removing the barrel cap 140 is used by the distribution network 10. By using the barrel cap 140, the distribution network 10 can determine with high probability whether or not the barrel 14 has been swallowed. Distributor 30 usually does not remove the barrel cap 140 until the barrel 14 has been swallowed, as the barrel cap 140 prevents filth and food from entering the barrel opening 144. The collar radio transmitter 142 secures the collar radio transmitter 142 to the barrel opening 144 by friction fitting or other flexible configuration 145, which secures the collar radio transmitter 142 to the barrel opening 144 and prevents removal unless permitted by an authorized person. Will be done. Such a locking mechanism can be a locking mechanism, a latching mechanism, a hidden tab, or another friction mechanism that prevents the removal of the collar radio transmitter 142. By allowing the collar radio transmitter 142 to be locked, the distribution network 10 ensures that the collar radio transmitter 142 is in place, except during maintenance by an authorized person. Can be done.

The collar radio transmitter mechanically engages the upper surface of the barrel 14 and the barrel opening 144 142, so that it can withstand the impacts and loads associated with the normal existing handling of full or empty barrels. .. The collar radio transmitter 142 does not extend the existing boundaries of the barrel 14, so that the barrels can be handled and stacked normally. Modifications to the line, valve, handle, or process of the distributor 30, the pallet or process of the distributor 64, the equipment or process of the delivery truck 70, or the automated filling and cleaning equipment, storage system, or process of the brewery 20. Is unnecessary.

The collar radio transmitter 142 can also have additional functionality beyond the functionality present in the current embodiment of the radio transmitter 16. The additional volume of the collar radio transmitter 130 creates a possible ever-expanding set of features and supporting electronics for the collar radio transmitter 142 to operate within the distribution network 10.

FIG. 14 shows a transducer-microphone configuration for use with the collar radio transmitter 142 in determining the volume and other characteristics of the barrel 14. FIG. 14 shows a collar radio transmitter 142 that surrounds a barrel opening 144 and includes a transmitter T1 148 and a microphone M1 150. The signal produced at T1 148 is acquired by M1 150 after being modified by the filling level in barrel 14. As a result of the changing signal measurements, it is possible to determine the associated filling level. This information may be processed by the collar radio transmitter 142 and then communicated via the distribution network 10.

FIG. 15 shows an embodiment of a certified mounting mechanism 160 for fixing a radio transmitter 16 to a barrel 14. The certified mounting mechanism 160 provides a secure mounting of the radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14 while allowing non-destructive removal / replacement only by authorized parties. The certified mounting mechanism 160 operates within the radio transmitter 16 outer housing 84 and is mounted on the hook and catch 162. The mechanical hook-and-catch 162 provides a permanent attachment for fixing the radio transmitter 16 to the barrel 14. The hook 162 is concealed from external tampering and only internal actuators (electromagnetic, motor, etc.) can disengage this hook. The engaging arm 164 is inserted into the recess 166 using the spring force from the spring 168. The engaging arm 164 operates under the control of the actuator 170 to retract from the recess 166 in response to a signal from the CPU 172. The antenna 174 can receive an actuation signal from an external source to actuate the engaging arm 164 under the control of the CPU 172. The battery 86 can supply operating power for the CPU 172 operation to control the actuator 170. The certified mounting mechanism 160 allows power to enter the outer housing 84, allowing the internal actuator circuit to be temporarily powered in the event of a battery failure or charging the rechargeable battery 86. Further provides an external voltage pad 180 for this purpose. These pins are electrically isolated from the battery to prevent current leakage. In the alternative, the digital connection 182 can provide an optional digital signal input for controlling the CPU 172 with respect to actuator operation.

The certified mounting mechanism 160 places the radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14 only while the distributor 64, the distributor 30, or the event venue 32 owns the barrel 14, and the barrel is returned. Allows the radio transmitter 16 to be removed before they are no longer owned. The certified mounting mechanism 160 can request a secret digital master key to activate the engaging arm 164. The digital secure key is wirelessly transmitted to the radio transmitter 16 via the antenna 174. CPU 172 verifies the digital secure key by a plurality of possible means. By using a digital key instead of a mechanical key, a water entry point is not introduced into the outer housing 84, space for the mechanical key is avoided, and manufacturing costs are reduced. By using a digital key, every barrel 14 can have a unique digital lock code, which is easy to manage using software.

A secure mechanism that requires a secret digital master key is used to latch the radio transmitter 16 into the barrel 14. By using digital keys, water entry points are not introduced, mechanical key space is avoided, and manufacturing costs are reduced. By using a digital key, every barrel 14 can have a unique digital lock code, which is easy to manage using software. Breaking one lock does not reveal the other.

FIG. 16 presents a 190 block diagram of a radio transmitter electronic circuit network according to a preferred embodiment of the system disclosed herein. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 includes a temperature sensor 192 and a radio / processing module 96 connected to the codec / DSP 194. The analog-to-digital circuit (ADC) 196 of the radio / processing module 96 receives an output 198 from the temperature sensor 192. Further, the radio / processing module 96 supplies the collector voltage (VCC) 202 to the temperature sensor 192 via the general purpose input / output (GPIO) 200. In the VCS 204, the rechargeable battery 86 supplies 2-3 volts of operating power to the radio / processing module 96. The codec / DSP 194 interfaces with the radio / processing module 96 at the I2C / SPI 206 of the radio processing module 96 using the inter-integrated circuit / serial peripheral interface (I2C / SPI) interface 208. The radio / processing module 96 interfaces with the I2S / GPIO interface 212 of the codec / DSP 194 via the inter-integrated circuit sound / general purpose input-out (I2S / GPIO) interface 210. The codec / DSP 194 connects to the converter 148 via the digital-to-analog converter interface (DAC) 214. Further, the codec / DSP 194 interfaces with the microphone / sensor 150 by the ADC interface 216. Antenna 174 supplies input to RF interface 218.

The radio transmitter electronic network 190 utilizes the mobile devices 38-42 and the quiescent reader 36 of the distribution network 10 to eliminate the need for separate GPS and cell radio networks. The result is that the radio transmitter 16 achieves a production cost of about $ 10 or less. Moreover, with respect to the operation of the distribution network 10, the radio transmitter 16 does not require a monthly cell data plan, has a small form factor and can run on a normal lithium battery cell for 5 years. .. By operating for 5 years, the radio transmitter 16 has a distribution network 10 that matches the normal 5-year service cycle of barrels 14 from most breweries and distributors. The radio design of the radio transmitter 16 can also work inside a stack of metal barrels, as discussed in more detail below.

The radio transmitter electronic network 190 includes firmware that can operate in multiple modes. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 operates in a non-connectable mode based on deployment security and battery life preservation. The radio transmitter electronics network 190 enters connectable mode either temporarily during boot or via a switch / pad on the PCB 88. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 operates in connectable mode, protected by asymmetric encryption and authentication, and providing authenticated pairing without bonding. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 operates in a mode for pairing an algorithmically generated passcode based on a broadcast major number, a minor number, and a shared secret. This mode can optionally use time stamps, board serial numbers, and more. The radio transmitter electronic network 190 can also operate in connectable mode to update the serial number and other parameters of the radio transmitter 16 after manufacturing but before deployment.

The distribution network 10 addresses different roles for different devices / components. Such devices include a radio transmitter 16, a collar radio transmitter 142, a quiescent reader 36, mobile devices 38 and 60, a server computer 56, and an RMS section computer 62. Functions are described herein as appropriate with respect to various devices / components capable of performing such functions.

A device that acts as a central device can scan the advertiser and initiate a connection. Such a device acts as a master in one or more connections. Good examples are mobile devices 38 and computers 62. This means that the device roles used for the established connection are the peripheral and central roles. The other two device roles are used for one-way communication. The broadcaster function applies to a connectable advertiser, for example, a temperature sensor 192 that broadcasts the current temperature, or a radio transmitter 16. The observer feature scans for advertisements, but cannot initiate a connection. This can be a remote display on a mobile device 38 that receives and presents temperature data or tracks the radio transmitter 16.

The two obvious device roles of the Radio Transmitter 16 application are peripheral and broadcaster. Both send the same type of advertisement, except for one specific flag that indicates that the application is connectable or unreachable.

The Bluetooth low energy solution is low power and the ecosystem is already deployed within most smartphones on the market or other Bluetooth Smart Ready enabled devices, so the radio transmitter 16 Ideal for. Low power consumption is achieved by keeping the transmission time as short as possible and allowing the device to enter sleep mode during transmission.

The non-connectable radio transmitter 16 is a Bluetooth® low energy device in broadcast mode. It simply sends the internally stored information. Disconnectable broadcasting does not activate receive capability at all, so simply wake up, send data, and go back to sleep to achieve the lowest possible power consumption. This includes only those whose dynamic data is known to the device or example serial protocols (universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART), serial peripheral interface (SPI), universal serial bus (USB), etc. Accompanied by the disadvantage of being limited to the data available via external input from.

The connectable radio transmitter 16 is a peripheral mode Bluetooth® low energy device, which means that the connectable radio transmitter 16 can not only transmit but also receive. This allows a central device (eg, a mobile device 38) to connect to and interact with services performed on the radio transmitter 16. The service provides one or more characteristics that can be modified by the peer device. An example of these properties can be a string of data representing the information being broadcast. In this form, it becomes possible to have a configurable radio transmitter 16 that is easily updated wirelessly.

17A and 17B show various hardware for use on delivery trucks operating within the distribution network 10 of the present disclosure. The truck 70 can be any type of delivery truck capable of delivering a large number of barrels 14 for loading into barrel 14 section 12 of the liquid product distribution network 10. Within the delivery section 68, the track 70 also includes the ability to interface with the radio transmitter 16 or the collar radio transmitter 142. The interface capable of the track 70 is derived from the track reader 230 which can be positioned under the seat 232. The track reader 230 is a communication device connected using various antennas, including, for example, a cell antenna 234 or a Bluetooth® antenna 236. Further, the track 70 can use a GPS antenna 238, an OBD2 connection 240, and / or a Wi-Fi antenna 242. FIG. 17B shows an alternative configuration by which the tablet 244 can provide various functions related to controlling the delivery operation and monitoring the delivery operation consistent with the optimum operation of the liquid product distribution network 10.

If the truck 70 is parked within range of the home office Wi-Fi, updates may be batch downloaded via the Wi-Fi when the truck 70 returns to the home office. This can save cell phone data charges. The hardware is a GPS antenna 238, a Wi-Fi antenna 242, a Bluetooth® antenna 236, and a cellular unit either internally or externally via a wire to allow remote antenna placement. Designed using the main processor in the housing along with the connection. The truck reader 230 optionally connects to the vehicle's OBD2 connection 240 for power and / or diagnostic data. Each of the four antennas can be internal or external, and the external through the wire allows for flexible placement.

The track reader 230 enables real-time inventory inventory by placing an antenna at the end of the wire. The truck reader 230 main unit may be hidden and / or secured under a dash or seat 232. By connecting to the OBD2 port 240 in the truck 70, the truck reader 230 is easy to install and can collect total mileage, speed, and other data from the vehicle.

By integrating the Wi-Fi antenna 242, the truck reader 230 performs a "store-and-forward" function that collects data during the day and automatically downloads it at night when the truck 70 returns to the base. be able to. The Wi-Fi antenna 242 can also operate as a Wi-Fi access point inside the track 70. Thus, the tablet 244 can have an internet connection, for example, when the truck 70 is driven around. The truck 70 driver's cell phone can also use the Wi-Fi antenna 242 to incorporate security, logging, and firewall functionality.

By using the track 70 as a Wi-Fi access point, the track reader 230 can send messages, alarms, instructions and new routes to the driver in real time. As a Wi-Fi access point, the track 70 can connect a display to the tablet 244 to display maps, instructions, alerts, and other information to the driver. The truck reader 230 system acts as a knowledge base for delivery drivers, allowing them to record the information they need to make deliveries. Such information may include instructions on where to park, lock or access codes, best time to deliver, consumer contacts and instructions, and more. The distribution network 10 system can use the truck reader 230 to provide real-time monitoring of trucks and drivers. For example, the truck reader 230 makes it possible to determine which driver is closest to the requested delivery, whether the driver is on their route, whether they are making an unplanned detour, and so on.

The track reader 230 can act as a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing connected clients to access the Internet via a cell modem connection. Normal Wi-Fi password protection and encryption are used to prevent the use of unauthorized connections. When acting as a Wi-Fi hotspot, the tablet 244 is used as a screen / GUI. This allows sophisticated mapping, routing, invoice creation, and other features to be written on the tablet and integrated with the Track Reader 230 sensor data.

The truck reader 230 can function independently of all mobile devices (phones, tablets) in the truck 70. The software on the track reader 230 and the tablet 244 can communicate with each other and divide the calculation, communication, and display processes. Depending on the tablet 244 capability, the track reader 230 offloads the function to the tablet and vice versa. For example, 244 includes a cell modem connection to the Internet, the software on the tablet 244 can receive barrel 14 data and send such data to the server section 52 of distribution network 10.

The truck reader 230 software can determine when the barrel 14 is in range (ie, loaded into the vehicle) or out of range (ie, delivered from truck 70). By accessing the known history of the barrel 14 from the radio transmitter 16, the truck reader 230 can determine whether the sky is about to be received or the full is about to be delivered.

The truck reader 230 enables real-time inventory inventory of trucks. By placing the antenna at the end of the wire, the track reader 230 can be hidden and / or secured under a dash or seat. By connecting to the OBD2 port 240 in the truck 70, the truck reader 230 is easy to install and can collect total mileage, speed, and other data from the truck 70.

A handoff between the radio transmitter 16 and the position can determine a state change. For example, if the barrel 14 was detected by the refrigerating room static reader 36, but no longer by the static reader 36, and subsequently by the truck reader 230, the state change to "delivering". Can be triggered.

As a further example, the distribution network 10 system may determine that the barrel 14 has been delivered to a distributor 30, such as a restaurant or bar, but may not know which distributor 30 or exactly when. When the mobile device 38 detects the presence of the barrel 14 at a location, the distribution network 10 determines to which distributor 30 the barrel 14 was sent, and now which distributor 30 is the barrel 14. Knowing that you have received the delivery schedule and other information can be retroactively determined.

The distribution network 10 software reports the truck 70 driver activity back to the distributor 64 home office, and this information can include unscheduled detours, driving speeds, and more. The distribution network 10 software enables remote management and monitoring of the truck reader 230. When a truck 70 driver visits a known customer, for example, the last inventory inventory at that customer may be seen by the driver on the tablet 244. The distribution network 10 software automatically manages deposit information such as how many barrels 14 are in each barrel 14 section 12, and determines the rolling deposit fee at the position of the barrel 14 section 12. do. The deposit information is automatically propagated back to the invoice, accounting, etc. and can be used as a double check on the data entered by the Track 70 driver.

FIG. 18 provides various example events that can affect the transition of the barrel 14 state as the monitored barrel 14 18 moves from different geographic areas within the distribution network 10. In FIG. 18, barrels 14 A, B, and C represent liquid product containers in barrel 14 section 12. Items 1 30 to 7 254 represent various mobile devices 30 and quiescent readers 36 and others. Area X 244, area Y 246, and area Z 248 represent geographical areas participating within the distribution network 10.

By collecting data on the position and history of the barrel 14, the distribution network 10 determines the state transition. Part of the state transition is determined retroactively. For example, a lack of reading after a period can be retroactively determined for state transitions that occurred at the beginning of that period. A handoff between the radio transmitter 16, the quiescent reader 36, and the mobile device 38 can determine a state change. For example, a barrel 14 detected by a refrigerating room stationary reader 36 but no longer detected by the stationary reader 36 and subsequently detected by a truck reader 230 can cause a state change to "delivering". ..

The distribution network 10 may have determined that a barrel 14 has been delivered to a distributor 30 (ie, a customer such as a restaurant / bar), but may not know the distributor 30 or the exact time point. be. When the mobile device 38 detects / contacts the presence of the barrel 14 at a location, the distribution network 10 determines which distributor 30 received the barrel and now which distributor 30 has received the barrel. Knowing that 14 has been received, delivery schedules and other information can be retroactively determined.

By using the store-and-forward, the mobile device 38 can download historical information from the radio transmitter 16 when it is detected by the distributor 30. By using the mesh network 18 and the store-and-forward at the distributor 30, the arriving barrel 14 18 can communicate its arrival to the other barrels 14 of the distributor 30. When one of the older barrels 14 leaves the distributor 30 and is returned to the brewery 20, the barrels receive information from the newly arrived barrel 14 while it was at the distributor 30. Forward.

Since the radio transmitter 16 uniquely identifies the barrel 14, the distributor, and the brand, the situation of the barrel 14 may be automatically relayed to the brewery 20 and / or the distributor 64. The distribution network 10 mechanism for determining how full each barrel 14 is attached to the barrel 14 does not require the barrel 14 to be shifted onto the scale. The distribution network 10 uses the communication of the radio transmitter 16 and the quiescent reader 37 / mobile device 38 to automatically relay the filling data to the correct brewery 20 and / or the distributor 64.

Further referring to FIG. 18, the distribution network 10 performs particularly attractive operations as it enters and exits the geographical area. The geographic area is where the barrel 14 to which the radio transmitter 16 is attached "enters" the geographic area when the sensing device 36/38 is within the geographic area or otherwise detects the radio transmitter 16. It is defined so that it can be considered. This determination can be based on the relative position of both the barrel 14 and the sensing device 36/38 relative to the area.

In FIG. 18, barrel 14 A 14 is detected by sensing device 36/381 to be inside region X, and similarly barrel B 14 is inside region Y by sensing device 36/387. Is detected. If the sensing device 36/38 is determined to be in an area, but no item is detected, then all items previously determined to be in that area are said to have "exited" that area. Can be determined. In FIG. 18, the sensing device 36/385 is inside region Z, but barrel C 14 is not detected. Hysteresis may be applied to give barrel C 14 time to be detected or not detected. Since the quiescent reader 36 / mobile device 386 can detect barrel C 14 but is not within the defined geographic area, the sensing device 36/386 will no longer have barrel C 14 within area Z. Make sure that. At any given time, the sensing device 36/38 may or may not be able to detect multiple barrels 14, with or without any number of (possibly overlapping) regions. be.

Depending on the geographical area in which the detection occurs, how far the barrel 14 is determined to be from the sensing device 36/38, and so on, the distribution network 10 software determines which state transition should occur. judge. Geographic location is a multiple factor: GPS reading on sensing device 36/38, Wi-Fi network to which sensing device 36/38 is near or connected, another sensing with predicted location. It can be determined by being "close" to device 36/38, detecting a wireless network or topology, triangulation using signal strength, and so on.

Triangulation can be used to pinpoint the location. For example, the received signal strength of the radio transmitter 16 of one or more receiving stations is correlated to determine a more accurate position of the transmitter with respect to that station. The receiving station can be a node in the wireless distribution network, and therefore knowing the node and the received signal strength at that node makes it possible to determine the probability distribution of the position of the radio transmitter 16. do. This probability distribution is the known location of the building or other interfering structure, data packet loss, vehicle speed, received signal strength of additional transmitters, relative location of other nearby items, item "congestion", It can be affected by additional data such as others.

In some cases, the position of the sensing device 36/38 may be assigned a static position (eg, if the sensing device 36/38 is not expected to move). In this case, any item coming within a certain distance from the sensor can change and cause a state change of that item.

The distribution network 10 software has a programming interface through which updates can be retrieved and / or received from other systems or input methods. These updates can cause state changes. Examples of systems and input methods are automated assembly lines, content filling systems, point-of-sale systems, shipping and receiving systems, and others. The data from these input methods can be combined with any of the other detection mechanisms to reach a conclusion. For example, if the shipping system indicates that five barrels 14 have been received and at the same time five items have been detected to leave the geographic area, the distribution network 10 has received these five barrels 14. It can be determined that the barrel is 14, and the serial number of the barrel 14 can be added to the shipping invoice.

The barrel 14 serial numbers can be automatically and accurately correlated without any manual effort. Deposits can be automatically and accurately correlated without the need for manual effort. Inventory inventory is automatically and accurately maintained without the need for manual labor. The barrel 14 contents, filling date, etc. can be easily examined using a regular mobile phone without any manual scanning or retrieval. The barrel 14 can be automatically and accurately flagged for service based on the number of partitions in the field. The distribution network 10 automatically returns and reports where each barrel 14 is and how full it is, without any manual effort.

By collecting data on the position and history of the barrel 14, the distribution network 10 system determines the state transition. Part of the state transition is determined retroactively. For example, a lack of reading after some time can be used to retroactively determine the state transitions that occurred at the beginning of the period.

FIG. 19 shows the arrangement of various barrels 14 on an exemplary weighing mat 250 for use in the distribution network 10. The mat may be configured to have a predetermined position in the barrel or may allow the barrel to be arbitrarily positioned. On the weighing mat 250, a predetermined barrel 14 position 252 in which the barrel 14 is stored appears. Design 254 shows the use of the distributor 64 or brewery 20 logo on which the barrel 14 should be positioned. Design 254 indicates that the barrel 14 contains a company beer whose logo appears at mat position 252.

The weighing mat 250 may be placed on it under one or more barrels 14 to provide a thin, stationary cushion or surface that is unobtrusive and integrated with the shelf material (or floor). The weighing mat 250 allows the barrel 14 to be arbitrarily shifted within the refrigerator compartment or other barrel 14 section 12 positions. The weighing mat 250 can integrate branding so that a given type of barrel 14 is correlated with position 252. The brewery 20 can be a sponsor of their portion of the weighing mat 250, allowing the total area of the weighing mat 250 to increase over time. The weighing mat 250 wirelessly determines where the barrel 14 is on the weighing mat 250 using the radio transmitter 16 in order to accurately determine which barrel 14 is being weighed.

The weighing mat 250 has a low profile (less than 1 inch), which allows existing distributor 30 shelf material units to be used. The weighing mat 250 preferably has a sloping leading edge to allow the barrel 14 to be easily slid over the top surface. The weighing mat 250 can have one or more ridges / grooves corresponding to multiple barrel 14 sizes or layout positions. The weighing mat 250 does not have to be square and can be circular or hexagonal to facilitate high density packing of the barrel 14 in a large number of different varieties of refrigerating room space.

The area of the weighing mat 250 where the supplier's logo can be printed helps the seller 30 record which barrel 14 goes to which draft handle inside the bar. The logo 254 also allows the brewery 20 or distributor 64 to give / sponsor a weighing mat 250 when the distributor 30 contracts a supplier account. The weighing mat 250 easily engages with the adjacent mat, so that the barrel 14 can be slid from front to back across the weighing mat 250 and from side to side across the weighing mat 250. The edges of the weighing mat 250 can incorporate electrical connections to transmit data between the weighing mats 250. The weighing mat 250 can be sized to accommodate multiple barrels 14 on a single weighing mat 250, and each barrel is weighed separately. The weight measuring mat 250 wirelessly determines where the barrel 14 is on the mat using the radio transmitter 16 in order to accurately determine which barrel 14 is being weighed.

By using the store-and-forward, the mobile device 38 can download historical information from the radio transmitter 16 when the radio transmitter 16 detects the mobile device 38 at the distributor 30. By using the mesh network 18 and the store-and-forward at the distributor 30, the arriving barrel 14 can communicate its arrival to the other barrels 14 of the distributor. When one of the older barrels 14 18 leaves the distributor 30 and is returned to the brewery 20, the mesh network 18 will be from the newly arrived barrel 14 while the barrel was at the distributor 30. Transfer information.

FIG. 20 shows improved barrel 14 use, monitoring, and reporting between behavior occurring within a refrigerator compartment 278 and behavior occurring within a public room 279 such as a restaurant or other location. FIG. 20 is reported by the barrel 14 mesh network 18 to provide a correlation between the operation of the beer tap 260 in the public room 279 and the beer barrel 14 in the barrel 14 section 12 of the refrigerating room 278. It shows the interaction between the refrigerating room 278 and the public room 279 of barrel 14 section 12 that can be positioned on the weighing mat 250 for communication. In the alternative, the barrel 14 collar 142 can instead provide the function of the weighing mat 250. In addition, within the public room 279, there is a transaction display that the distribution network 10 makes available to facilitate POS 262 transactions. The POS transaction utilizes information about the status of the barrel 14 in the refrigerator compartment 278 and provides input for the user to make other decisions regarding the purchase and the consumption of different beers according to the status of the barrel 14.

By correlating the decrease in barrel 14 levels with the increase in liquor purchases, the distribution network 10 allows the determination of which consumer 66 purchased from which barrel 14. After the barrel 14 has been determined, it is possible to know the brewery 20, the type of beer, the date of brewing, etc., as disclosed herein.

By correlating the consumer 66 position with respect to the barrel 14 position, the beer is filled to the consumer 66 when the barrel 14 of their favorite beer can be brewed 260, depending on when the beer is brewed. Where is the nearest public room 279 to buy, how long the beer is likely to be brewed 260 ie how full the barrel 14 is, or the barrel 14 is no longer available It is possible to tell if the beer is and how fresh the beer is.

When the limited supply barrel 14 is attached to the drinking barrel 260, the action of attaching the drinking barrel 260 can trigger an alarm to the consumer 66 indicating that the barrel 14 is currently available. The distribution network 10 is what consumers 66 like / previously purchased / what their friends like / what others drink / popular / freshest / longest aged / Similar to seasonal or special / from local brewery 20 / from distant brewery 20 / with special ingredients / limited supply, currently available with a sip Can show other beers.

The distribution network 10 shows other beers currently available with a mouthpiece 260, similar to those preferred by consumer 66 / previously purchased / others, thereby giving consumer 66 a new brewery. I can introduce you. The distribution network 10 can indicate the brewing date of each beer, how long it has been aged, how long it has been since it was spouted, and so on. The distribution network 10 can recommend locations based on the available beer types.

When the consumer 66 enters the public room 279 using the POS function 262, the fact that the consumer 66 is within range of the barrel 14 is determined. This is used to determine when the consumer 66 arrives and / or departs at that location and can be correlated with the marketing done to that consumer 66. By correlating the consumer 66 purchase of the product with the marketing made to the consumer 66, it is possible to determine the marketing efficiency. Efficiency can be calculated automatically and future choices of marketing messages or marketing processes can be determined automatically.

By correlating the reduced barrel 14 levels with liquor purchases, it is possible to determine which consumer 66 purchased from which barrel. After the barrel 14 is determined, the brewery, beer type, brewing date, etc. will be known.

By correlating the consumer 66 position with the barrel 14 position, (1) when the consumer's favorite beer barrel 14 was swallowed, (2) the closest position to buy a glass of beer, (3) How likely it is that the beer has been brewed (ie, how empty the barrel 14 is), (4) the barrel 14 is no longer available, (5) beer. It is possible to inform the consumer 66 how fresh (ie, when it was brewed).

When the limited supply barrel 14 is squeezed, the action of being squeezed can trigger an alarm to the consumer 66 that the barrel 14 is currently available. The distribution network 10 is what consumer 66 likes or previously purchased, what consumer 66's friends like, what other consumers 66 are drinking, what is popular at or near this location, this location or Freshest in the vicinity, longest aged products, seasonal or specialty products, products from local breweries, products from distant breweries, products with special or specific ingredients, in limited supply It is possible to indicate another product that is currently available with a brew, similar to one product, etc.

The distribution network 10 shows consumers 66's favorite / previously purchased / other similar beers currently available with a sip, thereby introducing the new brewery to consumer 66. can do. The distribution network 10 can indicate the brewing date of each beer, how long it has been aged, how long it has been since it was spouted, and so on.

The distribution network 10 can recommend locations based on the available beer types. When the consumer 66 enters a position / event where the distribution network 10 barrels are used, the fact that the consumer 66 is within range of the barrel 14 is determined. This is used to determine when consumer 66 arrives at and / or departs from that location and can be correlated with marketing done to that consumer 66.

In order for the consumer 66 to be notified that the barrel 14 is moving, the barrel 14 is arriving at a location, etc., the brewery will be the "sponsor" of the barrel 14 where the consumer 66 is located. Can be made possible. If the consumer 66 wants to be a sponsor of barrel 14 containing only one type of beer, a container can be allocated to his sponsorship at every brewery, so the actual container is each brew. It looks like he "owns" a particular barrel, even if it is different. This allows the consumer 66 to perceive as a sponsor of a single barrel, while allowing the brewery to rotate their barrel 14 normally.

FIG. 21 shows an exemplary quiescent reader 36 for radio transmitter 16 detection and measurement according to the present disclosure. The quiescent reader 36 includes a yellow LED 270 and a red LED 272. The quiescent reader 36 is preferably mounted on a wall, such as in a refrigerator compartment 278 or at a different location. The quiesce reader 36 is preferably managed via the mobile device 38 application rather than having a screen. LEDs 270 and 272 indicate the state of the stationary reader 36. The red LED 272 reports whether the quiescent reader 36 is turned on and connected to the internet 54. The yellow LED 270 indicates that barrel 14 sensing is active using radio transmitter 16 or collar radio transmitter 142, and during initial setup, the quiescent reader 36 is ready to receive a Wi-Fi password. Show that it is.

If the quiesced reader 36 does not have a current connection to the Internet, a peer-to-peer connection (eg, via Bluetooth®) can make the required connection. The quiesced reader maintains a connection to the Internet and actively attempts to reestablish the connection if the connection goes down. Proximity reading to barrel 14 is taken continuously. If the internet 54 connection goes down, the readings are spooled to the local buffer sensor / data collection section 34, and when the internet 54 connection comes back up, the spooled data is sent to the server computer 56. .. The data is compressed, then encrypted, authenticated and sent to the server.

Each quiesced reader 36 in the distribution network 10 possesses a unique identifier and a unique asymmetric encryption key. Only the mobile device 38 with the other half of the asymmetric key is authorized to manage the quiesced reader 36. The asymmetric key is retrieved from the server computer 56 and is not permanently stored on the mobile device 38 and has only per-session usage rights.

FIG. 22 shows the placement of a filling reader associated with a refrigerator compartment 278 or other location for detecting and reporting conditions for multiple barrels 14. FIG. 22 further includes the use of a mobile reader 274 that can be used on a stand 276 close to the mesh network 18 of the barrel 14 in the refrigerator compartment 278.

FIG. 23 shows a filling reader display 280 that the mobile reader 274 or sensing device 36/38 can show to show the status of the barrel 14 in the mesh network 18. The display 280 provides information 282 about an empty barrel 14 and information 284 about a full barrel 14. Empty barrel 14 display 282 indicates that barrel 1, barrel 2, barrel 3, and barrel 4 are empty barrel 14. The full barrel 14 display 284 indicates that the barrel 10, barrel 11, barrel 12, and barrel 13 are full. The filling icon 286 directs the movement of various barrels 14 in the refrigerator compartment 278 from empty to full. Indicator 286 indicates that the type of liquid product is in various barrels, here in pale ale. The display 280 also indicates the date on which the display is operating.

The filling reader display 280 allows the brewery 20 to enter the filling date and content of the barrel 14 when the brewery 20 fills the barrel 14 using a conventional tablet device 274. The distribution network 10 software can use it to select products to be filled with barrels and manually mark the barrels 14 as they are filled to indicate nearby barrels 14 and their condition. do. According to the Brewery 20 preferences, the distribution network 10 software requires manual marking of the barrel 14 or the barrel 14 based on being within the set distance range of the filling reader 274 over a period of time. You can either mark it automatically.

24A and 24B show how the static reader 36 can sense the barrel 14 situation in a refrigerator compartment 278 with a closed metal door. Within the refrigerator compartment 278, the mesh network 18 of the radio transmitter 16 may be positioned behind the closed refrigerator compartment door 290. During this time, it is not possible to obtain the necessary communication between the radio transmitter 16 and the sensing device 36/38. However, as shown in FIG. 24B, after the refrigerating room door 290 is opened, an open communication path between the quiescent reader 36 and the mesh network 18 appears, and each radio transmitter 16 on the barrel 14 appears. Allows to be read. In the alternative, communication can occur to any mobile device 38, 40, 42, 60 outside the refrigerator compartment. Although it is not possible to sense the radio transmitter 16, historical data may be stored in the radio transmitter 16 and transferred from the radio transmitter 16. Alternatively, when the mobile device 38 enters and exits the refrigerator compartment 278, the mobile device 38 data from barrel 14 or mesh network 18 in the refrigerator compartment 278 for subsequent reporting within distribution network 10. Can be acquired.

25 and 26 show the laminated structure of the weight measuring mat 250 according to the present disclosure. The weighing mat 250 includes a smooth top layer 292 bonded to the compressible spacer layer 294. Below the compressible spacer layer 294, the bottom layer 296 appears. The weighing mat 250 can be placed on a metal shelf crossbar 298. The bottom layer 296 can include a high friction rubber layer 300. The smooth top layer 292 can further include a ridge 302 on which the barrel 14 can be placed. The smooth top layer allows the barrel 14 to be easily slid on the weighing mat 250. The bottom layer 296 surface can include a high friction rubber or adhesive surface to keep the weighing mat 250 in place on the metal shelf crossbar 298. An optional raised ridge 302 on the smooth top layer 292 places one or more barrels 14 in the best position for weight measurement and for use in connection with other barrels 14 within the mesh network 18. Helps to position.

FIG. 26 shows a weight measuring device or measuring device 304 integrated with the weight measuring mat 250 of the present disclosure. The weight measuring device 304 is sandwiched between the smooth top layer 292 and the bottom layer 296. The weight measuring device 304 of the example can be a load cell, a pressure sensor, or the like. The smooth deflection of the top layer 292 and the compression of the compressible spacer layer 294 as the barrel 14 rests on the weighing mat 250 transfers the weight force of the barrel 14 to the weighing device 304. An optional spacing material can be used to support the smooth top layer 292 outside the weight measurement area. Overload protection prevents damage to the weighing device 304 from large sudden loads dropped from the shelves onto the weighing mat 250.

FIG. 27 shows the relationship of the radio transmitter 16 with the weight measuring mat 250 of the present disclosure. FIG. 27 shows that the weight measuring mat 250 includes a weight measuring device 304 positioned under the ridge 302. The radio transmitter 16 communicates with the matt antenna 306. In the embodiment of FIG. 27, the weight measuring mat 250 correlates the barrel 14 weight measured by the weight measuring device 304 with the barrel 14 state change.

The radio antenna 306 receives a signal from the radio transmitter 16 when the barrel 14 is placed on the weighing mat 250. The weighing mat 250 can then send the barrel 14 weight and other information about the barrel 14 directly to the storage system stationary reader 36, to the mobile device 38, or to either the intermediate sensing device 36/38. .. The intermediate sensing device 36/38 can further include another weighing mat 250, another quiescent reader 36, a mobile device 38, an internet or cloud server computer 56 via Wi-Fi, and the like.

The radio transmitter 16 includes a sensor on the PCB 88, the sensor capable of detecting an event that triggers a state change elsewhere in the barrel 14, mesh network 18, or distribution network 10. One example could be a temperature sensor 192 that determines a temperature change that is important for barrel 14 state tracking. Such temperature changes and / or state changes themselves are communicated to the mobile device 38, thereby communicating to the rest of the distribution network 10.

The arrangement of the radio transmitter 16 on the lower edge 136 of the barrel 14 allows for easy detection by the matt antenna 306 and signal ambiguity from other nearby barrels 14 in the mesh network 18. The distribution network 10 software determines which brand and type of beer is on the weighing mat 250, which barrel 14 is filled when, and so on. The mat antenna 306 is located directly above each weighing mat 250, with no other barrels 14 in the vicinity not on the weighing mat 250, in a position to best detect the radio transmitter 16. The weighing mat 250 may also incorporate an RF shield to prevent items on the weighing mat 250 on the lower metal shelf crossbar 298 from being detected. The matt antenna 306 can be directional to further aid in the disambiguation of the nearby barrel 14.

The mechanical overload protection mechanism allows the full barrel 14 weighing mat 250 to be dropped directly and safely. Such an event has occurred and the weighing mat 250 is on a barrel 14 dropped from the floor and nearby shelves. When using the load cell as the weighing device 304, a mechanical stop is incorporated into the load cell action to prevent damage to the load cell in the event of an overload. When using the pressure sensor as the weighing device 304, the point load compresses the smooth top layer 292, spacer layer 294, and rubber layer 300, so that the load is the metal under the weighing mat 250. It will be transmitted to the shelf crossbar 298. Only the load spreads over the smooth top layer 292, and the surface registers the reading.

Within each mesh network 18, one weighing mat 250 can act as a "master" mat responsible for collecting information from nearby weighing mats 250 prior to transmission to the server computer 56. The weight mat 250 may be individually connected to the server section 52 via Wi-Fi or other means. The weighing mat 250 can send the reading directly to the sensing device 36/38 or to a nearby tablet computer. Radio measurements are aggregated from the plurality of weighing mats 250 via the distribution network 10 software in order to disambiguate the plurality of radio transmitter 16 signals from the various barrels 14. The barrel 14 weights were aggregated via the distribution network 10 software to automatically order more products when needed. Weighing mat 250 hardware supplies events such as barrel 14 on weighing mat 250, getting off, barrel 14 is almost empty, new barrel 14 is cut off, etc. to distribution network 10 software. do. The distribution network 10 software uses the events received from the weighing mat 250 hardware to determine additional conditions, such as whether the last full barrel 14 of some brand was fitted with a mouthpiece 260, etc. .. These events and conditions trigger actions such as POS notification 262.

FIG. 28 shows a potential configuration of stacked barrels 14 that can be measured and monitored using the weight measuring mat 250 of the present disclosure. An alternative double barrel 14 weighing mat 310 provides the ability to stack two barrels 14 as an upper barrel 272 and a lower barrel 274. With the upper barrel 272 stacked on the lower barrel 274, the weighing mat 276 can provide a weight measurement of the combined weight of the two barrels 14. Two barrels 14 stacked on top of each other assume that one of the two is either full or empty. Thus, both barrels 14 can start from full and the upper barrel 14 272 can be flushed out. The upper barrel 272 may then be placed below and the lower barrel 274 connects to the tap 260. In this configuration, only one barrel 14 is flushed out at a time. The weight mat 250 can have a read area indicating the weight / percentage of filling / etc. of the barrel 14 currently attached to the mouth 260. The distribution network 10 software can automatically compensate for whether the lower barrel 14 274 is full or empty.

29-32 show various screens of the mobile device 38 application of the present disclosure. FIG. 29 shows a connection via the mobile device 38 to wireless transmission from the quiescent reader 36 and / or the radio transmitter 16. As shown in FIG. 29, the access screen 320 has the ability to determine that the quiescent reader 36 is within the Bluetooth® connection of Icon 322 or within the Wi-Fi connection of Icon 324 to the mobile device 38. show. The red indicator light 326 can indicate that "Track # 1" as a reading station is accessible from the mobile device 38. The access screen 320 also shows the ability to select a station 328, truck 330, or other location within the liquid product distribution network 10.

The distribution network 10 software present on the mobile phone / mobile device creates a peer-to-peer network for operating the quiescent reader 36. The mobile device 38 screen allows the quiescent reader 36 to enter a setting that allows it to connect to the local Wi-Fi and then to the rest of the distribution network 10. FIG. 29 is a list of quiescent readers for various vendors 30, with a red / green indicator light 326 showing an indication of the quiescent reader 36 operating status. The Bluetooth® connection icon 322 and the Wi-Fi connection icon 324 indicate whether each quiescent reader 36 currently has a wireless connection to the distribution network 10.

FIG. 30 shows how the mobile device 38 can connect to the distribution network 10. For example, the mobile device 38 can connect to a peer-to-peer network at selection 340 via server section 52 or at selection 342 at sensor / data acquisition section 34. These connections are selectable by the mobile device 38 user, such as the illustrated example of peer-to-peer network selection 340 in FIG.

FIG. 31 shows how the mobile device 38 software allows the user to determine the status of the distribution network 10 software at the station. Therefore, the version screen 350 indicates that the station name is "Reader # 4" and that the Wi-Fi network "Private_Wifi" and version 1.1.1 are used. The version screen 350 also indicates the presence of a nearby Wi-Fi network applicable to the mobile device 38. FIG. 31 shows information received from a quiescent reader 36 regarding the current state of the quiesced reader 36, using names that are meaningful to the position of the reader. Also in this figure, information is provided as to whether the Wi-Fi network was programmed into it and the quiesced reader 36 firmware version. The "nearby" selection makes it possible to indicate other radio transmitters 16 that may be currently being detected by the quiescent reader 36.

FIG. 32 simply provides the ability to choose between different Wi-Fi networks, which should be typical in the operation of the mobile device 38. FIG. 32 shows the identification and selection of a WiFi network (Private_Wifi) from the listed available Wi-Fi networks.

33-35 are exemplary that may find use for mobile phones and tablets that act as mobile devices 38 in detecting and reporting barrels 14 in various locations and data applicable for monitoring and reporting. Show the screen. 33 to 36 further describe the communication capability of the distribution network 10 software. For example, FIG. 33 shows a mobile device 38 interface including a satellite fluoroscopy that provides the ability to maintain different customers associated with a distribution network 10 as well as the ability to delve into a customer to determine a customer situation. Therefore, the maintenance and digging screen 360 shows a satellite image 362 containing a number of barrels 14 icons 364 indicating customers associated with the distribution network 10. For example, the selection bar 366 provides the ability to select nearby locations 368, barrel 14 reporting section 370, filling status selector 372, and delivery section 374 to perform various distribution network 10 functions.

FIG. 33 is a screen showing distribution network 10 tracking and analysis of filling level data for presenting a map and location list in which a barrel 14 with a radio transmitter 16 and a sensing device 36/38 for reading thereof appears. 360 is shown. In the upper half of the screen 360, each circle 364 with a via mug represents a barrel 14 section 12 position. A circle 362 without a via mug represents a group of barrels 14 sections 12 positions. The lower half of the screen 360 can provide a list of customers associated with each circle 362 or 364. Either a click on the circle 362 or 364 or a click on the customer name below shows FIG. 34, which provides additional information about a particular customer, in this case the 15th Street Cafe. The icon may change based on the barrel 14 situation at a particular location.

The controls at the bottom of the map area on screen 360 are (1) adding new customers that have not yet been measured, (2) changing the map graphics type, (3) displaying the user's current location, (4). Includes resizing the map for the list. The four yellow buttons at the top of the list area are (1) containers found within a given radius of the user, (2) all containers, their location / state / other list, (3). It leads to a control for filling the barrel 14 similar to FIG. 22, (4) four screens having specific information about the delivery screen for entering notes and information about the specific delivery.

By performing a reverse address lookup (from GPS to the address) when the truck 70 is stopped, the distribution network 10 determines the delivery customer, thereby determining the inventory inventory at the barrel 4 section 12 position. Can be done. If the sensing device 36/38 does not include the reverse location address lookup capability, GPS data associated with the sensing device 36/38 may be passed to the server computer 56, which server computer 56 looks up. GPS data is pushed to different sensing devices 36/38 capable of performing, or GPS data associated with sensing device 36/38 is passed directly to another sensing device 36/38 in distribution network 10. obtain. The determined reverse location address lookup result may then be sent back to the original sensing device 36/38. After the address is looked up, the sensing device 36/38 can be address cached, so next time only GPS data is needed to determine the relevant barrel 14 section 12 customer.

The distribution network 10 software can also display route information to the driver of the truck 70. Such route information can include the customer of the day, the driving route, what to unload and what to load, verify that the driver has loaded and unloaded the correct inventory, and so on. The distribution network 10 software can also learn the route of the truck 70 driver over time. For example, the distribution network 10 software may record that deliveries to a customer always occur from a parking lot. This information becomes part of the knowledge base displayed to the truck 70 driver by the distribution network 10 software.

The distribution network 10 software provides a knowledge base that acts as a specific customer information, schedule, invoice, unloading and pick-up request, and other repositories, such as combinations to routes, locks and places where empty barrels 14 are stored, and so on. Further provide. Pickup, delivery, and inventory data are correlated to invoices, route schedules, last known inventory (ie, lost barrels), and more. The tablet 244 on track 70 can communicate wirelessly with track reader 230 to display mappings, routing, and more.

FIG. 34 shows the result of selection of the "nearby" function 368, in which the 15th St. A Cafe, eg, a report, can be generated as a screen 390. In the report on screen 390, the barrel 14 configuration and the position reported by the report, here 15th St. There should be information about Cafe's associated mesh network.

In addition to the above, FIG. 35 shows available types of information about each barrel 14, ie, serial number, content, location, barrel 14 size, barrel 14 history. When the barrel 14 function 370 is selected, the barrel 14 information screen 380 of FIG. 34 can appear on the mobile device 38. Such information includes the name assigned to the barrel 14, the products contained within the barrel 14, the condition of the barrel 14, any identification number for the barrel 14, the size of the barrel 14, and all important actions regarding the barrel 14. Can include.

FIG. 35 shows the available types of information about the customer: name and address, notes about the customer (instructions, personnel, etc.), local barrel 14 and its contents, date of delivery to the customer, barrel. It shows how much the barrel 14 is filled, the statistical history of the customer including the average number of days it takes for the barrel 14 to be empty, and the average rate of product consumption.

FIG. 36 relates to the POS marketing feedback loop 262 of FIG. 20 according to the present disclosure. The POS marketing feedback loop 262 is to indicate to consumer 66 about the restaurant or other barrel 14 section 12 location where barrel 14 containing beer of known importance to consumer 66 may be available. Can be coalesced via application or wireless network. The screen 400 appears on the consumer 66 mobile device 38 to provide notifications from the RMS section 58 of the distribution network 10. Screen 400 shows an event that may be of interest or important to consumer 66 or other parties within distribution network 10. Notice 402 indicates that the "Austin IPA" brand beer has just been made available at the location "Revolution". Through this notification, the mobile device 38 allows the consumer 66 to share this information or simply acknowledge the event by selecting "Share" or "OK" respectively. The value of this feature to all parties within the distribution network 10 can be very high.

37A-37D show security deposit information and data that can be reported by the distribution network 10 software to perform various management and financial functions related to financial transactions. As such, management and financial information has significant benefits in terms of invoices, accounting, and verification of information entered by the truck 70 driver regarding the delivery of barrel 14.

FIG. 37A provides a report that distributor 64 or brewery 20 may find very advantageous in reporting inventory by barrel 14 section 12 position. Report 410 may apply, for example, to Distributor 64 and provides a "inventory inventory by location" for each listing of Distributor 30 Position 412 that Distributor 64 can service. Report segment 414 presents the status of an empty barrel 14 that may be in a position. Report segment 416 presents time stamped information about the history of barrel 14 with the identity of "barrel # 008". Therefore, FIG. 37A shows how the distribution network 10 software allows drilling down from the high level aggregate view to the individual barrel 14 history.

FIG. 37B provides information about barrels 14 that may be in a particular distributor 30 position within the "partition report". FIG. 37B shows the calculation of each barrel 14 “state” and how many days each barrel 14 is in each state. FIG. 37B also shows a complete barrel 14 cycle from the brewery (date on the left) to the barrel 14 returning to the brewery (date on the right) via various conditions.

FIG. 37C provides an "inventory inventory report" by barrel 14 or by barrel 14. FIG. 37C is similar to 36B, except that the current position of barrel 14 appears in column 2, the contents of barrel 14 appear in column 3, and there is a current progression of barrel 14 through the state that has progressed so far. Show the data.

FIG. 37D shows a "daily change" report at a location. The report of FIG. 37D shows the daily changes in the condition of the barrel 14, which progresses through the distribution network 10. These are just examples of the many types of reporting and managed financial information enabled by the distribution network 10 software and components. Within the application, other types of reports can also benefit stakeholders within distribution network 10.

FIG. 38 shows a seller 30 customer, their location on a map, information about the seller, an inventory list at the seller, and a customer screen for viewing the customer history. FIG. 38 The customer screen shows the information that can be generated by the distribution network 10 during the delivery of the barrel 14 and shows the last inventory inventory of the seller 30 positions that may be seen by the truck 70 driver. The customer screen of FIG. 38 allows drilling down to a location to indicate the status of a location that is part of the distribution network 10. The customer screen includes reports and includes 30 views of barrels, products, readers and other distributors that may be seen via a web browser or inside the distribution network 10 mobile device 38 app. Customer screens, either individually or in groups / aggregates, are radio transmitters 16, barrels 14, breweries 20, products (eg, beer brands and types), distributors 64, distributors 30, barrels. 14 Sections 12 positions, static reader 36, etc. are displayed. The customer screen also provides a dashboard display to show the overall information in a user-customizable cell. The customer screen of FIG. 38 displays only the data allowed to the user / device and further generates important notifications (eg, beer too old, lost barrels, delivery errors) throughout the distribution network 10. be able to.

FIG. 39 shows his further aspect of the liquid product distribution network for automatically managing deposit information. Such information can include how many barrels 14 are at each distributor 30 position within the distribution network 10. When a barrel 14 with a radio transmitter 16 or a collar radio transmitter 142 appears from the delivery truck 70 in a barrel 14 section 12 such as a distributor 30 position, the barrel is automatically distributed in the barrel 14 section 12 position. Become part of the net 10. This is shown by Report 420 in FIG. 39, which contains deposit information for the barrel. Therefore, the delivery of the barrel 14 initiates a financial transaction with respect to the newly placed barrel 14 at the distributor 30 position. Therefore, when the deposit is made, a fee of $ 120 will appear due to the communication of the radio transmitter 16. Similarly, when the barrel 14 with the radio transmitter 16 is returned via the distribution network 10, a $ 60 return repayment will appear. The distribution network 10 system in the illustrated example automatically credits and debits the deposit based on the measurement that 4 barrels are left and 2 are received. On the right side shows the actual barrel detection by the seller 30 customer and the use of this data to invoice, so on the right side is the exact barrel 14 and the received barrel 14. And.

The software automatically manages the deposit information, that is, how many barrels 14 are in each position determines the rolling deposit fee for that position. The deposit information is automatically propagated back to invoices, accounting, etc., or is used as a double check on the data entered by the driver. Invoices are typically prepared before the truck 70 driver leaves the warehouse, and the stack of invoices for the driver is used as a pick list for loading barrels 14 and their products on truck 70. When the truck 70 driver actually makes the delivery, the particular barrel 14 deposited and received is added to the invoice.

The “Inventory Inventory” report section 422 of FIG. 39 shows a listing of all barrels 14 that may be in the barrel 14 section position. Column 424 of the inventory report 422 provides identification of barrel 14 with the identifier "QB # 3-005". Column 426 indicates that QB # 3-005 barrel 14 contains a 6 inch product or "Pale Ale" shown in row 428. The inventory inventory report 422 further indicates that the distribution network 10 has also detected other barrels 14, such as barrels 14 with identifiers "HB # 3-001", "HB # 3-003", and others. All barrels 14 listed in Inventory Inventory Report 422 have relevant content measurements for both volume and type of beer.

In summary, the subject matter disclosed is to monitor, control and optimize the flow of liquid products for delivery to consumers supplied by the distribution network for delivering liquid products through the liquid product distribution container. Provide a liquid product distribution network that is becoming more and more popular. The liquid product distribution network includes at least one liquid product distribution container for transportation from the transportation position to the distribution position. The at least one liquid product distribution container includes a adaptably attached radio transmitter and microprocessor for sensing and transmitting multiple data measurements regarding the status of the liquid product distribution container. A quiesced reader or mobile radio signal reader operates within a distribution network to receive multiple data measurements from a radio transmitter and further communicate information about the multiple data measurements. Computer software systems are associated with radio signal readers for multiple data acquisition functions. Data collection functions include liquid product management functions, liquid product sales functions, and liquid product consumer management functions. The computer processing server system relates to a quiesced reader to process data and execute instructions associated with information about the data acquisition function. The computer processing server further communicates information about the data acquisition function to the Internet communication or cloud interface. Sales reporting and marketing / sales systems relate to computer processing server systems to interface with multiple computer processing systems that operate in connection with the ability to produce, deliver, sell, and consume liquid products.

In a further summary, the present disclosure relates to liquid products such as beer barrels to monitor, control, and / or optimize the flow of liquid products delivered to consumers from liquid product distribution containers with respect to the liquid product distribution network. Provides a liquid product distribution container device attached to a distribution container. The liquid product distribution container moves from position to position and distributes liquid products from a position in the distribution network. The liquid product distribution container device includes a casing for attaching it to the liquid product distribution container. The casing includes an enclosure and a mounting mechanism for mounting the casing in place in the liquid product distribution container. The liquid product distribution container device includes a power source for supplying electric power. A light indicator may be included to indicate the status of the liquid product distribution container device. The liquid product distribution container device includes a radio transmitter circuit that is secured within the enclosure. The radio / processing module processes the radio signal transmission of information about the liquid product distribution container. The antenna relates to a radio / processing module for transmitting and receiving radio signal transmissions between the radio / processing module and at least one quiescent reader and / or mobile device. The temperature sensor circuit senses the temperature of the liquid product distribution container and the generation of electronic signals about the temperature. The converter circuit senses the measured value of the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container and generates an electronic signal about the sensed measurement value. Microphone / sensor circuits for sensing sound and related data relate to the distribution of liquid products from the liquid product distribution container. The codec / digital signal processing circuit receives data and processing instructions from temperature sensors, converters, and microphone / sensor circuits, the location of the liquid product distribution container, the state of the liquid product distribution container, and the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container. Includes memory and computer instruction processing network for generating information about the state of. Processor instructions allow the radio transmitter device to operate to communicate information about the location of the liquid product distribution container, the status of the liquid product distribution container, and the status of the liquid product within the liquid product distribution container.

The benefits and benefits that can be provided by the present invention have been described above for specific embodiments. These benefits and benefits, as well as any element or limitation that may cause or make them more apparent, are the critical features, required features, or mandatory features of any or all of the claims. It should not be interpreted as a feature. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises and / or composing" or "includes and / or including" or any other variation thereof are to be construed to include non-exclusively the elements or restrictions that follow these terms. Is intended. Thus, a system, method, or other embodiment that includes a set of elements is not limited to these elements alone and may include other elements that are not explicitly listed or specific to the claimed embodiment. can. These terms, as used herein, specify the presence of the features, regions, integers, steps, behaviors, elements, and / or components described, but one or more features, regions,. Do not exclude the existence or addition of integers, steps, actions, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

Claims (20)

A liquid product distribution network that monitors, controls, and optimizes the flow of liquid products for delivery to consumers via liquid product distribution containers.
At least one liquid product distribution container for transport from a transport position to a distribution position, said at least one liquid product distribution container sensing and transmitting multiple data measurements regarding the status of the liquid product distribution container. Liquid product distribution container, including adaptably attached radio transmitter and microprocessor, for
To receive the plurality of data measurements from the radio transmitter and further communicate information about the plurality of data measurements to the computer software system associated with the distribution location for the plurality of data acquisition functions. A quiescent or mobile radio signal reader capable of operating within the distribution network, wherein the data acquisition function includes a liquid product management function, a liquid product sales function, and a liquid product consumer management function.・ With a radio signal reader
A computer processing system associated with the quiesced reader for processing data, executing instructions associated with the information about the data collection function, and further interfacing the information about the data collection function with an internet communication interface.
Sales reporting and marketing sales / subsystems related to the computer processing system for interfacing with multiple computer processing systems operating in connection with the ability to produce, deliver, sell and consume the liquid product. And ,
A certified mounting mechanism for mounting the radio transmitter in a barrel, wherein the certified mounting mechanism is operated by a secret digital master key and a certified mounting mechanism.
Liquid product distribution network , including. A truck used on a delivery truck operating within the liquid product distribution network to monitor, control and optimize the flow of the liquid product for delivery to the consumer via the liquid product distribution container. The liquid product distribution network according to claim 1, further comprising a reader unit. The computer processing system processes the data and executes instructions to associate events that may affect the barrel state transition as the monitored liquid product distribution container traverses across various geographic areas. The liquid product distribution network according to claim 1, which is related to the stationary reader. At least one weight measurement to determine the weight of the at least one liquid distribution container at at least one of the distribution positions, which determines the volume, condition, and other information about the contents of the at least one liquid distribution container. The liquid product distribution network according to claim 1, further comprising a matte system. The network and executables associated with the radio transmitter and microprocessor to monitor, control, and optimize the operations that occur in the distribution position refrigeration room and in the public room of the distribution position. The liquid product distribution network according to claim 1, further comprising an order. The liquid product distribution network according to claim 1, further comprising a filling reader at the distribution position for determining the filling level of the liquid product distribution container arranged in the distribution position refrigerating chamber. The liquid product distribution network according to claim 1, further comprising a mobile device application associated with the liquid product distribution network for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the operation of the liquid product distribution network. The liquid product distribution network according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of marketing feedback orders for using the liquid product distribution network to market a given liquid product to consumers. A method of monitoring, controlling and optimizing the flow of liquid products for delivery to consumers via liquid product distribution containers using the liquid product distribution network.
A step of transporting at least one liquid product distribution container from a transport position to a distribution position, wherein the at least one liquid product distribution container senses and transmits a plurality of data measurements regarding the status of the liquid product distribution container. Steps including adaptable attached radio transmitter and microprocessor for, and
A quiesced reader or mobile radio signal reader capable of operating within the distribution network is used to receive the plurality of data measurements from the radio transmitter and is associated with the distribution position for multiple data acquisition functions. A step of further communicating information about the plurality of data measurements to a computer software system, the data acquisition function including a liquid product management function, a liquid product sales function, and a liquid product consumer management function . With Tep,
A step of using a computer processing system associated with the quiesced reader to process data, execute instructions associated with the information about the data collection function, and further interface the information about the data collection function to an internet communication interface. ,
With multiple computer processing systems operating in relation to the ability to produce, deliver, sell and consume said liquid products using the sales reporting and marketing sales / subsystems associated with the computer processing system. Steps to interface and
The step of mounting the radio transmitter in a barrel by a certified mounting mechanism, the step of which the certified mounting mechanism is activated by a secret digital master key, and the step.
Including the method. A truck reader unit on a delivery truck operating within the liquid product distribution network to monitor, control and optimize the flow of the liquid product for delivery to the consumer via the liquid product distribution container. 9. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of using. Said the quiescent reader to execute instructions that process data and associate events that may affect barrel state transitions as the monitored liquid product distribution container traverses across various geographic areas. 9. The method of claim 9, further comprising associating with a computer processing system. At least one of said distribution positions using at least one weighing mat system in determining volume, condition, and other information about the contents of at least one liquid container. 9. The method of claim 9, further comprising determining the weight of the liquid distribution container. The claim further comprises the step of associating the radio transmitter and microprocessor to monitor, control and optimize the operation occurring in the distribution position refrigeration chamber and the operation occurring in the public room of the distribution position. 9. The method according to 9. The method of claim 9, further comprising operating a filling reader at the distribution position to determine the filling level of the liquid product distribution container located in the distribution position refrigeration chamber. 9. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of using a mobile device application associated with the liquid product distribution container to monitor, control, and optimize the operation of the liquid product distribution network. Steps to use multiple marketing feedback orders related to the sales report and marketing sales subsystem that market the product to consumers as determined by the predetermined liquid product contained within the liquid product distribution container. The method of claim 9, further comprising. A radio transmitter device for use within a liquid product distribution network for monitoring, controlling and optimizing the flow of liquid products for delivery to consumers via a liquid product distribution container, said. The liquid product distribution network
At least one liquid product distribution container for transport from a transport position to a distribution position, said at least one liquid product distribution container sensing and transmitting multiple data measurements regarding the status of the liquid product distribution container. The radio transmitter device includes a liquid product distribution container, including a radio transmitter and a microprocessor that is compliantly attached for use.
An outer housing for mounting to the liquid product distribution container, wherein the outer housing comprises an enclosure and a mounting mechanism for mounting the outer housing in place of the liquid product distribution container.
A self-contained power source for powering the liquid product distribution container device,
A radio transmitter device fixed in the enclosure.
A radio / processing module for processing radio signal transmission of information about the liquid product distribution container, and
An antenna associated with the radio / processing module for transmitting and receiving the radio signal transmission between the radio / processing module and at least one hub and / or mobile device.
A mechanism for broadcasting the signal and data so that the receiver of the broadcast can approximate the distance to the broadcaster using the characteristics of the signal and the data contained therein.
A sensor interface that allows one or more sensors to interface with the processor,
A processor for operating the radio transmitter device to store and communicate information about the location of the liquid product distribution container, the state of the liquid product distribution container, and the state of the liquid product in the liquid product distribution container. With instructions and installed memory ,
Including radio transmitter devices and
To receive the plurality of data measurements from the radio transmitter and further communicate information about the plurality of data measurements to the computer software system associated with the distribution location for the plurality of data acquisition functions. A quiescent or mobile radio signal reader capable of operating within the distribution network, wherein the data acquisition function includes a liquid product management function, a liquid product sales function, and a liquid product consumer management function.・ With a radio signal reader
A computer processing system associated with the quiesced reader for processing data, executing instructions associated with the information about the data collection function, and further interfacing the information about the data collection function with an internet communication interface.
Sales reporting and marketing sales / subsystems related to the computer processing system for interfacing with multiple computer processing systems operating in connection with the ability to produce, deliver, sell and consume the liquid product. And ,
A certified mounting mechanism for mounting the radio transmitter in a barrel, wherein the certified mounting mechanism is operated by a secret digital master key and a certified mounting mechanism.
Including radio transmitter devices. A truck used on a delivery truck operating within the liquid product distribution network to monitor, control and optimize the flow of the liquid product for delivery to the consumer via the liquid product distribution container. 17. The radio transmitter device of claim 17, further comprising instructions and a network for associating a reader unit. Data for storage and execution in said computer processing system to correlate events that may affect barrel state transitions as the monitored liquid product distribution container traverses across various geographic areas. 17. The radio transmitter device of claim 17, further comprising an instruction. Multiple marketing feedbacks for using the liquid product distribution network to market a given liquid product to consumers according to the presence of the radio transmitter device and the liquid product information stored on the radio transmitter device. 17. The radio transmitter device of claim 17, further comprising instructions and data operating on said liquid product distribution network for intelligent transmission of instructions.

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