JPH1173219A - Beer barrel management and beer server - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To accurately grasp and manage distribution information without communicating with a host computer by writing and reading beer barrel distribution information by a noncontact type reader writer. SOLUTION: For example, a food store A is equipped with a beer server 4 with ID=100 and when a beer barrel 2 is set, the reader writer 3 reads the beer barrel individual number out of a data carrier 1, records the setting day and time and beer barrel individual number of a memory area of the reader writer 3, and further transfers them to the data carrier 1 of the beer barrel 2 on a noncontact basis. When the beer barrel 2 is emptied and a new beer barrel 2 is set, the reader writer 3 records the date and beer barrel individual number in the memory area additional to the last data and also transfer the last data, new date, and beer barrel individual number to the data carrier 1 of the beer barrel 2 at the same time. Each time a new beer barrel 2 is set, the reader writer 3 accumulates and transfers data to its data carrier 1.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a non-contact data carrier provided in a beer barrel and a distribution process of the beer barrel, in particular, a distribution management of a beer barrel using a non-contact reader / writer provided in a beer server of a beverage store. The purpose is to do.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a vial barrel distribution management system, a management system using a barcode on a label attached to a vial barrel is known. In this method, an individual number or management number of a vial is recorded in a barcode, and is read by a barcode reader to manage the vial.

However, in the management method using this bar code, the data attached to the bar code is only the individual number of the vial, and the distribution management reads the bar code information with a bar code reader and batch-processes the data. Alternatively, the data is transmitted to the host computer in real time, and is performed on the host computer.

[0004]

In this case, communication must always be performed with the host computer, the load on the host computer is large, and the host computer must be referred to in order to view management information. There was an inconvenient problem. Further, in the bar code system, there is a problem that the bar code label attached to the vial barrel may be damaged or stained at each stage of distribution, which hinders smooth system operation. It is conceivable to manage the vial barrel with a contact-type data carrier. However, the contact-type data carrier requires a certain operation procedure, and it is difficult to adopt it in a distribution stage or the like where rationalization is required. Therefore, the present invention has been made to reduce the trouble of communication and the load on the host computer at each beverage store (or restaurant) where beer barrels are distributed, and to achieve a system free of label breakage and contamination. It is. Furthermore, in the distribution process,
The purpose is to be able to grasp the situation without leakage even if the beer barrel is lost.

[0005]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A first aspect of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is to provide a system for managing distribution of beer barrels. A via that writes or reads via barrel distribution information by a noncontact reader / writer provided within a communication distance with the noncontact data carrier at a via server position to grasp and manage via barrel distribution status. Barrel management system. With such a vial barrel management system, accurate distribution information can be grasped and managed without communication with the host computer.

A second aspect of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned problem is that in a system for managing distribution of beer barrels, a non-contact type data carrier is provided at a beer barrel with a non-contact data carrier at a beer server position of each beverage store. The system data carrier and the non-contact type reader / writer provided within the communication distance accumulate and record the distribution information of each vial in the memory area of the reader / writer, and store the accumulated information in the vial to be set next. A via-barrel management system characterized in that the via-barrel distribution information is grasped and managed by always posting and recording the data in a non-contact data carrier. With such a vial barrel management system, distribution information without omission can be grasped and managed.

A third aspect of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned problem is that when a vial provided with a non-contact type data carrier is set in the via server, it is located at a predetermined position of the via server and the non-contact type A via server comprising a non-contact type reader / writer provided within a communication distance with a data carrier. With such a via server, data in a vial barrel provided with a non-contact type data carrier can be easily read and written.

[0008]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a beer barrel management system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a distribution route of a beer barrel. As shown in FIG. 2, beer barrels are usually shipped from a maker and collected along a route from a wholesaler to a beverage store to a maker. Therefore, a non-contact type reader / writer 3 is provided in each of these distribution stages, a non-contact type data carrier 1 is provided in the vial 2, necessary distribution information is recorded on the data carrier, and data is collected after the manufacturer collects the vial. , The distribution information of the vial barrel can be managed. In this case, the distribution information to be recorded in the data carrier 1 of the vial barrel includes a vial barrel individual number, a shipping date, a shipping destination code, and a wholesaler, a receiving date, a wholesaler code, a shipping date, and a shipping destination code. In a beverage store, the date of arrival, the date of return of beer barrels, and in the case of a manufacturer, (10) the date of collection. However, even if it is attempted to grasp the distribution information by collecting a vial with such distribution information recorded therein, there are cases where the vial is lost or is destroyed due to damage during distribution, and complete distribution information cannot be grasped. Occurs.

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a beer barrel management system according to the present invention.
It is a conceptual diagram showing an example. According to the management system of FIG.
Even if the vial is lost as described above, there is no leakage of the distribution information. In FIG. 1, a beverage store is provided with a beer server 4, and a non-contact reader / writer 3 is provided in the via server within a communication distance of the beer barrel 2 with the non-contact data carrier 1,
The writing and reading of data to and from the data carrier 1 are performed in a non-contact manner through the antenna section 3b of the reader / writer. There are two types of beer servers: one that accommodates a vial in the server, and one that supplies beer to the draft through a cooler that cools the vial outside the server instantaneously during via feeding. In the latter case, the reader / writer only needs to be installed within a range that can communicate with the data carrier in the portion where the vial is placed at the via server position.
In the case of FIG. 1, it is assumed that the vial is stored in the cooled via server.

Next, information to be written in the non-contact data carrier will be described. For example, at beverage store A,
A via server 4 having an ID of 100 is provided, and a non-contact type reader / writer 3 is provided in the top of the server. On March 1, 1997, a via barrel having the via barrel individual number 00009 recorded on the data carrier is set in the via server. At this time, the reader / writer 3 reads the via-bar individual number from the data carrier 1 and records the set date and the via-bar individual number in the memory area of the reader / writer. Further, the date and the vial barrel individual number are transferred to the vial barrel data carrier 1 in a non-contact manner. The reading of the vial barrel individual number is performed at regular intervals, but in the case of the same barrel number, reading and transcription are not performed.

[0011] After the vial barrel 00009 is emptied, on March 2 of the same year, a vial barrel having the via barrel individual number 00109 recorded on the data carrier is set. At this point, the reader / writer 3 reads the via-bar individual number from the data carrier 1 and additionally records the date and via-bar individual number in the memory area of the reader / writer in addition to the previous data. At the same time, the preceding data, the subsequent date and the vial individual number are transferred to the vial data carrier 1 in a non-contact manner.

[0012] After the vial of 00109 was emptied, a vial with the vial individual number 20403 recorded on the data carrier was set on March 3, the same year. At this point, the reader / writer 3 reads the via-bar individual number from the data carrier 1 and additionally records the date and via-bar individual number in the memory area of the reader / writer in addition to the preceding data and the preceding data. At the same time, the preceding data, the preceding data, the subsequent date, and the vial barrel individual number are transferred to the vial barrel data carrier 1 in a non-contact manner.

Each time a new vial is set in this way, data is accumulated in the reader / writer, and the data is transferred to the data carrier 1. Therefore, the history of all the vials set in the via server is recorded in the data carrier of the subsequent vial. If the manufacturer collects such data for a certain period (6 months or one year) for a certain period (6 months or one year), the distribution status of the vial barrels for a certain period can be grasped without omission. After a certain period of time, all the stored data in the reader / writer 3 may be deleted and new data may be stored. In the case of individual management of beer barrels, if even one beer barrel is lost in the distribution process, part of the data will be lost, but according to the information storage method, if only the final data carrier is collected, the data will be lost. There is an advantage that no loss occurs.

The installation of the non-contact type reader / writer 3 is not limited to the case where the vial is set inside the via server, and may be outside the via server as long as data carrier communication is possible. The non-contact type reader / writer 3 is not limited to a fixed type, but may be a handy terminal type. However, it is preferable that writing without leakage is performed.

The beer barrel management system of the present invention also performs the following functions. By recording the wholesaler code (distribution channel code) and the date of arrival in addition to the individual beer barrel number on the beer barrel data carrier, it is possible to eliminate the acceptance of beer barrels with the wrong shipping destination code at the beverage store, Since the arrival date can be accurately grasped, fresh beer can be provided to customers. For this, the reader / writer 3 communicates with the data carrier via the antenna unit 3b to read predetermined data. For example, when the control unit 3a determines that the reference date has been exceeded from the shipping date of the vial barrel, The control unit 3a may be activated to emit a warning signal. The data read by the reader / writer is displayed on the display device 3c as necessary.

FIG. 3 is a view showing a vial barrel 2 to which a non-contact data carrier 1 is attached. Data carriers include:
There are various types such as a coin type, a card type, a watch type, and a pendant type, and the weight is formed as light as about 5 grams. These data carriers are attached to predetermined locations of the vial barrel 2 so as to be distributed through the via distribution channel. The mounting position of the data carrier may be any position as long as the non-contact type reader / writer 3 and the data carrier can approach a close distance at which communication is possible at the via server position. For example, when the data carrier is provided at the top of the vial, a reader / writer may be provided within a communication distance above the receiving unit, and when the data carrier is provided at the bottom of the vial, the data carrier may be provided at the bottom of the via server. If the heights of the vials are not uniform, it is difficult to provide them in the sky, but if the height is at the bottom, the size and shape of the vials are less affected. Further, if the diameter of the vial is constant, it may be provided on the side surface of the vial.

The non-contact data carrier 1 has a read-only type in which stored data can only be read and a read-write type in which data in the data carrier can be freely written and read. Also, among the read-only types, there is a programmable read-only type in which writing can be performed only by a dedicated writing device. Any of these can be selected according to the purpose of use. However, in the case of the vial barrel management system of the present invention, since it is necessary to write the history, something that can be written by some method is required.

The communication distance of the data carrier is classified into a proximity type in which communication is performed at a short distance of a millimeter unit and a remote type in which communication is possible even in a distance of several tens of centimeters. In the case of a vial barrel, it is difficult to maintain a constant distance from the reader / writer at a distance of a millimeter unit. At a distance of several tens of centimeters, interference may occur at the same time as a plurality of via kegs placed close to each other. Therefore, it is considered appropriate that the communication distance of the vial barrel is within a range of about several centimeters. In the case of the contact type, the contact between the data carrier and the reader / writer is indispensable, but the stress due to this contact wears the terminals of the carrier and the reader / writer, causing failure, destruction, or data deterioration. An advantage of the non-contact type is that it is free from failures and data deterioration caused by these.

The method of communicating with the data carrier includes an electromagnetic induction method of performing communication by induction of an electromagnetic field, a radio communication method of communicating by radio waves, an optical communication method of communicating by light,
There is an electrostatic coupling method in which communication is performed by electrostatic induction using a metal foil or the like. The electromagnetic induction method utilizes the phenomenon that when a coil on the reader side (planar antenna) and a coil on the data carrier side are placed close to each other and an electric current flows through one coil, an electromotive force is generated in the other coil. Is what you do. The coil on the data carrier side is usually embedded in the carrier as a planar coil. Further, there are a built-in battery type in which a battery is mounted as a power source for communication and data retention, and a batteryless type operated by power supply from the reader side. Power supply in the latter case is also performed via the coil. These can also be used by selecting appropriate ones according to the purpose of use and use environment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a non-contact type reader / writer. As shown, the reader / writer 3 includes a control unit 3a, an antenna unit 3b, a display device 3c, and the like. The display device may be provided only when necessary. The control unit 3a is a unit that supplies and stops power to the reader / writer, sends a write signal, and performs read / write control. The antenna section is usually formed in a planar shape, and has a diameter of several cm to several tens cm. The antenna is a part that transmits and receives a write signal and a read signal, and supplies power when the data carrier does not include a battery. When the system is operating, power is supplied to the reader / writer and a signal is transmitted from the antenna 3b, but power supply is stopped in a case where a via barrel is not being conveyed.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the relationship between the non-contact data carrier 1 and the antenna section 3b of the non-contact reader / writer. The activation signal 5 is constantly transmitted from the antenna unit 3b of the reader / writer (or the reader). The data carrier 1 is normally in a sleep state in a range where the start signal does not reach (FIG. 5A), but when the data carrier approaches a range where the start signal 5 reaches, an electromotive force is generated in the data carrier and the circuit starts. (FIG. 5B). afterwards,
The signal 6 is transmitted from the data carrier, and communication with the reader starts (FIG. 5C). The communication is terminated before the data carrier passes through the reader and goes out of reach of the activation signal. In the via-barrel management system of the present invention, since the via-barrel does not move, it is in a state where communication is always possible.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a cross section of the via server of the present invention. In FIG. 6, reference numeral 2 denotes a vial barrel 2 having a non-contact type data carrier 1, and an air-cooled cooler 41,
It is stored in the via server 4 provided with the cooling fan 45. A non-contact type reader / writer 3 that communicates with the data carrier 1 in a non-contact type is installed on the inner surface side of the opening / closing door 43 of the via server 4 so that the planar antenna unit faces the data carrier, and the size depends on the size of the vial barrel. Up and down. Reference numeral 42 denotes a carbon dioxide gas cylinder which applies pressure to a vial barrel to send a via to a via feed hose 46. The vial in the vial barrel is poured into the mug 47 by operating the manual cock 44.

The via barrel management system of the present invention described in detail above uses a non-contact type data carrier.
The contact resistance between the data carrier and the reader / writer is small, and the data carrier is not worn or damaged. Also,
Communication is not hindered even if a non-metallic body is interposed between the data carrier and the reader. Therefore, it can be used in an environment where moisture, oil, dust and dirt are present. Further, since the connection portion is not exposed, it is hardly affected by static electricity or the like. Furthermore, a contact-type data carrier requires a certain operation procedure to perform communication, but a non-contact-type data carrier enables data communication even when the above-mentioned inclusions are present. Systems, devices, and management can be simplified.

[0024]

EXAMPLE A coin-type non-contact data carrier 1 [memory 4 Kbi
t] was attached to the side of each vial barrel. On the other hand, the non-contact type reader / writer 3 was installed on the side surface inside the beer server 4 of the beverage store A. Data communication between the non-contact data carrier and the reader / writer is performed by the electromagnetic induction method, and the communication distance between the carrier and the reader / writer is maintained at 20 to 30 mm regardless of the type and size of the vial barrel. . It should be noted that the data carrier does not include a power supply battery.

The date when the 20 beer barrels arrived in the beverage store A and the date when the beer barrels were returned are recorded in the reader / writer 3 each time, and the operation of posting and recording the vial barrels to the final 20th vial barrel is performed. Performed repeatedly. By collecting the final vial barrel and reading the data of the non-contact data carrier 1 of the vial barrel with a reader / writer, all the distribution information in the beverage shop A could be grasped.

With the beer barrel management system of the present invention, at the beverage store stage of beer barrel distribution, distribution information can be recorded and read on a data carrier by a reader / writer without communication with a host computer, and there is no error in the beer barrel. Can correctly manage the receiving and shipping dates. Also, after the vial is collected by the manufacturer, the data on the data carrier is read and computer-processed, so that necessary distribution information can be grasped. For example, it is possible to know the amount handled and the tendency to sell at a beverage store.

Although the present invention relates to a vial barrel management system, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention can be similarly applied to containers and equipment that are used for a long period of time, such as gas cylinders and containers, and need to grasp distribution information. It is obvious.

[0028]

According to the beer barrel management system of the present invention, distribution information can be easily obtained by communicating between a non-contact type reader / writer provided in or near a beer server of a beverage store and a non-contact type data carrier of a beer barrel. Can be recorded and managed. In addition, since information of all the vials stored in a certain period can be accumulated in the reader / writer, if the last information is transferred and recorded on the data carrier of the last vial in the period, the last vial can be stored. , And by reading the recorded data, it is possible to grasp the information of all the vials. Therefore, there is an advantage that the distribution information does not leak even if all the vials are not collected. Further, according to the via server of the present invention, such data recording can be easily performed in a non-contact manner when the vial is stored in the via server.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a beer barrel management system of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a view showing a distribution route of a beer barrel.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a vial barrel to which a non-contact data carrier is attached.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a reader / writer.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a relationship between a reader / writer and a non-contact type data carrier.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a cross section of a via server of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Non-contact type data carrier 2 Via barrel 3 Non-contact type reader / writer 3a Control part 3b Antenna part 3c Display device 4 Via server 5 Start signal 6 Signal from data carrier 41 Cooler 42 Carbon dioxide gas cylinder 43 Opening door 44 Manual cock 45 Cooling fan 46 via feed hose 47 mug

Claims (4)

[Claims] In a system for managing distribution of beer barrels, a non-contact type provided with a non-contact type data carrier and a non-contact type data carrier provided within a communication distance with the non-contact type data carrier at a beer server position of each beverage store. A via-bar management system characterized by writing or reading via-bar distribution information with a reader / writer to grasp and manage the via-bar distribution status. 2. A system for managing distribution of beer barrels, wherein a beer barrel provided with a non-contact type data carrier and a non-contact type provided within a communication distance with the non-contact type data carrier at a beer server position of each beverage store. With the reader / writer, the distribution information of each vial is accumulated and recorded in the memory area of the reader / writer, and the accumulated information is always transcribed and recorded on the non-contact type data carrier of the vial to be set next. A beer barrel management system characterized by grasping and managing barrel distribution information. 3. The via-barrel management system according to claim 1, wherein the non-contact data carrier communicates with a non-contact reader / writer by an electromagnetic induction method. 4. A non-contact type reader provided at a predetermined position of the via server and within a communication distance with the non-contact type data carrier when a via barrel having a non-contact type data carrier is set in the via server. A via server comprising a writer.