MXPA95004536A - Manufacturing of a microingredient inventory for medicine forage rations - Google Patents
Manufacturing of a microingredient inventory for medicine forage rationsInfo
- Publication number
- MXPA95004536A MXPA95004536A MXPA/A/1995/004536A MX9504536A MXPA95004536A MX PA95004536 A MXPA95004536 A MX PA95004536A MX 9504536 A MX9504536 A MX 9504536A MX PA95004536 A MXPA95004536 A MX PA95004536A
- Authority
- MX
- Mexico
- Prior art keywords
- micro
- ingredient
- weight
- storage
- distributor
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000004459 forage Substances 0.000 title claims description 59
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 title claims description 33
- 239000003814 drug Substances 0.000 title description 4
- 239000004615 ingredient Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 640
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 245
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 77
- 238000005303 weighing Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 75
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 70
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 24
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 239000000969 carrier Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 claims abstract 2
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 claims description 66
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 48
- 238000011049 filling Methods 0.000 claims description 33
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 33
- 238000011068 load Methods 0.000 claims description 22
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000002002 slurry Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000000977 initiatory Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 239000011785 micronutrient Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 235000013369 micronutrients Nutrition 0.000 claims 1
- 235000013619 trace mineral Nutrition 0.000 claims 1
- 241000196324 Embryophyta Species 0.000 description 29
- 230000000875 corresponding Effects 0.000 description 26
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 description 17
- 240000006802 Vicia sativa Species 0.000 description 14
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 12
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 10
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 7
- 230000002452 interceptive Effects 0.000 description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 6
- 238000004458 analytical method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000033228 biological regulation Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000006011 modification reaction Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000003139 buffering Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000010923 batch production Methods 0.000 description 3
- UIIMBOGNXHQVGW-UHFFFAOYSA-M buffer Substances [Na+].OC([O-])=O UIIMBOGNXHQVGW-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 3
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229940079593 drugs Drugs 0.000 description 3
- 235000016709 nutrition Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 201000005804 Eastern equine encephalitis Diseases 0.000 description 2
- 240000007594 Oryza sativa Species 0.000 description 2
- 235000007164 Oryza sativa Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000003365 glass fiber Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 235000009566 rice Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 230000002104 routine Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229940064005 Antibiotic throat preparations Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229940083879 Antibiotics FOR TREATMENT OF HEMORRHOIDS AND ANAL FISSURES FOR TOPICAL USE Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229940042052 Antibiotics for systemic use Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229940042786 Antitubercular Antibiotics Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 210000000887 Face Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 229940093922 Gynecological Antibiotics Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229940088597 Hormone Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229910001209 Low-carbon steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 235000011158 Prunus mume Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 240000002546 Prunus mume Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000120694 Thestor Species 0.000 description 1
- 229940024982 Topical Antifungal Antibiotics Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229940029983 VITAMINS Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229940021016 Vitamin IV solution additives Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000003242 anti bacterial agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 244000285940 beete Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000003115 biocidal Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004364 calculation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001413 cellular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000011222 chang cao shi Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000003153 chemical reaction reagent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 231100000078 corrosive Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 231100001010 corrosive Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 238000011018 current good manufacturing practice Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000006052 feed supplement Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000009472 formulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000005556 hormone Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052500 inorganic mineral Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229940079866 intestinal antibiotics Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 244000144972 livestock Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005055 memory storage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011707 mineral Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940005935 ophthalmologic Antibiotics Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 230000003287 optical Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004806 packaging method and process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral Effects 0.000 description 1
- 244000144977 poultry Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007639 printing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 102000004169 proteins and genes Human genes 0.000 description 1
- 108090000623 proteins and genes Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000008400 supply water Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011782 vitamin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000013343 vitamin Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 229930003231 vitamins Natural products 0.000 description 1
Abstract
The present invention relates to a programmable micro-ingredients distribution and mixing machine, which comprises: A housing of resistant construction, apart from a control element programmed to control the operation of various components of the machine in accordance with a control program; An information storing and processing element for storing and processing information regarding the measured weight of the micro-ingredients in the machine: A plurality of distributing tanks arranged in the housing, including each distributing tank: An element for storing a supply of a type pre-assigned micro-ingredient, and an element for distributing a specific quantity of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient from the distributor tank to measure its weight under the control of the programmed control element; a first weight measuring element for independently measuring the weight of the micro-ingredient stored in cad to one of the distributing reservoirs under the control of the programmed control element and produce a first weight information for its storage in the programmed information storage and processing element, the first weight information transmitted being of the measured weight of the micro- ingredients stored in each of the distributing tanks; A weighing hopper, arranged inside the housing, which serves to temporarily store a quantity of micro-ingredient distributed from one of the distributing tanks, up to inside the weighing hopper, including This weighing hopper is an element for discharging the measured quantity of micro-ingredient under the control of said programmed control element; A second weight measuring element, arranged in the housing, for measuring the amount of micro-ingredient stored in the hopper of weighing and producing a second weight information for storage in the the storage element and information processor, this second weight information being representative of the weight of the measured amount of micro-ingredient stored in the weighing hopper; A mixing tank for containing one or more types of micro-ingredient discharged from the weighing hopper under the control of the programmed control element, including the mixing tank: An element for mixing the discharged micro-ingredients with a specific amount of consumer fluid carrier, such as water, to form a mixture of an aqueous paste of micro-ingredients, and apart an element to transport the mixture of the aqueous paste of micro-ingredients away from the mixing tank under the control of the programmed control element, for later use
Description
MANUFACTURE OF AN INVENTORY OF MICROINGREDIENTS FOR MEDICINAL FORAGE RATIONS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention The present invention refers in general terms to an improved mode of accurately and continuously establishing the identity, quantity, provider and number batch of the supplier, of mieroingredients that are used in the manufacture of rations of medicinal forages that are administered to animals, within a batch of forage. Brief Description of the Prior Art The need to give animals vitamins, minerals, proteins, hormones, antibiotics, medicines against worms, as well as other supplements and nutritional medicines, is well known in the livestock and poultry industries. The manner in which these supplements are mixed and added to a fluid consumer carrier, such as water, has been disclosed in great detail in U.S. Patent No. 4,773,971 in the name of Prat, which is incorporated herein. text as reference material. Specifically, it is well known to use computer controlled machinery to dose precise amounts of icroingredients into a mixing tank and then mix these micro-ingredients with water to form a slurry-like mixture. In a conventional manner the prepared aqueous paste is fed directly to animals or applied to animal feed rations using mixing or spraying technologies well known in the art. Since most of the animal feed supplements include pharmaceutical substances, the production of these "medicinal forages" is subject to the regulations of the FDA, that is, the United States Food and Drug Administration, 21 CFR Chapter 1, Part 255"Current Good Manufacturing Practice for Medicated Feed", (the current good practice for manufacturing medicinal fodder), text that is incorporated herein in its entirety as a reference material, therefore, the equipment and procedures used in certain batches of forages to produce so-called rations of "Medicinal Forages" are routinely inspected by FDA officials to ensure compliance with the aforementioned regulations of the FDA In order to monitor compliance with FDA regulations, It is necessary that as for the lots of forage from which medicinal forages are produced at the site and keep written vouchers to show the types and quantities of micro-ingredients distributed and mixed to prepare units or packages of medicinal forages during the course of each day. While the machinery corresponding to the prior art is capable of dosing, distributing and accurately mixing certain exactly measured quantities of micro-ingredients to form supplements in the form of aqueous pastes having different nutritional and medicinal properties, notwithstanding the machines for the corresponding micro-ingredients to the prior art they suffer from a number of important defects and drawbacks. In particular, the microequipment distributing and mixing machines according to the prior art, precisely because of their design, do not allow the operators to establish with precision the total quantities of the micro-ingredients contained in the various components of the system. Therefore, it has been quite difficult to comply with the FDA regulations, which existed previously. Likewise, it can be said that the microequipment distribution and mixing machines, corresponding to the prior art, also by their own design, required that the operators of the food plants manually create records and reports of the inventories of the micro-ingredients. As such, the workers of the forage plants and the administrators, alike, have not received good opportunities to easily and accurately meet the FDA regulations when preparing the vouchers and reports corresponding to the inventories of the micro-ingredients, in addition, the use of the machinery and processes of the prior art have made it difficult in high J measure accurately establish the losses in an inventory of micro-ingredients during the operations of receiving such inventory, and also during the operations of distribution and filling of tanks and tanks and in distribution and mixing operations. Accordingly, there is a great need in the art for having improved equipment and techniques that facilitate the precise fixation of the micro-ingredients supplied to programmed machines to distribute and mix the micro-ingredients, overcoming the defects and disadvantages of the micro-ingredients. equipment and methodologies corresponding to the prior art. OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for establishing both the types and quantities of micro-ingredients stored in an inventory and also within a programmable machine for distribution and mixing. of the micro-ingredients, while overcoming the shortcomings and drawbacks of the devices and methods of the prior art. Another object of the present invention is to provide such an apparatus in the form of a programmable, improved, micro-reagent distributor and mixer system that automatically measures and records the amount of micro-ingredients contained in it.
J 'each of a plurality of tanks and tanks distributors of micro-ingredients after each inventory-receiving operation, operation of filling and filling of 5 tanks and distributing tanks, production pass of micro-packages and arbitrary request of inventory report. Another object of the present invention is to provide such a programmable system for distributing micro-ingredients in which the inventory of the micro-ingredients contained in the lt, tanks and tanks distributing the machine are continuously verified with the inventory of the micro-ingredients stored in storage scales in corresponding platforms during all phases of the production process. As a result of this monitoring process,
an automated location of spills of micro-ingredients (ie, both losses and gains) is possible. Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved machine for distributing and mixing micro-ingredients while accurately fixing all the
micro-ingredients stored in the tanks and tanks distributors of the machine. Another object of the present invention is to provide a programmable system for distributing and mixing micro-ingredients that are provided with 5-meter measuring mechanisms, controlled by computer, for each platform storage balance and each tank and tank and distributor in the system. Another object of the present invention is to provide such a programmable system for the distribution and mixing of micro-ingredients, in which weight measuring devices, controlled by computer, will remain in condition of interface with a main computing system in order to monitor continuously (i) the auxiliary inventory of solid and liquid micro-ingredients stored on a plurality of platform storage scales, (ii) the inventory of the solid micro-ingredients stored in active distribution depots, and (iii) the inventory of liquid micro-ingredients stored in the stores. Tanks distributors of the machine according to the present invention. Another object of the present invention is to provide a computerized inventory process in which such a system will be used and in which the weight value of each balance for platform storage will be compared with the value of the weight of each corresponding distributor deposit in order to locate the presentation of a loss of micro-ingredients that is often caused by a spill caused during the filling operations of distributing tanks, by theft or by errors not located in the calibration of the system. Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel method of recording containers of micro-ingredients, incorporating them into the inventory of a novel distributor system and mixer of micro-ingredients, with the application of portable computers and symbol reading equipment in form of bar codes. Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel method for continuously establishing the inventory of micro-ingredients incorporated in a registered form in a programmable system of distribution and mixing of micro-ingredients. A further object of the present invention is to provide a novel method for producing reports, ie reports, on micro-ingredients from a programmable machine for the distribution and mixing of icro-ingredients. A still further object of the present invention is to provide a new arrangement of an apparatus for incorporating in a registered form and managing an inventory of micro-ingredient packages using a computer-based micro-ingredient inventory management system. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a novel method for incorporating and registering as well as managing an inventory of micro-ingredient packages with the use of a computer based ingredients inventory management system.
TO { Another object of the present invention is to provide
('a novel method for storing an inventory of micro-ingredient packages that have been incorporated into a computer-based ingredient inventory manager system.) Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a novel method for detecting inventory loss. of micro-ingredients in a programmable micro-ingredients distributor and mixer system Still another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for locating a loss in the inventory of my micro-ingredients in a programmable micro-distribution and mixing system. These and other objects of the invention will be manifested in the text that follows as well as in the claims of the present invention BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a more complete understanding of the present invention, please read the following description of the invention. the illustrative embodiment in combination with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of the programmable distribution, mixing and inventory system of micro-ingredients according to the present invention that includes a computer controlled machinery for measuring, distributing and mixing micro-ingredients a plurality of J balances for storage in platform that serve to measure the weight of the micro-ingredients contained in their packaged bags as well as a portable auxiliary computer that has a barcode symbol reader in interface with said computer to identify the packaged bags of micro-ingredients that must be be incorporated in a registered form within the system's inventory. Figure 2 is a perspective view, partially fragmented of a balance for storing a platform material, adapted to measure the weight of micro-ingredients contained in a shipping or transport package or a container, such as a bag, incorporated in the system in which the auxiliary computer and a portable type barcode symbol reader are used in the interface position. Figure 3 is a terminal view of the programmable machinery of the present invention shown with its housing panel located at the side end, removed, to reveal the internal components housed therein. Figure 4 is a perspective view, partially fragmented, of the programmable machinery according to the present invention. Figure 5 is a plan view of the programmable machinery according to the present invention shown with its upper housing panel removed to reveal its internal components housed therein. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the programmable machinery according to the present invention, taken on line 6-6 of Figure 4 showing all the distributors deposits of micro-ingredients raised from their distributor deposit weighing frame . Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the programmable machinery according to the present invention, taken on line 7-7 of Figure 4 showing a selected micro-ingredient dispensing reservoir, lowered to be above the frame Weighing the distributor tank in order to weigh the micro-ingredients that remain in it. Figure 8 is a schematic representation of the main computer system programmed in accordance with the present invention. Figure 9 is a graphic representation of a System Configuration File created by the auxiliary computer system and which is used by the main computer system in accordance with the present invention. Figure 10 is a graphic representation of a
File of receipts received from inventory, created by the auxiliary computer and used by the main computer system in accordance with the present invention. Figure 11 is a graphical representation of the Inventory Record Voucher of the Master Storage Balance, created and administered by the main computer system in accordance with the present invention. Figure 12 is a graphic representation of a File of Vouchers on Distributor Refill, created by the auxiliary computer and used by the main computer system. Figure 13 is a graphic representation of the
File of Vouchers of Inventory in the deposit or distributor tank, Master type, created and administered by the main computer system according to the present invention. Figure 14 is a graphical representation of the Master Type Inventory Voucher File created and administered by the main programmed computer system in accordance with the present invention. Figure 14A is a graphic representation of a block of inventory vouchers within the Master Inventory Voucher File according to Figure 14. Figure 14B is a graphic representation of a block of discrepancies received on the inventory within the Voucher File Master Inventory according to Figure 14. Figure 14C is a graphic representation of a Discrepancy Block on the Distributor's fill-in within the Master Inventory Voucher File of Figure c "; 14. Figure 14D is a graphic representation of a block of discrepancy in uses of Micro-Ingredients within the Master Inventory Voucher File according to Figure 14. Figure 14E is a block of inventory vouchers within the Inventory Voucher File, Master, according to the Figure 14. Figure 15 is a flow chart illustrating the steps taken during the configuration of the system according to the present invention. Figures 16A and 16B, taken together, establish a flow chart illustrating the steps executed during the method of receiving a shipment of micro-ingredient packages within the System Inventory according to the present invention. Figure 17 is a flow chart illustrating the steps performed during the (re) filling method of the distributor tanks and the tanks within the system of the present invention. Figures 18 to 18C, taken together, establish a flow chart illustrating the steps carried out during the execution of the Main System Control Routine by means of the main programmed computer system according to the present invention., Tt "Figure 19 is a flow chart illustrating the steps executed during the execution of the Weighing Routine in Storage Scales by means of the main programmed computer system in accordance with the present invention. flow illustrating the steps performed during the execution of the computation routine of discrepancies received in the inventory by means of the computer main system programmed in accordance with the present invention Figure 21 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps executed during the completion of the routine of weighing the tanks / distribution tanks by means of the main computer system prog ramada according to the present invention. Figure 22 is a flowchart or diagram illustrating the steps performed during the execution of the Discrepancies filling discrepancy routine of the Distributor by means of the computer main system programmed in accordance with the present invention. Figure 23 is a flow diagram illustrating the steps performed during the execution of the discrepancy computing routine in the use of the micro-ingredients by means of the main computer system programmed in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 24 is a flow diagram illustrating the c, steps performed during the execution of the inventory discrepancy computing routine by means of the computer main system programmed in accordance with the present invention. Figure 25 is a graphic representation of an inventory report received as an example, produced for the system according to the present invention. Figure 26 is a graphic representation of a distributor fill report, example, produced for the system of the present invention. Figure 27 is a graphic representation of an exemplary production end-of-pass report produced for the system of the present invention, and Figure 28 is a graphic representation of a pass report of the exemplary production end-of-life period produced for the system according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE REALIZATION FORM OF THE PRESENT INVENTION. The method and apparatus according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings appearing in the Figures described above, and in all of them similar figures with like reference numbers will be indicated.
For purposes of illustration, the apparatus of the present invention is made in the form of a novel, computer controlled, micro-ingredients inventory, mixing and accounting system, which is shown in Figures 1 to 8 As will be noted in the following, this system is particularly designed to carry out "batch-type" production processes, since an unprecedented degree of automated control over microequivalence inventory monitoring functions is provided. The information files, exemplary, used by the main and auxiliary computer system according to the present invention, are schematically illustrated in Figures 9 to 14e. Novel methods to configure the system, receive shipments of inventory and fill or fill the tanks and distribution tanks in the system are illustrated in the high-level flow diagrams established in the respective figures 15, 16 and 17. The accounting process continues of the inventory according to the present invention, together with its subordinate control subprocesses, are schematically illustrated in the flow charts set forth in Figures 18 through 24. As shown in Figure 1, the inventory, mixer and accounting system in inventory , of the micro-ingredients 1, according to the illustrative embodiment comprises a number of components, namely: a programmable machinery 2 for dispensing, that is to distribute, measuring and mixing the micro-ingredients and carrying out well-known flow operations in the art; a main programmed computer system 3 for carrying out 5 intelligent control and inventory monitoring functions that will be described later in greater detail; an inventory storage balance system 4 that is in interface (interface) with the main computer system, and that has been specifically designed to store lt. and weigh an inventory of micro-ingredients; as well as a portable auxiliary computer system 5 which is interfaced with the main computer system and which is programmed to enter information about the identity, weight, provider, supplier lot number and expiration date of
the sealed packages of micro-ingredients as they are received for the inventory in the forage preparation plant. As shown in Figure 1, the inventory storage balance system 4 comprises a set of subcomponents, namely: six storage balances of
inventory of platform type 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F and 6G to store and measure the weight of an inventory of "solid" micro-ingredients contained in their incorporated bags by means of a registration system; two inventory storage scales of platform type 6H and 61, to store and measure 5 the weight of an inventory of "liquid" micro-ingredients, contained in their containers incorporated by means of a system of
("record", as well as two inventory storage scales of the platform type 6J and 6K, which are in interface with the main computer system, to measure the weight of the liquid micro-ingredients contained in the distributing tanks 7A and 7B, supported In general terms, the auxiliary computer 5 is in position to interface with the main computer system by means of a flexible communication key, or by a wireless data communication channel 8 established with the use of techniques of data communication by means of radio frequency or cellular system, known in the art of mobile computing.Preferably, the auxiliary computer system is realized as a strong "noteboo" computer (notebook) In the illustrative embodiment, the auxiliary computer has an appropriate interface circuit inside its housing to interconnect with a symbol reader of portable type bars 9 capable of reading bar code symbols of read automatic watchmaking type 10 secured to packages 11 of micro-ingredients. As will be noted in the following, these bar code symbols are used to facilitate the administration (i.e., registration) of the received micro-ingredient packages in the inventory of the distributor system and micro-ingredient mixer according to the present invention. A suitable barcode symbol reader is the so-called MS950 Automatic Laser-Based Hand-Held Laser Scanner, which is commercially available from Meteorologic Instruments, Inc., of Blackwood, New Jersey. Preferably, the auxiliary computer is interfaced with a computer network of animal forage batches of the type generally disclosed in the pending US patent application, serial number 07 / 973,450 entitled "Computer Network and Method for Feeding Animáis in An Feedlot
Using the Same "(Computer Network and corresponding Method to feed animals in a batch of forage that makes use of them", which was presented on November 9, 1992 and which is incorporated in this text as reference material, in its As will be noted hereinafter, the auxiliary computer is programmed to execute a number of functions, including the import of information files from, and the export of information files to, other computers within the batch management computer network. of forages for animals, as indicated above As best shown in Figure 2, each shelf storage balance comprises a set of subcoolers, namely: a base portion 12 made of a sturdy construction; compression type load cells 13A, 13B and 13C mounted on the base portion of a weighing platform 14 supported on the "7 load cells and c able to support the weight (for example several tons) of micro-ingredient packages kept in inventory. As shown, a circuit system 14 for electronic signal processing, performed on a printed circuit board 15 is mounted within the base portion. Side support panels 16A. 16B and 16C extend vertically from the base portion and define an inventory storage area for storing the "packaged" packages (eg, bags, containers, etc.) of micro-ingredients on the weighing surface of the underlying storage balance. A conventional power supply circuit system 17 is provided to supply sufficient supply voltages to the printed circuit board 18. Mounted on the upper portion of the lateral support panel 16A is a plate 18 for supporting a bar code symbol 19 assigned exclusively to the platform storage balance by means of the main computer system. As will be noted in the following, the object of this bar code symbol is to identify the balance in the continuous inventory accounting system of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the plurality of scales for inventory storage can be interconnected in their base portions so as to form an inventory storage area array, of which each has a storage balance 12 as its surface of floor. Preferably, the micro-ingredients dispensing and mixing machine is located close to the inventory storage area. As an alternative, these storage scales can be arranged in any other arbitrary configuration that satisfies the requirements of the particular forage plant in which the storage scales are installed. On a side panel of each base portion there is provided an output signal connector 20 for transmitting digital platform weight signals on a protected and flexible cable 21 to an input signal connector 23 present in the machine housing . In turn, the input signal connector 23 is connected to a pre-assigned storage balance input register located on the input / output (and / or) board 117 operatively associated with the main computer system, as shown in Figure 8. In general terms, the operation of each inventory storage balance is as follows. Each load cell that supports the platform on which the micro-ingredient packages or a single package of micro-ingredients are stored produces an analog electrical signal proportional to the load experienced by the load cell. Each of these analog electrical signals was supplied to the signal processing circuitry 14 on the Personal Computer (PC) 15 Board for its processing. Typically the signal processing circuitry includes sum amplifiers that amplify and combine the signals of the individual load cells in order to produce a performing analog weight signal. A conventional analog-to-digital (A / D) signal conversion circuitry is provided on the PC board to convert the resulting analog weight signal into a digital weight signal representative thereof. The digital weight signals Sl to S8 produced from the storage scales 6A to 6F are supplied to designated input registers present in the I / O board suitable storage scales of the type described above are sold under the trade name SURVIVOR SP Series Mild Steel Electronic Floor Scale ", by Rice Lake Weighing Systems, of Rice Lake, Wisconsin. As best illustrated in Figures 3 to 8, the machine 2 contains a number of components contained within a strong housing 24. In the illustrative embodiment, the housing has a frame or frame portion 25 and a portion thereof. of extraction cover 26. As shown, the frame portion can be constructed from tubular members 25A through 25Z interconnected by welding in a conventional manner. The primary function of the portion of racks provide a structural support to different subcomponents that must be maintained in a specific physical relationship during the operation of the machinery. In the preferred embodiment, the removable cover portion 26 is made by a number of wall panels fabricated from sheet metal, glass fiber or functionally equivalent material. The main function of the cover portion is to enclose the internal components of the machinery to satisfy the security and the points of attention regarding maintenance. As shown most clearly in Figures 1, 4 and 5, there are a number of subcomponents mounted within the machine housing, namely: the main computer system 3; the mixing tank 26; the electronically controlled pump 27; the weigh hopper 28, the actuable micro-ingredient dispensing valve 29; the vibrational type motor 30; Tension type load cells
31a, 31B and 31C, 31D; the weighing frame of the distributing tanks 33; compression type load cells 34A, 34B and 34C, 34D; the members of extension plates 35A to 35D; Distributors distributors of micro-ingredients 36A to 36F; the mixing motor 37 and the associated mixing blades or sheets installed in the mixing tank 26, as well as the lifting mechanisms of the distributing tanks 40A to 40F.
As illustrated schematically in Figure 8,
^ the input / output board ("I / O") 117 is placed in interface with the main computer system 3 and carries different types of circuit systems necessary for
support the flow of data and control signals between the main computer system and the peripheral components within the overall system. The details of the main computer system will be described later. As shown in Figure 4, the hopper of lt. weighing 28 has a micro-ingredient retention area 28A and a discharge outlet 28B. The actuable micro-ingredient dispensing valve 29 is mounted on the distributor outlet 28B and is controlled by the control signal Cl, generated by the circuit system present in
the 1/0 Board under the control of the main computer system. The vibrational type motor 30 is mounted eccentrically on a side wall of the weigh hopper and is controlled by the control signal C2 also generated on the I / O board under the control of the main computer system 0.
The function of the weigh hopper is to weigh the amount of micro-ingredients discharged from a distributor tank into the weigh hopper and then discharge the dosed amount of micro-ingredient into the mixing tank for mixing with water and other micro-ingredients. When driven by the control signal C2 from the I / O board, the motor 30 vibrates to the weigh hopper and causes the micro-ingredients contained therein to fall on the bottom 5 of the hopper for later discharge into the tank of mixture. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, load cells of the tension type 31A to 31D are supported from the frame support members 25 S and 25T. The weighing hopper 28 is supported from these type I 'load cells (voltage in a conventional manner.) In response to the load inside the weigh hopper, analog signals S3 to S16 are produced from these cells and they are provided to the I / O board for signal processing, in a system similar to that executed on the Board
of PC of each sto balance described above. Suitable tension type load cells for use in the embodiment illustrated here are available in the Tedea market in Conoga Park,
California. 20 As illustrated in Figure 4, the mixing tank
26 has a stock tank portion 26A for storing a predetermined amount of an "aqueous micro-ingredients paste" made by mixing the micro-ingredients and some fluid vehicle such as water in amounts that are typically specified by the nutritional forms and / or medicinal. In a conventional manner, the mixing blades 38 are mounted rotatably in the mixing tank and rotated at a desired speed when the motor 37 is driven by the control signal C4 generated on the 1/0 board. Typically, the mixing tank 26 is made from a non-corrosive material such as stainless steel or glass fiber. As shown in Figure 4, the electronically controlled pump 27 has both a composite for the water inlet 42 and a gate for the outlet of the paste l '(aqueous 43, which are in a communication for fluids with the portion of stock tank of the mixing tank by hoses 44 and 45, respectively As shown in Figure 1, each open container of liquid micro-ingredients is stored on a balance
pre-assigned distributor 6J, 6K of the type described above.
Typically, the hose 46 is used to supply water to the inlet gate 42, and the hose 47 is used to transport the aqueous slurry produced from the mixing tank 26 to an external storage vessel, (or forage mixer ( 48) from which the amounts for mixing with animal fodder are used in a manner well known in the art The operation of the pump 27 is controlled by the control signals 66 and 66 generated on the input / output board ("I / O") As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the members of extension plates 35A to 35D are mounted on the support members of FIG.
L rack 25W to 25X and are used to support load cells of compression type 34A, 34B and 34C, 34D, respectively. The weighing frame of the distribution tanks 33 in turn is supported on these load cells of the compression type which in response to the loads perceived by the individual load cells produce analog signals S9 and S12 proportional to them. The analog signals S9 to S12 are provided to the circuit system l. { signal processing on the 1/0 board for conversion into a digital weight signal which is representative of the gross weight of the selected dispensing tank down to the weighing frame 33. The manner in which a selected distribution tank is lowered
the weighing frame to achieve the weighing operation will be described in greater detail in the text that follows. As best illustrated in Figure 5, the frame of
^ weighing for the distributing tanks 33 comprises two longitudinally extending support members 33A and 33B as well as 4 transversely extended support members 33C, 33D, 33E and 33F. As shown, these structural members are interconnected by welding to form a virtually planar structure of unitary construction. As such, the weighing frame of the distributing tanks of the embodiment 5 illustrated here has six open cells, or openings, through which the distribution tanks 36A to 36F are freely supported when they are not weighed. As shown in Figure 5, the interspacial zone between the adjacent pairs of transverse support members is selected such that the upper portion of each distribution reservoir can be placed in an interleaved position without frictional contact, as shown in the Figure 3. As shown in Figure 4, a controllable dispensing valve 38A is mounted on the distribution outlet of each distributor tank and is controlled by the control signal C7 generated on the 1/0 board under the control of the control system. main computer. In order to elevate a selected distributor tank on the weighing frame of the distributor tanks to weigh the micro-ingredient contained in said tank, each tank is supported by an independent tank lifting mechanism., The details of each distributor tank and its associated lifting mechanism will be described in more detail below. As best shown in Figures 4 to 7, a lifting mechanism of distributing tanks is used to support each dispensing tank above the weighing hopper as it passes through a pair of supporting members that extend transversely and that are associated with the weighing frame for
In the illustrative embodiment, each distributor tank 36A through 36F is constructed in a substantially similar manner, and also the construction and operation of each distributor tank elevator mechanism 40A through 40. f. Thus, for purposes of clarity, the details of these structures will be described with reference to the dispensing tank 36B and its storage elevator mechanism 40B., the letters A, B, C, D, E, F and G will be used in combination with similar reference numbers that indicate which distributing deposit or distributor distribution elevator mechanism is associated with each sub-component. 5 In general terms, each distributor deposit has two basic functions. The first function is to store a sufficient amount of micro-ingredients of a type
^ J specific on the machine. The second function is to distribute an accurately dosed quantity of micro-ingredients in a 1 0 weigh hopper to measure its weight. In order to perform these functions, each distributor tank 35B has a filling opening 42B as a distribution outlet 43B and rigid sidewall panels 44B, 45B, 46B and 47B extending between such parts, as shown in the drawings. Figure3. Preferably, the opening dimensions of the filling opening of each distributor tank are virtually greater than the opening dimensions of its discharge outlet since this facilitates the filling of each distributor tank with a specified type of micro-ingredient. packed. As shown in Figure 3, the panels of the side walls are joined to form an irregular storage volume. This structural feature facilitates the controlled distribution of the dosed micro-ingredient from the distribution tank. At the end of each distribution outlet 43B, which in the illustrative embodiment has rectangular cross-sectional dimensions, an electrically controllable discharge valve 49B controls the discharge of the micro-ingredient from its associated distributor distribution. The distribution valve 49B is controlled by the control signal C8 produced in the input / output board ("I / O") under the control of the main computer system. The distribution valves for the other distribution tanks are controlled by the respective signals C7 to C12. On the perimeter of the distribution outlet 43B a stationary discharge outlet guide 50B is provided having an opening with cross-sectional dimensions that are only slightly larger than the cross-sectional dimensions of the discharge outlet itself. As shown in Figure 3, the distribution outlet guides 50A and 50B are joined by the horizontal frame support member 25U. How will it be done?
(Notorious in the following, the function of this guide is to restrict the movement of its associated distribution tank along a predetermined vertical axis.5 As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the distribution tank 36B has a pair of support flanges 51A and 52B extending over opposite sides of its upper opening perimeter 53B.The function of these support flanges will be evaluated in the best way by taking note of Figure 3. As it is shown and when it descends a selected distributor tank 36B on the distributor tank weighing frame 33 by its lifting mechanism 40B under the control of the main computer system, the support flanges 51B and 52B come into contact with the upper face of the members
cross brackets spaced 33C and 33D from the weighing frame of the distributing tanks. The load presented by the selected distributor deposit on the frame of
Or weighing for distributor tanks 33 is perceived by the load cells 34A to 34D in order to produce analog 0 signals, as described above, which are precessed in the I / O board in order to produce this representative digital weight signal of the gross weight of the selected distributor deposit and micro-ingredient contained therein. By lowering only one distributor tank at a time 5 on the weighing rack of distributing tanks, the main computer system is able to measure the weight
The gross amount of each of the deposit debits in any inventory recording period, arbitrarily selected. The support flanges present in the other 5 distributing tanks, number 5, of the machine, operate essentially in the same way as described above. It will be useful to describe below the structural subcomponents that comprise each lifting mechanism of the distributor depot. As shown in Figure 3, a couple of suspension hole coaxially aligned 54B and
55B through the upper portion of the panels of the side walls 45B and 47B in each distributor tank. As
shown, a pair of suitable bushings 56B and 57B are mounted through these holes in a conventional manner. In particular, the holes of the
^ > suspension 54B and 55B along an imaginary axis that passes through its centers and that runs parallel with the arrow of
rotating support 58B from where the distributor tank 36B is ultimately suspended. As shown in Figures 3 to 7, the upper portion of the housing frame includes a pair of support members 25Y 7 25Z that are spaced from, and extends parallel to, the frame members 25F and 25G, throughout of the longitudinal section of the machine housing. As best shown in Figure 5, the spacing between the parallel support members 25G and 25Y and 25F and 25Z is virtually equal to the width dimension of the filling opening of the distributor tanks. A pair of coaxially aligned holes 60A and 61B are formed along the left side of the machine through the support members 25Y and 25G, and a pair of suitable bushings 62B and 63B are mounted through these holes of a conventional way. For each distributor tank 36A along the right side of the machine, a pair of coaxially aligned holes 64A and 65A are formed through the support members 25Z and 25F, and a pair of suitable bushings 66A and 67A are mounted through of these holes. As shown in Figure 3, the support arrow
58B is rotatably mounted by coaxially aligned bushings 66B and 67B. Closely adjacent to the internal faces of the support members 25G and 25Y are the circular plates 68B and 69B which are welded to the rotating shaft 58B. As best shown in Figures 3 and 6, each circular plate 68B and 69B has a projection 79B, and a suspension hole 70B is formed at a radial distance away from the axis of rotation of the arrow. It should be noted that the suspension holes formed in each associated pair of circular plates are configured at equal radial spacings and are located on the circular plates so that an imaginary axis passing through these holes runs co-parallel to the axis rotation of the associated support arrow. As shown in Figure 3, the distributor reservoir 36B is suspended from the rotating support shaft 58B by a pair of equal length suspension member 71B and 72B extending from the support shaft to the radially displaced orifices 55B and 56B formed in the side panels of the tanks 47B and 45B, respectively. These suspension elements may be constructed of cable, chain or any other suitable structure capable of supporting the weight of a dispensing reservoir filled to capacity with an expected icroingredient. One suitable technique for suspending each distributor tank from its rotary arrow is by providing eyelet-type connectors at each end of the suspension elements. Below is a description of how the dispensing reservoir 36B is suspended from its rotating shaft with the use of such suspension element. As shown in Figure 3, a first pin 74B passes through the suspension hole 70B formed in the outer circular plate 68B of the support shaft and through the eye of the first end of the first suspension element 71B. Then a second pin 75B passes through the suspension hole 70B formed in the inner circular plate 69B and through the eye of the first end of the second suspension element 72B, then the dispensing tank 36B is moved to its place underneath. its support arrow 58 B. A third pin 76 through 5 is then passed through the suspension hole 55B formed in the outer side wall panel 47B of the distributor tank and through the eye of the second end of the first suspension element 71B, as shown. Finally, a fourth pin 77 is passed through the suspension hole 70B of the distributor tank 1 and through the eye of the second end of the second suspension element 72B. Once the above connections are completed, the distributor tank 36B of its rotary arrow is suspended. The above procedure is repeated for each of the other distributor tanks in the machine. As shown best in Figures 3 and 4, the stationary guides 50A and 50B are maintained in a fixed relationship with respect to the machine frame by means of
V- of the horizontal support members 25U. The supply of this guide mechanism for the distributor tank 0 basically fixes the horizontal movement of the distributor outlet 43B of the distributor tank 36B while allowing the distributor tank to move freely along a fixed vertical axis when its lifting mechanism 40B lowers the support flanges 51B and 52B on the weighing frame of the distributor tanks.
As shown in Figure 4, the dispensing reservoir 36B is provided with an electro-optical proximity sensor 80B in order to detect (1) when its support flanges 51B and 52B physically come into contact with the support members 33C and 33D of the weighing frame of the distributor tanks, and (2) when these support flanges are raised by a predetermined distance from the support members 33C and 33D of the weighing frame of the distributor tank. In the illustrated embodiment the sensor 80B lt is mounted on a portion of the support flange of the distributor tank. The output signal S26 of that sensor is supplied to a preamplifier present in the 1/0 board of the main computer system for conventional processing in a manner known in the art. With the use
of these sensor signals, the main computer system controls the elevation of its associated distributor depot in a preprogrammed manner. J The tank suspension arrangement described above provides the system of the present invention with two
basic functions. The first function is to allow each distributor tank (when it is filled to capacity) to be lifted from the weighing rack of the distributor tank during the distribution operations of the micro-ingredients. The second function is to allow each deposit
The selected dispenser is lowered independently onto its designated portion of the distributor reservoir weighing frame while the other dispensing reservoirs (i.e., those not selected) are maintained in a raised position spaced from the weighing frame of the dispenser reservoirs. As used hereafter, the term "high position" will be understood as equivalent to an elevation of the distributor reservoir of the weighing frame for the tanks. This position is achieved by rotating the support shaft of the selected dispensing reservoir counterclockwise to an angular position indicated in Figure 6. As shown in Figure 6, each dispensing reservoir is held in its elevated position by the anti-rotational solenoid 81 having an arrow 82, which is adapted to prevent the rotation of the supporting arrow
58. In the elevated position of the tank shown in the
Figure 6, the arrow 82A is normally oriented to extend to the outside, above the projection 79A on the plate
Cylindrical V-V 69A to prevent the supporting arrow 58A from rotating in a clockwise direction. When the reservoir or distributor, eg 36E, is to be lowered to the weighing frame, the input / output board ("I / O") provides a C17 control signal to the 81E anti-rotation solenoid under the control of the computer system principal. This causes the arrow 82E to retract to the interior 5 and move away from the projection 79E and present in the cylindrical plate 69A to allow the support arrow 58E to rotate in a clockwise direction. With the free tank support arrow for turning clockwise, the distributor tank 36E can be lowered onto the toll frame of the distributors as shown in Figure 7, to which position reference will be made hereinafter with the term of "weighing position". So that the main computer system of the present invention can place a distributor deposit
- \ l 'selected on the weighing rack of distributing tanks, one at a time, and in a preprogrammed sequence, each elevator mechanism of distributor tank is operated by an electronically controlled motor. In the illustrated embodiment, a rotary unit is connected to the
a single arrow operatively between the support arrows of the elevator lifts, axially aligned, arranged in opposite passages of the support members 25Y and
^ - ^ 25Z. As shown in Figure 5, these rotating arrow units are identified by the references 84AB, 84CD and
84EF to indicate the distributing deposits with which they are associated. In addition, the subcomponents of these rotating arrow units are also identified with the AB, CD, or DE indices to indicate the distributing deposits with which they are associated. Every time that each rotating unit is constructed identically, the rotating arrow unit identified with the number 84AB will be presented for greater clarity of exposition. As best shown in Figures 3 and 5, the rotary arrow unit 84AB comprises a number of 5 components, namely: an electronically controlled motor 85AB controlled by the control signal C19 generated by the 1/0 board under the control of the main computer system, and the motor carriage assembly 86AB to support and horizontally move the motor 85AB to the support arrow 58A on the left side of the motor, or to the support arrow 58B on the right side of the motor. motor. As illustrated, the motor carriage assembly 86AB comprises an engine support platform 87AB and a stationary base portion 88AB. The motor support platform is mounted on the stationary base portion so that it can be moved (i.e. moved) incrementally in a horizontal direction in response to control signals C22
^ generated on the 1/0 board under the control of the main computer system. As shown, the stationary base portion 88AB is fixedly mounted between the support members 25Y and 25Z using conventional mounting techniques. On the inside of the support members 25Y and 25ZA, a first gear or transmission mechanism 89AA is mounted on the end of the support shaft and a second transmission mechanism 89B is mounted on the end of the support shaft 58B . - "'As shown in Figure 3, the motor 85AB has a double-ended motor shaft 90AB, in which one end is provided with the gear 91A and the other end bears the gear 9IB. support 55A and 55B and double-ended motor arrow 90AB are all coaxially aligned When the engine car 86AB is driven to its first driving position Pl indicated in Figure 5, the gear 9IB present in the motor shaft 90AB. in a box with the gears of the gear mechanism 89B, causing the support arrow 58B to turn in a direction determined by the control signal C19 generated on the 1/0 board under the control of the main computer system, then, when it is driven the motor carriage to its second driving position P2 indicated in Figure 5, the gear 91A present in the motor shaft 90AB in a box with the gears of the gear mechanism 89A, causing the J-arrow 58A support go rotating in a selected direction under the control of the main computer system. When none of the distributing reservoirs 36A and 36B should be selected around the motor 85AB for weighing, the gear located at the end of the double-ended motor shaft 90AB is automatically moved to an intermediate position P3 under the control of the motor. main computer system.
In the illustrated embodiment, r ^ - ^ optical encoders 93AB are mounted on the base of the motor platform 88AB in order to measure the position of the motor carriage between the support members 25Y and 25Z to produce the measurement signal 5. of position S18 representative thereof. From the position measurement signal S18, the main computer system determines if the arrow motor has been moved to any drive or drive position Pl or P2. Using the principles of retroactivation well known in the art, the position measurement signal S18 can be used to generate the motor control signal C18 to move the motor 85AB to its drive position Pl or P2. As shown in Figure 1, there are a number of 5 subcomponents of the system mounted to the outside of the machine housing in the illustrated embodiment.
Specifically, the distribution tanks are stored
V / 7A and 7B on the distributing scales 6J and 6K that for reasons of convenience are closely located 0 with respect to the housing of the machine, but outside it. However, it is understood that these distribution tanks and their associated distribution scales can be totally or partially enclosed by introducing obvious modifications in the machine housing. As shown in Figure 1, a pair of electronically controlled pumps 95 and 96 are used to r pump the liquid micro-ingredients from the distribution tanks 7A and 7B directly into the mixing tank 26 in the machine housing. To drive the flow of the liquid micro-ingredients between these tanks, the flexible pipe sections 97 and 98 are connected between the interiors of the distributing tanks 7A and 7B and the inlet ports of the pumps 95 and 96, while the sections of flexible tubing (not shown) are connected between the outlet ports of the pumps 95 and 96 and the stock tank portion of the mixing tank 26, as shown. When a production program for a particular batch of micro-ingredients ("micro-batches"), requires a specific amount of micro-ingredient
liquid contained in the distributor tank 7A, the board 1/0 generates a control signal C25 which is supplied to the control circuit system associated with the distribution pump 95.
W In response to these control signals, the pump 95 causes the liquid micro-ingredient to flow from the tank
distributor 7A to the mixing tank. During the pumping process, the main computer system reads a 1/0 input record during the pumping process, the main computer system reads an input record on the I / O board with which the balance is exclusively associated
distributor 6, this allows the main computer system to monitor the decrease in weight of tank r v - "/ distributor 7A to determine when the required amount of liquid micro-ingredient has already been distributed in the mixing tank. , when a production schedule also requires a specific amount of liquid micro-content contained in the distributor tank 7B, the general 1/0 control board C26 control signals, which are provided to the control circuitry associated with the distribution pump 95., In response to these control signals, the pump 96 causes the liquid micro-ingredient to pass from the distributor tank 7B to the mixing tank During the pumping process, the main computer system reads an input record on the board 1/0 with which the 6K platform storage balance is uniquely associated, this allows the main computer system to The amount of liquid ingredient has been distributed to the interior of the mixing tank. As shown in Figure 1, a pair of liquid level sensors 99 and 100 are installed in the distributor tanks 7A and 7B respectively to produce electrical signals S21 and S22 representing the level of liquid micro-ingredient that remains in their respective distribution tanks. These electrical signals are provided to an associated r ^ - ^ interface circuitry present on the 1/0 board for the processing of the signals and their subsequent conversion into equivalent weight measurements by the main computer system. 5 When the level of the liquid micro-ingredient in any of these distribution tanks drops below a specific level of weight, the main computer system automatically detects this condition by analyzing signals S21 and S22. In response to the condition thus perceived, the system
IV 'of the main computer (or an associated device generates an alarm signal that unites on alert the operator of the forage plant to manually fill the almost empty distributor tanks with liquid micro-ingredients obtained from the inventory storage scales, coded in
colors Specifically, the alarm signal can be made by producing an audible or visible energy, or a demonstrably verbatim report calculated to alert the
\ - operator of the forage plant or other personnel responsible for maintaining the levels of the micro-ingredients in the 0 tanks and distribution tanks. Having described the machinery of the present invention, it is now proper to describe in greater detail the main computer system which automatically controls the operation of the machinery described above and which executes the 5 accounting functions of the inventory in a continuous manner, according to the present invention. As illustrated in Figure 8, the host computer system of the illustrative embodiment comprises a number of integrated system components, namely: one or more central processing units 105 (which can be microprocessors), program memory storage 106 for storing an operating system program, application programs, the host control routine, as well as the posting subroutines; of the continuous inventories of the present invention; the random access data storage memory (e.g. RAM) 107 for storing information files illustrated in Figures 9 to 14E; a membrane type board 108 with a system of associated interface circuits for the same 109; a visual display device 110, for example an LCD diode type panel as well as an interface circuitry (Locfica) / associated driver 111 for the same; an external printer 112 and the interface / driver circuitry 113, associated thereto; an input / output gate ("I / O") 114, for the interface processor with the auxiliary computer system 5; the input gate 115 for a point-and-select device 116, like a mouse; as well as a 1/0 117 board containing a system of logic circuits, signal drivers, input registers and similar parts necessary to support the different electrical, electronic and electro-optical components contained within the machinery of the present invention. As illustrated in Figure 8, each of the above components is operatively associated with the processor 105 by means of one or more system ducts 118 well known in the art. In the preferred embodiment, the operating system can be realized by the Machintoch system, trademark 7.0 which is an operating system software of the company Apple Computer Inc., Windows, 'registered trademark, which is an operating system software of Microsoft Corporation, or ex-windows of Unyx that allows the processor or processors to support a plurality of input / output windows as well as an input gate 115 for the point-and-select device 116. However, it must be understood that you can also use other suitable operating system programs, all with excellent results. * -J As shown in Figure 8, board 1/0117 of the illustrative embodiment comprises a number of 0 I / O structures namely: the interface / driver circuitry 119 for generating control signals C4 for the mixer motor 37; to the interface / driver circuitry 120 for generating control signals C2 for the vibrator / motor 30 mounted on the weigh hopper; the interface / driver circuitry 121 for generating motor signals C5, C6 for the slurry pump 27; the interface / driver circuitry 122 for generating control signals C25 and C26 for pump motors 95 and 96 associated with distribution tanks 7A and 7B; the preamplifiers 123 and the interface circuitry 124 for the electro-optical sensors of positions 80A to 80F which are used to sense the elevation levels of the distribution tanks 36A to 36B; the preamplifiers 125 and the interface circuitry 126 for the electro-optical sensors of positions 93AB, 93CD and 93EF which are used to perceive the horizontal position of the motor platforms 87AB, 87CD and 87EF, respectively; the interface / driver circuitry 127 for generating the control signals C19, C20 and C21 to control the support arrow motors 85AB, 85CD and 85EF; the analog and digital signal processing circuit systems 128 for processing the analog signals S3 to S16 produced from the weigh hopper load cells 31A to 3ID, respectively, as well as an input register 129 for buffering the information of digitized weight produced from circuitry 128; two input registers 130 and the associated circuitry for buffering digitized weight signals S23 and S2 produced from balances 6J and 6K; the analog and digital signal processing circuitry 131 for processing the analog signals from S9 to S12 produced from the load cells of the weighing rack of the distributor tanks 34A to 34D; an input register 132 for buffering the digitized weight information produced from the circuit system 131; the interface / driver circuit 133 for generating independent control signals C67 to C12 for the distributor valves 49A to 49F mounted on the distribution outlets of the distribution tanks 36A to 36F; the interface circuitry / driver 134 to generate the control signal Cl for
/ "* l) the distributor valve 27 mounted on the discharge outlet of the weigh hopper, the preamplifiers 134 and the interface circuitry 135 for processing the signals S21 and S22 produced from the liquid level sensors 99 and 100 that are used to perceive the level of
liquid micro-ingredient present in the distributing tanks 7A and 7B; the interface / driver circuitry 136 for generating control signals C3 to C18;
O Six input registers and their associated logic circuitry 137 for buffering the digitized weight signal Sl to S8
produced from inventory storage balances 6K to 6H, respectively; the preamplifiers 138 and the interface circuit system 139 for processing the signals S25 to S30 from the tank lift sensors 80A to 80F, respectively; the preamplifiers 140 5 and the interface circuitry 141 for processing the signals S18 to S20 produced from the electro-optical sensors 93 AB, 93CD and 93EF, respectively; and the preamplifiers 142 and the interface circuitry 143 for processing the signals S21 and S22 from the sensors of the liquid levels 99 and 100, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the I / O board 117 is shown mounted within the machine housing. However, it should be understood that it can be physically located away from the machinery, in other embodiments of the present l ^. invention. Having described the apparatus of the present invention, it is proper at this time to describe its use in the implementation of the method according to this invention. When the system of this is installed
invention, in a building associated with a forage plant, each "active" inventory storage balance, each distribution depot and distribution tank,
Or register in the main computer system. Preferably, this process of configuration of the
system by using the System Configuration Procedure illustrated in the flow diagram of Figure 15. As indicated in Block A of that Procedure, the first step of the system configuration method involves the assignment of a code unique identification to each scale
storage, distributor tank (balance) and distributor tank balance within the system. In the illustrated execution form, each unique identification code is made by a unique bar code symbol that is placed on a decal 141. These decals with the symbols of the 5 bar codes are permanently set to the bar scales. storage, distribution tanks and distribution tanks (balance) within the configured system, as shown in Figure 1. As indicated in block B in Figure 15, each ^. Inventory storage balance, distributor tank and distributor tank balance in the system, receives a micro-ingredient code that is representative of the type of micro-ingredient that must be stored and / or weighed using this system. Typically, each micro-ingredient code is expressed in an alphabetical or numerical format. The number of the micro-ingredients codes will correspond to the number of micro-ingredients (for example Q) that are needed to produce the different types of medi-chernal supplies prescribed by the veterinarian or nutriologist of the batches. of forages. During this 0 step of the system configuration process, a specific micro-ingredient code can be assigned to more than one single distributor depot in order to provide a sufficient stock of some specific micro-ingredient that is used in relatively large quantities. Likewise, in certain 5 moments there will be a need to assign more than one storage balance to a specific micro-ingredient code
C - ^ j in order to store a sufficient inventory of a specific micro-ingredient frequently used in relatively large quantities. However, for each micro-ingredient code required in the forage ration regime, there will be at least one pre-assigned platform storage balance for storing an inventory of the corresponding micro-ingredient, and at least one tank or tank. pre-assigned distributor (with its balance) for t ^, distribute a corresponding micro-ingredient from the programmed machine. As illustrated in block C in Figure 15, the next step of the System Configuration Procedure is to use the auxiliary computer system 5 in order to create a system configuration file, as shown in Figure 9 and then enter the code of the micro-ingredient as well as the assignments of the scales in the
H_ Archi • vo of Confi.guraci.on Si.stema created. In the illustrative embodiment, the Configuration File of
System, executing a graphic-based program, called creating System Configuration File. The assignments of the micro-ingredients and the scales enter this file using the. auxiliary computer 5, the bar code symbol reader 9 as well as a barcode menu
printed 150. Preferably, the menu consists of printed bar codes 150 of one or more sheets of paper or plastic r. Flexible that carries a unique bar code symbol for each storage balance, distributor tank and distributor tank (or your balance) in the system. In addition, the printed barcode menu carries a unique bar code symbol for each programmable micro-ingredient (code) in the Forage Ration Ingredients File (not shown) of the forage batch. Using this printed barcode menu, you can enter the micro-j ingredient code as well as the assignments of the scales in the
System Configuration File, creating by simply reading the bar code symbols corresponding to "the micro-ingredient code and scale assignments" while running the graphics-based program that supports this automated data entry process. As indicated in Block D, in Figure 15, each micro-ingredient code and balance assignment receives a unique color code (eg, blue, green, orange, purple, yellow, etc.). Preferably, each color code assigned in the System Configuration File is then entered by reading the symbols of the pre-printed bar codes in the barcode menu, which represent corresponding color codes. This color coding scheme reduces to a minimum the risk of filling or filling distributor tanks and distributing tanks with incorrect types of micro-ingredients.
- Once the Configuration File of the
System, it is transmitted from the auxiliary computer to the main computer system for storage, as
is indicated in block E in Figure 15. When there is any change in the status of any of the inventory storage balances, distributor warehouses or distribution tanks with their associated scales, registered
(ie, certain specific scales are removed or added
Storage and / or distribution storage), the forage plant operator simply re-executes the previous steps in order to create an updated System Configuration File and then transmit this updated asset to the main computer system for storage. Your job
in inventory posting operations. Once the system of the present invention has been installed and configured in the manner described above, it is
^ - j deliver shipments of micro-ingredients to the fodder batch through different suppliers. Many times shipments of
packages of micro-ingredients are delivered to some designated inventory storage area, established within the forage plant. Typically, all the micro-ingredient units in the received shipment have one or more bar code symbols 10 secured to their packaging, typically in
its place of manufacture. These bar code symbols ^ encode different types of information that is used by
"" ^ the inventory accounting process according to the present invention. In the preferred embodiment, a novel method is used to receive shipments of micro-ingredients in the inventory of the system. Now this method will be described with reference to the flow diagram shown in Figures 16A and 16B. As indicated in Block a of Figure 16A, before receiving a shipment or shipment of packaged micro-ingredients * _ / either in a sack in a container, the micro-ingredient distributor and mixer system according to this The invention is first installed in a suitable building associated with a forage plant facility as schematically illustrated in currently pending patent application 15 in the United States, serial number 07 / 973,450, already cited above. As indicated in Block B in Figure 16, then
Or the auxiliary computer system is used to execute a graphic-based program called "Create a Record File Received from Inventory", in order to generate a Record File Received from Inventory that is illustrated schematically in Figure 10. In the Block C in figure 16 a, when deliveries of packages of micro-ingredients are delivered to the forage plant, the plant operator or other assigned personnel acknowledges physical receipt of the shipment and attends the shipping or shipping documentation. a conventional way As indicated in Block D in Figure 16A, the information that identifies specific characteristics of each micro-ingredient packet received within the Inventory Received Record File is then entered, in the form of execution received from the present invention. performs this information entry process by reading the symbols of the barcodes 10 printed on each package l ?. S of micro-ingredient delivered by its manufacturer and / or supplier. Typically, two or more bar code symbols are printed on each of such packages. These bar code symbols are coded to carry different types of information, namely: the identity or the type of product
(micro-ingredient) contained in the package; the size of the package, (that is, the net weight of the micro-ingredient contained therein); the quantity, for example, a unit of
Or stock maintenance, that is, in English (Stock Keeping Unit (abbreviation in English: SKU, abbreviated in Spanish UME) or
sack; the name of the supplier of the micro-ingredient package; the lot number of the provider; and the expiration date of the micro-ingredient. The tare weight of each micro-ingredient package can be read in this file by reading an encoded barcode symbol, printed 5 previously on the printed bar code menu 150, or c- or in another bar code menu provided by the ~ provider. In a conventional manner, the bar code symbol reading process of Block D is carried out by using the bar code symbol reader device 9 to repeatedly produce and sweep a visible laser beam on each bar code symbol printed on it. Each package of micro-ingredients delivered. The light reflected from the scanned bar code symbol is perceived by the reader of lv. / barcode and it becomes an electrical signal. The electrical signal is then processed in decoding in order to produce the character data of the symbols representative of the identity of the package of micro-ingredients supplied as well as other information items.
encoded by the symbols of the bar codes. The data of the characters of the symbols produced are transmitted to the auxiliary computer system and are used to enter the
Or information items identified above in the Received Record File of Inventory. After they have been entered
the items of the information described above in the Received Record File of Inventory and all the packages within the received shipment are entered in the registration system of the main computer system, all this information file is transferred from the auxiliary computer to the system
of the main computer with the use of a conventional data communication technique, known in the art. In Block E in Figure 16A, the main computer system executes the Storage Scale Weighing Routine of Figure 19 to measure the gross weight of each type of micro-ingredient package stored in its pre-assigned storage balance. The gross weight of these stored micro-ingredient packages is then recorded in the Inventory Received Record File. As indicated in Block F in Figure 16B, each ^ J micro-ingredient package delivered is then physically stored in its pre-assigned storage balance. Then in Block G, when the shipment of micro-ingredients has been physically stored on the storage scales, the main computer system once again executes the Weighing Routine 5 on the storage scales in order to measure the gross weight of the the packages of micro-ingredients stored in them. The gross weight of the packaged micro-ingredient
Or again it is recorded by the main computer system that executes the 0 storage balance weighing routine in Figure 19. Then in Block H, the gross weight measured in Block E for each micro-ingredient is subtracted from the gross weight. measured in Block G for that micro-ingredient and then the difference between both values is recorded as the gross weight of the micro-ingredient actually received in the inventory. With the use of tare weight of the micro-ingredient packages stored on the inventory storage balance, the difference in net weight of micro-ingredient is calculated on the storage scales. The difference of the net weight calculated in micro-ingredient within the main computer system is recorded. In Block I in Figure 16B, for each micro-ingredient listed in the Received Record File of Inventory, the main computer system compares (i) the difference measured in net weight of micro-ingredient
< lv, J effectively stored in the inventory against (ii) the net weight of micro-ingredient received for storage in the inventory. Specifically, the net weight of micro-ingredient received for storage is calculated from the information of net weight and tare weight recorded in the
Registration File Received from Inventory. Based on this comparison, the main computer system determines, in Block J, if any loss or gain in inventory occurred
Or received during the process of receiving micro-ingredient and if so produces an alarm signal or indicative report 0 of it. Such losses may have occurred as a result of micro-ingredient leakage from some damaged package, physical storage on an incorrect storage balance or theft caused during the inventory receipt process. After each micro-ingredient shipment 5 has been entered into the inventory and each package received in its pre-assigned storage balance has been physically stored, the Inventory Received Record File, produced, is stored on a basis of data maintained in the main computer system. Then, as 5 is indicated in Block K in Figure 16C, the Record File Received from Inventory, produced above, is used to start, or to update the Record File Received from Inventory in Master Storage Scales, according to Figure 11, as the case may be. As shown, in Figure 11, the supplier's batch number, the product identity code and the weight of each product of each micro-ingredient received in the inventory is entered into its respective information field in this file. At any time in time, the main computer system can 5 refer to the Inventory Record File on the Master Storage Scale and determine the identity and number of the micro-ingredient packages stored in any of the
Or the Inventory Storage Balances in the Configured System. Before operating the system of the present invention, it is first necessary to collect the information on the tare weight of the different storage containers (for example bags, containers, distributor tanks, distribution tanks and weighing hopper) that are used in combination with the weighing mechanisms of the system according to the present invention. In order to obtain and use
G only net weight measurements for the micro-ingredients in the system, their gross weight measurements are adjusted by the measurement of the tare weight of the container involved during the measurement. 5 Accordingly, access to the main computer system is provided to a file called File of Gross Weight Correction Values (not shown). Preferably this file is created by the auxiliary computer system during a calibration procedure conducted in certain ^. occasions in accordance with the needs to ensure accuracy in the measurements of the weights and then transmitted to the main computer system for use during the continuous accounting process. After a shipment of micro-5 ingredient has been received in the inventory as described above, it is necessary to fill or fill in each deposit and distributor tank programmed into the system. According to the present
(-3 invention, the flow diagram of Figure 17 establishes the steps of a novel method of filling (and filling) the 0 tanks and distribution tanks programmed with the micro-ingredient obtained from the scales for inventory storage. The details of this method will be described below: As indicated in Block A in Figure 17, the first step in the tank filling / distributor tank method involves the use of a graph-based program.
Interactive G called "create the Deposit File of the Deposit / Distributor Tank" to generate a Deposit Refill Record / Distributor Tank File in the auxiliary computer. Preferably the helper computer is programmed to generate such a file by simply reading a predesignated bar code symbol that has been pre-printed on the barcode menu 150. As shown in Figure 12, each Record Archive of Deposit Filling. / Distributor tank maintained for distributor fill index "K", comprises an information field number, organized by the preassigned micro-ingredient code, ie: the ingredient code Q; the number of the deposit or distributor tank; the lot number 5 of the supplier K; the identification of the supplier of the micro-ingredient that has the batch number of the supplier K; the net weight of the micro-ingredient from the batch number of the
O provider K; the lot number of the supplier K + l; the identification of the micro-ingredient supplier that has the 0 lot number of the supplier K + l; the net weight of micro-ingredient from the supplier lot number K + l; etc. As shown in Figure 13, the Originally Generated Tank Refill or Reservoir Registration File has a sufficient number of blocks to record the information related to each tank and distributor tank within the system. G As indicated in Block B in Figure 17, the auxiliary computer 5 and the portable bar code reader 9, are used to record the information related to the product, as mentioned above, within the File of Deposit Refill Register or Distributor Tank, created for filling operation of distributor number "K". This is achieved by first reading the identifier of the symbols of the bar codes 145 secured to the reservoir (or tank) distributor that must be filled with its pre-assigned micro-ingredient. After successfully reading this bar code symbol, the corresponding distributor (or tank) distributor code appears in the Deposit Refill Registration File or Distributor Tank, together with the micro-ingredient code and the pre-assigned color code to the balance of the selected tank or distributor tank. - ^ As indicated in Block C in Figure 17, the forage plant operator then reads the symbols of the bar codes on each micro-ingredient package that has been removed from its pre-assigned storage balance and that must be emptied into the selected distributor warehouse. This operation automatically enters the information related to the bar-coded packet, in the Deposit Refill Registration File or distributor tank. Then in Block D, the packages withdrawn in their warehouses and pre-assigned distributors are emptied. When all of the micro-ingredient packages have been emptied into the dispensing container, a predesignated bar code symbol is read from bar code menu 150 using the bar code symbol voter. As indicated in Block E, the BD steps are repeated for each tank or distributor tank that requires filling, as the case may be. When all the tanks and distribution tanks have been filled in this way, in the manner indicated above, then the completed Deposit Tank / Distributor Tank Registration File is transferred to the main computer system in order to update ( i) the Inventory Record File in the Balance
of Storage, Master, as shown in Figure 11 and (ii) the Inventory Record File in the Depot / Distributor Tank, Master, indicated in Figure 13.
Or Specifically, when a micro-ingredient package has been removed from your pre-assigned storage balance and
entered in the Register of the Deposit Refill / Distributor Tank Registration File to be then emptied into its pre-assigned distributor warehouse, the information regarding the micro-ingredient package of the Inventory Record File in the Storage Balance, Master, will disappear. and will reappear in the Warehouse Inventory Record / Distributor Tank, Master, during the operation
G update of File. Typically, the filled micro-ingredient dispensing and mixing machine of the present invention will receive the instruction to prepare a specific batch of aqueous paste of micro-ingredients a number of times each day. These instructions or commands leave the computer of the forage plant that is in interface with the main computer system or comes from the operator of the plant jj j forage through board entry operations present in the main computer system. In either case, the main computer system uses a Micro-ingredient Batch Production File corresponding to the received production command. This file is structured
in a conventional manner and allows the main computer system to determine the programmed types and relative amounts of micro-ingredient that should be
Or distributed and mixed during the manufacture of a specific batch of micro-ingredient. 20 Figure 14 schematically shows the
Master Inventory Record File. As shown, this file is built on an information structure that has been dynamically extended for each new "inventory record period". I agree with you
In accordance with the principles of the present invention, each new period of inventory registration is identified by an "Inventory Registration Index" designated by the integer variable i. As will be known later, the inventory registration index i is increased by 1 when any of the following events occurs, namely: the receipt of a shipment of micro-ingredients in the inventory; the withdrawal of packages of micro-ingredients from the inventory and its use to fill tanks and / or tanks distributors of the machine; the distribution and the mixture of micro-ingredients together
ÍL during the manufacture of a batch of an aqueous paste of micro-ingredients; or, the request that the production of an inventory report determine the status of the inventory of micro-ingredients in the system. As shown in Figure 14, during each new
In the period of inventory record i, the Master Inventory Record File is expanded by a single inventory record block for each programmed micro-ingredient. Whether
Or submit a request for a discrepancy report received in inventory (for example, which is made in response to the
receipt of a new shipment of micro-ingredients), it is induced or is the reason for expanding the Master Inventory Record File, and in this case also a Discrepancy Block Received from Inventory is added to each block of inventory record of the number "i" within the File of 5 Extended Master Inventory Record. If a request for a tank / tank fill discrepancy report
G distributor (which occurs for example in response to the filling of 1 or several tanks and / or distribution tanks) motivates the expansion of the Master Inventory File 5, then a tank / tank filling discrepancy block is also added distributor to each inventory block of number i within the Master Inventory Registry File, Expanded. Thus an application for a Discrepancy Report of Use of Micro-ingredient
IV J (which is produced, for example, in response to the production of a batch of aqueous micro-ingredient paste) motivates the expansion of the Master Inventory Record File, then that unique Micro-Content Use Discrepancy Block is added to each Block Inventory Inventory
Number "i" within the Master Inventory Record File, expanded. If a request for an inventory report motivates the extension of the Registry File of
Or Master Inventory, then an inventory reporting block is also added to each inventory record block
of number "i" within the Master Expanded Inventory Record file. In general terms, between any two consecutive periods of inventory registration, for example (il, i) or (i, 1 + 1), one of at least three events may occur to disturb the inventory status, that is: ( 1) receive a shipment of micro-ingredients for their entry into the inventory; (2) the withdrawal of micro-G ingredients from the inventory to fill the tanks and tanks distributors of the machine; or (3) the distribution of micro-ingredients for use during the production of a batch 5 of an aqueous paste of micro-ingredients. Each of these inventory registration events has been described in great detail above and therefore requires no further treaty. In Figure 14A, the information fields are shown in each Inventory Record Block
I (Abbreviation in English "IRB", abbreviation in Spanish: "BRI") for a period of registration of arbitrarily selected inventory, i. Specifically, the Inventory Register Block of the exemplary embodiment considers the case in which tanks and tanks are used.
primary and secondary distributors to distribute each programmed micro-ingredient identified by its pre-assigned micro-ingredient code q. Likewise, the
^ - ^ Primary and secondary inventory storage scales to store each of the micro-ingredients
scheduled. As shown, each Inventory Record Block comprises, for each programmed micro-ingredient, specific information fields for storing the following lines of information: the micro-ingredient code q; the tare weight of the primary distributor tank; the gross weight 5 of the primary distributor deposit registered in the inventory recording period No. "i"; The net weight of the deposit
G primary distributor registered in inventory record period number "i"; the tare weight of the secondary distributor tank; the gross weight of the secondary distributor depot 5 registered in the inventory registration period number "i"; the net weight of the secondary distributor deposit that is recorded in period number "i" for the inventory record; the weight of tare of the packages in the primary storage balance in the period of record of l / inventory number "i", which is computed with the use of the Inventory Record File in Storage Balance, Teacher; the gross weight of the micro-ingredient packages in the primary storage balance recorded in the inventory recording period number "i"; the net weight of
packages of micro-ingredients in the primary storage balance that is recorded in the inventory record period number "i"; the tare weight of the packages in the
Or secondary storage balance in the inventory recording period "i", which is calculated using the File of
Inventory Record in the Storage Balance, teacher; the gross weight of the micro-ingredient packages in the secondary storage balance in the inventory recording period number "i" and the net weight of the micro-ingredient packages in the storage balance
secondary that is recorded in the inventory registration period number "i". As shown in Figure 14A, each v_ one of the information fields noted above is provided for each micro-ingredient q, which varies from q = 0 to Q. As shown in Figure 14, after each shipment number j "of the micro-ingredient that is received in the fodder batch, a block of discrepancy received from Inventory is created (abbreviation in English" IRDB "; Abbreviation in Spanish: "BDRI") in the period of record of inventory No. / '"i" for each micro-ingredient programmed. As shown in Figure 14B, each block of discrepancy received from inventory number i "for the micro-ingredient q comprises the information fields for storing the following lines of information, namely: the micro-ingredient code q; The number of the pre-assigned storage balance, the net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the storage balance, which is recorded in the inventory record block, number (il), the net weight of the micro- q ingredient in the storage balance, which is recorded in the Inventory Registration Block number "i", the difference in the net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the storage balance, measured in the inventory recording periods il and i the net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the shipment received from packages, which is calculated using the Received Record File of inventory number "j", and the discrepancy in the net weight of the micro-ingredient q between the measurements defined As shown in Figure 14, after each operation n. { number "k" filling or filling of tank or distributor tank, a block of discrepancy of filling of tank / tank distributor (abbreviation in English "DRDB"; abbreviation in Spanish: "BDRD") is created in the period of inventory registration "i" for each programmed micro-ingredient q. As shown in Figure 14C, the Tank Fill Discrepancy Block / Distribution Tank
-Wt --- n. { number "i" for each micro-ingredient q comprises information fields for storing the following lines of information, namely: the micro-ingredient code q; the number of the deposit or distributor tank; the storage balance pre-assigned to the micro-ingredient q; the weight
gross of the micro-ingredient packed q on the storage balance registered in the Registration Block of
Inventory number i-l; the gross weight of the micro-ingredient
^ - packed q in the storage balance recorded in the
Inventory Record Block number "i"; the difference in
the gross weight of the micro-ingredient packed q on the storage scales, registered in the Inventory Registration Blocks n. { number (i-l) and "i"; the tare weight of the micro-ingredient packet removed from the storage balance (which is calculated using the File of 5 Tank Fill Record / Tank Distributor); the difference in the net weight of the micro-ingredient q over the
G storage balances between inventory registration periods number (i-l) and "i"; the gross weight of the micro-ingredient q in the registration tank registered in the inventory inventory block number (i-1); the gross amount of the micro-ingredient q in the deposit or in the distributor warehouses which has been registered in the inventory register block number "i"; the difference in the gross of the micro-ingredient q in the deposit or deposits
V. J distributors, which has been registered in inventory register blocks number (i-l) and "i"; the tare weight of the deposit of the distributing tanks; the difference in the net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the deposit or distributing deposits; and the discrepancy in the difference in net weight
of the micro-ingredient in the inventory storage balance and the difference in net weight of the micro-ingredient in the distributor tank. - 'As shown in Figure 14, after each pass of micro-lot production of number "1" a
block of discrepancy of use of micro-ingredient (abbreviation in English: "IUDB", abbreviation in Spanish "BDUI") in the inventory registration period number "i" for each programmed micro-ingredient q. As shown in Figure 14 D, the block of discrepancy of use of micro-ingredient n. { number "i" 5 for each programmed micro-ingredient comprises field of lines of i io b l d d d d q d; the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the distribution warehouses that is registered in the Inventory Block 5 (i-1), and which is registered in the Inventory Registration Block number i-1); the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the distributor warehouses, which is recorded in the Inventory Registration Block number "i"; the total net weight of the micro-ingredient on the platform storage balance, which is recorded in the Inventory Registration Block n. { number "i"; the total net weight of the forage macro-ration produced during the production run of lot "1" (that is, during the inventory recording interval (i-1, i), the theoretical calculated use of the
micro-ingredient q usable during the production run of batch "1" (which is calculated using the total net weight of the forage macro-ration); as well as the discrepancy in weight
Or net in the use of micro-ingredient that is calculated for the production pass of lot "1". 20 As shown in Figure 14E, after each inventory report, arbitrarily requested, an Inventory Discrepancy Record Block (Abbreviation in English: "IDRB") is created for each micro- programmed ingredient in the registration period of
inventory n. { number "i". As shown in Figure 14E, the Inventory Discrepancy Block number "i" for each micro-G programmed ingredient comprises information fields for storing the following lines of information, namely: the micro-ingredient code that; the total net weight of micro-ingredients in the tanks or distributing tanks, which is recorded in the Arbitrary Inventory Registration Block (i-r); the total net weight of micro-ingredient q in the inventory storage balances, which is recorded in the inventory register block number (i-r); the total net weight of micro-ingredient in the tanks or distribution tanks, which is registered in the Inventory Registration Block number "i"; the total net weight of micro-ingredient q on the inventory storage balances, which is recorded in the Inventory Registration Block number "i"; in total net weight in the forage macro-ration obtained from the Distribution / Mixing / Flow Application Routine; the sum of the calculated theoretical use of the production passes during the arbitrary inventory recording period (i-r, i); the net total weight of the micro-ingredient q received during the arbitrary inventory recording interval (i-r, i); and the inventory discrepancy calculated for the arbitrary inventory recording interval (i-r, i). Having described the information structures produced by the system of the present invention, it is at this time proper to describe the procedures that use these information structures during the different modes of operation of the system. In Figures 18 to 18C, the Control Routine of the Main System is schematically represented, with the use of a high-level flow diagram. This routine is executed by the processor of the main computer system when the system has been initialized, for example, by supplying power to the system. As described below, the Main System Control routine incorporates a remarkable level of intelligence that allows the system of the present invention to successfully execute the record of the maintained inventory of the micro-ingredient on a continuous basis. As will be evident, the way in which the Main System Control routine achieves this function of "continuous accounting of inventories" is through an automatic response to each of the "events of
Or inventory record "motivating the system to enter a particular mode of programmed operation, While the specific data of each particular mode of the operation differ, each of such modes of operation imply the following: (1) expand the Inventory Record File of Figure 14, (2) measure the weight of the different types of micro-ingredients stored in the system, (3) record 5 such weight measurements, and (4) produce different types of measurements of discrepancy indicating the specific type and amount of micro-ingredient used, misused and / or "lost" during the inventory registration event that motivated the specific mode of operation.5 For a simpler discussion, it is noted here that we will describe the control routine of the main system according to the order in which the "Inventory Registration Events" described above occur in typical form once the system of the present i is installed nvention.
~ ^ ,? In particular, the following description is presented on the following assumption bases: The system is already configured (ie the tanks, tanks and storage balances have already been identified and programmed, the System Configuration File is stored in the
main computer system; all scales have been calibrated correctly; and the tare weights of all the tanks, distributing tanks and different types of
Or packages of micro-ingredients are registered in the main computer system. 20 As shown in Figure 18, after the system has been energized and all programming variables initialized, the processor present in the main computer system proceeds to Block A and determines whether or not an application has been made to produce a Cut of
Inventory. Once the installation of the system of the present invention is complete, there will be practically no micro-ingredient present in a dispensing tank or tank, nor will any micro-ingredient package be stored on the platform storage scales. In order to produce a batch of aqueous paste of micro-ingredients, the tanks and distribution tanks programmed with their pre-assigned micro-ingredients, which must be taken from the inventory storage scales, color-coded, must be sufficiently full. . However, so that there are no packages of micro-ingredients stored on the storage scales, first there must be a shipment of micro-ingredient packages delivered to the animal forage production facility. Thus, in Block B of Figure 18, the processor will typically determine (ie, at
immediately after installing the system) that at that time there is no request for the production of a batch of micro-ingredient aqueous paste and proceeds directly to the
O Block C in Figure 18A. In Block C in Figure 18A, the processor
determines whether an application for a Report of Discrepancy Received from the Inventory has been made by the auxiliary computer. After completing the installation of the system, this request will typically be the first inventory registration event to occur. Specifically, there are a number of 5 ways in which this request can be made. For example, this request can be made by physically interfacing the auxiliary computer system with the main computer system and then issuing the request to the main computer system through the auxiliary computer. As an alternative, this request can be made by making the request with the auxiliary computer and after placing the auxiliary computer in interface with the main computer system, automatically pass the request to the auxiliary computer. -. According to the present invention, and after a shipment of micro-ingredients has been delivered to the fodder batch, it is used in the auxiliary computer 5 and the bar code symbol reader 9 to enter in registered form the packages of micro-ingredients in the inventory of the system 5 by using the inventory receiver method illustrated in Figures 16A to 16. As described above, this method has an interactive nature whenever it requires
Or that both systems, that is, of the main computer and the auxiliary computer, are integrated with a certain degree by the operator or the forage plant or by other delegated personnel, in order to carry out the inventory receiving me. The interactive nature of this process is reflected in the portion of the control flow diagram that is presented in Figure 18A. during or after the entry in registered form of 5 packages of micro-ingredients received in an Archive of Received Inventory Record, it is placed in the auxiliary computer in interface with the main computer system to establish in interleaved form a link of data communication. Then, as described above, a discrepancy report request received from the inventory is sent to the main computer system, preferably by way of the auxiliary computer. In Block D, the processor in the main computer system determines if the different scales have been calibrated in the system. This is achieved by analyzing the calibration flags that are placed for each balance calibrated in the system memory during a balance calibration routine that is carried out with the use of the auxiliary computer. If all the scales are not calibrated, the processor places the flag or the calibration flags according to the needs in Block E and automatically generates an alarm to alert the forage plant operator in the sense that one or more Machine scales require a calibration. After having placed the necessary flags for calibration, the processor returns to Block B in Figure 18. In case all the calibration flags are placed in Block D, in Figure 18, the processor proceeds to Block F and determines if all the micro-ingredient packages corresponding to the received shipment have been registered, within the Inventory Received Record File, inside the auxiliary computer. If the auxiliary computer has not been informed by the forage plant operator that all the packages received have been registered in the Received Record File of Inventory, 5 then in block G the processor notifies the operator of the forage plant (for example, by displaying a message that appears on the screen of the auxiliary computer) to enter, in registered form, all the received micro-ingredient packages. When all the packages are entered in the V_ / registered form in the Received Record File of Inventory, then the processor in Block H determines if any of the received packages have been physically stored in the inventory storage scales. If so, then in Block I, processor 5 alerts the forage plant operator (for example, by displaying a visual message on the auxiliary computer) to remove any newly received packages from the scales.
Or inventory storage. When the main computer system is notified that all these 0 packets are not already in the inventory storage scales, then in Block J, the processor notifies the auxiliary computer (for example by sending a packet of command data) to transmit the Registration File Received from the Inventory, completed. Then, in Block K, when the Received Record File of Inventory is received by the Main Computer System, the processor proceeds to Block L in the process of controlling the main system. In Block L, in Figure 18A, the processor increases the inventory registration index i by + l and the 5 received index of inventory j by + 1. Likewise, in this control block, the processor extends to the registry file of Master Inventory of Figure 14 by adding an Inventory record block as well as an Inventory Received Block of Discrepancy for each programmed micro-ingredient
IV- q. Then in Block M, the processor notifies the forage plant operator to physically store each micro-ingredient received package on its pre-assigned inventory storage balance. When, in Block N, the main computer system is informed that
each micro-ingredient package of the received shipment has been physically stored on its pre-assigned storage balance (for example, by sending a command through the * - 'auxiliary computer), then the processor proceeds to Block 0 and executes the routine of weighing the Storage Balance,
shown in Figure 19. As illustrated in Figure 19, the Weighing Routine in the Storage Scale comprises a number of steps carried out in sequence under the control of the main computer system. As indicated in Block A in Figure 19, the processor first defines the index p of the Storage Balance as being within the range of 1 ap, where p is the total number of storage scales programmed in the System Configuration File. Then the processor initializes the variable p 5 by setting it to 1 (ie: p = l). In Block B, the processor reads the input register in the I / O board that is uniquely associated with the storage balance corresponding to- P = l / Y then records the measurement in the Inventory Register Block " i "for the micro-ingredient pre-assigned to this storage balance. In Block C the processor determines if p = P, which indicates that the gross weight of the packages on the last storage balance has been measured and registered within the System Configuration File. If p is not equal to P, then the processor increases to the
variable X by +1 and return to Block B, as shown in Figure 19. The operations indicated in Block B are re-executed for each of the other balance scales.
Or storage. Once those operations are completed, the p = P condition is satisfied, the processor exits the routine and
returns to the main control process, in Block P in Figure 18A. In Block P in Figure 18A, the processor registers in the Inventory Record Block number "i", all the gross weight measurements taken during the execution of
the weighing routine of the storage balance in Block 0. In Block Q, the processor executes the routine of
G computation of discrepancy received from inventory of Figure 20, the details of which will be described at this time. During the execution of the Computation Routine of
Discrepancy Received from Inventory, the processor uses the set number "i" of the Blocks of Discrepancy Received from the
Inventory as shown in Figure 14. In Block A in Figure 20, the processor first defines the index of the micro-ingredient code q as varying from 1 to Q, where Q V. is the total number of micro- ingredients programmed into the system. This index is initialized by placing it and equivalent to l (ie: Q = 1). In Block B, the processor has access to both the number "i" set and the number ("i-l") of the Inventory Registration Blocks from the File of 5 Master Inventory Record. Then in Block C, the processor calculates the measure of Discrepancy Received from
Inventory number J: W 'rs (j) for the micro- ^ ingredient code q using the following formula:
0 Formula pag. 47
wherein the first term of the above formula is the calculated net weight 5 of the micro-ingredient (q) during the inventory periods number (i-l) to "i" inclusive; the second term v- "of the above formula is the net weight of the micro-ingredient (q) stored on the scale or on the storage scales, registered in the Block of Record of 5 Inventory number (il), the third term within from the above formula is the net weight of the micro-ingredient (q) stored on the balance or storage scales, registered in the Inventory Registration Block number "i"; the fourth term of the above formula is the calculated net weight of the micro-ingredient (q) removed from the balance or from the storage and emptying scales in the pre-assigned distribution tanks or tanks during the inventory registration period number (il) e "i" Specifically, the fourth term of the above formula can be evaluated in different ways according to the events that occurred during the interval of the Inventory Register (i-l, i). For example, if the indices K and 1 are constant during this interval, f C? then Wqd (i-1) and Wqd (i) can be used to calculate W 'd (i-l), i). However, if the k and l indexes have been 0 increased during the inventory registration periods (il) and number "i" which indicates distributor filling and batch production operations, then the filling-in registration file may be used. Deposit / Distributor Tank to calculate W 'ad (il, i). 5 After the measure of discrepancy received from inventory has been calculated for the microv_ / ingredient Q code, the processor in Block D in Figure 20 buffers the discrepancy measure calculated in the Discrepancy Block received from Inventory number "i" which corresponds to the micro-ingredient q. in Block G, the processor determines if q = Q, which indicates that it has been considered the last micro-ingredient code in the analysis of the discrepancy received from the inventory. If q is not equal to Q, then the processor increases the variable q by +1 in Block F and returns to lv_ / Block B, as shown. The computation set established in Block C is re-executed for each of the other programmed micro-ingredients. When a measure of the discrepancy received from inventory has been calculated for each programmed micro-ingredient, the
condition q = Q, the processor exits the routine and returns to the main control process in Block R, in Figure 18A. In Block R, in Figure 18A, the processor
V- records the inventory discrepancy measures calculated in game n. { number "i" of the Blocks of Discrepancy Received
of Inventory. Then, in Block S, the processor uses the information entered in the set number "i" of the Blocks of Discrepancy Received from the Inventory in order to produce the Report of Discrepancy Received from Inventory number "j".
As shown in Figure 25, the Inventory Distribution Report received number "j" (for example,
G "Revised Inventory Report") preferably contains a number of information lines for each programmed micro-ingredient q, namely: the total net weight of micro-ingredient 5 q in the storage scales at the beginning of the inventory recording period number "i"; the total net weight of the micro-ingredient received in the inventory during the interval of the inventory record (i-l, i); the total net weight of the micro-ingredient removed from the storage scales introduced into the storage tanks / tanks during the inventory recording interval (i-1, i); the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the balance or in the storage scales at the end of the inventory recording period n. { number "i"; and the discrepancy in the
total net weight of the inventory received during the inventory recording interval (i-l, i). Then, in Block T, the processor uses the
Or information registered in the Received Record File of Inventory produced to update the Registry File of
The Master Storage Balance, as shown in Figure 11. In essence, its file updating process involves the use of the information contained in the Received Record File of Inventory number "j" to increase "i" the n. { number of micro-ingredient packages of each number of
batch of particular provider, which are stored on each pre-assigned storage balance, (ii) the net weight
G of the micro-ingredient q in the stored packages that have a n. { specific provider lot number. The processor then returns to Block C in Figure 18A to 5 determine whether another Request for Discrepancy Report Received from Inventory has been received from the previous progesion through Blocks C to R. In case of need, the operator is capable of the forage plant to use the inventory of micro- / J ingredients stored on the storage balance of the system in order to carry the programmed distributor tanks and the distributing tanks programmed with pre-assigned micro-ingredient. Preferably, the method of refilling distributors according to Figure 17 is used by the
operator of the forage plant to fill and fill the tanks and the distributing tanks equally. In the illustrative embodiment, when the operator of the plant
O ~ r forage carries out this process, the computer and the bar code symbol reader 9 are placed in initerfaz with
the main computer system and the auxiliary computer system runs the graphic-based program "create the Tank / Distributor Reservoir Refill Register" as described above in relation to the method in Figure 17. 5 When interconnected The main and auxiliary computer system establishes a v and path of data communication between both. When the auxiliary computer starts running the program "Create a Tank Refill Register in the Distributor Tank", a 5 packet of coded data is transmitted as a "Tank Refill Request / Distributor Tank" from the auxiliary computer system to the Main bar code system. When this event occurs, the main computer system, in Block U in Figure 18A states that it has been
-k- and presented a request for filling of Deposit / Distributor Tank by the auxiliary computer. The host computer responds to this request by entering an operation mode described by the control flow process of Figure 18B. While in this mode of
operation, the auxiliary computer system is typically running the Create a Retrieval Register / Reservoir Tank Routine routine. As illustrated -V in Figure 17, this involves the use of the bar code symbol reader 9 to record the identity of each packet
of micro-ingredients removed from one of the inventory storage and emptying scales in your pre-assigned distributor warehouse (color coded) or placed on your distributor tank scale. As described above, this method is interactive in its entirety requiring that both the main computer system and that of the auxiliary computer as well as a limited degree of involvement by the forage plant operator or well of another delegated staff that carries out the inventory receiving method. The interactive character 5 of this process is reflected in the portion of the control flow diagram that is established in Figure 18B. In Block B in Figure 18B, the processor determines whether the different scales have been calibrated in the system. If the scales are not all calibrated, the processor sets the flag or calibration flags required in block W and then proceeds to Block KK in Figure 18. Otherwise, when all the calibration flags are placed, the processor proceeds to Block X and increases the inventory registration index i by 1 and 5. { index of filling of distributor j by 1. In Block Y, then the processor enlarges the Record File of "Master Inventory, adding to it an Inventory Record Block and a Tank Fill Discrepancy Block / Distributor Tank for each micro-ingredient recorded in file 0 in the system configuration file. When in Block Z the processor receives a "Read Balances Command" on the auxiliary computer, proceed to Block AA and execute the Tank / Distributor Tank Weighing Routine as shown in Figure 21. 5 As indicated in flow diagram of Figure 21, the Tank Tank / Distributor Weighing Routine
G- comprises a number of steps carried out in sequence under the control of the main computer system. As indicated in Block A, the processor first determines whether the distribution and mixing machine of the present invention is inactive (ie, that it is not induced to some other mode of operation). If the machine is not in idle condition, then the processor exits the routine, as illustrated. But on the other hand, if -V / finds the machine inactive, then in Block B, the processor defines the index of the distributor deposit code N as varying between 1 and N, in which N is the number of programmed distributor deposits to then initialize the code index of the distributor deposit N 5 by placing it in 1 (that is, n = l). In Block C, the processor then determines if the corresponding distributor deposit is programmed to n = l in the
V-- System Configuration File. If it is not programmed like this, then in Block D the processor determines whether the index 0 of the distributor deposit n is equal to N. If this index is not equal to N, then in Block E this index is increased by +1 and the processor returns to Block C, as shown. When in Block C, the distributor deposit corresponding to the index of the distributor deposit code 5 n = l is programmed in the System Configuration File, then in Block F the processor generates the control signals needed to lower the deposit distributor (corresponding to n = l), on the weighing frame of the Warehouse / Distributor. Then in Block G, the processor reads 5 the input register of the distributing tanks selected on the input / output board ("I / O") (corresponding to n = l) to obtain the gross weight of the distributor tank and the micro -the content contained in it. In Block H, the processor computes or calculates the i ./ net weight of the micro-ingredient in the distributor tank by subtracting the tare weight of the Distributor Depot from the measured gross weight. In Block I, the processor buffers the calculated net weight of the micro-ingredient. In Block J in Figure 21, the processor generates
the control signals necessary to raise the distributor tank of the weighing frame of the distributing tanks. In Block D, the processor determines whether the
^ - index of the distributor deposit code n is equal to N. If this index does not reach N, then in Block E this index 0 is incremented by 1 and the processor returns to Block C, as shown. Blocks C to j are re-executed for each distributor deposit programmed into the system. When n = N Block D and all the distributor tanks have been measured, the processor proceeds to Block K where the index of the tank code, also n, is defined and initialized as described. Then in Block L, the processor determines if the distributor tank corresponding to n = l is programmed in the System Configuration File. If the corresponding distributor tank 5 is not programmed, then the processor determines in Block M if n = N. If n is not equal to N, then the processor increases n by 1 in Block N and returns to Block L. When in Block L the processor determines that the distributor tank is programmed, then in Block O the
A. J processor reads the input register of the distributor tank on the 1/0 board (corresponding to n = l) in order to obtain the gross weight of the distributor tank and the liquid micro-ingredient contained therein. In Block P in Figure 21, the processor calculates
the net weight of micro-ingredient in the distributor tank by subtracting the known tare weight from the distributor tank, from the gross weight measured. In Block Q, the processor buffers the
Or computed net weight of the micro-ingredient. In Block M, the processor determines whether the last distributor tank
programmed (ie, n = N) has been weighed or not and if this is not the case it increases to index n by 1 and returns to Block L. The steps indicated in Blocks 1 to Q inclusive, are executed for each tank programmed distributor and after the last programmed distributor tank has been weighed, the processor
leaves the weighing routine of the tank / distributor tank and returns to the routine of the control of the main system in v_ Block BB in routine 18B. In Block BB in Figure 18B, then the processor records the measurements of the gross weight obtained above in block AA, in the game number "i" of the Inventory Registration Blocks. In Block CC, the processor executes the weighing routine of the storage scales according to Figure 19, as described above. This routine returns the net weight measurements of the micro-ingredient contained in the i! V_ and stored packages on the pre-assigned storage scales. In Block DD, then the processor registers the net weight measurements obtained in Block CC, in the juice n. { number "i" of the Inventory Registration Blocks. In Block DD in Figure 18 D, then the processor executes the
Calculation Routine of the Discrepancy of Tank Refill / Tank Distributor as set forth in Figure 22. O During the execution of the Computation Routine of the Tank Fill Discrepancy / Tank Distributor
In accordance with Figure 22, the processor uses set number "i" of the Tank Fill Discrepancy Record Blocks / Distributor Tank shown in Figures 14 and 14C. In Block A in Figure 22, the processor defines and initializes the micro-ingredient code index q (is
say, q = l). In Block B, the processor has access to the "i" e (i-l) set of the Inventory Registration Blocks
G from the system memory. Then in Block C, the processor calculates the measure of the filling discrepancy of the distributors W 'd (k) for the micro-ingredient q. This computed measure is calculated using the following formula:
Formula page 53
in which the first term of the above formula is the computed net weight of the micro-ingredient (q) on the balance or storage scales, as recorded in the Inventory Registration Block (i-1); the second term of the above formula is the net computed weight of the micro-ingredient (q) on the balance or the storage scales, as recorded in the Inventory Registration Block number "i"; in the third term, within the above formula is the computed net weight of the micro-ingredient q) in
Either the tank or tank or in the distribution tanks or tanks, as registered in Block 0 of Inventory "i"; the fourth term in the above formula is the computed net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the deposit or deposits or the tank or distribution tanks, as recorded in the Inventory Registration Block (i-l); the fifth term of the above formula is the net weight executed 5 of the micro-ingredient received in the inventory during the inventory recording periods from the number i-l) to
VV "i"; and the sixth term of the above formula is the net weight of the micro-ingredient q that is used during periods of * inventory registration from the number (i-l) to "i". In Block D, in Figure 22, the processor records the filling discrepancy measure of the distributor computed in the discrepancy block of the tank / distributor tank filling number "i", corresponding to the micro-ingredient q. In Block E, the processor determines if q = Q, which
* i \. . .. . . . IV-y indicates that it has been considered the last micro-ingredient in the analysis of the discrepancy received from the inventory. If q is not equal to Q, then the processor increases the variable q by 1 in Block F and returns to Block B, as shown, the computation established in Block C of the
Figure 22 is executed again for each of the other programmed micro-ingredients. When a measure of filling discrepancy has been computed in a distributor for
Q each micro-ingredient programmed, the condition q = Q is satisfied, the processor leaves the routine and proceeds to the
Block F of Figure 18B in the process of controlling the main system. In Block F in Figure 18B, the processor records the Distributor fill discrepancy measurements computed in the number "i" set of the
Blocks of Discrepancy of Refilling of Deposits / Distributor Tanks. Then in Block GG, the processor uses f ^ the set "i" of the Discrepancy Blocks of the Deposits / Distributor Tanks to generate the Discrepancy Report of the Deposits / Tanks 5 Distributors number "k". As shown in Figure 26, the "K" Distributor / Tank Fill Filling Discrepancy Report (eg, "Distributor Refill Report") preferably contains a number of information rows for each micro-ingredient programmed, namely: the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q on the storage balances, recorded at the beginning of the inventory recording period number "i"; the total net weight of the micro-ingredient received in the inventory during the
inventory record interval (i-l, i); the total net weight of the micro-ingredient removed from the storage scales introduced into the tanks / tanks
Or distributors during the inventory recording interval (i-l, i), the total net weight of the micro-ingredient that
distributed during the inventory recording interval (i-l, i); the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the balance or the storage scales, at the end of the inventory registration period number "i"; and the discrepancy in the total net weight of the micro-ingredient used to fill the
tanks / distributing tanks during the inventory recording interval (i-l, i). G In Block H in Figure 18B, the processor notifies the auxiliary computer to transmit the completed tank / tank fill register file, 5. When this file is received in Block II, it is used in Block JJ to update the Deposit Inventory / Master Distributor Inventory File of Figure 13. In essence, this update process involves the use of net weight of micro-ingredient q listed in the > i Deposit Refill Registration File / Tank
Distribution (with the numbers of specific supplier lots) to decrease the weight of the micro-ingredient packages listed in the Inventory File of the Deposits / Distributor Tanks, Maestro (with the
corresponding supplier lot numbers). When this update process is complete, the processor returns to Block U in Figure 18B where it can be
Or received another request to fill the Tank / Distributor Tank from the auxiliary computer. 20 If no other Refill Request is received
Deposit / Distributor Tank when returning to Block U in Figure 18B, then the processor proceeds to Block KK where any of several accessory type routines may be requested for execution. The examples of routines
include, for example: the Balance Calibration Routine, the Forage Formulation Routine, the v- Reconfiguration System Routine and the Formula Printing Routine. If an accessory routine is requested in Block KK in Figure 18, then in Block U the processor executes the routine 5 and then returns to Block A, as shown. If an accessory routine is not requested, then the processor returns directly to Block A. With the micro-ingredient stored on the storage scales and in the tanks and tanks or programmed distributors, the system is prepared to produce a micro-batch when the system control process enters Block B in Figure 18. When an application is received for a micro-batch production run in Block B in Figure 18 and is completed in Block NN, it is induced to 5 system automatically in yet another mode of operation, which is referred to as the Discrepancy Analysis of the Use of Micro-ingredients, which is reflected in the sequence of Blocks 00 through W, inclusive in Figure 18. In contrast to the modes of operation mentioned above, this mode does not require 0 any participation by the forage plant operator and can therefore be thought of as non-interactive. The details of this mode of operation will be described below. In Block MM in Figure 18, the processor determines if all the balances of the 5 tanks and distributor tanks are calibrated. If these scales are not fully calibrated, then the processor places a v and Required Calibration flag for each Scale that requires calibration, and then returns to Block A in Figure 18, as shown. If all the balances 5 distributors are calibrated, then in Block 00 the processor executes the Distribution / Mix / Flow Application Routine in an immediately obvious way from the text presented here. Then in the PP Block in Figure 18, the processor increases the inventory registration index and by +1 and the: ^ index of use of micro-ingredient 1 by +1. In the same Block, the processor extends the master inventory record file by adding an Inventory Registration Blog and a Micro-ingredient Use Discrepancy Block to each micro-ingredient programmed in the System Configuration File. The Block QQ, the processor executes the Tank Weighing Routine / Distributor Tank as described above. In the RR Block, the processor then registers in game number "i" the Inventory Inventory Blocks illustrated 0 in Figure 14, the measurements of the gross weight obtained in the QQ Block is recommended. In the SS Block, the processor executes the Weighing Routine of the Storage Balance of Figure 19, as described above. This routine returns to the gross weight measurements of the micro-ingredient packages stored on the pre-assigned storage scales.
In the TT Block, the processor then records the gross weight measurements obtained in the SS Block, in the game number "i" of the Inventory Registration Blocks. In the UU Block, the processor then executes the 5 Discrepancy Computation Routine of the use of Micro-ingredients as set forth in Figure 23. In the Discrepancy Computation Routine of the Use of Micro-ingredients of Figure 23, the processor uses the game number "i" of the Discrepancy Record Blocks of the l >and Use of Micro-ingredients as shown in Figures 14 and 14D. In Block A in Figure 23, the processor defines and initializes the code index of the micro-ingredient q (ie q = l). In Block B, the processor accesses the "i" and "i-l" games of the inventory inventory blocks of the
system memory. Then in Block C, the processor computes the measure of the discrepancy of use of net micro-ingredient and copies it from c to d for micro-ingredient q. The measure of the discrepancy of the use of micro-ingredient net for micro-ingredient q is computed using the following
formula: Formula of Page 57
in which the first term of the previous formula is the computed net theoretical weight of the micro-ingredient used
during inventory recording periods from the number f (i-l) "i"; and the second term of the above formula is the computed net weight of the micro-ingredient used during the inventory registration periods number (i-l) "i". Specifically, the second term of the above formula 5 can be determined in different ways according to the events that have occurred between the inventory recording interval (i-l) "i". For example, when at least one inventory receiving operation has occurred during this time interval (ie the indices j, k, and 1 have been incremented each), the discrepancy measure W 'd (il) can be determined. , i) adding the total net weights of the micro-ingredient registered in the file or the filing records of the Deposits / Distributor Tanks created during this time interval. Likewise if
no inventory receiving operation has occurred between the inventory registration period number (i-l) "i" (ie the index j is constant and the indexes k
O and 1), the discrepancy measure W1 d (il, i) can be determined by computing the difference in the net weight of the micro-ingredient q on the storage scales (ie, • qs (il) -W «qs (i)). In Block D in Figure 23, the processor buffered the measurement of the discrepancy in the use of micro-ingredient computed for micro-ingredient q. In Block E, 5 the processor determines if q = Q, which indicates that it has been r? considered the last micro-ingredient in the analysis of
J discrepancy in the use of micro-ingredient. If q is not equal to Q, then the processor increases the variable q by +1 in 1 Block F and returns to Block B, as shown in Figure 23. The computation established in Block C of Figure 23 is executed from new for each of the other micro-ingredients programmed. When a discrepancy measure of micro-ingredient use has been computed for each programmed micro-ingredient, the condition q = Q is satisfied, the processor leaves the routine and proceeds to Block W of Figure 18 in the control process of the main system. Finally in Block W in Figure 18, the processor registers the micro-ingredient use discrepancy measures computed in the number "i" game of the Micro-ingredient Use Discrepancy Blocks. Then in the WW Block, the processor uses together an "i" number of the Discrepancy Record Blocks of the Micro-ingredient Use to generate the Discrepancy Report of the Use of Micro-ingredient number "i". In general terms, this report contains As shown in Figure 27, the Micro-Ingredients Use Distribution Report number "i" (that is, End of Production Past Report) preferably contains a number of lines or items of information for each programmed micro-ingredient q, namely: the total net weight of micro-ingredient q in the inventory at the beginning of the
V J inventory registration period number "i"; the net theoretical weight of the micro-ingredient q that can be used with the total amount of the feed ration produced during the production period number "1"; the total weight of the micro-ingredient q distributed during the inventory recording interval (i-l, i); the difference in net weight between the theoretical quantity and the distributed amount of micro-ingredient q; the total net weight of micro-ingredient q in the inventory i *. at the end of the inventory registration period number "i"; and the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q at the end of the inventory registration period number "i". Occasionally, the forage plant operator and / or the forage lot manager want or require a
information about the inventory status of the micro-ingredients in the system. According to the present invention, this information is automatically generated from the "system in the form of Inventory Reports." Advantageously, these inventory reports can be requested at times.
arbitrary and can be organized in a format that best suits the interests of the operator or manager of the plant's feedlot batches. By simply issuing an Inventory Report Request to the main computer system, preferably but not necessarily
Through the system of the auxiliary computer, the system of the present invention is induced to enter a mode of
U Inventory Report, which is reflected in the sequence in the sequence of the control blocks shown in Figure 18C. Specifically, the receipt of the Inventory Report Request by the main computer system is the "inventory registration event" that induces this particular mode of operation. This mode of operation will now be described in greater detail. When a Report Request is received from
/ IV 'Inventory in Block A in Figure 18, the processor determines whether all storage and distribution scales are calibrated. When in Block XX at 18C the processor determines that some scales are not calibrated correctly, then in Block YY the
The processor places the Flags Required for Calibration as described above and returns to Block AA in Figure 18. If they are correctly calibrated all the
Or storage and distribution scales, then the processor enters the ZZ Block, as shown in the Figure
18C. In Block ZZ in Figure 18C, the processor increases the inventory registration index and by +1 and the inventory reporting index by +1. In the AAA Block, the processor then expands the Master Inventory File 5 by adding an Inventory Record Block and an Inventory Record Block to each micro- • • and ingredient programmed in the System Configuration File. In Block BBB in Figure 18C, processor 5 executes the weighing routine of the Tank / Distributor Tank of Figure 21, as described above. In the CCC Block, then the processor registers in the game number "i" the Inventory Registration Blocks of Figure 14, the measurements of the gross weight obtained in Block BBB. In the DDD Block, the and OV processor executes the Weighing Routine of the Storage Balance according to Figure 19, as described above. This Routine returns to the net weight measurements of the micro-ingredient contained in the stored packages to the pre-assigned Storage Scales. In
the EEE Block, then the processor registers in the game number "i" of the Inventory Registration Blocks of Figure 14, the measurements of the net weight obtained in the DDD Block. In the EEE Block, then the processor executes the Inventory Discrepancy Computation routine established in Figure 24. 20 During the execution of the Computation Routine of
Inventory Discrepancy of Figure 24, the processor uses the information contained in the Inventory Registration and Discrepancy Blocks created between the inventory registration orders number (i-r) and "i". In Block A in Figure 24, the processor defines and initializes the index of the micro-ingredient code q (ie, q = l). In Block B, V and the processor define the inventory history index r as any arbitrary integer greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to the integer R. In Block C the processor notifies 5 the forage plant operator or the manager of the forage lots to select the inventory history index r and remain in Block D until receiving this index value. In Block E the processor accesses the inventory record number "i" (i-r) to the related Blocks from the
V ^ 10 memory. Then in Block F the processor computes the measurement of the discrepancy in the net inventory weight W'qsh (m) for the micro-ingredient q using the following formula:
Formula pag. 61 15 in which the first term of the above formula is the computed net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the balance or storage scales, which is recorded in the Inventory Registration Block number (i-r); to the second term in the
The above formula is the computed net weight of the micro-ingredient q on the balance or storage scales, which is recorded in the Inventory Registration Block number "i"; to the third term of the above formula is the computed net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the
deposits (or tanks), distributors, as registered in the Inventory Registration Block number "i"; the fourth and last term of the above formula is the net computed weight of the micro-ingredient q in the deposits (or tanks) distributors, registered in the Inventory Registration Block number (i-r); the fifth term of the above formula is the computed net weight of the micro-ingredient q that is used during the periods of Inventory Registration number (i-r) to "i"; and the sixth term of the above formula is the computed net weight of the micro-ingredient q that is received in the inventory during the inventory registration periods of the number (i-r) to "i". In Block G of Figure 24, the processor records the measurement of the inventory discrepancy computed in the Inventory Discrepancy Block number "i" corresponding to the micro-ingredient q. In Block H, the processor determines if q = Q, which indicates that it has been considered the last micro-ingredient in the inventory discrepancy analysis. If q is not equal to Q, then the processor increases the variable q by +1 in Block I and returns to Block F, as shown in Figure 24. The computation established in Block F of Figure 24 is run again for each of the other programmed micro-ingredients. When a measure of inventory discrepancy has been computed for each programmed micro-ingredient, the condition q = Q is satisfied, the processor leaves the Routine and then proceeds to Block GGG of Figure 18C in the flow of the
(^ main control process.) In Block GGG of Figure 18C, the processor records the inventory discrepancy measurements buffered in the Inventory Discrepancy Block number "I." Finally in the HHH Block in Figure 18C, the processor uses the number "i" game of the Inventory Discrepancy Blocks to generate the Inventory Report number "m." As shown in Figure 28, the Report of
, Inventory number "m" (for example "the Past Report of the Production End Period") preferably contains a number of information lines for each programmed micro-ingredient q, namely: the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the inventory at the beginning of the registration period of 5 inventory number "i"; the total net weight of the micro-ingredient received in the inventory during the inventory recording interval (i-l, i); the total net weight of the micro-ingredient
Or q separated from the storage scales and placed in the tanks to fill distributing tanks during the interval 0 of inventory registration (i-l, i); the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q distributed during the inventory recording interval (i-l, i); the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the inventory at the end of the inventory registration period number "i"; and the discrepancy in the total net weight of the micro-ingredient q in the inventory during the inventory recording interval (i-1, i). Having completed the Detailed Description of the Illustrative Embodiment of the Present Invention, various modifications are presented without delay. For example, conventional multi-task programming techniques can be used in accordance with the present invention to perform the system control process illustrated in Figures 18 to 18C. Such programming techniques can be used to support
I simultaneously operate multiple modes, such as production pass control, inventory receipt support and filling operations of the tanks and distribution tanks. In such alternative embodiments of the present invention it will be convenient that the system of
The main computer produces reports that contain two or more of the discrepancy measures described above for an arbitrarily selected inventory reporting interval.
Or that widens the inventory record interval (i-r, i). Several modifications have been described previously
in the illustrative embodiment. However, it is to be understood that various other modifications in the illustrative embodiment of the present invention will be readily suggested to those of ordinary skill in the art. It is considered that all these modifications and variants
will fall within the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by the claims of the invention, which are appended thereto. .Y
O f ~
Claims (36)
- r, THE INVENTION WAS NOT GIVEN: Having described the foregoing invention, the contents of the following claims are claimed as property: 1. A programmable micro-ingredient distributing and mixing machine, which comprises: A housing of resistant construction; apart a control element programmed to control the operation of various components of the machine in accordance with a control program; A storage and information processing element for storing and processing information regarding the measured weight of the micro-ingredients in the machine; A plurality of distributing reservoirs disposed in the housing, including each dispensing reservoir: An element for storing a supply of a pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient, and An element for distributing a specific quantity of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient from the dispensing reservoir for measure your weight under the control of the programmed control element; A first weight measuring element for independently measuring the weight of the micro-ingredient stored in each of the distributing tanks under the control of the programmed control element and producing a first G weight information for storage in the programmed information storage and processing element, the first information of weight 5 being representative of the measured weight of the micro-ingredients stored in each of the distributing tanks; A weigh hopper, disposed inside the housing, which serves to temporarily store a quantity of micro-ingredient distributed from one of i. the distributing tanks, even inside the weighing hopper, this weighing hopper including an element for unloading the measured amount of micro-ingredient under the control of said programmed control element; A second weight measuring element, disposed in the 15 housing, to measure the amount of micro-ingredient stored in the weigh hopper and produce a second weight information for storage in the element Vy storage and information processor, this second weight information being representative of the weight of the quantity 20 measure of micro-ingredient stored in the weigh hopper; A mixing tank for containing one or more types of micro-ingredients discharged from the weighing hopper under the control of the programmed control element, including the mixing tank: An element for mixing the discharged micro-ingredients with a specific amount of carrier fluid ^^ of consumption, like water, to form a mixture of an aqueous paste of micro-ingredients, and apart an element to transport the mixture of the aqueous paste of micro-ingredients away from the mixing tank under the control of the control element programmed, for later use.
- 2. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 1, further comprising: i A plurality of storage scales, each storage balance having: A storage surface for supporting one or more packages of the previously assigned type of micro-ingredient in the inventory, and A third weight measuring element for measuring the weight of one or more packages of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient supported by the storage surface and providing a third weight information for its storage in the storage element and information processor, this third weight information being representative of the measured weight of the package or of several packages of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient.
- 3. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 1, further comprising: A plurality of distributing tanks, including v. each distributor tank: An element for storing a supply of a pre-assigned type of liquid micro-ingredient; An element for distributing a specific quantity of the pre-assigned type of liquid micro-ingredient in the weighing hopper for its measurement and for its subsequent discharge into the mixing tank under the control of the programmed control element; and A fourth weight measuring element for independently measuring the weight of the liquid micro-ingredient stored in each of the distributing tanks under the control of the programmed control element and providing a fourth weight information for storage in the storage element and processor. information, this fourth weight information being representative of the measured weight of the liquid micro-ingredients stored in each of the distributing tanks.
- 4. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 1, wherein the storage and information processing element comprises a first programmed computer system.
- 5. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 4, wherein the programmed control element comprises the first programmed computer system. J
- 6. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 5, wherein each of the micro-ingredient packages carries a coded barcode symbol to identify the type and amount of micro - Content contained in the package.
- 7. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 6, further comprising a portable computer system, which can be placed in interface with the first programmed computer system and which is operatively connected to a barcode symbol reader device, hand-held, for reading the symbols of the bar codes applied to each of the micro-ingredient packages.
- The programmable micro-ingredient distributor and mixer system according to claim 1, wherein the first weight measuring element comprises a weighing frame operatively connected to a plurality of load cells mounted within the housing and in which each of the distributor tanks is independently supported from a support shaft that can be rotated about a rotating shaft by a motor operated under the control of the programmed control element.
- 9. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 8, wherein each distributor tank is independently supported from v and the rotary support shaft by means of a pair of support elements, of which each one is pivotally connected to one end thereof at a certain radial distance from the axis of rotation of the supporting shaft.
- 10. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 8, wherein the programmed control element is programmed to lower only one distributor tank at a time on the weighing frame in order to measure the weight of the micro-ingredient in the dispensing reservoir descended.
- The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 4, wherein after the production of a micro-ingredient mix batch, the first computer system programmed to produce a record of the micro-ingredients is programmed. inventory of micro-ingredients through the automatic measurement of the weight of the micro-ingredient -. / pre-assigned stored on each storage balance in each distributor tank and in each distributor tank.
- 12. A programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixing machine, comprising: A housing of rigid construction; A control element programmed to control the operation of various components of the machine in accordance with a control program; An information processing element for \ create and manage information files, including an inventory record file, referring to the handling of an inventory of micro-ingredients for distribution in the machine; A plurality of storage scales, each storage balance having: A storage surface for supporting one or more packages of a pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient in the inventory, A first weight measuring element for measuring the weight of the package or several packages of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredients supported by the storage surface and provide a first weight information for storage in the inventory record file, this first weight information being representative of the measured weight of the package or of the different packages of the pre-assigned type __ of micro-ingredient; A plurality of dispensing reservoirs disposed in the housing, including each dispensing reservoir: An element for storing a supply of a pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient and separate an element for distributing a specific amount of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient from the dispensing reservoir for its measurement under the control of the programmed control element; ^ A second weight measuring element to measure "^ independently the weight of a micro-ingredient stored in each of the distributing tanks under the control of the programmed control element and provide a second weight information for storage in the inventory record file, this second element being Weight information representative of the measured weight of the micro-ingredients stored in each of the distribution tanks; lk_ A weighing hopper, disposed inside the housing that serves to temporarily store a quantity of micro-ingredient distributed from one of the storage tanks. distribution, up to the inside of the weigh hopper, including the weigh hopper an element to discharge the measured amount of micro-ingredient under the control of the programmed control element; A third weighing element, disposed in the -and housing, to measure the amount of micro-ingredient stored in the weigh hopper and that produces a third 0 elemen weight information to be recorded in the inventory record file, this third weight information element being representative of the weight of the measured amount of micro-ingredient stored in the weigh hopper; and 5 A mixing tank to contain one or more types of micro-ingredients discharged from the weighing hopper under the IJ control of the programmed control element, including that mixing tank: An element for mixing the micro-ingredients 5 discharged with a specific amount of consumer fluid carrier such as water, so as to form a slurry mixture, and an element to transport the slurry mixture to a storage tank for later use under IV control of the programmed control element.
- 13. The programmable micro-ingredient distributor and mixer system according to claim 12, further comprising: A plurality of distributing tanks, including each distributor tank. An element for storing a supply of a pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient. liquid, and O An element for dispensing a specific amount of said pre-assigned type of liquid micro-ingredient to the 20 inside of the weigh hopper for its measurement and its subsequent discharge in the mixer tank under the control of the programmed control element, and A fourth weight measuring element to independently measure the weight of the liquid micro-ingredient 25 stored in each of the distributing tanks under the "control of the programmed control element and to produce a ~ "fourth weight information for its registration in the inventory recorder file, being the fourth weight information representative of the measured weight of the micro-ingredients 5 liquids stored in each of the distributing tanks.
- 14. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 12, further comprising a portable computer system operatively connected to a barcode symbol reader device, supported in the hand.
- 15. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 12, wherein the programmed control element comprises a first system of 15 computer programmed.
- 16. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 13, further comprising a second programmed computer system having a portable construction and found 20 selectively in interface with the first computer system.
- 17. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 12, wherein the second weight measuring element comprises a weighing frame operatively connected to a plurality of load cells mounted within the housing and in that each tank / distributor is independently supported from a rotating support shaft about an axis of rotation by a motor operated under the control of the programmed control element.
- 18. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 17, wherein each dispenser deposit is independently supported from the rotary support shaft by a pair of support elements, of which each is pivotally connected to one end thereof at a certain radial distance from the rotary axis of the supporting shaft.
- 19. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 17, wherein the programmed control element is programmed to descend only one dispensing reservoir at a time on the weighing frame to measure the weight of the micro-ingredient in the distributor depot descended.
- 20. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 15, wherein after the production of a batch of micro-ingredients, the first programmed computer system is programmed to automatically measure the weight of the micro-ingredient preassigned stored in each storage balance, in each distributor tank and in each distributor tank.
- 21. A machine that distributes and mixes micronutrients and ingredients, programmable, which includes: A housing of rigid construction; A control element programmed to control the operation of various components of the machine according to a control program; storage and information processing for storing and processing information regarding the measured weight of micro-ingredients in the machine; A plurality of distributing tanks disposed in the housing, each distributing reservoir including an element for storing a supply of a pre-assigned type of micro- ingredient, and an element for distributing a specific quantity of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient from the distributor reservoir under the control of the programmed control element; A first weight measuring element for measuring the weight of a micro-ingredient stored in each of the distributing deposits under the control of the element of with programmed troll and to produce a first weight information to the storage element and information processor for storage, this first weight information being representative of the measured weight of the micro-ingredients stored in each of the distributing tanks; A weigh hopper, disposed within the housing for temporarily storing a quantity of micro-ingredient distributed in the weigh hopper from one of the distributor tanks, including the weigh hopper an element for discharging the amount of micro-ingredient under the control of the 5 programmed control element; A second weight measuring element, arranged in the housing, for measuring the amount of micro-ingredient stored in the weigh hopper and for producing a second weight information to the storage and processor element of ll, information for storage, the second being weight information representative of the weight of the measured amount of micro-ingredient stored in the weight hopper; and A mixing tank to contain one or more types of micro-ingredient discharged from the weight hopper under the 15 Control of the programmed control element, including the mixing tank An element for mixing the micro-ingredients Or discharged with a specific amount of fluid carrier, such as water, to form a paste mixture 20 aqueous micro-ingredients, and apart an element to transport the mixture of the aqueous paste of micro-ingredients from the mixing tank under the control of the programmed control element, for later use.
- 22. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system, according to claim 21, further comprising: A plurality of storage scales, each storage balance having a storage surface for supporting one or several packages of the storage balance. pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient in the inventory, a third weight measuring element to measure the weight of one or more packages of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient supported by the storage surface and to produce a third weight information for its storage in the storage element and information processor, this third weight information being representative of the measured weight of the package or of the packages of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient.
- 23. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 21, further comprising: A plurality of distributing tanks, including each tank. An item for storing a supply of a pre-assigned type of liquid micro-ingredient, and An element for storing a supply of a pre-assigned type of liquid micro-ingredient, and an element for distributing a specific quantity of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient in the mixing tank 5 for its measurement and its subsequent discharge into the mixing tank under the control of the programmed control element, r - * and A fourth weight measuring element to independently measure the weight of the liquid micro-ingredient 5 stored in each of the distributing tanks under the control of the programmed control element and to provide a fourth information of weight for storage in the storage element and information processor, being the fourth weight information representative of the measured weight of the liquid micro-ingredients stored in each of the distributing tanks.
- 24. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 21, wherein the programmed control element comprises the first 15 system wherein said information of the storage tank and process comprises the first system of the programmed storage element. OR
- 25. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system, according to claim 24, 20 in which the programmed control element comprises the first programmed computer system.
- 26. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 22, wherein each of the packages or several of the micro-ingredients carries a coded barcode symbol to identify the type and amount of micro-ingredient r contained in the package.
- 27. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system, according to claim 26, 5 further comprising a portable computer system that can be placed on the interface with the first programmed computer system and which is operatively connected to a handheld barcode reader device that can be held in hand to read the bar code symbols _ Applied to each or several of the micro-ingredient packages.
- 28. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 21, wherein the first weight measuring element comprises a weighing frame 5 operatively connected to a plurality of load cells mounted within the housing and in that each distributor deposit is supported independently from an arrow Or of rotary support around an axis of rotation by a motor operated under the control of the programmed control element 0.
- 29. The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system according to claim 28, wherein each distributor tank is independently supported from the rotary support shaft by means of a pair of support elements, of which each one is pivotally connected at one end thereof to J 'a certain radial distance from the axis of rotation of the support shaft.
- 30. The programmable distributor and micro-5 ingredient mixer system according to claim 28, wherein the programmed control element is programmed to descend only one distributor tank at a time on the weighing frame to measure the weight of the micro-ingredient present in the dispensing reservoir descended. < (
- 31) The programmable distributor and micro-ingredient mixer system, according to claim 23, wherein after the production of a batch of micro-ingredient mixture, the first computer system programmed to produce a microprocessor is programmed. micro-5 ingredient inventory report by automatically measuring the weight of the preassigned micro-ingredient stored on each storage balance, within each distributor tank as well as n in each distributor tank
- 32. The method of receiving a package shipment of 0 micro-ingredient in the inventory of a forage factory for animals, the method comprising the steps of: (a) Installing a distributor system and mixer of micro-ingredients in the animal forage plant, including the distributor and mixer system micro-5 ingredients a plurality of storage scales and an information storage and processing system at f V, which is operatively connected to the di.sposi.ti.vo bar code symbol reader, each storage balance being operatively connected to the storage system and processor 5 of information and having a storage surface for supporting one or more micro-ingredient packages, and a weight measuring element for measuring the weight of one or more packages of micro-ingredients supported on the storage surface; ((b) Use the aforementioned storage system and information processor to create a micro-ingredient reception log file to store the information regarding the particular type and weight of the pre-assigned micro-ingredient for storage on each of the 5 storage scales; (c) Deliver to the animal forage plant, a shipment of micro-ingredient packages, each package containing a specific type and specific amount of micro-ingredient containing each package of micro-ingredients. a barcode symbol 0 representative of the type and amount of micro-ingredient contained in the package; (d) Use the bar code symbol reader device to read the bar code symbol present in each package delivered of micro-ingredient within 5 of the shipment and to produce data in the form of characters as a symbol, representative of the type and amount of the micro-r ^ »ingredient stored in the delivered package of micro-ingredient; (e) Store the data with symbol characters produced in the received log file of micro-ingredients in order to record the type and weight of each micro-ingredient within the package delivered within the shipment; (f) Before initiating step (g), measure the weight of the micro-ingredient present in each storage balance and record in the log file received micro-ingredient the information of the weight measurement representative of the weight of the micro- present ingredient on each storage balance; (g) Physically store each delivered package of micro-ingredient present on the storage balance, pre-assigned to the type of micro-ingredient contained in the micro-ingredient package delivered; and (h) After completing step (g), measure the micro-ingredient weight on each storage balance and record in the log file rece micro-ingredient the weight measurement information representatof the weight of the micro- present ingredient on each storage balance; (i) Analyze the information of the weight measurement and the data of the symbol characters registered in the micro-ingredients rece log file in order to ^ ^ perceany discrepancy arising between the amount of micro-ingredient contained in the shipment of micro-ingredient packages registered during step (d) and any increase or decrease in the amount of micro-ingredient stored on the storage scales at the end of step (h).
- 33. The method of receiving a shipment of micro-ingredient packages in the inventory of a forage plant for animals, this method comprising the steps of: (a) Installing a distributor system and mixer of micro-ingredients in the forage plant for animals, including this distributor system and micro-ingredient mixer, a plurality of storage scales as well as a storage system and information processor operaty connected to a bar code symbol reading device, each operating weight being operaty connected storage to the storage system and information processor and having a storage surface for 0 to support one or several micro-ingredient packages, as well as a weight measuring element for measuring the weight of the package or of several packages of micro-ingredients supported on the storage surface; (b) Use the storage and information processor system to create a micro-ingredient rece record file for storing information on the type and particular, weight, supplier and lot number of the pre-assigned micro-ingredient supplier for storage on each of the storage scales; 5 (c) Deling to said batch of animal feed a shipment of micro-ingredient packages, each micro-ingredient package containing a specific type and amount of micro-ingredient and carrying one or more barcode symbols encoded with information not representatof the type, quantity, supplier and lot number of the supplier of the micro-ingredient contained in said package; (d) Using the bar code symbol reader device to read one or more bar code symbols present in each micro-ingredient packet deled within the designated shipment and produce data of symbol characters representatof the type, amount, supplier and batch number of the micro-ingredient supplier stored in the v deled package of micro-ingredient; (e) Store the data of symbol characters 0 produced in the rece micro-ingredient record file in order to record the type, weight, supplier and lot number of the supplier of each package of micro-ingredients deled within the shipment; (f) Before starting step (g), measure the weight of the micro-ingredient present on each platform storage balance and record in the log file rece from the micro-ingredient the weight measurement information representatof the weight of the micro-ingredient present on the storage balance; 5 (g) Physically storing each deled micro-ingredient package present on the pre-assigned storage balance to the type of micro-ingredient contained within the deled micro-ingredient package; (h) After completing step (g), measure the weight -t ^ micro-ingredient present on each storage balance and record in the log file received micro-ingredient, the weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient present on each storage balance; 15 (i) Analyze the information of the weight measurement and the data of symbol characters registered in the received file of micro-ingredients, in order to perceive and any discrepancy between the amount of micro-ingredient contained in the shipment of micro-ingredient packages 20 recorded during step (d) and any increase or decrease in the amount of micro-ingredient stored on the storage scales upon completion of step (h).
- 34. The method of filling a programmable micro-ingredients distributing and mixing machine with micro-ingredients 5 stored in the inventory of micro-ingredients of a batch of animal fodder, this method comprising the steps * v / of: ( a) Install a distributor system and mixer of micro-ingredients in the batch of animal fodder, 5 including this distributor system and micro-ingredient mixer: (1) An information processor element to create and manage a stock inventory record file to the inventory of micro-ingredients to be distributed on the machine, (2) A plurality of storage scales, each storage balance having a storage surface supporting one or more micro-ingredient packages, each containing a type assigned and specific amount of micro-ingredient, a first weight measurement element for V-- 'measure the weight of said package or of several packages of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredients supported on the storage surface and produce a first weight information to be recorded in the inventory record file, this first information being weight representative of the measured weight of the package or of several packages of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient; 5 (3) A weigh hopper, arranged inside the housing and to temporarily store a quantity of micro-ingredient distributed in the weigh hopper from one of the distributor tanks, including the weigh hopper an element to discharge the measured quantity of micro-ingredient under control of the programmed control element, (4) A second weight measuring element, arranged in the housing, for measuring the amount of micro-ingredient stored in the weigh hopper and for producing a second weight information for registering in the inventory record file, this second weight information being representative of the weight of the measured amount of micro-ingredient stored in the weigh hopper; (5) A plurality of distributing elements, each distributing element including an element for storing a supply of a pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient, and an element for distributing a specific amount of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient in the weighing hopper for its measurement under the control of the programmed control element, (6) Third weight measuring element to independently measure the weight of micro-ingredient stored in each of the distributing elements under the control of the programmed control element and produce a third weight information to register in the inventory record file, this third weight information being representative of the measured weight of the micro-ingredients stored in each of the distributing elements, and (7) A mixing tank to contain one or five types of micro - Ingredient discharged from the weigh hopper under the control of the programmed control element, include Mixing tank (a) An element for mixing the discharged micro-ingredients with a specific amount of fluid carrier, such as water, in order to form an aqueous paste mixture, and an element for transporting the mixture from the aqueous paste to a storage tank for later use under the control of the programmed control element; 5 (b) Use the storage system and information processor to create an inventory record file to record the information about the particular type of and micro-ingredient pre-assigned for storage on each of the storage scales, about the weight of the 0 micro-ingredient stored on each storage balance and regarding the weight of micro-ingredient stored in each distributing element; (c) Measuring the weight of the micro-ingredient present on each storage balance, to produce a first weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient placed on each storage balance \ and record this first weight measurement information produced within the inventory record file; (d) Measure the micro-ingredient weight within each distributor element, produce a second weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient present in each of the distributing elements, and record the second weight measurement information produced in the inventory record file; . (e) Registering one or several of the micro-ingredient packages from one of the various storage scales and emptying the micro-ingredient content of the package or of several of the micro-ingredient packages into one or more of the micro-ingredient packages. the aforementioned distributing elements pre-assigned; (f) Measure the weight of micro-ingredient present on each of the storage scales, produce a third weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient stored on the storage balance and record the third measurement information of weight produced in the inventory record file; (g) Measure the weight of micro-ingredient present in each distributor element, produce a fourth weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient stored in each distributor element and record the fourth weight measurement information produced and in the file of inventory registration; (h) Analyze the first, second, third and fourth weight measurement information recorded in the inventory record file in order to detect any discrepancy between the amount of micro-ingredient removed from the balance or from several storage scales and the amount of micro-ingredient emptied into the distributor element or into several distributing elements and produce information indicative of any discrepancies for its registration in the inventory record file.
- 35. The method for managing an inventory of micro-ingredient packages stored in a batch of animal fodder, this method comprising the steps of: 5 (a) Installing a distributor and micro-ingredient mixing machine in the fodder batch for animals, including this distributor and mixer system of -_ ^ 'micro-ingredients (1) An information processing element 0 to create and manage an inventory record file relating to the inventory of micro-ingredients for distribution in the machine, ( 2) A plurality of storage scales, each storage balance 5 having a storage surface to support a package or several packages of a pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient in the inventory, a first weight measurement element for measuring the weight of a package or of several packages of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredients supported by the storage surface and produce a first information of weight to register in the inventory record file, the first weight information being representative of the measured weight of the package or of several packages of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient, (3) A plurality of distributing elements, including each distributing element an element for storing a supply of a pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient, and an element for distributing a specific quantity of the pre-assigned type of micro-ingredient from the distributing element under the control of the programmed control element, (4) A second weight measuring element to independently measure the weight of micro-ingredient stored in each of the distributing elements under the control of the programmed control element, and produce a second weight information to be recorded in the inventory record file, the second weight information representative of the measured weight of the micro-ingredients stored in each c ual of the distributing elements, J (5) A weigh hopper, disposed inside the machine and to temporarily store a quantity of micro-ingredient discharged into the weigh hopper, including the 5 weigh hopper an element to discharge the measured amount of micro-ingredient under the control of the programmed control element, (6) A third weighing element, arranged in the housing to measure the amount of micro-ingredient stored in the hopper weighing and to produce a third weight information to be recorded in the inventory record file, the third weight information being representative of the weight of the measured amount of micro-ingredient stored in the weigh hopper, and 5 (7) A mixer tank for containing one or more types of micro-ingredient discharged from the weigh hopper under the control of the programmed control element, s- ^ <said mixer tank including an element for mixing the micro-0 ingredients discharged with a specific amount of consumer fluid carrier, such as water, to form an aqueous paste mixture, and an element for transporting the aqueous paste mixture to a storage tank for later use under the control of the programmed control element; (b) Using the storage system f and information processing to create an inventory record file to record information regarding the particular type of pre-assigned micro-ingredient for its 5 storage on each of the storage scales, the weight of the amount of micro-ingredient stored on each storage balance and the amount of theoretical use of each type of micro-ingredients; (c) Deliver to the forage batch for lv. animals, a shipment of micro-ingredient packages, each micro-ingredient package containing a particular type and a specific amount of micro-ingredient; (d) Physically store each micro-ingredient package delivered on the storage balance 15 preassigned to the type of micro-ingredient contained in the micro-ingredient package delivered; (e) After completing step (d), measure the weight of micro-ingredient present on each storage balance, produce a first measurement information of 0 weight representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient present on each storage balance and record the first weight measurement information produced within the inventory record file; (f) Distributing a pre-specified type in a particular amount of micro-ingredient from a distributing element or from several of these elements r-distributors, in the mixing tank, prodg a second weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient to be distributed from the pre-assigned distributor element 5, and register to the second weight measurement information produced in the inventory record file; (g) After completing step (f), measure the micro-ingredient weight present in each lt balance, storage, produce a third weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient on each storage balance and record the third weight measurement information produced in the inventory record file; 15 (h) Analyze the first, second and third weight measurement information recorded in the inventory record file in order to perceive any discrepancy. between the amount of micro-ingredient distributed from the distributing element and the amount of theoretical use, and produce 20 thus an information indicative of any such discrepancies for its registration in the inventory register file.
- 36. The method for managing an inventory of micro-ingredient packages stored in a batch of forage for 5 animals, this method comprising the steps of: (a) Installing a distributor system and micro-ingredient mixer in the forage batch for animals, including this distributor system and mixer of micro-ingredients a plurality of storage scales and a storage system and information processor, each storage balance being operatively connected to the storage system and information processor, which has a storage surface for support one or several micro-ingredient packages, and to produce the information regarding the weight measurement for its registration in the storage system and information processor; (b) Use the storage system and information processor to create an inventory record file to record the information regarding the particular type of micro-ingredient pre-assigned for storage on each of the storage scales, on the weight of the amount of micro-ingredient stored on each balance of \ _. storage, and the amount of theoretical use of each type of micro-ingredients; (c) Delivering to the batch of animal fodder, a shipment of micro-ingredient packages, each micro-ingredient package containing a particular type and a specific amount of micro-ingredient; (d) Physically store each package of micro-ingredient delivered, present on the pre-assigned storage balance to the type of micro-ingredient contained in the package of micro-ingredient delivered; (e) After completing step (d), measure the micro-ingredient weight present on each storage balance, produce a first weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient present on each storage balance, and record the first weight measurement information produced in the inventory record file; (f) Distributing a pre-specified type and specific amount of micro-ingredient from one or more of the distributing elements into the mixing tank, producing a second weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient that is distributed from the pre-assigned distributor element and record the second weight measurement information produced in the inventory record file; ^ (g) After completing step (f), measure the weight of micro-ingredient present on each storage balance, produce a first weight measurement information representative of the weight of the micro-ingredient present on each storage balance after complete step (f), and record the first weight measurement information produced in the inventory record file; (h) Analyze the weight measurement information recorded in the inventory record file in order to perceive any discrepancy between the quantity of each micro-ingredient distributed from the distributing element and the theoretical use quantity and produce information indicative of Any discrepancy for your record in the inventory record file.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/203,017 US5487603A (en) | 1994-02-28 | 1994-02-28 | Intelligent system and process for automated monitoring of microingredient inventory used in the manufacture of medicated feed rations |
| US08203017 | 1994-02-28 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| MX9504536A MX9504536A (en) | 1998-10-31 |
| MXPA95004536A true MXPA95004536A (en) | 1999-01-11 |
Family
ID=
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US5853244A (en) | Intelligent system and process for automated monitoring of microingredient inventory used in the manufacture of medicated feed rations | |
| US10212877B2 (en) | Seed treatment facilities, methods, and apparatus | |
| US11198567B2 (en) | System and process for delivering building materials | |
| AU2011338275B2 (en) | Retail point seed treatment systems and methods | |
| US5268849A (en) | Process and apparatus for dispensing liquid colorants into a paint can, and quality control therefor | |
| US5203387A (en) | Process and apparatus for dispensing liquid colorants into a paint can, and quality control therefor | |
| US5738153A (en) | Measuring and dispensing system for solid dry flowable materials | |
| US20110035055A1 (en) | Input dispenser and recorder | |
| JP2014501519A5 (en) | ||
| US20090005247A1 (en) | Dispenser and Methods for Dispensing Custom Garden Products | |
| US10235644B2 (en) | Retail point seed treatment systems and methods | |
| US20040243259A1 (en) | Method and apparatus for monitoring commodities in a batching system | |
| MXPA95004536A (en) | Manufacturing of a microingredient inventory for medicine forage rations | |
| WO1991008882A1 (en) | Device for use in connection with the production of concrete | |
| GB2351488A (en) | System for the application of treatment material to particulate material | |
| BR112013013937B1 (en) | seed treatment apparatus, methods and facilities | |
| Stanberry | Bar Code Production Inventory Systems: An Integral Solution |