WO2007140018A2 - Procédés et appareil pour système d'étiquetage de produits - Google Patents

Procédés et appareil pour système d'étiquetage de produits Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2007140018A2
WO2007140018A2 PCT/US2007/012756 US2007012756W WO2007140018A2 WO 2007140018 A2 WO2007140018 A2 WO 2007140018A2 US 2007012756 W US2007012756 W US 2007012756W WO 2007140018 A2 WO2007140018 A2 WO 2007140018A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
produce
label
pls
data
labeling system
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2007/012756
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English (en)
Other versions
WO2007140018A3 (fr
Inventor
Eric Meyerhofer
John Hilbert
Original Assignee
Futurelogic, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Futurelogic, Inc. filed Critical Futurelogic, Inc.
Publication of WO2007140018A2 publication Critical patent/WO2007140018A2/fr
Publication of WO2007140018A3 publication Critical patent/WO2007140018A3/fr

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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00—Commerce
    • G06Q30/06—Buying, selling or leasing transactions

Definitions

  • This invention relates to labeling of produce, more specifically to a produce labeling system which interfaces with one or more label printers, label applicators, and produce grading devices for the capture and processing of data including but not limited to growers, producers, suppliers, lots, grade, and SKU, among others, creating labels for produce, managing all label printers, label applicators, and produce grading devices utilized in such a system, including but not limited to configuration, troubleshooting, and reporting of such, as well as processing data related to traceability of produce and creating security records and identification for suppliers in the system.
  • HyperText System a server, a computer connected to a network, or a stand alone computer which is used for application and data storage, data processing, and file transfers.
  • Label Printer a printing device used to print and/or encode a label.
  • Print Controller a device internal or external to a printer which controls print jobs and receives and/or transmits data, among other functions.
  • Label Media media used in a label printer for printing, reading and/or writing labels such as media with a magnetic stripe, media with a layer of writable and erasable thermally sensitive film, and media containing Radio Frequency active, passive, or both elements, among others.
  • "Supplier” a business entity or individual whose business is to supply a particular service or commodity including, but not limited to, supplies, raw materials, components, intermediate assemblies, or finished products, such as an individual, grower, subcontractor, broker, contractor, processor, producers, and wholesaler, among others.
  • SKU acronym for Stock Keeping Unit, a unique code usually consisting of numbers and letters assigned to a produce for identification and inventory control.
  • the invention provides an improved method and apparatus for forming a complete system that interfaces with all components used in produce labeling.
  • the system provides for detecting when a component is added or removed.
  • the system provides for interfacing with other locations of the same business.
  • the invention also provides for global traceability of produce labeled using the system.
  • the invention provides for electronic records for the mandated record retention as well as secured accessibility to such, among others.
  • the invention provides verification of produce suppliers as well as issuing a secured ID to each authorized produce supplier.
  • a Produce Labeling System (herein referred to as "PLS") interfaces with one or more label printers, label applicators, and produce grading devices for the capture and processing of data including but not limited to growers, producers, suppliers, lots, and SKU, among others.
  • the PLS creates labels for produce, managing all label printers, label applicators, and produce grading devices utilized in such a system, including but not limited to configuration, troubleshooting, and reporting of such, as well as processing data related to traceability of produce and creating security records and identification for suppliers in the system.
  • the PLS includes the ability to globally trace produce labeled utilizing the system.
  • the PLS may interleave operations of the connected label printers whereby the PLS and components thereof will continue to operate even if one or more label printers are out of service.
  • the PLS is coupled to a central controller, one or a plurality of label printers, one or a plurality of label applicators, and one or a plurality of produce grading devices.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to function as a modular system for printing labels on demand for produce, and applying them to the produce whereby the PLS may include (a) one or more label printers, (b) one or more label applicators, (c) one or more produce real time grading devices, (d) an interface controller to gate grading signaling output by the grading equipment to the label printers, and (e) a central controller connected to the label printer(s), among others.
  • the PLS recognizes when a new label printer goes online wherein the application of the plug-and-play technology within the PLS may be utilized as a link between the central controller and one or a plurality of label printers, allowing one or a plurality of label printers to be added or removed from the PLS without downtime or with minimal downtime.
  • the PLS recognizes when a new label applicator goes online wherein the application of the plug-and-play technology within the PLS may be utilized as a link between the central controller and one or a plurality of label printers, allowing one or a plurality of label applicators to be added or removed from the PLS without downtime or with minimal downtime.
  • the PLS recognizes when a new produce grading device goes online wherein the application of the plug-and-play technology within the PLS may be utilized as a link between the central controller and one or a plurality of label printers, allowing one or a plurality of produce grading devices to be added or removed from the PLS without downtime or with minimal downtime.
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to generate and issue a secured ID.
  • each supplier is given a secured ID for security purposes.
  • the secured ID may be used during delivery of products to verify/authenticate one or more lots.
  • the PLS may include a method to transfer supplier information from a delivery vehicle or transporter of produce to the PLS by way of an electronic device, such as a magnetic stripe card, smart card, memory stick, USB drive stick, etc.
  • the content of such data may contain identification of the supplier, or metrics related to the produce such as: (a) orchard of origin, (b) orchard segment where harvested, (c) delivery route to the plant, (d) date of harvest, (e) delivery service, and (f) country of origin, among others.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to track and revoke a previously issued secured ID.
  • a secured ID includes a preferred format of six digits and one alpha character.
  • a central controller, label applicator, interface controller, and label printer may include the processes and/or devices to support two or more label printers operating in an interleaved or simultaneous fashion such that the following modes of operation may be supported: (a) the label media loaded into the label printers may contain pre-printed indicia, there being a plurality of pre-printed indicia label varieties loaded into one or more label printers, one or more label printers may contain specific pre-printed indicia labels activating to print a label which is then applied to a particular piece of produce, all in response to signaling from one or more produce grading devices, the central controller, or both, (b) the ability to interleave operation so as to ensure that labeling continues if one or more of the label printers require servicing, and (c) the ability to label produce with more than one label, among others.
  • the central controller coupled to one or more label printers includes the processes and/or devices for bi-directional communications.
  • the central controller coupled to one or more label applicators includes the processes and/or devices for bi-directional communications.
  • the central controller coupled to one or more produce grading devices includes the processes and/or devices for bi-directional communications.
  • the central controller of the PLS coupled to one or more label printers includes the processes and/or devices to allow an operator to create labels for download to each label printer, such labels containing information related to a product SKU, and lot trace information, among others.
  • the labels may be created on an auxiliary computer which is connected to the central controller, signaling the central controller with the data to be contained on the printed labels.
  • a label design function may allow real-time produce grading data and information related to the type of produce to be encoded into a barcode which is printed on labels in response to signaling from the grading device placed on to the label, such information may be overlaid on a fixed portion of the printed indicia on the label providing information related to the lot code, date and other information related to the batch run.
  • the central controller of the PLS connected to a wide area network may include the processes and/or devices to monitor: (a) produce label usage, (b) lot code batch sizes, (c) lot code processing date, (d) remote diagnostics of the system, and (e) the ability to enable operation of the label printer to produce a designated amount of labels, among o.thers.
  • the central controller of the PLS connected to a local area network may include the processes and/or devices to monitor: (a) produce label usage, (b) lot code batch sizes, (c) lot code processing date, (d) remote diagnostics of the system, and (e) the ability to enable operation of the label printer to produce a designated amount of labels, among others.
  • the PLS coupled to a central controller includes the processes and/or devices to transmit static and dynamic data downloads to one or a plurality of label printers.
  • the label printer includes the processes and/or devices to receive signaling from a central controller related to data for label images, the ability to hold said label image data in its memory in a dynamic or static fashion, the label printer further having the ability to combine said data with data signaled to it from the central controller, the interface controller, or the grading equipment in a real time fashion, and the ability to combine both data into a composite image which may be printed upon the loaded label media, among others.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit and receive signals when any malfunction is detected with the system.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit and receive signals when any malfunction is detected with any label applicator coupled to the PLS.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit and receive signals when any malfunction is detected with any label printer coupled to the PLS. [0038] In another aspect of the invention, the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit and receive signals when any malfunction is detected with any produce grading device coupled to the PLS.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices for traceability through a supply chain, from grower or orchard to consumer point of sale wherein traceability may include global traceability.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to create a configuration file for a label
  • said configuration file may be based on a SKU generator and may include Sugar, Size, Maturity, Grade, Lot Code, Date, Born on Date, and Barcode, among others.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit one or a plurality of configuration files to one or a plurality of label printers coupled to the PLS.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to identify and track labels used, generated, and applied for the purpose of produce traceability, among others.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to produce or generate security records for traceability through a supply chain, global traceability, or both.
  • the PLS coupled to one or a plurality of label printers includes the processes and/or devices to generate one or a plurality of labels.
  • the PLS coupled to one or a plurality of label applicators includes the processes and/or devices to apply one or a plurality of labels on produce.
  • the PLS coupled to one or a plurality of produce grading devices includes the processes and/or devices to grade produce.
  • a label printer may include one or a plurality of label media, said label media may include varying sizes, said printer may use configuration file to determine which label media to use to generate one or a plurality of labels.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to download data to one or a plurality of label printers, said data may include static and dynamic data, said label printer storing said data in its memory.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to collect and disperse data related to each coupled label printer, supplier information, produce information, and label media information, among others.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram of the PLS and components thereof in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the PLS and components thereof in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 3 is an illustration of the PLS and components thereof in a wide area network environment in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 4 is a process diagram of the real-time monitoring of device connections to the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 5 is a process diagram of the real-time monitoring of device disconnections from the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 6 is a process diagram of the supplier data collection and verification process within the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 7 is a process diagram of printing more than one label on a label printer connected to the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 8 is an illustration depicting how labels may be designed and ultimately applied to produce in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 9 is an illustration depicting the traceability of produce from within the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 10 is an illustration of the data tables in the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram of a PLS and components thereof in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Any component may be optional.
  • the PLS 100 includes a processor 102, application code 104 executable by the processor stored in a computer-readable storage medium, memory 106, data storage 108, and procedures 110 encoded in the application code and executable by the processor.
  • Exemplary devices for the PLS include a traditional network server, general purpose computer, programmable controller or the like.
  • the PLS 100 further includes one or more interfaces coupled to external devices. These interfaces include an interface to a central controller 112, an interface to or more label printers 114, an interface to one or more produce grading devices 116, an interface to one or more label applicators 118, an administrator link 120 and one or more interfaces to other devices 122.
  • the processor executing the application code and using memory, storage, and procedures includes the processes and/or devices ito create and maintain one or a plurality of relational databases for storing data related to the following, among others:
  • printer configuration then recalling any of that data at any time and transmitting that data to any coupled label printer.
  • label design and configuration then recalling any of that data at any time and transmitting that data to any coupled label printer for the generation of one or a plurality of labels.
  • printer diagnostics signaled and transmitted from any coupled label printer to the PLS then recalling any of that data at any time to, for example, identify and potentially correct a printer malfunction, troubleshoot or maintain a label printer, or report the wrong type of label media in a label printer.
  • label applicator diagnostics signaled and transmitted from any coupled label applicator to the PLS 5 then recalling any of that data at any time to, for example, identify and potentially correct a label applicator malfunction, among others.
  • processor executing the application code and using memory, storage, and procedures includes the processes and/or devices to capture and process data related to the following, among others:
  • any additional device connections made to the PLS including a unique identifier for each device as well as device type such as a label printer as later disclosed in FIG. 4.
  • any device disconnections from the PLS including a unique identifier for each device as well as device type such as a label printer as later disclosed in FIG. 5.
  • the data may include checks and verifications with external sources such as the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”), United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”), and/or any foreign counterparts as later disclosed in FIG. 6.
  • FDA Food and Drug Administration
  • USDA United States Department of Agriculture
  • traceability through the supply chain which may include global traceability
  • the data may include grower, lot, processor, country of origin, shipping/delivery information, among others.
  • the issuance of labels by any coupled label applicator may further include data from a coupled produce grading device.
  • (k) accept programming through its interface to an administrator as to the procedures, metrics, and other information for example, for the creation of a produce label or plurality of such, system upgrades, remote site information or upgrades, among others.
  • (m) request data exchange through the PLS 's interface with one or a plurality of label printers for label printing, printer configuration, and printer diagnostics, among others, the data previously disclosed and further disclosed in FIG. 10.
  • Other(s) may be any other system, network, or device such as a routing device internal or external to the business for processing data related to, for example, supplier verification, global traceability, data import, or data export, among others, the data previously disclosed and further disclosed in FIG. 10.
  • Any or all of the data may be stored locally or transmitted to and from, for example, a central controller.
  • the interfaces 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 and 122 include the protocols, messaging logic, hardware, and buffering necessary to exchange data with the processor and application code of the PLS using bi-directional communications and the:
  • a number of the interfaces for the system may exist on the same physical hardware connection, the attached devices being individually or group-addressable nodes on that connection.
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a PLS and components thereof in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Any component may be optional.
  • the PLS is coupled to a central controller 202, one or more label printers 202, one ore more produce grading devices 204, and one or more label applicators 206.
  • the central controller may be used to process any data previously disclosed and as further disclosed in FIG. 10 such as supplier verification data or label configuration data.
  • the label printer(s) may be used to generate one or a plurality of labels to be applied to produce.
  • Each label printer may include a processor, memory, firmware, procedures, programming logic, print mechanism, a storage device, a printer controller, and a plurality of communication interfaces such as a communication port or driver.
  • Each label printer also may include label media onto which data is generated by the label printer to create a readable label, either machine readable, human readable, or a combination thereof.
  • the label applicator(s) may be used to apply one or a plurality of labels to produce.
  • the produce grading device(s) may be used to grade produce. Each produce grading device may include a handheld or mobile device which may be used to signal and transmit data to the PLS, to one or a plurality of label printers, or both.
  • FIG. 3 is an illustration of a PLS and components thereof in a wide area network environment in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • the PLS 300 is coupled to multiple remote site PLSs, such as PLSs 302, 304, 306 and 308 using a wide area network 310.
  • the wide area network serves as the bi-directional communication link for the PLS and each remote site PLS.
  • An exemplary wide area network is the Internet.
  • the components of the PLS may include any of those previously described in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.
  • the PLS is segmented with the PLS functioning as a host system or central controller and each remote site PLS functioning as a point for label generation, grading, and application.
  • each remote site PLS is coupled to one or a plurality of label printers 312, one or a plurality of label applicators 314, and one or a plurality of produce grading device 316.
  • data from the PLS 300 may be transmitted through a wide area network 310 to one or a plurality of remote site PLSs 302, 304, 306 and 308.
  • This data is data related to a secured ED issued to a supplier where the remote site PLS may be a location in proximity to the supplier for delivery of produce.
  • Another example of this data may be a particular label design including static and dynamic data.
  • a remote site PLS may further transmit the data to any or all of its coupled components, depending on the data received.
  • One or a plurality of label printers may use the transmitted data to generate one or a plurality of labels.
  • a coupled label applicator may be used to apply one or a plurality of labels on produce.
  • data from one or a plurality of produce grading devices at a remote site PLS may be used to generate produce grade information which may be generated on a separate label or included with an existing label.
  • data from a remote site PLS may be transmitted back to the PLS 300.
  • This data is diagnostics related to the system, one or a plurality of label printers, one or a plurality of label applicators, and/or one or a plurality of produce grading devices.
  • Another example of this data is a report on the total number of labels produced at a remote site PLS.
  • the PLS and components thereof use a local area network.
  • the PLS and components thereof may use a standalone system.
  • a central controller, label applicator, interface controller, and label printer may include the processes and/or devices to support two or more label printers operating in an interleaved or simultaneous fashion such that the following modes of operation may be supported: (a) the label media loaded into the label printers may contain pre-printed indicia, there being a plurality of pre-printed indicia label varieties loaded into one or more label printers, one or more label printers may contain specific pre-printed indicia labels activating to print a label which is then applied to a particular piece of produce, all in response to signaling from one or more produce grading devices, the central controller, or both, (b) the ability to interleave operation so as to ensure that labeling continues if one or more of the label printers require servicing, and (c) the ability to label produce with more than one label, among others.
  • the central controller coupled to one or more label printers includes the processes and/or devices for bi-directional communications.
  • the central controller coupled to one or more label applicators includes the processes and/or devices for bi-directional communications.
  • the central controller coupled to one or more produce grading devices includes the processes and/or devices for bi-directional communications.
  • the central controller of the PLS coupled to one or more label printers includes the processes and/or devices to allow an operator to create labels for download to each label printer, such labels containing information related to a product SKU, and lot trace information, among others.
  • the labels may be created on an auxiliary computer which is connected to the central controller, signaling the central controller with the data to be contained on the printed labels.
  • a label design function may allow real-time produce grading data and information related to the type of produce to be encoded into a barcode which is printed on labels in response to signaling from the grading device placed on to the label, such information may be overlaid on a fixed portion of the printed indicia on the label providing information related to the lot code, date and other information related to the batch run.
  • the central controller of the PLS connected to a wide area network may include the processes and/or devices to monitor: (a) produce label usage, (b) lot code batch sizes, (c) lot code processing date, (d) remote diagnostics of the system, and (e) the ability to enable operation of the label printer to produce a designated amount of labels, among others.
  • the central controller of the PLS connected to a local area network may include the processes and/or devices to monitor: (a) produce label usage, (b) lot code batch sizes, (c) lot code processing date, (d) remote diagnostics of the system, and (e) the ability to enable operation of the label printer to produce a designated amount of labels, among others.
  • FIG. 4 is a process diagram of the real-time monitoring of device connections to a PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • the PLS recognizes when a new label printer goes online wherein the application of the plug-and- play technology within the PLS may be utilized as a link between the central controller and one or a plurality of label printers, allowing one or a plurality of label printers to be added or removed from the PLS without downtime or with minimal downtime.
  • the PLS recognizes when a new label applicator goes online wherein the application of the plug- and-play technology within the PLS may be utilized as a link between the central controller and one or a plurality of label printers, allowing one or a plurality of label applicators to be added or removed from the PLS without downtime or with minimal downtime.
  • the PLS recognizes when a new produce grading device goes online wherein the application of the plug-and-play technology within the PLS may be utilized as a link between the central controller and one or a plurality of label printers, allowing one or a plurality of produce grading devices to be added or removed from the PLS without downtime or with minimal downtime.
  • the process begins (400) with real-time monitoring (402) of the PLS system and components thereof.
  • the PLS When a device connection is detected (404) by the PLS, for example, a label printer, the PLS is notified and data (408) regarding that device such as an JD, the location, or other data is transmitted to the PLS. If the PLS accepts (410) the device, the PLS and components thereof update (412) to reflect the addition of the device, after which the process returns to the real-time monitoring. Optionally, a configuration file may be transmitted (414) to the device after which the process may return to the real-time monitoring.
  • the PLS does not accept the device for reasons such as a device malfunction or improper device ID, the PLS is notified (416), potentially, with a log being made in the database noting the rejection of a device. After the notification, the process may return to the real-time monitoring.
  • This process may repeat for each device connection detected.
  • Examples of a connection made to the PLS includes a USB port, serial port, and parallel port.
  • FIG. 5 is a process diagram of the real-time monitoring of device disconnections from the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • the process begins (500) with real-time monitoring (502) of the system and components thereof.
  • a device disconnect is detected by the PLS (504), for example, a label printer
  • the PLS is notified (506).
  • Data 508 regarding that device such as an ID, the location, or other data may be used to determine which device and where it was disconnected.
  • job(s) are rerouted (512) to other similar devices coupled to the PLS. For example, print jobs may be rerouted to another label printer or label applications may be rerouted to another label applicator. Examples of a job in progress include label printing, label grading, and label application.
  • the PLS and components thereof update to reflect the device disconnect after which the process may return to real-time monitoring.
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • FIG. 6 is a process diagram of the supplier data collection and verification process within the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • the process begins (600) with the supplier data collected (602).
  • the supplier data may include any or all of the data later disclosed in FIG. 10 as well as other types of supplier data not disclosed but known to those skilled in the art.
  • supplier data is then processed (604) by the PLS and components thereof.
  • supplier data may be checked (606) against external systems, such as any system in use by the FDA, USDA, police, or other foreign counterpart as well as internal systems, such as a system used to identify disapproved suppliers.
  • the supplier is notified (616).
  • the PLS and components thereof are updated and the process ends.
  • the process may return to the collection of supplier data where the supplier may revise information if needed, depending on the type of rejection received.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to generate and issue a secured ID.
  • each supplier is given a secured ID for security purposes.
  • the secured ID may be used during delivery of products to verify/authenticate one or more lots.
  • the PLS may include a method to transfer supplier information from a delivery vehicle or transporter of produce to the PLS by way of an electronic device, such as a magnetic stripe card, smart card, memory stick, USB drive stick, etc.
  • the content of such data may contain identification of the supplier, or metrics related to the produce such as: (a) orchard of origin, (b) orchard segment where harvested, (c) delivery route to the plant, (d) date of harvest, (e) delivery service, and (f) country of origin, among others.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to track and revoke a previously issued secured ID.
  • a secured ID includes a preferred format of six digits and one alpha character.
  • FIG. 7 is a process diagram of printing more than one label on a label printer connected to the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • the process begins (700) with the number of labels identified (702). Once determined, the print job(s) are transmitted (704) to one or a plurality of label printers to generate the specified number of labels for each piece of produce. Each print job may contain data (706) such as static data, dynamic data, one or a plurality of barcodes, and other types of data. During this portion of the process, data and information regarding print jobs and number of labels used in printing, among others may be transmitted to and from the PLS for real-time monitoring (708) of the process.
  • data such as static data, dynamic data, one or a plurality of barcodes, and other types of data.
  • Each label (such as labels 709) is then printed (710) and applied to each piece of produce.
  • data and information regarding the printing and application of each label, among others may be transmitted to and from the PLS for real-time monitoring (708) of the process.
  • a label printer may print two labels, label A and label B. Label A may be printed using one size label while label B may be printed using another size label. After the label printer generates both labels, a label may be used to apply (712) label A and label B to each piece of produce. Any error or malfunction in printing or application of a label may be reported by the real time monitoring (708) to the PLS and logged in a database.
  • FIG. 8 is an illustration depicting how labels may be designed and ultimately applied to produce in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • one or more labels (800) are designed using the PLS (802) after which a configuration file 804 which may contain the contents of the label design is transmitted to a coupled label printer 806.
  • Grading data 808 from a produce grading device 810 also may be transmitted to the label printer, the grading data may be included on the same label or a separate label.
  • the label printer then generates each necessary label. When done, the labels are placed on a label applicator 812 and ultimately placed on produce 814.
  • data for each label printer 816, data for each produce grading device 818, and data for each label applicator 820 may be transmitted to and from the PLS. These types of data may be useful in determining the number of labels produced, the types of labels produced, the number of labels applied, and any errors or malfunctions with any label printer, produce grading device, or label applicator, among other types of data.
  • the central controller of the PLS coupled to one or more label printers includes the processes and/or devices to allow an operator to create labels for download to each label printer, such labels containing information related to a product SKU, and lot trace information, among others.
  • the labels may be created on an auxiliary computer which is connected to the central controller, signaling the central controller with the data to be contained on the printed labels.
  • a label design function may allow real-time produce grading data and information related to the type of produce to be encoded into a barcode which is printed on labels in response to signaling from the grading device placed on to the label, such information may be overlaid on a fixed portion of the printed indicia on the label providing information related to the lot code, date and other information related to the batch run.
  • the central controller of the PLS connected to a wide area network may include the processes and/or devices to monitor: (a) produce label usage, (b) lot code batch sizes, (c) lot code processing date, (d) remote diagnostics of the system, and (e) the ability to enable operation of the label printer to produce a designated amount of labels, among others.
  • the central controller of the PLS connected to a local area network may include the processes and/or devices to monitor: (a) produce label usage, (b) lot code batch sizes, (c) lot code processing date, (d) remote diagnostics of the system, and (e) the ability to enable operation of the label printer to produce a designated amount of labels, among others.
  • the PLS coupled to a central controller includes the processes and/or devices to transmit static and dynamic data downloads to one or a plurality of label printers.
  • the label printer includes the processes and/or devices to receive signaling from a central controller related to data for label images, the ability to hold said label image data in its memory in a dynamic or static fashion, the label printer further having the ability to combine said data with data signaled to it from the central controller, the interface controller, or the grading equipment in a real time fashion, and the ability to combine both data into a composite image which may be printed upon the loaded label media, among others.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit and receive signals when any malfunction is detected with the system.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit and receive signals when any malfunction is detected with any label applicator coupled to the PLS.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit and receive signals when any malfunction is detected with any label printer coupled to the PLS.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit and receive signals when any malfunction is detected with any produce grading device coupled to the PLS.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to create a configuration file for a label
  • said configuration file may be based on a SKU generator and may include Sugar, Size, Maturity, Grade, Lot Code, Date, Born on Date, and Barcode, among others.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to transmit one or a plurality of configuration files to one or a plurality of label printers coupled to the PLS.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to identify and track labels used, generated, and applied for the purpose of produce traceability, among others.
  • a label printer may include one or a plurality of label media, said label media may include varying sizes, said printer may use configuration file to determine which label media to use to generate one or a plurality of labels.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to download data to one or a plurality of label printers, the data may include static and dynamic data, said label printer storing said data in its memory.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to collect and disperse data related to each coupled label printer, supplier information, produce information, and label media information, among others.
  • FIG. 9 is an illustration depicting the traceability of produce from within a PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • the PLS 900 transmits a request, such as request 902 to each remote site PLS, such as remote site PLS 904, for produce traceability using a wide area network 905.
  • request 902 a request
  • remote site PLS such as remote site PLS 904
  • a transmitted request may be based on a lot code, for example.
  • the remote site PLS transmits the request to each supplier, such as supplier 906, involved with that lot code, from the orchard 908, the delivery company 910, etc.
  • a request 912 may be transmitted to the orchard, a producer, and supplier.
  • Data is collected from such and returned to the remote site PLS 904 for processing after which the remote site PLS transmits the collected data through the wide area network to the PLS 900.
  • a variation to this is the PLS functioning as both the PLS and remote site PLS. Another variation would be the use of a local area network. Another variation would be using the PLS on a standalone host system.
  • traceability data may be transmitted to and from one or a plurality of external organizations, such as government agencies, among others.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices to produce or generate security records for traceability through a supply chain, global traceability, or both.
  • the PLS includes the processes and/or devices for traceability through a supply chain, from grower or orchard to consumer point of sale wherein traceability may include global traceability.
  • FIG. 10 is an illustration of the data tables in the PLS in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
  • the PLS 100 includes a plurality of data tables: such as a data table for label printers 1002, a data table for label applicators 1004. a data table for produce grading devices 1006, a data table for suppliers 1008, a data table for security records 1010, a data table for configuration files 1012, a data table for label usage 1014, a data table for system maintenance 1016, and others 1018, among others not shown.
  • the label printers data table may be utilized to capture and store data related to each label printer coupled to the PLS.
  • This data may include any or all of the following attributes defined in Table I as follows:
  • Printer ID A unique identifier for each label printer used in the PLS. This ID may be utilized when a label printer is connected to or disconnected from the PLS.
  • Printer Location A unique identifier for each location of a label printer. An example would be an IP address.
  • Printer Activity A log used to potentially determine the life remaining on a print head of a label printer or track the usage of a label printer, among others.
  • Printer Error The types of errors which may occur with a label printer as well as the date the error occurred. Examples include a paper low error, paper out error, wrong paper size error, and non-responsive printer error, among others.
  • Printer Configuration The configuration set for each label printer such as number of print heads in the printer, static data, and dynamic data, among others.
  • the label applicators data table may be utilized to capture and store data related to each label applicator coupled to the PLS.
  • This data may include any or all of the following attributes defined in Table II as follows:
  • This ID may be utilized when a label applicator is connected to or disconnected from the PLS.
  • Applicator Location A unique identifier for each location of a label applicator. An example would be an IP address.
  • Applicator Activity A log used to potentially determine the life remaining on a label applicator or track the usage of a label applicator, among others.
  • Applicator Error The types of errors which may occur with a label applicator as well as the date the error occurred. Examples include paper low error, paper out error, wrong paper size error, and non- responsive label applicator, among others.
  • the produce grading devices data table may be utilized to capture and store data related to each produce grading device coupled to the PLS. This data may include any or all of the following attributes defined in Table III as follows:
  • Grading Device ID A unique identifier for each produce grading device coupled to the PLS. This ID maybe utilized when a produce grading device is connected to or disconnected from the PLS.
  • Grading Device Location A unique identifier for each location of a produce grading device. An example would be an IP address.
  • Grading Device Activity A log used to potentially track the usage of a produce grading device, among others.
  • Grading Device Error The types of errors which may occur with a produce grading device as well as the date the error occurred. Examples include non-responsive produce grading device, and communication interface error, among others.
  • the suppliers data table may be utilized to capture and store data related to each supplier.
  • This data may include any or all of the following attributes defined in Table IV as follows:
  • Supplier ID A unique identifier assigned to each supplier identified in the
  • Supplier Name The name of the business or organization.
  • Supplier Contact Person The name of the business owner or the name of an authorized person of the business.
  • Type of Supplier The type of supplier. Examples include growers, subcontractors, contractors, brokers, processors, producers, and wholesalers, among others.
  • Relationship with other The relationship of one supplier to another. For example, a
  • Orchard of Origin The orchard where the produce originated.
  • Produce Supplied The types of produce supplied. Examples include apples, oranges, and mangos, among others.
  • Orchard Segment where The part of an orchard where the produce was harvested.
  • Delivery Method The method or means used to deliver produce. Examples include truck and train, among others.
  • the security records data table may be utilized to capture and store data related to security records.
  • This data may include any or all of the following attributes defined in Table V as follows:
  • Security Record ID A unique identifier for each security record.
  • Security Record Type The type of security record. Examples include a supplier security record, a secured ID,
  • Security Record Details AU data related to the details or purpose of the security record.
  • Supplier Information Any data from supplier data table to build a security record, depending on the type of security record needed.
  • the configuration files data table may be utilized to capture and store data related to the configuration of each label designed in the PLS.
  • This data may include any or all of the following attributes defined in Table VI as follows:
  • Config ID A unique identifier for the configuration file associated with each label design.
  • Each configuration file may be transmitted to and from one or a plurality of label printers as previously disclosed in FIG. 8.
  • SKU The Stock Keeping Unit code assigned to each produce. This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the PLS or dynamic data based on signaling from the PLS.
  • Sugar The sugar content of each produce. This attribute may be based on signaling from a produce grading device. Size The size of each produce. This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the PLS or dynamic data based on signaling from a produce grading device. Maturity The maturity of each produce. Grade The grade of each produce. This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the PLS or dynamic data based on signaling from a produce grading device.
  • Lot Code A code associated with a production or run of a produce.
  • This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the PLS or dynamic data based on signaling from the PLS.
  • Barcode A machine readable format comprising any data set by the system user. This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the PLS or dynamic data based on signaling from the PLS.
  • Weight The weight of the produce. May be the minimum acceptable weight for a particular grade or a range of weights for a particular grade. This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the PLS or dynamic data based on signaling
  • the color of the produce May be the minimum acceptable color for a particular grade or a range of colors for a particular grade. This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the PLS or dynamic data based on signaling from the PLS.
  • the label usage data table may be utilized to capture and store data related to label usage.
  • This data may include any or all of the following attributes defined in Table VII as follows:
  • Lot Code Batch Size The size of the batch per lot code. This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the PLS or dynamic data based on signaling from the PLS.
  • Lot Code Processing Date The date the lot code was processed. This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the PLS or dynamic data based on signaling from the PLS. Where labels were printed The location within the PLS such as a remote site PLS where each label, series of labels, or lots of labels where printed.
  • This attribute may be used as static data being defined in the
  • the system data table may be utilized to capture and store data related to system maintenance and activities of the PLS. This data may include any or all of the following attributes defined in Table VIII as follows:
  • Time Stamps A date and/or time in hours, minutes, and seconds used to log all activities within the PLS. Each time stamp may include the
  • Data Import The type of data imported into the PLS as well as the date of the import, the source of the imported data, where the imported data resides such as host system, central controller, or remote site PLS, purpose of the import, user requesting data import, and if the data import was successful, among others.
  • Data Export The type of data exported from the PLS as well as the date of the export, the source of the exported data such as host system, central controller, or remote site PLS, purpose of the export, where the exported data went such as an external link for example to the FDA or USDA, purpose of the export, user requesting data export, and if the data export was successful, among others.
  • System Updates AU updates made to the PLS including code updates, and all remote site PLS updates, if any, among others.
  • Statistical Information AU data for reports, requests, etc. used to generate statistical records for use with the business using the PLS or for use with an external entity such as a government agency.
  • the others data table may be utilized to capture and store data related to other data.
  • This data may include any or all of the following attributes defined in Table IX as follows:
  • Recall ID A unique identifier assigned to each recall of produce or traceability request received in the PLS.
  • Recall Date The date of a recall or traceability request.
  • Recall Product Info Data related to the recall product, such as product name and description of the product, among others.
  • Recall Codes Codes used with a recall of a product such as a lot code or unit number, among others.
  • Recall Details Complete details on the recall of a product, such as volume of recall, health hazards, and distribution, among others.
  • Traceability Request All data related to a request for traceability, either locally or globally. Examples of this data include a request date, request time, requesting agency, and purpose of request, among others.
  • Examples of this data include report date, report time, reporting business, and all traceability request data, among others.
  • data from any data table may be used to build a relationship to data in another data table.
  • data from the suppliers data table such as Supplier Name, Relationship with other Suppliers, and Supplier Country may be used to gather data in the others data table for a traceability request, which results in a traceability report.
  • data from the suppliers data table such as Produce Supplied may he used with the system data table to produce records for a Data Export.

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Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système d'étiquetage de produits ayant une interface avec une ou plusieurs imprimantes, un ou plusieurs applicateurs d'étiquettes et dispositifs de calibrage de produits pour la réception et le traitement de données comprenant notamment les viticulteurs, producteurs, fournisseurs, lots, unités de gestion de stock et autres, créant des étiquettes pour produits, gérant toutes les imprimantes d'étiquettes, tous les applicateurs d'étiquettes et dispositifs de calibrage de produits utilisés dans un tel système, comprenant notamment la configuration, la recherche de pannes et le signalement de celles-ci, et traitant les données associées à la traçabilité des produits, tout en créant des archives de sécurité et en assurant l'identification pour les fournisseurs dans le système. Le PLS comprend des processus et/ou dispositifs permettant la traçabilité à travers le monde des produits étiquetés à l'aide dudit système. Le processus peut entrelacer les opérations des imprimantes d'étiquettes connectées, de telle sorte que le PLS et les composants de celui-ci continueront à fonctionner même si une ou plusieurs imprimantes d'étiquettes sont en panne.
PCT/US2007/012756 2006-05-26 2007-05-29 Procédés et appareil pour système d'étiquetage de produits WO2007140018A2 (fr)

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US8887990B2 (en) 2007-09-07 2014-11-18 Yottamark, Inc. Attributing harvest information with unique identifiers
US8342393B2 (en) 2007-09-07 2013-01-01 Yottamark, Inc. Attributing harvest information with unique identifiers
US8428773B1 (en) 2008-02-12 2013-04-23 Yottamark, Inc. Systems and methods of associating individual packages with harvest crates
US8573476B2 (en) 2008-07-11 2013-11-05 Yottamark, Inc. Mobile table for implementing clamshell-to-case association
US8240564B2 (en) 2008-07-11 2012-08-14 Yottamark, Inc. Mobile table for implementing clamshell-to-case association
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US8210430B1 (en) 2011-02-24 2012-07-03 Yottamark, Inc. Methods for assigning traceability information to and retrieving traceability information from a store shelf
US8474714B1 (en) 2011-02-24 2013-07-02 Yottamark, Inc. Methods for assigning traceability information to and retrieving traceability information from a store shelf
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WO2020132475A1 (fr) * 2018-12-20 2020-06-25 Avery Dennison Retail Information Services, Llc Système et procédé de traçabilité d'aliments
CN113474799A (zh) * 2018-12-20 2021-10-01 艾利丹尼森零售信息服务有限公司 食品可追溯体系和方法
US11657361B2 (en) 2018-12-20 2023-05-23 Avery Dennison Retail Information Services Llc Food traceability system and method
US11941573B2 (en) 2018-12-20 2024-03-26 Avery Dennison Retail Information Services Llc Food traceability system and method

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