MXPA06007978A - Monitoring device used for producing compositions - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a monitoring device used for producing a target composition, such as an automotive paint or an architectural paint and a monitoring device used therein. The device includes (A) a client computer usable storage medium located in a client computer, and a host computer usable storage medium located in a host computer in communication with said client computer;and (B) means for dispensing required items for making a desired amount of said target composition, said means for dispensing being in communication with said client computer, said host computer, or said client and said host computer;wherein said client computer usable storage medium, host computer usable storage medium, or said client computer usable storage and said host computer usable storage media have computer readable program code means residing therein for monitoring production of a target composition. The computer readable program code means include (I) means for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause said client computer or said host computer to identify one or more formulas associated with identification criteria of said target composition, said formula providing a required inventory for making said desired amount of said target composition;(ll) means for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause said client computer or said host computer to generate a current inventory;(III) means for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause said client computer or said host computer to compare said current inventory against said required inventory to ascertain whether said current inventory fulfills said required inventory;(IV) means for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause said client computer or said host computer to generate a supplementary inventory if said current inventory partially fulfills said required inventory;(V) means for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause said client computer or said host computer to dispense through said means for dispensing said required items listed in said required inventory from current items listed in said current inventory, supplementary items listed in said supplementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make said desired amount of said target composition;and (VI) means for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause said client computer or said host computer to generate an updated inventory. The device can be also used to control the inventory by shipping just in time any components required to produced target compositions, such as refinish tints used in automotive refinish paints.

Description

ONITORING DEVICE USED TO PRODUCE COMPOSITIONS FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to monitor the production of compositions and more particularly is directed to monitor cans of paint and paints contained in them during their life cycle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION During the production of compositions, such as automotive paints, various components are mixed in a certain desired proportion to produce a composition. For example, paint shop users visually match the required color to a color reference plate from a color reference plate manual supplied by Du Pont Company, Wilmington, Delaware, which also provides the manufacturer's paint code . Alternatively, paint shops can use a software tool called Vindicator® locator software supplied by DuPont Company to locate the manufacturer's paint code / VIN number, and then move it to a DuPont formula code. However, these paint codes still need to be matched to a color formula. A. Once the formula that matches the paint code was found, the components in amounts listed Ref. 173499 in the formula are manually poured into a recipient container placed on an autonomous scale. Typically, none of the data is maintained for future use and no inventory of distributed components is maintained. Some workshops use semi-automated distribution systems, such as a distributor connected to the ColorNet® PC distribution system supplied by YADA Systems, Roseville, Minnesota. The user manually weighs the component quantities in accordance with a formula. The quantities of the distributed components are registered in a database. If the distributed quantities are above an acceptable tolerance present, the distribution system can recalculate the component quantities to bring the batch back to an acceptable tolerance level. Records of the quantities of the distributed components can be stored or printed for future reference. Alternatively, some paint shops use X-Pert "Paint Mixing System supplied by YADA Systems, Roseville, Minnesota connected to the ColorNet® PC distribution system. The X-PertMR System suggests the user load a receiver, such as a paint can, In a receiver device, the controller manipulates the device to distribute the correct amount of component.When this component has been distributed, the next component is loaded into the device.The process is then repeated until all the components listed in the formula are distributed. The resulting data are saved for later use.A major problem associated with the above systems is that these systems do not control the quality or types of components used in the production of an objective composition.When there is no monitoring of the distributed components used for make the objective composition, it is possible in current processes to use inferior quality component or a wrong component. As a result, it is not possible in current processes to produce objective compositions of predictable quality desired. The process of the present invention and the device used in the present undertakes the previous emission as well as provides means to monitor the life cycle of the components, from the day they are produced by their manufacturer to the day they are distributed by the user. An object tracking and control system described in U.S. Patent 6,600,418 B2 uses radio frequency identification (RFID) markings to identify and move objects during the manufacturing process. However, there is still a need to monitor the production of compositions of desired quality.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to a monitoring device comprising: (A) a storage medium usable by a client computer located in a client computer, and a storage medium usable by a central computer located in a central computer in communication with the client computer; and (B) means for distributing the articles required to make a desired amount of the target composition, the distribution means are in communication with the client computer, the central computer, or the client and central computer, where the usable storage medium can be used. per client computer, means of storage usable by central computer, or storage media usable by computer client and storage media usable by central computer have means of computer readable program code residing in this to monitor the production of a target composition , the computer readable program code means comprise: (I) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or host to identify one or more formulas associated with the composition identification criteria objective, the Formula provides an inventory required to make the desired amount of the target composition; (II) means for configuring the program code devices, readable by computer to cause the client computer or central computer to generate a current inventory; (III) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory; (IV) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory; (V) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to distribute through the means of distribution the required items listed in the required inventory of current items listed in the current inventory, items complementary items listed in the supplementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the objective composition; and (VI) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to generate an updated inventory. The present invention is also directed to a process for monitoring the production of an objective composition comprising: (A) identifying one or more formulas associated with the identification criteria of the target composition, the formula provides an inventory required to make an amount desired of the objective composition; (B) generate an inventory, current; (C) compare the current inventory against the required inventory- to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory; (D) generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory; (E) distributing the required items listed in the required inventory of the current items listed in the current inventory, complementary items listed in the supplementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the target composition; and (F) generate an updated inventory. The present invention is further directed to a process for monitoring the production of an objective composition comprising: (A) entering criteria for identifying the target composition in a client computer or in a central computer in communication with the client computer; (B) search for a first database that resides on the client computer or central computer to identify one or more characteristics associated with the identification criteria; (C) search for a second database that resides on the client computer or host computer for one or more formulas associated with the features, the formula provides an inventory required to make a desired amount of the target composition; (D) generate a current inventory; (E) store the current inventory on the client computer or central computer; (F) compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory; (G) generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory where the complementary inventory is stored on the client computer or the central computer; (H) distributing the required items listed in the required inventory of the current items listed in the current inventory, complementary items listed in the supplemental inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the target composition; (I) generate an updated inventory; and (J) store the updated inventory on the client computer or central computer. The present invention is still further directed to a process for monitoring the production of an objective composition comprising: (A) receiving the criteria for identifying the target composition from a client computer in communication with a central computer; (B) search a first database to identify one or more characteristics associated with the identification criteria, the first database resides in the central computer; (C) search for a second database residing in the central computer for one or more formulas associated with the characteristics, the formula provides an inventory required to make a desired quantity of the objective composition; (D) receive a current inventory from the client computer; (E) compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory; (F) generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory where the complementary inventory is stored on the client computer or the central computer; (G) distributing the required items listed in the required inventory of the current items listed in the current inventory, complementary items listed in the supplementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the target composition; (H) generate an updated inventory; and (I) store the updated inventory on the client computer or central computer. The present invention is further directed to a process for monitoring the production of an objective composition comprising: (A) receiving the criteria for identifying the target composition from a client computer in communication with a central computer; (B) search a first database to identify one or more characteristics associated with the identification criteria, the first database resides in the central computer; (C) search a second database residing in the central computer for one or more formulas associated with the characteristics, the formula provides an inventory required to make a desired amount of the target composition; (D) receive a current inventory from the client computer; (E) send the formulas to the client computer; (F) receive an updated inventory from the client computer; and (G) store the updated inventory in the central computer. The present invention is also directed to a monitoring device comprising: (A) a computer-usable storage medium located on a computer; and (B) means for distributing the articles required to make a desired amount of the objective composition, the distribution means are in communication with the computer; wherein the computer-usable storage medium has computer readable program code means residing thereon to monitor the production of an objective composition, the computer readable program code means comprise: (I) - means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to identify one or more formulas associated with the identification criteria of the target composition, the formula provides an inventory required to make the desired amount of the target composition; (II) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate a current inventory; (III) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory satisfies the re-wanted inventory; (IV) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory; (V) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to distribute through the means of distribution - the required items listed in the required inventory of current items listed in the current inventory, supplementary items listed in the complementary inventory, or a combination thereof, to make the desired amount of the target composition; and (VI) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate an updated inventory.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure 1 broadly illustrates one of the embodiments of the device of the present invention. Figure 2 illustrates broadly the distribution means used in the device of Figure 1. Figures 3A and 3B depict a flow chart that broadly illustrates the computer readable program code means used in the device of the present invention illustrated in FIG. Figure 1. Figure 4 provides additional details of means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause a client computer or a central computer to generate a current inventory shown in Figure 3A. Figure 5 provides additional details of means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or host computer to generate an updated inventory shown in Figure 3B. Figure 6 depicts a flow chart further illustrating computer readable program code means used in the device of the present invention illustrated in Figure 1. Figure 7 broadly illustrates other embodiments of the device of the present invention. Figures 8A and 8B depict a flow chart that broadly illustrates the computer readable program code means used in the device of the present invention illustrated in Figure 7. Figure 9 provides additional details of means for configuring the code devices of computer readable program to cause a standalone computer to generate a current inventory shown in the figure 8A. Figure 10 provides additional details of means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate an updated inventory shown in Figure 8B. Figure 11 depicts a flow chart further illustrating computer readable program code means used in the device of the present invention illustrated in Figure 7.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Compositions, such as automotive paints used in OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or repainted application, are typically prepared by mixing required articles in quantities listed in one or more formulas. The required items are distributed from current items in current inventory, such as one or more parent compositions that equal an objective composition, the objective components listed in the formulas, or a combination thereof. Sometimes, the current inventory may not have enough of the master compositions required to make a desired amount of the objective composition, or an objective component listed in the formula may disappear in the current inventory, or a combination thereof. Accordingly, complementary items of complementary inventory may be required to augment the current inventory so that the required items can be distributed to make the desired amount of the target composition. It should be understood that the term "composition" as used herein refers to compositions that include liquid components; solid components, such as powders, granules, or pellets that can be transported through conventional transportation means, such as pneumatic conveyors; or a mixture of liquid and solid components. Typical objective compositions that can be produced by a device and the process of the present invention include automotive OEM paints, automotive refinish paints, architectural paints, industrial coating compositions, fragrances, dyes, printing inks, inkjet inks. , lubricants, cements, nail varnishes, flavors, food dyes, eye shadows, deodorants, shampoos, hair conditioners, adhesives, perfumes, waterproofing, manicure wall repair kits, catalyst mixtures, pharmaceutical drugs, food additives, polymer blends, reagent mixtures; mixtures of food products, such as ready-to-use soups, cake mixes, spice mixtures, coffee blends, ice cream mixes; or some products to the point of sale consumer. The present invention provides a device and a process used herein to monitor the production of such compositions and more particularly address the monitoring of paint cans and paints contained therein during their life cycle. Figure 1 illustrates the broader aspects of the preferred embodiment of a monitoring device 1 of the present invention. The device 1 includes a client computer 10 and a central computer 12 in communication with the client computer 10 via a conventional communication link 14, such as a modem, internet, local area network, or a wireless communication system. A storage medium usable by conventional client computer 16 is located in and is in communication with the client computer 10 and a storage medium usable by conventional central computer 18 is located and is in communication with the central computer 12. If desired, the means 16 and 18 may be outside the client computer 10 and host 12, respectively. The client computer 10 is preferably provided with a conventional keyboard / monitor 20 and a conventional printer 22. The client computer 10 and host 12 can be any known computer / processor such as those supplied by Dell Computer Corporation, Round Rock, Texas or IBM Corporation, Armonk, New York that can be configured to execute conventional computer program codes. It should be understood that the client computer 10 and central computer 12 can be located anywhere, such as for example the computer 10 can be located in a country, such as the United States, or another state and the central computer 12 can be located in another country, such as Canada, or another state. Alternatively, the central computer 12 can be located in a country, such as the United States, or another state and the client computer 10 can be located in another country, such as Canada, or another state. It should be further understood that the central computer 12 may be in communication with the plurality of client computers 10. The device 1 additionally includes distribution means 24, the details of which are provided in Figure 2. The storage means 34, such as shelves, they can be used to store the current stocks 26, indicated by a box of dotted lines, which typically contain one or more containers of mother composition 26A and one or more containers of mother component 26B. The current existence 26 may be increased with a complementary existence 28, indicated by dashed line, which typically contains additional quantities of stock compositions stored in additional mother composition containers 28A and any of the missing parent components contained in the containers of missing parent component. 28B. It is contemplated that the master compositions, additional amounts of the master compositions, parent components or any of the missing parent components may also be driven to the. device 1, when required, from a storage area. It should be understood that the various containers described above may be arranged in any other way, if desired, when the physical positioning of such containers is not critical. The existence information in the containers can be provided through identification marks such as, mother composition information in mother composition identification marks 30A fixed to the mother composition containers 26A, mother component information in identification marks of. mother components 30B fixed to mother component vessels 26B, additional mother composition information in additional mother composition identification marks 34A fixed to containers of additional mother composition 28A and missing mother component information in missing mother component identification marks 34B fixed to containers of missing mother component 28B. The marks described above can be bar code marks, conventional RFID tags, or a combination thereof where the bar code can be printed on top of the RFID tags so that the information contained in the tag can be read either with the barcode reader or conventional RFID interrogator. The RFID brand system is preferred. A basic RFID system typically includes an interrogator that includes a coil or interrogator antenna, and a transceiver (with decoder); and a transponder provided with a coil or transponder antenna (RFID mark), wherein the transponder is electronically programmed with unique information. The interrogator antenna emits radio signals to activate the mark and read and write data to it. The antennas are the conduits between the brand and the transceiver, which controls the acquisition and communication of system data. Antennas, which are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, can be constructed in a structure to receive brand data from articles that pass or are placed near the structure. Frequently, the interrogator (also known as the reader), which is packaged with the interrogator antenna and the transceiver / decoder can be configured as either a portable device or a fixed mount. The interrogator emits radio waves at intervals anywhere from a few millimeters to 30 meters or more, depending on its power output and the radio frequency used. When an RFID tag passes through or near the electromagnetic zone, it detects the interrogator activation signal. The interrogator decodes the encoded data in the integrated circuit of the mark (silicon plate) and the data is passed to the central computer for processing. RFID brands come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and are classified as either active or passive. Active RFID tags are powered by an internal battery and are typically read / written, that is, the brand data can be rewritten and / or modified. An active brand memory size varies according to application requirements; some systems operate with up to 1 MB of memory. In a typical read / write RFID work process system, a brand can transmit a set of instructions to a machine, and the machine could then report its operation to the brand. This coded data could then become part of the history of the marked part. The battery power of an active brand generally produces a longer reading interval. The transaction is larger, higher cost, and limited operational life (which can produce a maximum of 10 years, depending on operating temperatures and battery type). Typical RFID tags and method of producing them are described in U.S. Patent RE37,956E, which is incorporated herein by reference. In contrast, passive RFID tags operate without a separate external power source and obtain the operating power generated from the interrogator. Passive marks are therefore much lighter than active brands, less expensive, and offer a virtually unlimited lifetime of operational life. The transaction is the one that has shorter reading intervals than active brands and requires a higher power interrogator. RFID systems suitable for use in the present intention preferably operate at frequencies ranging from 125 KHz to 2.45 GHz. The significant advantage of all types of RFID systems is the contactless, non-visual nature of the technology. The marks can be read through a variety of substances such as dust, embedded dirt and other visually and environmentally challenging conditions, where bar codes or other optically-reading technologies could be useless. RFID tags can also be read in challenging circumstances at remarkable speeds, in most cases responding in less than 100 milliseconds. The read / write capability of an active RFID system is also a significant advantage in interactive applications of the process of the present invention. One or more conventional interrogators 32A and 32B can be used to read the master composition information, mother component information, additional master composition information, and missing mother component information.

Some of the typical bar code readers include Maxiscan 2210 supplied by Intermec Technologies Corporation of Everett, Washington or MC9000-G supplied by Symbol Technologie of Holtsville, New York and some of the typical RFID interrogators include Model 915 or 2450 supplied by Alien Technology Corporation of Morgan Hill, California; Fasttrack LRP or HMS models supplied by Escort Memory Systems of Scotts Valley, California; and Models MP9111, MP9112, MP9210, MP9320, and 13.56 all supplied by Samsys Technologies, Inc. of Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada. Some of the typical combinations of bar code reader / RFID integrators include Model 1555 supplied by Intermec Technologies Corporation of Everett, Washington; o Model HHR supplied by Matrics, Inc. of Columbia, Maryland. When the containers described above are made of metal or metal alloy, such as steel, the RFID marks are preferably placed on an insulated substrate, such as paper, plastic film, or a resinous coating, such as a painted surface, for Isolate the RFID marks from metal containers. It is contemplated that RFID tags, including brand antennas, may be directly printed on the above-described containers using conductive inkjet ink printing process or conductive ink developed, for example, by Carclo PLC of Wakefield, UK.- The composition information in mother composition identification marks 30A fixed to containers of mother composition 26A, information of mother component in identification marks of mother components 30B fixed to containers of mother component 26B, information of additional mother composition in identification marks of additional mother composition 34A fixed to vessels of additional mother composition 28A and missing mother component information on missing mother component identification marks 34B attached to vessels of missing mother component 28B. One or more conventional 32A interrogators and 32B can be used to read the mother composition information, mother component information, additional mother composition information, and missing mother component information. The information of mother composition in identification marks of mother composition 30A can include identity of the mother composition, compositional structure of the mother composition, amount of the mother composition contained in the mother composition container, - price of the mother composition contained in the mother composition. mother composition vessel, serial number of the mother composition vessel, place of manufacture of the mother composition, location of the mother composition vessel, date of manufacture of the mother composition, expiration date of the mother composition, toxicity information of the mother composition, MSDS of the mother composition, manufacturer of the mother composition and contact information thereof; or a combination thereof. The mother component information in mother component identification marks 30B may include the identity of the mother component, compositional composition of the mother component, quantity of the mother component contained in the mother component container, price of the mother component contained in the mother component container , place of manufacture of the mother component, location of the mother component container, date of manufacture of the mother component, serial number of the mother component container, expiration date of the mother component, toxicity information of the mother component, MSDS of the mother component, manufacturer of the mother component and contact information thereof; or a combination thereof. The additional mother composition information in additional mother composition identification marks 34A may include the identity of the additional mother composition, compositional structure of the additional mother composition, amount of the additional stock composition contained in the additional stock container, price of the additional stock composition contained in the additional stock container, place of manufacture of the additional stock, location of the additional stock container, manufacture of the additional mother composition, serial number of the additional mother composition vessel, expiration date of the additional mother composition, additional mother composition toxicity information, MSDS of the additional mother composition, manufacturer of the additional mother composition and information of contact of the same; or a combination thereof. If it is contemplated that the additional master compositions may be the same as the master compositions or may be one or more additional master compositions that are matched on the basis of the present criteria. The mother component information absent in absent mother component identification marks 34B may include the identity of the missing mother component, compositional composition of the missing mother component, quantity of the missing mother component contained in the missing mother component container, price of the missing mother component. contained in the absent mother component container, place of manufacture of the missing mother component, location of the absent mother component container, serial number of the missing mother component container, date of manufacture of the missing mother component, expiration date of the missing mother component , information on the toxicity of the missing mother component, MSDS of the missing mother component, manufacturer of the missing mother component and contact information of the missing mother component; or a combination thereof. The present invention contemplates adding one or more missing parent components to any of the parent compositions that do not match the formulas associated with the identified characteristics so that such modified master compositions can then be used as objective compositions. In one embodiment, the distribution means 24 additionally includes conventional means of transportation, such as tubes or pipes, for transporting the contents of the containers 26A, 26B, 28A and 28B via respective conventional distributor nozzles 26AA, 26BB, 28AA and 28BB to an identified target composition receiver 38, which is provided with an objective composition identification mark 39, which can be read or written by an identification interrogator 41, which is similar to those described above. Alternatively, it is contemplated that a single dispensing nozzle, instead of the plurality of nozzles mentioned above, may be employed to transport the contents from the various containers described above to the receiver 38. A type of dispensing apparatus suitable for use herein invention is described in the PCT application having the International Publication Number WO 03/084653A1. The distributor nozzles 26AA, 26BB, 28AA and 28BB are in communication with the client computer 10 ', so that the opening and closing of the distributor nozzles 26AA, 26BB, 28AA and 28BB can be controlled by the client computer 10' in accordance with the formula. It should be noted that the amount of distributed contents of the current existence 26 and / or complementary existence 28 can be controlled on a volumetric or preferably gravimetric basis. To control the content distributed in the volumetric base, the distributor nozzles 26AA, 26BB, 28AA and 28BB may be provided with conventional means for determining the volume of items distributed. Alternatively, or in conjunction with these, the distribution means 24 can be provided with means 40 for weighing the required articles distributed in the identified target composition receiver 38. The means 40 typically includes a conventional scale 40, such as Model KB60sx supplied by Mettler-Toledo Incorporated of Columbus, Ohio or Model SC2CCE-SX supplied by Sartorius AG of Göettingen, Germany, in which receiver 38 can be placed. Typically, the means 40 includes means 42 for generating a signal at the completion of the distribution of the required items in accordance with the required inventory and then transmitting the signal to the client computer 10 'via means 43 for transmitting the signal to the client. The means 43 can be configured to transmit the signal to the central computer 12 (shown in Figure 1), or to the client computer 10 'and central computer 12. Alternatively or in combination thereof, it is contemplated that one may manually read the quantities of the distributed items displayed on a scale and then manually enter the data on the client computer 10 '. It is further contemplated that once the distribution process is complete, one can, using identification interrogator 41, write and / or print to the target composition identification mark 39 a target composition information that includes the identity of the target composition. , compositional structure of the objective composition, amount of the target composition contained in the target composition content receptor 38, price of the target composition contained in the target composition content receptor 38, place of manufacture of the target composition, location of the target composition. target composition content receiver 38, date of manufacture of the target composition, receiver serial number of. target composition content 38, expiration date of the target composition, toxicity information of the target composition, MSDS of the target composition, manufacturer of the target composition and contact information thereof; or a combination thereof. The interrogator 41 can be a bar code label printer / RFID writer, such as Easycoder F2 or F4 supplied by Intermec Technologies Corporation if 'Everett, Washington or Model R-140 or R-402 supplied by Vernon Zebra Technologies International Hills, Illinois. To allow the user to produce the target composition closest to the client's place of business, it is contemplated that the device 1 may be constructed as a transportable device in which the relevant portions of the device 1 are installed in a van or trailer that may be be driven to the customer's business location where the target composition can then be produced. In the device .1 the computer-usable storage medium 16, storage medium usable by central computer 18, or both have computer readable program code means 15 loaded thereon to monitor the production of an objective composition, which they can be written using conventional programming software, such as C ++ Builder, Version 5 or Delphi, Version 6, both supplied by Borland Corporation located in Scotts Valley, California. The details of the computer readable program code 15, shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, include: Means 50 for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer 10 or host 12 to identify one or more formulas associated with the criteria for identifying the target composition, the formula provides a required inventory- to make the desired amount of the target composition. For example, the criteria for identifying the target composition in the form of an automotive paint can include one or more of a manufacturer name, make, model, year of production, color name, paint code, cross reference information. , proposed use, VIN number, or spectrophotometric data of a vehicle or its color. The identification criteria can be manually entered by the user into the client computer 10 or they can reside in an identifying mark of identification criteria, such as RFID mark or bar code mark placed on a vehicle or a reference plate color supplied by a manufacturer, in this case the user can then use an interrogator. conventional identification to read and enter the identification criteria directly from the mark on the client computer 10. It is understood that for some other uses, such as architectural cladding compositions, other types of identification criteria, such as a name of manufacturer, year production, color name, paint code, cross reference information, proposed use, or spectrophotometric data of a wall or its color, may be used. The characteristics associated with the identification criteria typically include, for example, color characteristics, such as conventional color data L, a, b or spectral data; the volatile organic content (VOC); pH of aqueous compositions; appearance characteristics, such as changing tone of metallic paint compositions; coefficient of friction; and viscosity. The required inventory, which is based on the formula, includes information on the required articles such as (a) one or more compositions that match the characteristics and amounts thereof required to make the desired amount of the objective composition; (b) target components and amounts thereof listed in the formula that are required to make the desired amount of the objective composition; or (c) a combination of (a) and (b) Means 52 for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer 10 or host computer 12 to generate a current inventory, which includes information about current items, such as (a) one or more mother compositions that match the characteristics and amounts thereof required to make the desired amount of the objective composition; (b) parent target components and amounts thereof listed in the formula that are required to make the desired amount of the target composition; or (c) a combination of (a) and (b). Current inventory typically refers to items that can be easily distributed by device 1 before distribution of the required items listed in the required inventory, and could include current existence 26 and complementary existence 28. Current inventory is then entered into the client computer 10 before the. Required articles are distributed by distribution means 24. If there were no changes, such as recharging any of the mother components or emptied mother compositions or removal of such items from the storage means 34, it may not be necessary to rent the current inventory since there was no change during the previous distribution cycle. As shown in Figure 4, the means 52 also includes means 53 configured to cause the client computer 10 or host 12 to receive (a) the mother composition information in 30A mother composition identification marks read by one or more interrogators. of identification mark 32A, (b) mother component information on motherboard identification marks 30B read by identification mark interrogators 32A, (c) additional mother composition information in additional 34A mother composition identification marks read by identification mark interrogators 32B, and (d) missing mother component information in missing mother component identification marks 34B read by identification mark interrogators 32B. Means 54 for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer 10 or central computer 12 to compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory. Accordingly, if one or more components listed in the formula are absent or if less than the desired amount of the master compositions is available in the current inventory it could be clear that the current inventory fails to satisfy the required inventory. Means 56 for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer 10 or host 12 to generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory. The supplementary inventory includes information on (a) additional amounts of the master compositions required to produce the desired amount of the objective composition, (b) any of the missing parent components that match the objective components listed in the formula in sufficient quantities required to produce the desired amount of the objective composition, or (c) a combination of (a) and (b). As a result, the manufacturer or supplier of the mother composition, or mother components has real-time inventory to date of these items and can then easily re-supply these items based on the up-to-date information available from the stored inventory. , which the manufacturer or the provider can obtain by entering the current and complementary inventories residing on the client computer 10 or host computer 12. Means 58 for configuring the computer readable program code devices to originate the client computer 10 or central computer 12 distribute through distribution means 24 the required items listed in the required inventory of the current items listed in the current inventory, complementary items listed in the supplementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the target composition. Means 60 for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer 10 or central computer 12 to generate an updated inventory. As shown in Figure 5, the means 60 comprises means 62 for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer 10 or core computer 12 (a) to deduce from the current inventory the distributed amounts of the parent composition. , the mother components, or a combination thereof to generate an adjusted current inventory; (b) deduct from the supplementary inventory the additional distributed amounts of the parent composition, distributed amounts of the missing parent components, or a combination thereof, to generate an adjusted complementary inventory; and (c) add the adjusted current inventory and the adjusted complementary inventory. The aforementioned sum then becomes the updated inventory. It should be noted that the updated inventory could then become the inventory stored in the subsequent distribution cycle. The computer readable program code 15, shown in FIG. 6, additionally includes: means 64 for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer 10 or host computer 12 to search for a first database to identify one or more features associated with the criteria for identifying the target composition; and means 66 for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer 10 or host computer 12 to search for a second database to identify one or more of the formulas associated with the features. The first database can be stored in the client computer 10 and the second database can be stored in the central computer 12. Alternatively, the first and the second database can both be stored in the central computer 12 in communication with the client computer 10, or the first and the second database can both be stored on the client computer 10. The present invention also addresses a process for monitoring the production of the target composition. All the terms described in the following process are the same as those described above. In its broadest aspect the process includes: (A) identifying one or more formulas associated with the identification criteria of the target composition, the formula provides an inventory required to make a desired amount of the target composition; (B) generate a current inventory; (C) compare the current inventory against the inventory required to match the current inventory with the required inventory; (D) generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially equals the required inventory; (E) distributing the required items listed in the required inventory of the current items listed in the current inventory, complementary items listed in the supplementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the target composition; Y (F) generate an updated inventory. The above step (E) is performed by means of distribution 24 of the device 1. The above process also includes: (a) searching a first database to identify one or more features associated with the identification criteria of the target composition; and (b) search a second database to identify one or more of the formulas associated with the characteristics. The formula is preferably a color formula. Step (D) in the above process includes: (a) reading with one or more identification mark interrogators 32B: (i) additional mother composition information in additional mother composition identification marks 34A fixed to the mother composition containers additional 28A containing the parent composition, (ii) missing mother component information in missing mother component identification marks 34B attached to the missing mother component 28B containers, or (iii) a combination of (-i) and (ii); and (b) store the complementary inventory. Step (F) in the above process includes: (a) deducting from the current inventory the distributed quantities of the parent composition, the parent components, or a combination thereof to generate an adjusted current inventory; (b) deduct from the supplementary inventory the additional distributed amounts of the parent composition, distributed amounts of the missing parent components, or a combination thereof, to generate an adjusted complementary inventory; and (c) add the adjusted current inventory and the adjusted complementary inventory. In the previous process, the updated inventory can be stored in the client computer, in the central computer, or in the client computer and the central computer and the items required in the required inventory are distributed in the identified target composition receiver 38. The above process may additionally include supplying some or all of the required items required to increase the updated inventory. As a result, most or all of all items may be made available during subsequent use. It is further contemplated that the updated inventory may be stored in a storage identification mark 34A attached to the storage means 34, which may be updated each time the device 1 distributes the required items required to make the target composition. It is understood that the storage identification mark 34A may be the conventional RFID mark described above, bar code mark or a combination thereof. Another embodiment of the process of the present invention includes: (A) entering criteria for identifying the target composition on the client computer 10 or on the central computer 12 in communication with the client computer 10; (B) searching for a first database that resides on the client computer 10 or on the host computer 12 to identify one or more features associated with the identification criteria; (C) searching for a second database residing on the client computer 10 or on the central computer 12 for one or more formulas associated with the features, the formula provides an inventory required to make a desired amount of the target composition; (D) generate a current inventory; (E) storing the current inventory in the client computer 10 or in the central computer 12; (F) compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory; (G) generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory where the complementary inventory is stored on the client computer or the central computer; (H) distributing the required items listed in the required inventory of the current items listed in the current inventory, complementary items listed in the supplemental inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the target composition; (I) generate an updated inventory; and (J) store the updated inventory on the client computer or central computer. In the above process the second database, the stored inventory and the updated inventory can be stored in the central computer 12. The previous stage (H) is performed by means of distribution 24 of the device 1.

Another embodiment of the process of the present invention includes: (A) receiving the identification criteria of the target composition from the client computer 10 in communication with the central computer 12; (B) search a first database to identify one or more characteristics associated with the identification criteria the first database resides in the central computer 12; (C) looking for a second database residing on the client computer 12 for one or more formulas associated with the features, the formula provides an inventory required to make a desired amount of the target composition; (D) receiving a current inventory from the client computer 10; (E) compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory; (F) generating a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory where the complementary inventory is stored, on the client computer 10 or on the central computer 12; (G) distributing the required items listed in the required inventory of the current items listed in the current inventory, complementary items listed in the supplementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the target composition; (H) generate an updated inventory; and (I) storing the updated inventory in the client computer Í0 or in the central computer 12. The previous stage (G) is performed by means of distribution 24 of the device 1. Still another embodiment of the process of the present invention includes: (A) ) receiving the criteria for identifying the target composition from the client computer 10 in communication with the central computer 12; (B) search a first database to identify one or more characteristics associated with the identification criteria, the first database resides in the central computer 12; (C) looking for a second database residing in the central computer 12 for one or more formulas associated with the features, the formula provides an inventory required to make a desired amount of the objective composition; (D) receiving a current inventory from the client computer 10; (E) sending the formulas to the client computer 10; (G) receive from. the client computer 10 an updated inventory; and ~ (H) storing the updated inventory in the central computer 12. The above modalities of the process may also include supplying some or all of the required items required to augment the updated inventory. As a result, most or all items may be made available during subsequent use. The present invention is also directed to a storage medium usable by a portable computer, such as a CD-Rom having the above-described computer readable program code means 15 stored therein. Applicants also contemplate another embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 7 illustrating the broader aspects of a monitoring device 2 of the present invention, which includes a standalone computer 10"having usable storage medium 16 'located therein. The computer 10"may be provided with a conventional keyboard / monitor 20 'and a conventional printer 22'. The client computer 10"can be any conventional computer / processor such as those provided by Dell Computer Corporation, Round Rock, Texas or IBM Corporation, Armonk, New York that can be configured to read conventional computer program codes. distributing means 24 ', which are the same as the means 24 described above in Figure 2. The computer programmable code 15' could be similar to the computer programmable code 15 described above, except that all the information generated during the process it is stored in the autonomous computer 10". The relevant aspects of the device 2, as shown in figures 7, 8A and 8B, include: (A) a storage medium usable by computer 16 'located in a computer 10"; and (B) means 24 'for distributing the items required to make a desired amount of the target composition, the distribution means 24' are in communication with the computer; wherein the computer-usable storage medium 16 'has computer readable program code means 15' residing thereon to monitor the production of an objective composition, the computer readable program code means 15 'comprises: (I ) Means 50 'for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to identify one or more formulas associated with the identification criteria of the target composition, the formula provides an inventory required to make the desired amount of the composition objective. (II) Means 52 'for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate a current inventory. As shown in Figure 8A and Figure 9, means 15 'of code means 15' includes means 53 'for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause computer 10"to receive composition information. mother in mother composition identification marks 30A read by one or more identification mark interrogators 32A, (b) mother component information in 30B mother component identification marks read by 32A identification mark interrogators, (c) information from additional mother composition in additional mother composition identification marks 34B read by identification mark interrogators 32B, and (d) mother component information absent in missing mother component identification marks 34B read by the 32B identification mark interrogators. ( III) Means 54 'for configuring computer readable program code devices for ori To have the computer compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory. (IV) Means 56 'for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory. (V) Means 58 'for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to distribute through the means of distribution the required items listed in the required inventory of the current items listed in the current inventory, supplementary items listed in the complementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the target composition. (VI) Finally, means 60 'for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate an updated inventory. As shown in Figure 8B and Figure 10, the media means 60 'of code 15' includes means 62 'for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer 10"(a) to deduce from the current inventory the distributed amounts of the parent composition, the parent components, or a combination thereof to generate an adjusted current inventory, (b) deduct from the supplementary inventory the additional quantities distributed from the parent stock, distributed amounts of the missing parent components, or a combination of these, to generate an adjusted complementary inventory, and (c) add the adjusted current inventory and the adjusted complementary inventory As shown in figure 11, the computer readable program code means 15 'of the device 2 they also include: (a) means 64 'for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer 10"look for a first database to identify one or more characteristics associated with the identification criteria of the target composition; and (b) means 66 'for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer 10 to "search for a second database to identify one or more formulas associated with the features." The process and device of the present invention. help in eliminating the poor quality substitution distribution of components listed in the formula, thereby preventing the production of sub-standard compositions.The integrity of the quality of the composition can be maintained by identifying each container of mother composition or mother component with a unique identification number, which can be stored by a component manufacturer as soon as the contents in those containers are produced (becomes part of the stored inventory.) As a result, the manufacturer can generate and maintain the complete information , including the quantity contained in the containers, when the contents in the When a container is consumed, an updated inventory can be transmitted to the manufacturer allowing the manufacturer to enter the client computer 10 or central computer 12, which can alternatively be operated by the manufacturer. The updated inventory then becomes the current inventory in the subsequent distribution cycle as long as the user, such as a collision repair shop, does not make unauthorized additions or deletions to the current inventory. Accordingly, the process of the present invention helps in ensuring the product quality of the composition. Additionally, since the manufacturer is aware of which component has been used, the manufacturer can automatically increase the user with those components emptied without any formal request from the user, thereby reducing the time required to supply the components consumed by the user. In addition, the manufacturer can also help the user in reducing their inventory by supplying the components, almost on time when they are used. In addition, the manufacturer can also bill the customer on a "basis when it is used" for the cost "of only the components or mother composition currently consumed.As a result, the user's ordinary cost can be reduced." Finally, using a transportable modality of the device of the present invention, the manufacturer may produce the S in the user's place of business, thus further reducing the need for the user to maintain an extensive and expensive inventory.It is noted that in relation to this date, the best known method by the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims (24)

CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the contents of the following claims are claimed as property:

1. Monitoring device, characterized in that it comprises: (A) a storage medium usable by a client computer located in a client computer, and a storage medium usable by a central computer located in a central computer in communication with the client computer; and (B) means for distributing the articles required to make a desired amount of the target composition, the distribution means are in communication with the client computer, the central computer, or the client and central computer, where the usable storage medium can be used. per client computer, means of storage usable by central computer, or storage media usable by computer client and storage media usable by central computer have means of computer readable program code residing in this to monitor the production of a target composition , the computer readable program code means comprise: (I) means for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or host computer to identify one or more formulas associated with the identification criteria of the target composition , the for Mule provides an inventory required to make the desired amount of the target composition; (II) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to generate a current inventory; (III) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory; (IV) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory; (V) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to distribute through the distribution means the required items listed, in the required inventory of current items listed in the current inventory, complementary items listed in the supplementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the target composition; and (VI) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to generate an updated inventory.

Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the computer readable program code means comprise: (a) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or host computer to search for a first database to identify one or more characteristics associated with the criteria for identifying the target composition; and (b) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or host to search for a second database to identify one or more of the formulas associated with the features.

3. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the first database resides in the client computer and the second database resides in the central computer, the first and the second database reside in the central computer in communication with the computer client, or the first and second databases reside on the client computer.

Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the identification criteria comprise one or more of a name of manufacturer, make, model, year of production, color name, paint code, cross-reference information, proposed use, VIN number, or spectrophotometric data of a vehicle or its color.

5. Device in accordance with the claim 1, characterized in that the items required in the required inventory comprise: (a) one or more compositions that match the characteristics and amounts thereof required to make the desired amount of the target composition; (b) target components and amounts thereof listed in the formula that are required to make the desired amount of the objective composition; or (c) a combination of (a) and (b).

Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the current articles in the current inventory comprise: (a) one or more master compositions that match the characteristics and amounts thereof required to make the desired amount of the target composition; (b) parent target components and amounts thereof listed in the formula that are required to make the desired amount of the target composition; or (c) a combination of (a) and (b).

7. Device in accordance with the claim 6, characterized in that complementary items in the complementary inventory comprise: (a) additional quantities of the master compositions required to produce the desired amount of the objective composition, (b) any of the missing parent components that match the target components listed in formula in sufficient quantities required to produce the desired amount of the objective composition, or (c) a combination of (a) and (b).

8. Device in accordance with the claim 7, characterized in that the means (II) comprise means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or host computer to receive: (a) the mother composition information in mother composition identification marks read by one or more identification mark interrogators, the mother composition identification marks are affixed to the mother composition containers containing the parent composition, (b) the mother component information in mother component identification marks read by brand interrogators of identification, motherboard identification markings are affixed to the mother component containers that are matched with the target components, (c) additional mother composition information in additional mother composition identification marks read by identification mark interrogators , the identification marks of additional mother composition are affixed to containers of additional mother composition containing the parent composition, and (d) missing mother component information in missing mother component identification marks read by identification mark interrogators, component identification marks absent mothers are attached to the containers of missing mother component.

9. Device in accordance with the claim 8, characterized in that the containers of mother composition, the containers of mother component, the containers of additional mother composition, the containers of missing mother component, or a combination thereof are placed in one or more shelves of stock of the device.

Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the identification marks of the mother composition, the identification marks of the mother component, the identification marks of the additional mother composition and the identification marks of the missing mother component are RFID marks. , bar code marks or a combination thereof.

Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the 'identification marks of the mother composition, the identification marks of the mother component, the identification marks of the additional mother composition and the identification marks of the missing mother components are passive or active RFID marks. .

Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the identification mark interrogator is an RFID mark interrogator,

13. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the means (VI) comprise means for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to: (a) deduce from the current inventory the distributed amounts of the composition mother / mother components, or a combination of these to generate a current stock inventory; (b) deduct from the supplementary inventory the additional distributed amounts of the parent composition, distributed amounts of the missing parent components, or a combination thereof, to generate an adjusted complementary inventory; and (c) add the adjusted current inventory and the adjusted complementary inventory.

Device according to claim 1 or 13, characterized in that the means for distributing the required articles comprise one or more distributor nozzles for distributing the required articles in a receiver of identified target composition.

15. Device according to claim 14, characterized in that the means of distribution comprise means for transporting the required articles to the distributing nozzles of the containers of mother composition, the containers of mother component, the containers of additional composition mother, the containers of missing mother component, or a combination thereof.

16. Device according to claim 14, characterized in that the identified target composition receptor is provided with an objective composition identification mark.

Device according to claim 16, characterized in that the target composition identification mark is an RFID mark, a bar code mark or a combination thereof.

18. Device according to claim 17, characterized in that it comprises an identification mark interrogator for writing the objective composition information to the target composition identification mark.

19. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the inventory required, the current inventory, the complementary inventory, and the updated inventory are stored in a client computer, in a central computer in communication with the client computer, or in the computer client and the central computer.

20. Device according to claim 19, characterized in that it comprises: (a) means for weighing the articles required in the receiver of identified target composition, (b) means for generating a signal in the completion of the distribution of the items required of conformity with the required inventory, and} (c) means for transmitting the signal to the client computer, the central computer, the means of distribution, or a combination thereof.

Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the device is a transportable device.

22. Storage medium usable by portable computer, characterized in that it has the means of computer readable program code according to claim 1, 2 or 13 stored therein.

23. Storage medium usable by a portable computer according to claim 22, characterized in that the medium is a CD-Rom.

24. Monitoring device, characterized in that it comprises: (A) a computer-usable storage medium located on a computer; and (B) means for distributing the items required to make a desired amount of the target composition, the distribution means are in communication with the computer, wherein the usable storage medium on the computer has computer readable program code means. residing therein to monitor the production of an objective composition, the computer readable program code means comprise: (I) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to identify one or more associated formulas With the criteria for identifying the target composition, the formula provides an inventory required to make the desired amount of the target composition; (II) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate a current inventory; (III) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to compare the current inventory against the required inventory to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory; (IV) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory; (V) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to distribute through the means of distribution the required items listed in the required inventory of current items listed in the current inventory, supplementary items listed in the complementary inventory, or a combination thereof, to make the desired amount of the target composition; Y (VI) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the computer to generate an updated inventory. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to a monitoring device for producing an objective composition, such as an automotive paint or an architectural paint and a monitoring device used therein. The device includes (A) a storage medium usable by a client computer located in a client computer, and a storage medium usable by a central computer located in a central computer in communication with the client computer; and (B) means for distributing the items required to make a desired amount of the target composition, the distribution means are in communication with the client computer, the central computer, or the client and central computer, where the storage medium used computer-based client, means of storage usable by central computer, or storage media usable by computer client and storage media usable by central computer have means of computer-readable program code residing in this to monitor the production of a composition objective. Computer-readable program code means includes (I) means for configuring computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or host computer to identify one or more formulas associated with the identification criteria of the target composition, the formula provides an inventory required to make the desired amount of the target composition; (II) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to generate a current inventory; (III) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to compare the current inventory against the inventory required to find out if the current inventory meets the required inventory; (IV) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to generate a complementary inventory if the current inventory partially satisfies the required inventory; (V) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to distribute through the means of distribution the required items listed in the required inventory of current items listed in the current inventory, items complementary items listed in the supplementary inventory, or a combination thereof to make the desired amount of the objective composition; and (VI) means for configuring the computer readable program code devices to cause the client computer or central computer to generate an updated inventory. The device can also be used to control the inventory by sending almost any of the components required to produce the objective compositions, such as repainting dyes used in automotive repaint paints, almost in time.