DK201370611A1 - System and method for ordering spare parts - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system and method for ordering spare parts for an apparatus where the user scans a unique code arranged on the apparatus and activates an application in a mobile communications device. The application is configured to read the unique code and communicate with a remote server for receiving detailed information relating to the apparatus. The application comprises at least a spare part module which displays a dedicated list of spare parts which match that apparatus. The user then selects the desired spare parts which are then transferred to an ordering module. The ordering module then creates an order comprising the selected spare parts and the user enters the information relating to the order after which the order is transmitted to a spare part supplier. This provides a simple and fast method for ordering spare parts and reduces the risk of ordering the wrong parts. This method is particularly suited for B2B transactions, since the number of steps in the ordering processes is reduced.

Description

Field and system of ordering spare parts Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a system for ordering spare parts for an apparatus where the system comprises: - an apparatus configured to carry out at least one function and comprises a predetermined number of replaceable parts, wherein at least one unique code is arranged on the apparatus ; - a mobile communications device comprising at least a camera coupled to a scanning module configured to read the unique code, while the unique code is configured to be read by an application in the communications device, - where the application is configured to run on the communications device and to communicate with a remote server via a communications path, eg a wireless network, where the application comprises at least a spare part module configured to display a dedicated list of spare parts that are configured to function together with that apparatus.

The present invention also relates to a method for ordering spare parts for an apparatus where the method comprises the steps of: - scanning a unique code arranged on an apparatus using a mobile communications device, the apparatus being configured to carry out at least one function and comprises a predetermined number of replaceable parts; - reading the unique code using an application on the communications device and communicating with a remote server via the application, e.g. wirelessly; - displaying a dedicated list of spare parts that are configured to function together with that apparatus to a user using at least one spare part module in the application.

Background of the invention

Production lines are throughout the industry today and involve the use of different appliances for different purposes. Such devices are often operated continuously for many hours during each day in order to meet the demand for various products. Particularly in the food industry, production lines are operated non-stop in order to ensure a constant production of food articles. Such continuous operation increases the wear on the individual apparatus and the components thereof, which reduces the expected operation time for each of the components. In B2B transactions, the customer often has to contact the manufacturer by email or phone in order to order the correct spare parts. This process involves a lot of steps that take up time and increase downtime.

Various methods and systems for ordering spare parts are disclosed throughout the literature. EP 1953692 A1 discloses a system and method for automatically ordering spare parts using a maintenance schedule for the components located in the electronic apparatus. An operator activates and interacts with a maintenance program on a maintenance server via a local computer terminal in order to set up a maintenance date for the apparatus. The maintenance program acquires a list of components installed in the apparatus from the maintenance server and determines the components that need to be replaced according to the shortest cycle of the next replacement dates relative to the scheduled maintenance date. The order is then transmitted to a buyer who places the order and requests the delivery of the spare parts. This is a relatively complex system that requires a maintenance interval to set up for each of the components and involves a large amount of data processing in order to determine the components that need to be replaced. This system is not suitable in the event of a sudden failure, since it requires the operator to set up a maintenance date before the apparatus can be repaired. US 2004/0019534 A1 discloses an interactive system and method for ordering spare parts where the user uses an online website to select and order the desired spare parts. A number of lists and interactive exploded images of the product on various webpages allow the user to select and input the product number and model number. The select replacement parts are then added to a shopping cart where the user enters his credit card details. The order is finally transmitted to a selected supplier. This configuration requires the customer to manually select or input the correct model number for that apparatus and identify the correct spare parts. Although interactive images are used to guide the user to the correct spare part, this could still lead the user to order an incorrect spare part, especially if the user is unable to locate or recognize the model number. In order to place the order, the user has to carry out a financial transaction before the selected spare parts can be shipped out. This configuration is suitable for B2C (business-to-customer) transactions, but not for B2B (business-to-business) transactions where the financial transactions are normally carried out after the delivery of the spare parts.

Another solution is known from MK Diamond where the user uses a mobile phone to scan a QR code located on the apparatus. The QR code directs the user to a website containing a catalog of all the different appliances and manuals for the individual appliances where the user is able to select the desired apparatus through the catalog. The catalog contains a list of spare parts for all the appliances where the user is able to select the desired spare part and place an order on the selected spare parts. In this configuration, the user has to manually select the correct spare part for that particular apparatus which could lead to the selection of incorrect spare parts or spare parts that do not fit the configuration of that apparatus. This is particularly a problem if the apparatus is discontinued and removed from the catalog.

Yet another solution is known from Endress + Hauser where the user downloads an application onto a mobile phone. The user scans the QR code located on the apparatus and is directed to a webpage containing up-to-date information about the apparatus, including manuals for the apparatus. In this configuration, the user has to contact the manufacturer by email or phone in order to order the desired spare parts; these cannot be ordered from the application. The user can order spare parts using an online shop on the website. The user further has to download and install the application before he can access product information.

Thus, there is room for improvement of such systems and methods as described above and there is a call for development of a new and improved system and method which is simple and easy to use.

Object of the invention

It is an object of the invention to provide a system that solves the abovementioned drawbacks in a simpler and easier way.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system that allows the user to gain quick and easy access to further information about the apparatus.

Another object of the invention is to provide a method that provides a fast and easy way of ordering spare parts.

Another object of the invention is to provide a method that reduces the risk of ordering incorrectly spare parts.

Description of the invention

As mentioned above, the invention relates to a system for ordering spare parts for an apparatus characterized in that - the dedicated list of spare parts is configured as an interactive list from which a user can select one or more spare parts, - and where the application further comprises an ordering module coupled to the spare part module, whereas the ordering module is configured to receive the selected spare part from the spare part module and generate an order for a spare part supplier.

This provides an ordering system that allows for a simple and fast method of ordering spare parts for the apparatus. The system reduces the risk of ordering the wrong spare parts or spare parts that do not fit the configuration of the apparatus, since the user is only shown the spare parts that match the configuration of that particular apparatus on the client device, i.e. the communications device. The use of a machine readable unique code provides a quick and easy access for the user, i.e. a customer or a technician, to the detailed information without having to use a physical manual or manually locate the manual on a website. This ordering system is particularly suited for B2B transactions where there is a need to reduce downtime.

The term "apparatus" is defined as a set of units arranged for a particular purpose and configured to carry out at least one particular function. The apparatus may form part of a larger and more complex apparatus. The set of units that make up the apparatus may be determined by a person skilled in the art. The apparatus may be a pump, a valve, a heating or cooling unit, a motor, a compressor, or another type of apparatus used in a production line. The term "unique code" is defined as any type of machine readable code that includes a unique combination of numbers, letters, signs, figures or the like. The unique code may be arranged as a barcode, a matrix code, or another ID or 2D code. The term "spare part supplier" is defined as any type of supplier capable of delivering the selected spare parts. The spare part supplier may be the manufacturer of the apparatus, a sub-contractor of the manufacturer, or a third party supplier.

The application may be configured to transmit a request from the communications device to the remote server, i.e. a database server, for receiving detailed information related to that apparatus. The request may comprise an identification number for the scanned apparatus, e.g. the serial or model number, and / or an identification number for the communications device or user, e.g. the type of communications device, a user name or an IP address. The request may be transmitted when a particular module on a webpage or a graphic user interface (GUI) is selected, e.g. a scanning module, in the application. The unique code may be configured to activate the application when the unique code is scanned via a scanning module located in the communications device. In this configuration, the request may be transmitted upon initialization of the application. The detailed information for the different devices may be stored in a database located in the server. The server, e.g. a controller implemented on the server, may then retrieve or generate at least a dedicated list of spare part for that apparatus from the database and transmit a reply back to the application comprising that list.

The communications device may be a mobile phone, e.g. a smartphone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet computer, or another communications device. The communications device may be a handheld reader unit configured to communicate with a wireless hotspot or a computer unit coupled to the server via the wireless communications path. The wireless communications path may be an Internet connection, a mobile data network, or another type of wireless or wired communications network.

According to one embodiment, the application is configured as a web application or a native application.

The application may be a web application configured to use a web browser, such as Safari, Mozilla, Firefox, Explorer or another type of browser stored in the communications device to communicate with the remote server. This allows the application to be implemented on different types of operating platforms, iOS, Android, Windows or the like. In this configuration, the modules in the application may be configured as an arrangement of links directing the user to a website stored on the server. The website may comprise a number of webpages dedicated to each of the modules in the application. The website may be managed and updated by the supplier, e.g. the manufacturer of the apparatus. This allows for a cheap and simple implementation of the application that requires the user to download and install the application before scanning the unique code. The use of a web application allows the modules of the application to be updated without having to distribute the update to every one of the users.

The application may be a native application configured to be downloaded and implemented on communications device through an online store, such as Google Play or Apple App Store. In this configuration, the modules may comprise a GUI dedicated to each of the modules in the communications device. The application or modules may be managed and updated by the supplier, e.g. the manufacturer of the apparatus, by transmitting a notice to each user indicating that an update is available or simply transmitting the update directly to the users. This allows the user to access the application or most of it offline, i.e. without a wireless data network available. This also allows for better data communication, i.e. interaction, with the various functions in the communication device, such as the camera module, the location or navigation module, the email module, etc.

The web application or native application may comprise a home module in the form of a homepage or home GUI which is activated at stall up and is configured allows the user to select one or more of the modules in the application. The modules may be linked via one or more buttons or tabs located on each of the webpages or GUIs.

According to one embodiment, the unique code is configured to be permanently integrated into the apparatus, e.g. on a type plate.

The unique code may be arranged on an outer surface of the apparatus which allows the user to position the communication device relative to the unique code and scan the code. The unique code may be configured as an ID or 2D code in the form of a barcode or a QR code. The unique code may be integrated into the surface of the apparatus or on a type plate mounted to the apparatus. The unique code may be etched, stamped, laser imprinted, engraved or otherwise integrated using another technique. This allows the unique code to be permanently arranged on the apparatus and prevents it from being worn off or tampered with. This allows the unique code to be read at all times, even if the device is resold one or more times. This provides a quick and easy access for any customer to the detailed information related to the apparatus even if the supplier does not have any further details about the apparatus. If the apparatus is not placed in an extreme environment or operated at extreme temperatures, then the unique code may be arranged on an adhesive label that is adhered to the apparatus.

According to one embodiment, the unique code is further configured to identify the apparatus via an identification number.

The unique code may comprise an identification number configured to identify the apparatus. The identification number may be integrated into the request transmitted to the server. The server may then use this number to identify the type, model, production date, production batch and / or other relevant information related to that apparatus. The identification number may be used to generate the dedicated list of spare parts and / or to retrieve other types of detailed information relating to that apparatus from the database. The detailed information relating to the different appliances may be linked together using that identification number or arranged in groups according to that number.

Information relating to kits or parts for upgrading or added functions in the apparatus may be stored in the database and transmitted to a separate module in the application or displayed via the spare parts module. Furthermore, information relating to discontinued apparatus or spare parts may be stored in the database as well as replacement apparatus or spare parts. This information may then be transmitted to the application and displayed to the user. This allows the user to select the correct spare parts each time an order is placed.

According to one embodiment, the ordering module further comprises one or more data input elements for input at least a delivery address and / or contact information.

The ordering module may be configured to receive the selected spare parts and the selected amount thereof from the spare parts module. The received data is then transferred into a predetermined order formula comprising at least a delivery address and the contact information. The ordering module may be configured so that some of the data on the order formula may be stored in advance in a user or customer profile. One or more receiving addresses, e.g. an email from the spare part supplier or a contact person thereof may be predetermined and stored in the user or customer profile. The order may be transmitted to the spare part supplier upon configuration by the user and / or when the wireless network is available again. This allows the order formula to be transmitted directly to the relevant department of the spare part supplier, e.g. the shipping department, for faster processing and delivery of the order.

Each module may comprise one or more interactive elements, such as lists, menus, tabs, buttons, text fields or the like, for the user to interact with the module. Each module may further comprise one or more indication elements, such as system bars, configured to indicate various status information, progress status, or the like. This allows the user to enter customer data, such as the customer name or number, the delivery address, the billing address, the reference number or contact person, or other relevant data.

The web application or native application may be configured to use cookies to store the last entered data and display this data to the user when the ordering module is activated. The customer number or name may be used to retrieve the relevant data which may be stored on the server and / or in the communications device. This allows for an easier and faster creation of the order formula.

According to one embodiment, the application further comprises at least a third module, e.g. an installation module configured to display a predetermined type of detailed information related to the apparatus, e.g. an installation manual.

The application may further comprise one or more modules configured to receive and display other types of detailed information stored in the server. The application may comprise an installation module configured to communicate with the server, i.e. transmit a request to the server and receive an installation manual for installing the apparatus. The installation manual may be configured as a conventional installation manual or an interactive installation manual configured to guide the user through the installation process in a more intuitive manner. The application may comprise a maintenance and / or operation module configured to display information related to the operation and / or maintenance process to the user. The user may interact with the operation and / or maintenance module and input or adjust one or more of the displayed data stored in the user or customer profile. Other types of modules may be incorporated into the application, such as a datasheet module, an approvals module, or the like.

The application may comprise a contact module and / or an email module allowing the user to contact a relevant person, e.g. the support staff, at the spare part supplier in a simple and easy manner. The contact information relating to that person may be entered into the module and stored in the customer or user profile. A navigation module may be incorporated into the application for guiding the user, e.g. a technician, to the spare part supplier and / or the customer.

As mentioned above, the invention relates to a method for ordering spare parts for an apparatus characterized in that - the user interacts with the dedicated list of spare parts and selects one or more spare parts; and - where an order comprising at least the selected spare parts for a spare part supplier is generated using an ordering module in the application.

This provides a simple and fast method of ordering spare parts for a desired apparatus that reduces the risk of ordering the wrong spare parts or spare parts that do not fit the configuration of the apparatus. During the ordering process, the user is only shown the spare parts that match the configuration of that particular apparatus thus allowing the user a correct spare part. The detailed information related to that apparatus is quickly accessed by a user, i.e. a customer or a technician, by simply scanning the machine readable unique code. This eliminates the need for consulting a physical spare part manual or manually locating the information on a website. This ordering method is particularly suited for B2B transactions, since it reduces the number of steps in the ordering process. A request identifying the apparatus and / or the user may be transmitted to the remote server when the unique code is read by the application. Detailed information, at least a dedicated list of spare parts, relating to that apparatus may then be transmitted back to the communications device and the application. A controller located in the remote server may manage the communication between the communications device and the database in which the detailed information is stored. The controller may generate or retrieve the detailed information from the database based on an identification number embedded in the scanned code which is transmitted with the request to the remote server.

The user may download the application in the form of a native application from an online shop, such as Google Play or Apple App Store. The user may then start the application and select a scanning module to scan the unique code. The scanning module may then read the unique code and the request may then be transmitted to the server. The unique code may be a barcode or a QR code. This allows the application to be started before scanning the apparatus or even in an offline state. In an offline state the application may be configured to display the identification number of the device embedded in the unique code. The detailed information is then displayed in the application using a number of modules each having a dedicated GUI.

According to one embodiment, the application is activated by scanning the unique code.

In this configuration, the application, in the form of a web application, may be activated by simply scanning the unique code using a scanning module located in the communications device. The request may then be transmitted upon initialization of the application. This allows for an easier and simpler update of the application and provides an application that can be used on more than one type of operating platform. The detailed information may then be displayed in the application using a number of modules each having a dedicated webpage. The webpages may form a website which may be managed by the spare part supplier.

Information relating to the discontinuation of the apparatus or spare parts thereof may be stored in the database as well as replacement appliances or spare parts. This information may be transmitted to the application and displayed in the spare part module or a separate module. This allows the user to select the correct spare part every time an order is placed. The application may further display information related to other parts or kits that can be used together with that apparatus allowing the user to upgrade the apparatus or increase functionality of the apparatus. The unique code may be integrated into the apparatus to prevent the code from being worn or tampered with. This allows the user to access the detailed information even if the device has been resold one or more times.

According to one embodiment, the user interacts with the ordering module in the application and inputs data related to the order, e.g. at least a delivery address and contact information.

The selected spare parts may be transmitted to the ordering module where they are integrated into an order formula for a spare part supplier, e.g. the manufacturer of the apparatus. The user may create a user or customer profile stored on the communications device or on the remote server. The customer or user profile may comprise one or more data that can be pre-entered into the order formula. Cookies may be used instead to enter data into the order formula. The user may enter the delivery address, contact information, and / or other relevant data and confirm the entered data to complete the order. The order may then be transmitted to a receiving address, e.g. an email from the spare part supplier or a contact person thereof, which may be stored in the user or customer profile. This allows for a simpler creation of the order formula and allows it to be transmitted directly to the relevant department of the spare part supplier, e.g. the shipping department, for faster processing and delivery of the order.

According to one embodiment, the user interacts with at least a third module, e.g. an installation module, in the application for accessing a predetermined type of detailed information related to the apparatus, e.g. an installation manual.

The user may interact with other modules in the application to display other types of detailed information related to the scanned apparatus. Information relating to the installation of the apparatus and parts thereof may be displayed in an installation module. The user may interact with the installation module allowing the user to be guided through the installation process in a more intuitive manner. The user may additionally or alternatively interact with an operation module and / or a maintenance module for accessing information related to the operation parameters and / or predetermined or recommended maintenance intervals. The operation and / or maintenance module may comprise a list of error codes and / or a troubleshooting list for quick and effective fixes of errors. The user may alternatively interact with one or more of the modules to adjust one or more of the stored parameters stored in the customer or user profile. A contact module and / or email module in the application allows the user to quickly and easily contact a relevant person, e.g. the support staff, at the spare part supplier. These contact information and email addresses may be stored in the customer or user profile. Cookies may be used instead.

Description of the drawing

An embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the system according to the invention; FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a home module of the application;

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of a spare part module of the application; FIG. 4 shows an exemplary embodiment of an application module installation; spirit

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of an ordering module of the application.

In the following text, the figures will be described one by one, and the different parts and positions seen in the figures will be numbered with the same numbers in the different figures. Not all parts and positions indicated in a specific figure will necessarily be discussed together with that figure.

Position number list 1 Ordering system 15 Installation module 2 Device 15 16 Contact module 3 Replaceable part, spare parts 17 Email module 4 Unique code 18 List of spare parts 5 Communications device 19 Data input elements 6 Scan 20 Action bar 7 Server 21 Tab 8 Wireless communication 22 Return tab 9 Home module 23 Selected spare parts 10 Spare part module 24 Contact information 11 Ordering module 25 Data input elements 12 Model number 26 Delivery information 13 Images 27 Confirm tab 14 Tabs 28 Inquiry tab

Detailed Description of the Invention

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of an ordering system 1 according to the invention. The system 1 comprises at least one apparatus 2 configured to perform at least one predetermined function. The apparatus 2 may form part of a larger and more complex apparatus (not shown). The apparatus 2 comprises one or more replaceable parts 3, only one is shown here. The apparatus 2 may be configured as a valve, as shown in fig. 1. A unique code 4 in the form of a machine readable code is arranged on the apparatus 2, e.g. on an outer surface. The unique code 4 is positioned so that a reader unit (not shown) or a camera coupled to a scanning module can be positioned relative to the code 4. The unique code 4 is configured as a matrix code in the form of a QR code , as shown in fig. 1. The unique code 4 may have an integrated safety feature allowing the code 4 to be read by the reader unit or the camera even if some of the code cannot be read or is missing. The unique code 4 may be permanently integrated into the surface of apparatus, e.g. by laser imprinting the code 4 into the surface. An identification number for that apparatus is embedded in the unique code.

One or more mobile communications devices 5 comprising a camera module (not shown) configured to capture an image, a live or still image, of the unique code 4 are positioned relative to the unique code 4. The camera module is coupled to a scanning module (not shown) implemented in the communications device 5. The scanning module is configured to scan 6 and read the unique code 4, eg without taking an image of the unique code 4. The communications device 5 is configured as a mobile phone in the form of a smartphone.

An application is implemented in the communications device 5 and is coupled to the scanning module. The application in the form of a web application is configured to be activated when the unique code 4 is scanned 6. The application is configured to communicate with a remote server 7 via a wireless communications path 8. The communications path 8 may be a mobile data network or a wireless Internet connection. The application comprises one or more modules 9, 10, 11 configured to communicate with the server 7 via the wireless connection 8. The application is configured to transmit a request 8a to the server 7 comprising the identification number read by the scanning module.

The server 7 comprises a database (not shown) in which detailed information related to the apparatus 2 is stored. The database further includes detailed information relating to different types of appliances 2 on which another unique code 4 is arranged. The detailed information includes at least a dedicated list of spare parts that is configured to function together with the apparatus 2, one or more manuals (e.g. installation manuals), data sheets, operation and / or maintenance guides, and other relevant information. The server 7 is configured to receive the request via a gateway and identify the apparatus 2 based on the identification number in the request. The server 7 then retrieves the detailed information relating to that particular apparatus 2 from the database and transmits a reply 8b containing the detailed information back to the application.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a home module 9 in the form of a home page of the application. The home module 9 comprises a system bar 12 configured to display information specific to that apparatus 2, such as type and / or model number. One or more images 13 of the apparatus 2 may be used in the application to visually identify the apparatus 2. One or more tabs 14 arranged in the home module 9 allow the user to select another module linked to the home module 9.

The user may select an installation module 15 configured to guide the user through the installation process. The user can also select a maintenance module and / or an operation module for further details of the maintenance and / or operation process. The maintenance module is configured to display a maintenance list or schedule while the operation module is configured to display or guide the user through the operation process for the apparatus 2.

If the user needs to contact the support staff of a spare part supplier, the manufacturer of the apparatus 2 or a technician, the user can select a contact module 16 and / or an email module 17. The contact module 16 is configured to hold one or more preentered telephone numbers or telephone numbers entered by the user. Likewise, the email module 17 is configured to hold one or more pre-entered or user-entered email addresses. This allows the user to quickly and easily get in touch with the relevant staff member of the spare part supplier, the manufacturer of the apparatus, or another relevant person.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of a spare part module 10 in the form of a webpage of the application. The spare part module 10 is configured to display a dedicated list 18 of spare part received from the server 7, here three spare parts are shown. A thumbnail image is associated with each spare part allowing for easy recognition of the desired spare part. Each listed spare part 18a, 18b, 18c comprises a data input element 19 in the form of a predetermined amount of selectable numbers. Here two items of one of the spare parts 18c are selected.

The amount of selected spare parts 18 is displayed in an action bar 20 arranged in the application. The action bar 20 further comprises a tab 21 for selecting an ordering module 10. A return tab 22 is arranged in the system bar 12 or the action bar 20.

When the user has selected the desired amount of the spare parts 18, then the user can activate the return tab 22 for returning to the home module 9, as shown in fig, 2. The action bar 20 is configured to remain visible even when another module 15-17 is selected, as shown in fig. 4th

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary embodiment of the installation module 15 of the application. The installation module 15 is configured as an interactive guide that allows the user to interact with the guide or sections thereof. Exploded views and / or color coded parts may be used to provide a more intuitive installation process. The installation module 15 is further configured to display important safety and general information to the user, as shown in fig. 4th

When the user is ready to place an order, he or she may select the tab 21 from the home module 9 or another module 10, 15.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of an ordering module 11 in the form of a webpage of the application. The ordering module 11 is configured to receive the selected spare part 23 and the selected amount thereof. This data is transferred to an order formula, as shown in figs. 5a-c. The user then enters the contact information 24 in the form of a reference number, phone number, email address and other relevant information using a number of data input elements 25. The data input elements 25 is configured as text fields which may be loaded with the data stored in a cookie of the application.

The user further uses the data input elements 25 to enter the delivery information 26 in the form of a customer name, delivery address, optional country, and other relevant information. The user can then confirm the order by selecting the confirm tab 27 after which the order is transmitted to the spare part supplier. The spare part supplier may optionally transmit a confirmation receipt back to the user indicating the expected delivery date.

The user may instead send an inquiry to the spare part supplier with the entered and selected data by selecting the inquiry tab 28. The spare part supplier may then send a reply back to the user indicating the delivery date and / or if all the selected spare parts are stuck or not.

Claims (10)

1. A system for ordering spare parts for an apparatus where the system comprises: - an apparatus configured to carry out at least one function and comprises a predetermined number of replaceable parts, wherein at least one unique code is arranged on the apparatus; - a mobile communications device comprising at least a camera coupled to a scanning module configured to read the unique code, wherein the unique code is configured to be read by an application in the communications device, - where the application is configured to run on the communications device and to communicate with a remote server via a communications path, e.g. a wireless network, wherein the application comprises at least a spare part module configured to display a dedicated list of spare parts that are configured to function together with that apparatus, characterised in, that - the dedicated list of spare parts is configured as an interactive list from which a user can select one or more spare parts, - and where the application further comprises an ordering module coupled to the spare part module, wherein the ordering module is configured to receive the selected spare part from the spare part module and generate an order for a spare part supplier.

2. A system according to claim 1, characterised in that the application is configured as a web application or a native application.

3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the unique code is configured to be permanently integrated into the apparatus, e.g. on a type plate.

4. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the unique code is further configured to identify the apparatus via an identification number.

5. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the ordering module further comprises one or more data input elements for inputting at least a delivery address and/or contact information.

6. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the application further comprises at least a third module, e.g. an installation module, configured to display a predetermined type of detailed information relating to the apparatus, e.g. an installation manual.

7. A method for ordering spare parts for an apparatus where the method comprises the steps of: - scanning a unique code arranged on an apparatus using a mobile communications device, wherein the apparatus is configured to carry out at least one function and comprises a predetermined number of replaceable parts; - reading the unique code using an application on the communications device and communicating with a remote server via the application, e.g. wirelessly; - displaying a dedicated list of spare parts that are configured to function together with that apparatus to a user using at least a spare part module in the application, characterised in, that - the user interacts with the dedicated list of spare parts and selects one or more spare parts; and - where an order comprising at least the selected spare parts for a spare part supplier is generated using an ordering module in the application.

8. A method according to claim 7 characterised in that the application is activated by scanning the unique code.

9. A method according to claim 7 or 8 characterised in that the user interacts with the ordering module in the application and inputs data relating to the order, e.g. at least a delivery address and contact information.

10. A system according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterised in that the user interacts with at least a third module, e.g. an installation module, in the application for accessing a predetermined type of detailed information relating to the apparatus, e.g. an installation manual.