WO2000049550A1

WO2000049550A1 - Integrated electronic information system for the retail agricultural product distribution industry

Info

Publication number: WO2000049550A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/004162
Authority: WO
Inventors: Clyde A. Martin; Eugene S. Kazberouk; Sergey L. Pasheyev
Original assignee: Agworks, Inc.
Priority date: 1999-02-17
Filing date: 2000-02-17
Publication date: 2000-08-24
Also published as: AU3001300A; EP1125229A1; EP1125229A4

Abstract

An integrated electronic information system for managing inventory, delivery, and/or application of ag products. The integrated electronic information system of the present invention is preferably comprised of three subsystems; a local retailer system, a portable system, and an optional remote wholesaler/manufacturer system (fig. 1). The local retailer system is preferably comprised of a local computer system having a system program for execution thereon for generating customer orders and application schedules. The portable system preferably includes a portable computing device having a field program stored in memory for execution thereon to create driver logs of in-field operations (fig. 3). The portable computing device preferably interfaces with the system program of the local retailer system to upload application schedules and to download the driver logs to the system program (fig. 2). The optional remote wholesaler/manufacturer system is preferably comprised of a remote computer system which can obtain relevant product data from the local retailer system.

Description

INTEGRATED ELECTRONIC INFORMATION SYSTEM

FOR THE RETAIL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT

DISTRIBUTION INDUSTRY

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This is a continuation of co-pending, commonly owned U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/075,747 filed February 28, 1998 entitled Integrated Inventory Management, Delivery and Application System for Pesticides. Priority is claimed under 35 U.S.C § 119(e).

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates generally to information systems for managing inventory, and/or tracking product movement, and more particularly to information systems for use in the agricultural product retail distribution industry for managing inventory, delivery and/or application of agricultural products.

2. Description of the Related Art

The retail distribution industry for agricultural (ag) products includes the transportation, warehousing, delivery and application of a variety of ag products including seed, feed, and chemical fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, etc. A retailer of ag products, like any other retailer of products, must have effective management of inventory and delivery of its products in order to be efficient and cost effective. In order to effectively manage its business, the retailer must be able to track product movement in and out of inventory. It must know when products are scheduled for delivery and when the delivery is complete, and it must be able to accurately invoice customers for the quantity and type of product delivered. If near "real time" data is available on product movement, the retailer is able to lower inventories, reduce delivery trips, and reduce year-end inventory carry-overs. Thus, for any retailer, near real time data is essential for efficient inventory management.

Such near real time data on product movement has heretofore never been available in the ag distribution industry with respect to farm chemicals, seed, feed or the like, and in particular, with respect to retailers who practice "in-field" mixing of ag products. This lack of near real time data is due in large part to the fact that most product inventory management systems are tied to accounting software packages that require invoicing the customer before the inventory database reflects the change in inventory.

Specifically, with respect to ag chemicals, those familiar with the ag industry know that in the past few years, fewer farmers or growers have been applying chemicals themselves to their own fields. Instead, growers now rely on licensed chemical retailers that utilize special equipment (commercial applicators) to apply the chemicals. Additionally, the current trend in the retail chemical industry is toward more "in-field" mixing, as opposed to "in-plant" mixing.

"In plant" mixing is where the chemicals are loaded and mixed into the commercial applicator at the retailer's facilities. The applicator is then dispatched from the retailer's facilities to spray a grower's field. When completed, the applicator returns to the retailer's facilities for a new load.

"In-field" mixing, on the other hand, is where, at the beginning of the day, a support vehicle which follows the applicator, is loaded with containers of all the chemicals needed for completing an entire day's scheduled spraying. When the applicator and support vehicle reach a grower's field to be sprayed, the chemicals are off-loaded from the support vehicle and mixed in the applicator "in-the-field" and applied. The applicator and support vehicle then move to the next field, repeating the process, and so on, without the applicator or support vehicle having to return to the retailer's facilities between each application. It should be understood that although a support vehicle is typically used, the applicator itself may be loaded at the beginning of the day with all of the necessary product to complete a days or at least a partial days scheduled applications. As such, it may not be necessary to utilize a support vehicle at all, or alternatively, a single support vehicle may carry enough product to supply a number of different applicators with enough product sufficient for a day's or at least a partial days applications. Thus, it would not be necessary for a single support vehicle to follow each applicator to every site.

Accordingly, it should be appreciated that with more and more "in-field" mixing, near "real time" data on product movement and current inventories would greatly reduce inventory control problems. Without near real time data on product movement, the retailer has an extremely difficult time keeping accurate and up-to-date information on how much product is removed from inventory at the beginning of the day. how much product is returned to inventory at the end of each day, and how much if any product is left on the applicator or the support vehicle. Additionally, if the drivers of the applicators do not keep accurate records or logs of the amount of product used on each farmer's field, accurate invoicing to the customers is nearly impossible. The inherent inefficiencies and inventory control problems of the present typical chemical retail distribution system using "in-field" mixing is illustrated in the following description.

The typical ag chemical retail distribution process begins by the grower first placing his order with the local retailer. The retailer enters the customer order into a computer. A schedule for delivery or application of the products is generated and distributed to a particular applicator driver. If the chemical needed is in inventory, the type and quantity of chemicals are taken out of inventory and loaded onto the applicator or support vehicle. The applicator (with or without a support vehicle as discussed above) is then dispatched from the retailer's facilities to complete the scheduled orders. The chemicals are then mixed and applied to the field in accordance with the printed schedule. The applicator driver writes down the amount of chemical used in a log book along with other relevant information such as the date, time, volume and type of chemical applied, the application rate, temperature, wind speed and any other relevant information required for inventory management and to comply with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Department of Agriculture (DOA) hazardous material ("haz. mat.") and "restricted use regulations (discussed below). When the applicator driver returns, the information from the written driver log is entered into a computer. A customer invoice is then generated. Only when the customer invoice is generated is the retailer's inventory adjusted. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that unless all records of product movement into and out of inventory are meticulously updated, and that the drivers keep accurate logs, and that each driver log is recorded at the end of each day, it is virtually impossible to have an accurate record of current product inventory. Even if records are meticulously updated, however, current inventory management and control systems do not update or adjust product inventory databases until the customer is actually invoiced. Furthermore, the sheer volume of paper work generated by an ag chemical retailer, with ordering product, adding and removing product from inventory, paying bills, invoicing customers, generating haz. mat. and restricted use papers, and recording driver logs, often results in having to enter into a computer, or even worse, hand writing, the same information numerous times. This duplication of data entry, along with the sheer volume of paperwork generated in the process, causes delays in data entry due to the paperwork piling up in various "in-boxes" or mistakes being made in data entry, or lost or misplaced paperwork due to misfiling or misdirecting paperwork to the wrong "in- box".

Thus, there is a need in the ag product retail distribution industry, in particular for those retailers involved in "in-field" mixing, for an integrated electronic information system for managing inventory, tracking delivery/application of ag products and for improving the efficiency and accuracy of invoicing customers. It is preferable that such a system would eliminate the need for duplication of data entry, that would allow access to accurate and near "realtime" information for producing status reports on inventory and product movement, that could interface with an accounting program to generate accurate customer invoices, and that could generate haz. mat. and restricted use papers as needed. Such an integrated information system would reduce paperwork, improving scheduling, and ensure accuracy of product delivery/application and invoicing. Additionally, having near real time data on current product inventory would allow retailers to lower inventories, reduce application/delivery trips, and reduce year-end carryover inventories.

It should be appreciated, that the same problems described above for retail ag chemical distributors are likewise encountered by retailers of other ag products, such as seed and feed. Accordingly, the same or a similar type of electronic information system is needed in those industries as well. Furthermore, access to accurate and near "realtime" data on a retailer's product inventory, outstanding product orders, and product delivery schedules is important not only to the feed, seed and chemical retailers, but also to the wholesale distributors and/or manufacturers of such ag products. Thus, it would be desirable if the improved information system could make certain data available to the wholesalers/manufactures of those ag products sold at retail. By making the retail data available, the wholesale distributors and/or manufacturers could anticipate product need and have the product delivered to the retailer in a timely manner. Additionally, by having such infomation available, the wholesale distributors and/or manufacturers would be able to monitor market trends at the retail level thereby reducing excess inventory carryover. With the retailer, wholesale distributor and manufacturer having access to near real time data on product movement and current retailer inventories, the entire farm industry would be more efficient and cost effective. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention discloses an integrated electronic information system for managing inventory, delivery, and/or application of ag products.

The integrated electronic information system of the present invention is preferably comprised three subsystems, (i) a local retailer system, (ii) a portable system, and (iii) an optional remote wholesale distributor and/or manufacturer system.

The local retailer system is comprised of a computer system having a system program executable thereon for generating customer orders, application schedules and haz. mat. and restricted use documentation, and for interfacing and transferring data between the local retailer system, the portable system, and the optional remote wholesale distributor and/or manufacturer system, as well as other programs. The system program preferably interfaces with a plurality of databases, including a customers database and a product inventory database when generating the customer orders and application schedules. The portable system preferably includes a portable computing device having a field program executable thereon. The portable computing device preferably interfaces with the system program of the local retailer system to upload application schedules. The portable computing device and field program assist the applicator driver in loading, mixing and applying the product. In that the field program preferably displays such information as the type and amount of each product required, the amount of mix required, the application rate and other useful information for each scheduled application. The portable computing device and field program also record all relevant in-field activities of the applicator as a driver log. The driver logs include such information as the actual number of acres sprayed and the types and amounts of each product used at each scheduled application, relevant weather conditions during application of a scheduled application, and date and time of select field activities with respect to each scheduled application. These driver logs are then downloaded from the portable computing device to the local retailer computer system where the information is used to update the customer orders and adjust product inventory records.

The remote wholesale distributor and/or manufacturer system is preferably comprised of a computer system having a monitoring program stored in memory and for execution thereon that can interface with or communicate with the local retailer system to receive data on product movement, and current inventories, and possibly outstanding product orders, delivery schedules, etc., of the local retailer.

When a customer places his order with the retailer, the order is entered into the system program by executing the order subprogram which elicits responses and data input to thereby generate a customer order to be saved in the customer orders database. When the customer order is entered, the system program generates a schedule for delivery and/or application of the customer order along with the necessary haz. mat. and restricted use papers as needed with respect to the customer order. An out-transfer list based on all the products need to fill the days scheduled applications is also generated. The out-transfer list is used as a guide when transferring product from inventory to the applicator and/or support vehicle to fill the days scheduled orders. The actual quantities of product transferred out of inventory is recorded, and the inventory database is adjusted to reflect the actual out-transfers. The out-transfer list and application schedules are electronically downloaded to the portable computing device. The portable computing device can therefore be referred to not only when loading the applicator vehicle with products to fill the scheduled applications, but also when mixing the products in the field.

During in-field operations, the driver executes the field program in the portable computing device which interactively displays at least one screen to elicit responses and data input for recording in-field operations with respect to each scheduled application and allocating products to customers. This information pertaining to each application is stored in memory as a driver log. At the end of each day or after each application, the driver log is downloaded to the computer system of the local retailer system. The data from the driver logs is captured and used to update the customer orders and the product inventory to reflect the driver log. Additionally, the driver log data can be shared with other programs, such as an accounting program to generate invoices to the customers based on the driver log updated customer orders.

Also, the integrated electronic information system of the present invention preferably allows the wholesaler/manufacturer to interface or communicate with the local retailer system in order to obtain relevant data pertaining to product movement and current inventories, etc., of the local retailer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a diagram of the preferred electronic information system of the present invention, showing the local retailer system, the portable system, and the remote wholesaler/manufacturer system; FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing the steps involved in the preferred integrated information system of the present invention from taking the initial customer order through completion and invoicing of the customer; FIG. 3 shows the preferred portable computing device for use in the integrated information system of the present invention; and

FIGs 4-13 represent preferred screen captures of the preferred portable computing device of FIG. 3.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 shows the preferred integrated electronic information system (10) for use by retailers of ag products to manage inventory, delivery and/or application of their products. It should be understood, however, that although the following description discloses the preferred embodiment of the present invention, and thus is particularly directed toward an information system for use by ag retailers practicing "in-field" mixing and application of ag chemicals, the information system (10) of the present invention is also equally applicable to information systems for ag retailers practicing "in-plant" mixing and over- the-counter sales of ag products. Thus, the following description should not be construed as limiting the present invention to only information systems for retailers practicing "in-field" mixing and application of ag products.

Referring to FIG. 1, the information system (10) of the present invention is preferably comprised of three subsystems, (i) a local retailer system (12), (ii) a portable system (14), and (iii) a remote wholesale distributor and/or manufacturer system (16) (referred to hereinafter as the "remote wholesaler/manufacturer system"). It should be understood, however, that the remote wholesaler/manufacturer subsystem (16) is not a necessary subsystems of the integrated electronic information system (10) of the present invention, but rather is an optional subsystems that adds to the availability of information to those desirous of such information.

The local retailer subsystem (12) is comprised of a computer system (18) (referred to hereinafter as the "local computer system"). The local computer system (18) may be a simple personal computer (PC) system or network based computer system. Stored in memory in the computer system (18) are preferably four databases, including a product inventory database (20), a customers database (22), a suppliers database (24), and a customer orders database (26). Also stored in the local computer system's memory is the system program (28) which is preferably comprised of a plurality of subprograms or modules including an ordering subprogram or module (30), a scheduling subprogram or module (32), and a data capturing subprogram or module

(34). It should be understood that the databases (20, 22, 24, 26) may be generated by the system program (28) or alternatively stand-alone databases which interface with the system program (28).

The portable system (14) preferably includes at least one computing device (42) (referred to hereinafter as the "portable computing device") (FIG. 3), which is preferably easily transportable, such as a handheld computer, or laptop computer, or the like. The portable computing device (42) preferably includes sufficient memory for storing data and a field program (44) (FIG. 1) for execution thereon. The portable computing device (42) preferably includes the ability to interface with the local computer system (18) of the local retailer system (12) for uploading and downloading data to and from the local computer system (18) (discussed in detail later).

The remote wholesaler/manufacturer system (16) (FIG. 1) is preferably comprised of a computer system (46) (hereinafter referred to as the "remote computer system"). The remote computer system (46), like the local computer system (18) may be a simple PC system or network based computer system. Stored in memory in the remote computer system and for execution thereon is a monitoring program (48). The monitoring program (48) preferably interfaces or communicates with the local computer system (18) of the local retailer system (12) via an Intranet or Internet connection or through a dial-up modem connection for reasons discussed later.

Overview of System Program (28)

The system program (28) preferably interfaces with a Windows® based operating system. As mentioned previously, the system program (28) is preferably comprised of a number of modules or subprograms which perform specific functions.

Additionally, the system program (28) preferably generates and/or interfaces with the plurality of databases (20, 22, 24, 26) for recording and retrieving information as needed.

The system program (28) preferably interfaces with the product inventory database (20), and preferably interactively displays one or more screens to elicit input or responses with respect to products, quantities, manufacturers, customers, dates, etc., to thereby enable a user to enter the retailer's existing inventory into the system (10) as well as incoming and outgoing product inventory. The system program (28) also preferably generates reports to allow users to track inventory movement daily, weekly, monthly or yearly by product, customer or manufacturer.

The order subprogram (30) preferably interactively displays at least one screen for eliciting responses and data entry into and/or retrieval from the customer database (22) such as the customer's or grower's name, address, telephone number and any other relevant or useful information. Additionally, the order subprogram (30) preferably elicits responses and data entry by interfacing with the product inventory database (20) such as by selecting from a list the desired products and the quantity to be ordered and delivered or applied to a particular grower's field. For example, the user may select from a list a particular fertilizer or pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicide or pesticide, or seed, etc. It should therefore be appreciated that the order subprogram (30) preferably interactively displays at least one screen on the local computer system (18) to elicit responses and data entry either by typing in new information or selecting the information already entered into one of the databases (20, 22). The entered information is then preferably stored as a customer order (36) in the customer orders database (26) for later retrieval and use.

The scheduling subprogram or module (32) generates a printed itemized application schedule (38) based on the customer order (36) and preferably identifies the customer, the customer order number, the number of ordered acres to be sprayed, the type and amount of each product required, the target mix ratios, and the target application rate required to fill a particular customer order (36), as well as any special application instructions or directions. Concurrently or subsequent with the generation of the application schedule (38), the system program (28) also generates a printed out- transfer list (40) of all products to be loaded on either the applicator or a support vehicle to fill the days scheduled applications. These itemized schedules (38) also preferably identify the individual applicator driver scheduled to make the delivery/application for reasons discussed later. It is also preferable that the scheduling subprogram (32) generates a "bar code" on the printed schedule which can be scanned by the portable computing device (42) having a bar code scanner attached thereto for reasons discussed in further detail later.

The data capturing subprogram or module (34) is used to capture data downloaded from the portable computing device (42) of "in-field" operations (discussed later) primarily for updating the product inventory database (20) and also the customer orders database (26) to reflect the in-field operations and ensure accurate data that can be shared with an accounting program for generating accurate customer invoices. Overview of Field Program (44) and Portable Computing Device (42) The preferred embodiment of the portable computing device (42) is shown in FIG. 3. The portable computing device (42) preferably includes sufficient memory for storing data and a field program (44) (FIG. 1) for execution thereon and includes the ability to interface with the local computer system (18) of the local retailer system (12) for uploading and downloading data to and from the local computer system (18). The portable computing device (42) includes a display screen (43) (FIG. 3) and a user interface (45), such as an alpha-numeric keyboard, for entering data into the field program (44), and/or for scrolling or paging between the various screens. It should be appreciated that instead of a keyboard, the user interface (45) may utilize a pointing device and/or a touch screen, such as those utilized in Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) devices. Additionally, the portable computing device (42) preferably includes a jack or port (47) (FIG. 3) to receive a connector for charging its batteries, and a port (49) (not visible) for connecting and interfacing with a bar code scanner.

As mentioned previously, the scheduling subprogram (32) generates a printed "hard copy" of the product out-transfer list (40) of all the products to be loaded on the applicator or support vehicle for delivery and/or application that day and an itemized application schedule (38) to be used when mixing and applying the products. In addition to the printed copies, however, it is also preferable to electronically download the application schedules (38) and the out-transfer list (40) to the portable computing device (42). The downloading process may be accomplished by a number of methods, such as by connecting to the local computer system (18) and portable computing device (42) via communication software and modem connection, or an Internet or Intranet connection, or via a satellite data transfer connection, or any other suitable wireless communication means, including radio-based wireless communication or infrared light- based wireless communication, etc., or alternatively by connecting the portable computing device (42) directly to the local computer system (18) via a serial or parallel connection, or connecting the portable computing device (42) to a docking station for downloading, or by simply copying the schedule from the local computer system (18) onto a floppy disk, then transferring the data on the floppy disk to the portable computing device (42). Thus, in addition to having a printed hard copy of the application schedules (38) and the out-transfer list (40), the applicator driver can also scroll through the electronic versions of the schedule (38) and out-transfer list (40) on the screen (43) of the portable computing device (42) when loading the product onto the applicator or support vehicle or when mixing and applying the product.

Additionally, or alternatively, if the portable computing device (42) is for some reason not capable of interfacing with the local computer system (18) to electronically download the schedules (38) at that particular time for any number of reasons, it is also preferable that the scheduling subprogram (32) print a bar code on the schedule containing the same information as printed on the schedule. This bar code can then be scanned by the portable computing device (42) having a bar code scanner attached thereto at the scanner port (49). The portable computing device (42) will then convert this bar coded information to text that can be displayed on the screen (43) and viewed by the driver for loading, mixing and applying the product.

Operation of the Preferred Integrated Electronic System Referring now to both FIGs. 1 and 2, a flow chart is shown representing the operation of the preferred integrated electronic information system (10) of the present invention. To begin, the grower or customer places (50) (FIG. 2) an order with the retailer.

The order may be placed by telephoning a representative of the retailer who would execute the order subprogram (30) of the system program (28) on the local computer system (18) to enter (52) (FIG. 2) the relevant information. Alternatively, the customer may place the order by accessing the order subprogram (30) of the system program (28) to enter the information himself or herself by logging onto the retailer's computer system (18) via communication software and dial-up modem connection, or Internet or Intranet connection.

The order subprogram (30) preferably interactively displays at least one screen for eliciting responses and data entry to inquiries such as the customer's name, address, and telephone number, the field location, the number of acres to be sprayed, the type of crop to be sprayed, the chemicals desired and application rates, and the desired date of application, along with any other relevant information or special directions. It should be appreciated that if the customer or grower has previously placed an order with the retailer, some of this information such as name, address, telephone number, field location, and acres, may already be entered into the customers database (22). Accordingly, by interfacing with the customers database (20), such information may automatically be displayed by the order subprogram (30) without having to enter the same information every time the same customer places an order. Additionally, by interfacing with the product inventory database (20), the desired products may be selected from a list displaying all the products available in the retailer's inventory, such as a particular fertilizer or pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicide or pesticide, or seed, etc. It should therefore be appreciated that the order subprogram (30) preferably interactively displays at least one screen on the local computer system (18) to elicit responses and data entry either by typing in new information or selecting the information already entered into one of the databases (20, 22). When all the relevant information is entered, the customer order (36) is generated (54) (FIG. 2), assigned a customer order number, and stored in memory in the customer orders database (26) for later retrieval and use.

After generating (54) the customer order (36) or concurrently therewith, the system program (28) executes the scheduling subprogram (32) to generate (56) (FIG. 2) the application schedules (38) for the customer order (36). The scheduling program (32) preferably interactively displays at least one screen to elicit responses and data entry with respect to assigning a particular applicator and driver, and the time and date of application. For example, the scheduling subprogram (32) may display one or more screens showing a calender of previously scheduled applications for a particular applicator and driver, the areas where the applicator is already scheduled for other applications, the type and quantities of products already scheduled to be applied, etc. Thus, all such relevant information is considered when scheduling a particular application.

When generating (56) the application schedules (38), either subsequently or concurrently therewith, the scheduling subprogram (32) also generates (58) (FIG. 2) and prints a product out-transfer list (40) of all the products to be "transferred out" of inventory and onto a specific applicator or support vehicle based on the scheduled applications (38) for that day by a particular applicator. The amount of each product to be "transferred out" is calculated by multiplying the ordered acreage by the application rate of each product for each scheduled order. The driver of the applicator or support vehicle uses the printed out- transfer list (40) as a guide (60) (FIG. 2) for removing and loading (62) (FIG. 2) the applicator or support vehicle with enough product from inventory to fill the scheduled orders for that applicator (the out-transfer list is discussed in further detail later). The product inventory database (20) is then adjusted (64) (FIG. 2) accordingly to reflect the amount of product actual transferred out of inventory.

After adjusting the product inventory to reflect the actual out-transfers, the system program (28) will preferably reflect any inventory shortages. Preferably, when a particular product in inventory falls below a predetermined amount, the system program (28) automatically places a product inventory order with the wholesale distributor electronically. At a minimum when a particular product in inventory falls below a predetermined amount, the system program (28) warns the retailer of the inventory shortage. When the inventory shipment is received from the wholesale distributor, the system program (28) is executed to adjust (not shown) the product inventory database

(20) to reflect the received inventory shipment.

Additionally, either subsequent or concurrently with the generation (56, 58) of the application schedules (38) and/or the out-transfer list (40), any necessary haz. mat. or restricted use papers required for the scheduled applications are also generated (66) (FIG. 2) and printed. The information required for the haz. mat. and restricted use papers may be stored as a database which interfaces with the system program (28) - scheduling subprogram (32) allowing the required information to be easily retrieved as needed. It should be appreciated that the DOT and DOA require a license to transport and apply most types of chemicals. To comply with these regulations, the applicator drivers must carry documentation identifying emergency response information in case of an emergency and restricted use information instructing the driver how close the chemicals can be applied to streams, lakes, rivers or wetland areas, the maximum wind speed allowed when applying the chemicals, the proper disposal of the chemicals, and so forth. Failure to comply with these regulations subjects the retailer to civil lawsuits and substantial fines.

All of the scheduled applications (38) for every applicator are then preferably electroncally downloaded (68) (FIG. 2) into each portable computing device (42) by any of the methods previously discussed above. After loading (62) the applicator and/or support vehicle with product, the applicator is dispatched (70) (FIG. 2) with the portable computing device (42) to begin the day's scheduled applications.

The additional features of the portable computing device (42) and the field program (44) are best illustrated by specific examples as discussed in detail in the following description of the operation of the system.

To keep track of each applicator's scheduled applications, each scheduled application, identified by an order number, is assigned to a specific applicator driver identified by an assigned alphanumeric ID. Additionally, each portable computing device (42) is preferably assigned to a particular applicator driver by storing the applicator ID into the portable computing device's (42) memory. For example, referring to FIG. 4, which represents a series of preferred "screen captures" displayed on the screen (43) of the preferred portable device (42), it can be seen that first screen (72) displayed when the portable device (42) is turned on requires the user to select from three options by pressing different function keys. By pressing the associated function keys (see FIG. 3) the user can either log onto the portable device (42) (discussed below), link the portable device to the local retailer computer system (18) (discussed later), or perform a miscellaneous operation.

By selecting the "Misc" option corresponding to the F4 function key, a new screen (74) will be displayed allowing the portable computing device (42) to be assigned to a particular driver by entering the driver's assigned ID. It should be noted that in addition to assigning the device (42) to a particular driver, the internal clock of the portable device (42) can also be set or changed by pressing the F2 function key. The importance of the internal clock is discussed later. Pressing the F4 function key returns the current screen (74) to the first screen (72).

Before using the device to record in-field operations, the applicator driver must log onto the device (42) by entering a password that corresponds to one of the authorized user IDs saved in memory. Thus, Referring to FIG. 5, again, the first screen (72) is shown displaying the three options. By pressing the F2 function key to login, another screen (76) is displayed showing that, for example, 10 authorized users (i.e. drivers) are stored in memory in the portable device (42), and that authorized user number 1 is, for example, Joe Smith, the default driver assigned to that particular portable computing device (42) as discussed immediately above. By pressing the button below the word "NXT" (for Next) which happens to be the F2 function key, a new screen (not shown) will display "User 2 of 10" above the name of authorized user number 2. This procedure can be repeated to display all 10 authorized users. Pressing the button below the word "PRV" (for Previous) (not shown) the user can scroll through the authorized user names in the opposite direction. Pressing the button below the word "GO", which happens to be the F4 function key, returns the screen to the first screen

(72). When the correct user name is displayed, in this example Joe Smith, pressing the "ENTER" key (see FIG. 3) causes the device (42) to display a new screen (76) requesting the user to enter a password. In this way, even though the portable computing device (42) has previously been assigned to a specific driver, other drivers may use any other driver's portable computing device (42) as long as the correct password is entered corresponding to the particular user name.

Referring to FIG. 6, after entering the correct password and pressing the "ENTER" key, the user is logged in and a new screen (82) will be displayed. By pressing the F3 function key, a new screen (84) will be displayed showing the previously uploaded transfer list (40) of all the products and calculated amounts required to complete the day's scheduled orders for the particular "logged in" driver. For illustration purposes, FIG. 6 shows that 24 products are needed for the days scheduled applications, and that product number 1 of the 24 products needed is, for example, BANVEL®, a broadleaf herbicide. The screen (84) shows that BANVEL® comes in a box containing two 2 1/2 gallon jugs and that 1.0734 gallons of BANVEL® is required for the day's scheduled applications. Thus, the driver of the applicator or support vehicle should have previously loaded (62) (FIG. 2) at least one 2 1/2 gallon jug of BANVEL® before leaving the retailer's facilities. By pressing the button below the word "NXT" the next product of the 24 products needed is displayed in a similar manner, and so on. Pressing the button below the word "PRV" allows the user to scroll through the list of products in the opposite direction. Pressing the button below the word "GO" returns the device to the previous screen (82). After viewing the product list (40), to view the days scheduled orders, at screen

(82), the driver presses the FI function key to display "Today's Orders" assigned for the particular "logged in" driver. After pressing the FI function key, a new screen (86) will be displayed showing the first scheduled application for the logged in driver. For illustration purposes, FIG. 7 shows the screen (86) indicating that the particular logged in driver has three scheduled applications (i.e. orders) for that day, with the first order of the three being for a grower named, for example, Tom Johnson, having 185 acres to be sprayed located at Field #2, and zero acres of that field are completed. The customer order (36) has been given the identification number "891". By pressing the buttons below the words "NXT" or "PRV" the driver can scroll through the days scheduled applications. Pressing the button below the word "GO", returns the display to the previous screen (82). By pressing the button below the word "RATE", a new screen (90) is displayed indicating that the driver is required to mix, for example, a total of four chemicals for the application to Tom Johnson's field #2. The first of the four chemicals required is, for example, BANVEL® to be applied at two fluid ounces per acre. By pressing the buttons below the words "NXT" or "PRV" the device (42) displays additional screens (92) allowing the driver to scroll through the other remaining chemicals to be mixed to determine what chemicals must be pulled from the support vehicle to be mixed to satisfy the order (36). Pressing the button below the word "GO", returns the display to the previous screen (86).

Referring now to FIG. 8, the screen (86) displaying the first scheduled order is shown. Pressing the "ENTER" key will display a new screen (98) showing a short message (if any) to the driver indicating special instructions for the application. Pressing "ENTER" again will display a new screen (100) requesting the driver to enter the number of acres to be sprayed with the first mix. FIG. 8 indicates, for example, that the driver entered 45 acres to be sprayed. Pressing "ENTER" again causes the device (42) to display another screen (102) requesting the driver to enter the spray rate. FIG. 8 indicates, for example, that the driver entered a spray rate of 12 gallons per acre. The field program automatically calculates and displays a new screen (104) showing the number of gallons of mix required to spray the entered number of acres at the entered application rate. In this example, the amount of mix required is 540 gallons. If the applicator tank can hold the number of gallons calculated, the driver accepts the calculation by pressing "ENTER" again. If not, a fewer number of acres must be entered or the application rate must be reduced. After pressing "ENTER" to accept the calculated gallons of mix required, other screens (106, 108, 110) are displayed requesting the driver to enter the temperature, wind speed, and wind direction, respectively. Pressing the button below the word "GO" on any of the screens cancels any of the previous entries and returns to the original screen (86) requiring the user to reenter the information. All of these entries are stored in memory (109a) (FIG. 2) in the portable computing device (42) as part of the driver log (109) (FIG. 2) for later use and retrieval. Referring now to FIG. 9, pressing "ENTER" after entering the wind direction from screen (110) causes the device (42) to calculate and display a screen (112) showing the amount of the first chemical required to be mixed at the entered application rate for the calculated gallons of mix in the tank. In the present example, the amount of the first chemical to be mixed is calculated to be 0.703125 gallons of BANVEL®. The driver may accept this calculated amount, or may choose to press the button below the word

"ED" (for Edit). Pressing the button below the word "ED", causes the device (42) to display a new screen (114) allowing the driver to input a more easily measured amount. In the example of FIG. 9, the driver chose to edit the calculated amount and input 0.75 gallons rather than having to measure 0.703125 gallons. Note, pressing the button below the word "ORIG" (for Original) will delete the edited amount and return the original calculated amount required. After entering 0.75 and pressing "ENTER", the device (42) calculates and displays a new screen (116) showing the amount required in gallons, quarts, pints or fluid ounces. In this example, the device (42) calculated that 0.75 gallons is equal to three quarts, and displays the percent error from the calculated or target amount. In this example, using 0.75 gallons causes a 6% error from the target amount. If this percent error is acceptable, the driver presses "ENTER" to accept and record (109a) (FIG. 2) the entered amount as part of the driver log (109). Pressing "ENTER" to accept the product amount, causes the field program (44) to finally allocate

(109b) the entered amount of product (i.e. 0.75 gallons of Banvel) to the customer order (36). It should be understood, that until the products are allocated (109b) to the customer, the products previously loaded (62) (FIG. 2) on the applicator or support vehicle from inventory are considered only "out-transfers" from inventory. Thus, it should be appreciated that the remote computing device (42) is used by the applicator driver when pulling product and loading it into the applicator tank for mixing the products required for each application. To keep track of which support vehicle the product is pulled from, the remote computing device may prompt the user to enter a support vehicle ID. With this feature, the product inventory ("out-transfers") on the support vehicle may be viewed at the end of each day (discussed in further detail later).

Referring back to FIG. 9, after pressing "ENTER" to accept and allocate the first product, and a new screen (118) is displayed showing the second product and amount required to be mixed. In this example, the second product to be mixed is ACCENT SP®, which comes in a large box containing five individual boxes, each individual box containing two bags of 2.3 ounces per bag (displayed as 5X2 2.3 oz). The screen (118) also shows the amount calculated to be mixed for 540 gallons at 12 gallons per acre is to be 22.5 ounces. The driver may accept this calculated amount, or instead, rather than weighing out 22.5 ounces, since the product comes in individual packs of 2J oz/pack, the driver may choose to press the button below the word "SMT" (for Smart) to determine the number of individual packs required. Thus, pressing the button below the word "SMT", causes the device (42) to display a new screen (120). Under this screen (120), by pressing the button under the word "PKS" (for Packs), the device (42) displays a new screen (122) which asks the driver to input the number of ounces per pack (in this example, the driver enters 2J). After entering 2J and pressing "ENTER", the device (42) calculates and displays a new screen (124) showing the number of packs required to equal the target amount (in this case 9.78 packs), and also gives the user the option to choose between nine packs or ten packs. In this example, the driver would push F2 selecting ten packs. The device would then display a new screen (126) showing that 23 ounces (or ten packs) was selected resulting in a 2 percent error from the target. If this percent error is acceptable, the driver presses the button below the word "GO" and a new screen (128) is displayed showing the second product and amount required to be mixed (i.e. 23 ounces as opposed to the original calculated amount of 22.5 ounces). Pressing "ENTER" at this screen (128) records (109a) the entry as part of the driver log

(109) and allocates (109b) the entered amount of product (i.e. 23 oz. of Accent) to the customer order (36).

After pressing "ENTER" enter to accept the second product the device (42) to display a new screen (not shown) showing the third product and amount required to be mixed. This process is repeated until all products (in this case 4) have been mixed.

Note, in the screens (118, 128) showing the second product to be mixed, the product is indicated as "Product 1 of 3", likewise the third product to be mixed would be indicated as "Product 1 of 2", and the fourth product to be mixed would be indicated as "Product 1 of 1 ". This is so the driver knows that he/she has only 3, or 2 or 1 products respectively remaining after mixing the previous product.

An additional option displayed on the screen (116) (FIG. 9) is the pound conversion feature represented by the symbol "#". This feature is useful when an amount of chemical to be mixed is calculated and represented in pounds but the product is packaged in multi-gallon containers and the driver does not have a flow meter or scale on the vehicle to easily convert pounds to gallons. In such an event, the driver can press the button below the "#" symbol which causes the computer to convert pounds to gallons or gallons to pounds. This is a fairly simple calculation known to those skilled in the art, and it should be understood that the specific gravity of the chemical, which is required to make the conversion, is contained in the field program (44).

After mixing the last product and pressing "ENTER" the device (42) displays a screen (130) instructing the driver to fill the tank to the previously calculated amount (in this case 540 gallons). After filling the tank, the driver sprays the field. If the tank is overfilled, the button below the word "ED" may be pushed to enter the number actual gallons in the tank. After entering the edited gallons, the device (42) automatically calculates the required application rate (spray rate) required based on the actual amount of mix. As indicated previously, all of the information entered into the field program (44) of the portable device (42) is stored in memory as part of the driver log (109) (FIG. 2) for later use and retrieval.

When the driver is done with the first application, the driver again presses "ENTER" which causes the portable device (42) to display another screen (132) showing the number of acres remaining to be sprayed (in this example 140 acres remain since only 45 acres were sprayed out of the original 185 acres) and instructing the driver to press "ENTER" to make another load. Doing so causes the device (42) to display in sequence the same screens as shown in FIGs. 8 - 10 until all the applications are made causing the device to display "0 acres left". At that point, pressing the button below the word "DONE" (see FIG. 10, screen 132) causes the device (42) to display a screen (134) requesting the driver to press a button below the words "YES" or "NO" to verify he/she is done with the order. Answering "NO" returns the display to the previous screen (132), Answering "YES" displays a new screen (136) requesting the driver to press a button below the words "YES" or "NO" to verify he/she has rinsed the tank. Answering "NO" causes the device (42) to display a new screen (140) showing the next scheduled order in the same format as the screen (86) (FIG. 8) of the first scheduled order. Answering "YES" to rinsing the tank displays a new screen (138) requesting the driver to press a button below the words "YES" or "NO" to verify he/she has used a cleaning agent. Answering "YES" or "NO" to this inquiry causes the device to display the screen (140) showing the next scheduled order. This process is repeated until all scheduled orders are completed for that day. Again, all of the entered information from responses to inquires is stored in memory of the portable device (42) as part of the driver log (109) (FIG. 2) for later use and retrieval.

It should be appreciated that the ability to enter "DONE" at any time in order to indicate that the application is complete is a valuable feature of the present invention because the actual field acreages do not always match the ordered acres and vice-versa. Accordingly, it is desirable to be able to indicate that the field is "DONE" when there are no more acres in the field to be sprayed even though the number of acres indicated to be sprayed has not been reached. Likewise, if the number of actual acres in a field to be sprayed is greater than the number of acres in the field indicated to be sprayed, the driver can reload the applicator for the number of acres still remaining in the field and continue spraying until all of the acres are sprayed. The portable device (42) will record the additional acres sprayed along with the type and amount of product used as part of the driver log. The ability to continue spraying and record the information as a driver log and then download this information to update the customer order (36) and the product inventory database (20) at the end of the day or after completion of the scheduled order (discussed later) is a significant advantage in the industry over currently available procedures. Under current procedures, if the number of actual acres to be sprayed is greater than the ordered acres, an entirely new application schedule or "mix sheet" must be generated by the retailer in order to properly invoice the customer and track the additional product inventory used.

Additionally, another advantage of the portable device (42) and the field program (44) is the ability to "time stamp" (i.e. record the date and time based on the internal clock) when each product was loaded, when a particular application was completed and when the tank was rinsed. For example, when the driver presses the button below the word "DONE" the field program (44) records and save as part of the driver log (109) the date and time that the button was pushed. In that way, a record of the date and time is made when the chemicals are transported and applied. This information is not only helpful in tracking products for compliance with haz. mat. and restricted use regulations, but also for having accurate records of product movement for inventory and invoicing. Referring to FIG. 11, the top screen of which shows the same screen (140) from FIG. 10, assume that after completing the first application (i.e. for Tom Johnson), ten gallons of mix still remain in the tank. In such a situation, instead of draining the tank, which may present environmental concerns, the driver may choose to carry the mix over for application to another field that requires the same type of mix. Referring to FIG. 11, the second application (order number 892) is for a grower named Bill Jackson, who has 55 acres with no acres completed. The location of the application is for the field north of the barn. After pressing "ENTER", a new screen (142) appears, which gives detailed instructions (if any) to the driver about spraying the field. Because the driver has previously reviewed the mix for "Bill Jackson" (by pressing the button below "RATE") the driver knows that this order requires the same chemicals as that used for "Tom Johnson". Thus, rather than draining the tank, the driver can spray the remaining ten gallons of mix on Bill Jackson's field. Therefore, the driver may press the button below the word "CARRY". The device (42) would then display a new screen (144) requesting the driver to enter the number of gallons remaining in the tank. After entering 10 and pressing "ENTER", a new screen (146) would appear requesting the driver to enter the spray rate. After entering the spray rate and pressing "ENTER", the device (42) displays a series of screens (148, 150, 152) requesting the temperature, the wind speed, and the wind direction respectively. The driver then sprays the ten gallons remaining in the tank. Pressing "ENTER" again displays a new screen (154) similar to the screen

(140) but indicates that one acre has been sprayed out of the 55 acre field. The driver would then press "ENTER" again and a series of screens would appear in sequence similar to that previously discussed and shown in FIGs. 8-10 until the application is completed for the second order. The process would be repeated for the third order and so on until all of the scheduled orders for that day are completed. Again, all of the entered information from responses to inquires is stored in memory of the portable device (42) as part of the driver log (109) (FIG. 2) for later use and retrieval. Referring now to FIG. 12, assume the driver cannot complete the application for

Bill Jackson due to weather conditions. If the driver presses the button below the word "GO", the device will display the first screen (82). Pressing F2 for "Last load" displays a new screen (156). The driver would then press F3 for "Hold load" causing a new screen (158) to appear requesting the driver to enter the number of gallons remaining in the tank. The driver can then return to the local retailer's facilities. The information may then be downloaded to the system program (28) (discussed later) and the products mixed in the "Held load" will not be deducted from inventory. When downloading to the system program (28), the system program (28) has the ability to archive and print a "Held Load Label". Based on the gallons remaining in the tank and the percentage of mix of each of the products, the amount of each product is calculated and the inventory database is updated accordingly.

Refeπing back to FIG. 2, after completing each application, or alternatively at the end of each day, the driver downloads (160) the driver log (109) stored in memory on the portable computing device (42) to the system program (28) of the local computer system (18). Again the downloading process may be accomplished in a number of ways by utilizing communication software and modem connection, or Internet or Intranet connection, or satellite data transfer connection, or other types of wireless communication as discussed above, or serial or parallel port connections, a docking station, or a disk. Referring to FIG. 13, the data transfer process (160) begins by the driver pressing the F3 button on screen (72) causing the device to display another screen (162). Pressing the FI key at screen (162) initiates the data transfer.

The driver logs (109) are captured (164) by the data capturing subprogram (34) (FIG. 1) of the system program (28). The captured driver log data is then archived and printed (166). Additionally, the captured driver log data is used to update (168) the customer order (36) in the customer orders database (26) as completed and saves the any relevant information from the driver logs as part of the customer order (36) in the customer orders database (26). The driver log updated customer order (36) can then be used to generate an accurate customer invoice by interfacing with an accounting program and sharing the driver log updated customer order data therewith. The system program (28) also preferably updates (170) and/or reconciles the product inventory database (20) to reflect the driver log (109). For example, the products and amounts allocated to customer orders should equal the difference between the amount of product initially "out-transfeπed" at the beginning of the day and the amount of "out- transferred" product remaining on the applicator or support vehicle at the end of the day. If the amount of product pulled from each support vehicle is recorded as previously discussed, the amount of out-transfeπed product remaining on each support vehicle can be readily determined. Thus, it should be appreciated that the information transfer from the portable device (42) to the local retailer system computer (18) enables near "realtime" tracking of product movement and c rent product inventories any time of the day. This accurate near realtime data allows the retailer and the entire supply chain to lower inventories, reduce delivery/application trips, enables product to be moved from one retailer to another depending on need, and reduce year-end carryover inventories. Access to accurate and near realtime data on current product inventories has heretofore never been available through other inventory control systems because all available systems are tied to accounting software packages which require invoicing the customer before the change in inventory is reflected. Whereas in the present integrated electronic information system (10), the product inventory is updated at least twice a day (i) when the products are first transfeπed out of inventory and loaded onto the transfer vehicle (either the applicator or support vehicle), and (ii) when the driver logs are downloaded to the local retailer computer system (18) either at the end of each day or after completing each application (depending on the capabilities of the portable device (42) for communicating with the local retailer system (12) as identified above.

An optional feature of the system (10) of the present invention, is the ability for wholesale distributors and/or manufacturers to monitor activities at the retail level and obtain desired information from the local retailer system (12). The wholesale distributors and manufacturers can preferably log onto the retailer's Intranet or Internet site or alternatively via communication software and modem connection to obtain the desired information as illustrated in FIG. 1. The desired information may be posted on a server by the retailer, or the retailer may allow direct access to the information in the databases (preferably write protected) on the local computer system (18). The desired information may include product movements by manufacturer, the retailer's cmrent inventory of a particular manufacturer's products or the retailer's entire product inventory, as well as recent shipments of product inventory to the retailer. Other types of information that may be desired, might include outstanding customer orders (36), application schedules (38), etc. Access to such information would allow the wholesaler and/or manufacturer to anticipate the retailer's product inventory needs, thereby allowing them to more efficiently manage their end of the ag product distribution system. For example, by reducing their excess inventory carryover, reducing delivery and manufacturing costs. Additionally, this data, due to the time stamping of product movement and delivery/application information, will reduce fraud in manufacturing marketing programs.

Thus, it should be appreciated that the integrated electronic information system (10) of the present invention enables effective and efficient management over the entire distribution chain for ag products, by providing accurate and near realtime data on product inventory and product movement. Although the above description of the present invention was particularly directed toward a chemical distribution system, it should be understood that the system (10) is equally applicable in any product distribution system where the retailer must take customer orders, manage inventory, and schedule product delivery. Therefore, although only an exemplary embodiment of the invention has been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:

1. An integrated electronic information system for use in the agricultural products retail distribution industry, said system comprising:

(a) a local retailer system, said local retailer system comprising:

(i) a local computer system having memory, a display screen and a user interface;

(ii) a system program executable on said local computer system, said system program generating customer orders and application schedules for each of said customer orders based on data input entered through said user interface in response to inquires generated and displayed on said local computer system display screen by said system program; and

(b) a portable system, comprising: (i) at least one portable computing device having memory, a display screen, and a user interface;

(ii) means for interfacing with said local computer system to electronically upload each of said application schedules from said local computer system; (iii) a field program executable on said portable computing device, said field program selectively displaying each of said uploaded application schedules on said portable computing device display screen and eliciting data input by a user through said portable computing device user interface of actual in-field operations with respect to each of said application schedules, said data input of said in-field operations with respect to each of said application schedules being saved in said portable computing device memory as a driver

log; (iv) means for interfacing with said local computer system to electronically download said driver logs from said portable computing device memory to said local computer system;

2. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 wherein said system program interfaces with a plurality of databases when generating said customer orders and application schedules.

3. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 wherein said system program calculates an out-transfer list of all products and amounts required to be removed from inventory to fill all scheduled applications by an applicator.

4. The integrated electronic information system of claim 3 wherein said system program adjusts product inventory records to reflect all actual out-transfers of product from inventory.

5. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 wherein said system program reflects product inventory shortages whereby said system program can be executed to generate product inventory orders.

6. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 wherein said system program further generates Hazardous Material and Restricted Use papers for the transportation or application of products associated with said application schedules.

7. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 wherein each of said application schedules identifies a particular driver scheduled to complete each scheduled application.

8. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 wherein said driver logs include a record identifying a particular driver completing each scheduled application.

9. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 wherein said driver log includes a record of weather conditions including temperature, wind speed and wind direction at the time of application of each scheduled application.

10. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 wherein said driver log includes the number of acres actually sprayed and the amount of each product used at each scheduled application.

11. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 wherein said driver logs include a record of date and time of when select field activities occuπed.

12. The integrated electronic information system of claim 10 wherein said system program adjusts product inventory records to reflect said downloaded driver logs.

13. The integrated electronic information system of claim 1 further including a remote wholesaler/manufacturer system, said remote wholesaler/manufacturer system comprising:

(a) a remote computer system having memory, a display screen and a user interface; (b) a monitoring program executable on said remote computing system to retrieve data obtained from said local retailer system with respect to product movement at retail.

14. A portable computing device for creating driver logs used in the agricultural product retail distribution industry, said portable computing device comprising:

(a) a display screen;

(b) a microprocessor;

(c) memory; (d) an internal clock;

(e) a user interface;

(f) means for interfacing with a retailer's local computer system for uploading scheduled applications of customer orders; (g) a field program executable on said portable computing device, said field program selectively displaying said uploaded scheduled applications on said display screen and eliciting data input through said user interface of in-field operations with respect to each of said scheduled applications, said data input of said in-field operations with respect to each of said scheduled applications being saved in said memory as a driver log;

(h) means for interfacing with said retailer's local computer system to electronically download said driver logs from said portable computing device memory to said retailer's local computer system.

15. The portable computing device of claim 14 further including a means for interfacing with a bar code scanner whereby bar coded application schedules can be scanned by said portable computing device and saved in said memory.

16. The portable computing device of claim 14 wherein said field program calculates and displays an amount of mix required for each of said scheduled applications based on user input entered through said user interface.

17. The portable computing device of claim 16 wherein said displayed calculated mix amount can be edited by user input through said user interface and wherein said field program will calculate and display a new spray rate based on said edited mix amount.

18. The portable electronic device of claim 14 wherein said field program calculates and displays an amount of product required to be mixed for each scheduled application based on user input entered through said user interface.

19. The portable electronic device of claim 18 wherein said calculated amount of product to be mixed can be edited by a user through said user interface and wherein said field program will calculate a percent error based on said edited product amount.

20. The portable electronic device of claim 18 wherein said field program includes a packs feature for calculating a number of packs required based on said calculated amount of product to be mixed, and wherein said field program will calculate a percent error based on a selected number of packs.

21. The portable electronic device of claim 18 wherein said field program includes a pounds feature for converting said calculated amount of product between a volume measurement and a weight measurement and vice versa, and wherein said field program will calculate a percent error based on a selected converted measurement.

22. The portable electronic device of claim 14 wherein said field program calculates and records the number of acres sprayed based on user input entered through said user interface.

23. The portable electronic device of claim 14 wherein said field program time stamps a date and time of select field activity occuπences based on said internal clock and on user input entered through said user interface.

24. The portable electronic device of claim 14 wherein said field program includes a carry load feature.

25. The portable electronic device of claim 14 wherein said field program includes a hold load feature.