WO2001067356A1 - Inventory control system and methods - Google Patents
Inventory control system and methods Download PDFInfo
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- WO2001067356A1 WO2001067356A1 PCT/US2001/007253 US0107253W WO0167356A1 WO 2001067356 A1 WO2001067356 A1 WO 2001067356A1 US 0107253 W US0107253 W US 0107253W WO 0167356 A1 WO0167356 A1 WO 0167356A1
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- inventory
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
- G06Q10/08—Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
- G06Q10/08—Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
- G06Q10/087—Inventory or stock management, e.g. order filling, procurement or balancing against orders
Definitions
- the present invention relates to the field of electronic inventory control.
- the present invention relates to controlling healthcare supply inventories.
- inventory control has been done by the company or organization using the items in the inventory.
- inventory control is typically not a high priority, and orders may be placed whenever items are out of stock.
- the present invention improves upon the prior art by shifting the burden of inventory tracking onto a third party; this concept is referred to as vendor managed inventory, or VMI.
- VMI vendor managed inventory
- a third party provides VMI services for multiple companies, it gains significant buying power which it can use to negotiate better deals, improve supplier responsiveness, and streamline the buying process.
- the present invention allows third-parties to monitor company inventory via the Internet and World Wide Web ("web").
- the present invention allows small to medium sized companies to take advantage of VMI by providing a cost- effective solution to their inventory tracking needs.
- the present invention utilizes web-enabled technologies to revolutionize inventory management by tracking inventory and automatically contacting suppliers, manufacturers, or distributors when additional supplies are needed. This may result in a labor reduction as compared to the labor-intensive inventory maintenance systems currently deployed.
- the present invention may help a company cut other costs.
- the present invention may help reduce delivery costs by regularly ordering supplies in anticipation of need, thus obviating the need for express shipments.
- the present invention may also allow third parties to take advantage of manufacturer or distributor specials when offered for the products its customers require, thus further reducing customer cost.
- the present invention may also facilitate other transactions as well. For example, the present invention may allow customers to resell products or equipment to other businesses, thereby maximizing utility.
- the present invention provides a forum through which resellers and customers may interact, where the present invention acts as a broker, thereby assuring both that purchased equipment is delivered, and that a seller receives proper compensation.
- Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the major hardware components of the present invention.
- Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating an overview of the software components of the present invention.
- Figure 3 is a process flow diagram illustrating sample logic implemented when client software attempts to update data stored in a server.
- Figure 4 is a process flow diagram illustrating sample logic implemented when client software polls a data connection.
- Figure 5 illustrates a sample RFID portal and related computer equipment.
- the present invention implements an Internet-based, vendor managed inventory (“VMI”) system.
- VMI vendor managed inventory
- a VMI system allows a customer to reduce costs by pushing inventory management responsibilities onto a third party, or manager. Managers may service multiple companies, thus allowing them to negotiate better deals, improve supplier responsiveness, and serve as an effective customer advocate.
- the present invention allows managers to inexpensively monitor customer inventory via the Internet and World Wide Web ("web").
- the present invention utilizes web-enabled technologies to revolutionize inventory management by tracking inventory and automatically contacting suppliers, manufacturers, or distributors when products are needed. This may result in a labor reduction as compared to the labor- intensive inventory maintenance systems currently deployed.
- Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the major hardware components of the present invention. As illustrated in Figure 1, the present invention utilizes a client/server architecture to facilitate communication between customer inventory systems and managers. A client running on a Customer Inventory System 130 may be used to track inventory, place special orders, and interact with other customers.
- a client may include custom software, such as an application written in Visual Basic, JAVA, or C; commercial software, such as a web page accessible through a web browser; or a combination of custom and commercial software, such as a "plug- in" which operates in a web browser.
- custom software such as an application written in Visual Basic, JAVA, or C
- commercial software such as a web page accessible through a web browser
- a combination of custom and commercial software such as a "plug- in” which operates in a web browser.
- Examples of common web browsers include Internet Explorer, developed by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Washington, and Navigator, developed by Netscape Corporation of Mountain View, California.
- Customer Inventory Systems 130 may allow manual inventory tracking, semi- automated inventory tracking, or inventory may be dispensed using automated systems.
- a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a handheld device, such as a Palm VII device by Palm Computing, Inc., to be outfitted with a barcode scanner.
- a handheld device such as a Palm VII device by Palm Computing, Inc.
- a barcode scanner can allow barcodes or other identifiers associated with each inventory item to be scanned or otherwise entered into the system prior to or at the time of item distribution.
- a count maintained by the present invention may be adjusted to properly track inventory levels.
- Recipient-specific labels including product warnings and other information, can then be printed for each scanned item.
- vending machines may allow accurate inventory tracking without requiring human interaction, except to periodically restock a particular supply or group of supplies.
- vending machines may include security measures to prevent unauthorized supply distribution.
- security measures may include, but are not limited to, the use of an identification card and personal identification number (“PIN"), and biometric systems.
- PIN personal identification number
- Vending machines equipped with security systems may restrict access to specific supplies on an individual-by-individual level, or group- by-group basis.
- Vending machines may also be equipped with label printers that allow warnings and other information to be attached to a dispensed item's packaging.
- RFID portal can be outfitted with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) portal, as illustrated in Figure 5.
- RFID portal Block 500
- An RFID portal is similar in structure to airport security metal detectors, except that RFID portals can detect or scan RFID tags as such tags pass through a portal.
- the present invention can monitor RFID tag identifiers, including identifiers assigned to individuals, such that access to a storage area can be monitored, and items removed by an individual can be tracked without any direct user interaction.
- a preferred embodiment of the present invention can also track individual product dispensation, and may require additional information as products are dispensed.
- the present invention may also request a patient identifier, whereas if a package of gauze bandages was removed from inventory to restock an examination room, the present invention may not request a patient identifier.
- Patient identifiers can be used by the present invention to generate dispensation history reports for various products which may help suppliers and manufacturers to better understand income, race, ethnicity, or other demographic characteristics of typical recipients. The present invention may restrict such reports to only demographic information, and may not include individual-specific information in such reports.
- An alternative embodiment of the present invention allows physicians or others to carry a handheld device through which prescriptions can be written while talking with a patient.
- a handheld device can connect to a local inventory management system through a wireless or wired means, and, when appropriate, a prescribed item sample may be automatically dispensed by a vending machine.
- a message may be displayed at a nurse's station indicating the items to be pulled from inventory.
- Customer Inventory System 130 may track supply usage habits to determine minimum acceptable quantities on-hand. Usage information may be studied for various periods of time, and the present invention may create an inventory usage model based on collected data. As models are created and refined, the present invention may modify minimum in-stock thresholds to reflect anticipated usage. As quantity in-stock approaches a calculated or specified threshold, Customer Inventory System 130 may automatically request new supplies from Server 100. Supply requests may include various information, including, but not limited to, urgency of request, customer willingness to accept alternative brands or sizes, billing information, and shipping information.
- Server 100 may request price quotes from several Manufacturer, Supplier, or Distributor 120's ("Distributor 120"). Distributor 120 may respond with quantity available, price, estimated delivery time, and other such information. Server 100 may then automatically evaluate each Distributor 120 response to find the best value given various factors associated with each customer request. When an appropriate Distributor 120 response is chosen, Server 100 may automatically arrange payment and shipping of requested supplies for Customer Inventory System 130.
- Distributor 120 may respond with quantity available, price, estimated delivery time, and other such information.
- Server 100 may then automatically evaluate each Distributor 120 response to find the best value given various factors associated with each customer request. When an appropriate Distributor 120 response is chosen, Server 100 may automatically arrange payment and shipping of requested supplies for Customer Inventory System 130.
- Communication between Customer Inventory System 130, Server 100, and Distributor 120 may be achieved through various methods, including, but not limited to, hypertext transfer protocol (“HTTP”), file transfer protocol (“FTP”), simple mail transfer protocol (“SMTP”), or other such related methods.
- HTTP hypertext transfer protocol
- FTP file transfer protocol
- SMTP simple mail transfer protocol
- a preferred embodiment of the present invention may also facilitate communication between customers, provide a source of information dissemination, and encourage customer interaction.
- the present invention may facilitate customer communication by allowing customers to resell products, equipment, or excess inventory to other businesses.
- the present invention may allow information dissemination by providing an up to date catalog of available equipment and other inventory from which a customer may order.
- the present invention may facilitate customer communication by allowing managers and customers to author and distribute articles describing new rules, regulations, procedures, revenue generation prospects, or other information of interest to other customers.
- Customer Inventory System 130 may serve as the primary source of customer interaction with the present invention. Articles, catalogs, inventory information, and other such information may be stored on Server 100, and Customer Inventory System 130 may communicate with Server 100 to obtain requested information.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of Server 100, in which relationships between data storage, web server, and application services provided by Server 100 are illustrated. All client communications may first pass through Firewall 210.
- Firewall 210 represents a combination of software and hardware which is used to protect the data stored in Web Server 220, Database Server 230, and Application Server 240 from unauthorized access.
- Web Server 220 represents software capable of transmitting and receiving information via HTTP or other protocols. Examples of such software include Internet Information Server, developed by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Washington; Enterprise Server, developed by Netscape Corporation of Mountain View, California; and Apache Server, developed by the Apache Software Foundation of Forest Hill, Maryland.
- Web Server 220 may determine whether a client request requires pre-processing, in which case a request is transferred to Application Server 240, or if a request simply requires data to fulfill the request, in which case Web Server 220 may communicate directly with Database Server 230.
- Database Server 230 represents commercially available database software, such as Microsoft SQL Server, developed by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Washington, Oracle 8i, developed by Oracle Corporation, of Redwood Shores, California, or other, similar software.
- Database Server 230 may store raw data, such as customer inventory information, customer addresses, vendor names, vendor product classes, and other such similar information. Such information may be transmitted to a client by Web Server 220, or Application Server 240 may interpret information stored in Database Server 230 prior to transmission.
- Application Server 240 may contain business rules associated with the present invention, which can be used to interpret Database Server 230 data prior to transmission of that data to a client. In addition to interpreting information stored in Database Server 230 for client use, Application Server 240 may also monitor inventory levels reflected in Database Server 230, contact vendors based on information from Database Server 230, adjust inventory information as new inventory is received, and provide the services necessary to facilitate business-to-business resale of equipment or products stored in Database Server 230.
- Web Server 220, Database Server 230, and Application Server 240 each represent software which may run on the same computer, or on multiple computers.
- Application Server 240 may be implemented within Database Server 230 as a set of business rules.
- Customer - Refers to a buyer of products via the present invention. Customers can have "open account” relationships to avoid credit card and COD shipment problems.
- Linked Supplier - A distinction is made to avoid confusion with other vendors doing business with the present invention, given that payables may be in a common accounts payable system.
- Distributors, manufacturers, or other vendors are distinguished by whether they are using the present invention's inventory tracking and accounting software, and therefore have live Internet linkages into their databases for queries, order processing, and billing.
- Manual Supplier If a supplier provides goods or services through the present invention, but tracks inventory through a manual interface, such a supplier may be termed a "Manual Supplier". Open account relationships may be maintained between Linked or Manual Suppliers avoid payment complexities.
- Non-linked Supplier - Suppliers not linked to the present invention are not linked to the present invention.
- Customer Inventory A list of products to be maintained at a given customer site.
- Interactive processes may be web-based or PC-based (client-server).
- ERP Ente ⁇ rise Resource Planning
- Database Design A database schema which may be utilized in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the present invention in general, and this functional specification specifically, defines styles and functions included in detailed web pages and other user interface elements that are intended to be available system wide. Web pages, application windows, program screens, and transactions within the present invention should observe common rules. These rules include, but are not limited to:
- System parameters controlling customer options can be set through an account setup and editing process. Such a process may be accessed by only someone with an authorized identifier. Initially, such identifiers may only be given to Co ⁇ orate Staff.
- server-side scripts can utilize a logical flow similar to Figure 3.
- client software running on a customer machine may generate a page containing data to be updated by a web server and transmit said page to said web server (Block 300).
- the present invention may attempt to process any changes requested by said page. If such changes are successful (Block 320), the present invention may return a confirmation page or cause a confirmation message to be displayed to a customer machine, and appropriate transaction logging may occur.
- the present invention may increment a retry count by one (Block 340). If the retry count is less than or equal to three, the present invention may retransmit customer changes (Block 370) to Block 310 in an effort to make any appropriate changes. If the retry count exceeds three (Block 350), the present invention may cause a page containing any error codes or other feedback information to be displayed on a client machine. Such a page may also contain original client data changes as well as a means for resubmitting said changes (Block 360).
- Client software may also periodically verify that a data connection exists between said client software and a server acting as part of the present invention. Such software may follow the logic illustrated in Figure 4 to achieve accurate data connection monitoring. As Block 400 illustrates, client software may send one or more TCP/IP Ping commands or other network test commands to verify that a highspeed connection is still available to a server acting as part of the present invention.
- the present invention can continue normal operations (Block 410). If a high-speed network connection is not detected, the present invention may attempt to reestablish such a connection (Block 420). If a high-speed network connection can be reestablished (Block 430), the present invention may continue normal operations (Block 410). If a high-speed network connection cannot be established, a lower speed network connection, such as a dial-up network connection, may be established by the present invention (Block 440). If a lower speed network connection can be established, the present invention may continue normal operations, including periodically attempting to reestablish a high-speed network connection (Block 410).
- client software may display an application or page with alternative user interface and alternative functionality (Block 460).
- Such alternative functionality can include local storage of product usage information, local inventory tracking, and limited reordering via a dial- up or other temporary connection with a known supplier (Block 470).
- a client functioning without a data connection may periodically attempt to reestablish high or low speed network connections (Block 480).
- a client may transmit product usage scan information to a server acting as part of the present invention.
- the present invention may also utilize a high speed network connection to transmit new product offerings or special promotions to a client for display to a customer.
- the present invention may cause such a product to appear on a client.
- the present invention may allow customers to select products in which a customer is interested, and the present invention may only display new products or special deals meeting a customer's prior specifications.
- specifications can include, but are not limited to, categories by manufacturer, product trade name, specific product type, general product classification, and quantity available or quantity per shipping unit.
- a client displaying such information may allow a customer to indicate an interest in a product by typing a command, clicking a button or other graphical interface element, or otherwise interacting with said client. If a customer expresses an interest in a featured product, a client may allow a customer to create a one-time order, or to configure recurring orders.
- client software may also display advertisements on a rotating basis, and may be used for other pu ⁇ oses.
- a typical client software screen may also contain additional information and fields, including, but not limited to, a Product SKU field, a User-ID field, a Doctor-ID field, and a Sales Consultant Contact field.
- client software may place a cursor in a Product SKU field by default. Placing a cursor in a Product SKU field can allow client software to ready accept an automatically or manually entered product identifier, such as a barcode label scanned via a wedge-style bar-code scanner.
- client software may request a User-ID for each product identifier or set of product identifiers.
- a User-ID is a unique identifier created for each employee or set of employees within an organization. Such identifiers may be entered manually through an active user interface, such as, but not limited to, a keyboard, touch screen, or number pad, or through a passive user interface, such as, but not limited to, biometric recognition equipment, barcode identifiers worn by or associated with an employee, or through RFID tags worn by or associated with an employee. User-ID's may be combined with passwords to create a more secure inventory tracking system.
- User-ID's may be used to track persons removing items from an inventory, but additional tracking or other controls may also be desirable. For example additional authorization may be required when employees remove expensive items or controlled substances from an inventory.
- the present invention may recognize when such an inventory item is removed, and client software may request an additional identifier, called a Doctor-ID, as authorization.
- Client software may even allow any user to enter a Doctor-ID for some inventory items, while for other inventory items a Doctor- ID and related password may be required.
- a biometric or other positive identifier may be used in place of a Doctor-ID or Doctor-ID and password in some applications.
- the present invention may transmit such data to a server.
- a server may send a confirmation message to a client upon receipt of such data. If a confirmation message is not received within a predetermined period of time, the present invention may resend inventory tracking data. If successive resend attempts are unsuccessful, the present invention may follow a process similar to that illustrated by Figure 3.
- Client software may allow additional inventory scans to occur while waiting for confirmation from a server.
- client software may also allow a customer to access various options. Such options may include, but are not limited to, an administrative page, an inventory status inquiry page, and an inventory receipt page.
- An administrative page can allow authorized customers to create, edit, or remove User-ID's, Doctor-ID's, groups of such accounts, and account- specific information.
- An inventory status inquiry page can retrieve and display a page containing customer inventory records, order status, and other such information.
- An inventory status inquiry may be initiated through client software, which can send a page containing customer-specific information, as well as site-specific identification information stored on a client machine.
- client software which can send a page containing customer-specific information, as well as site-specific identification information stored on a client machine.
- a server receiving such a request may select records with appropriate site- and user- specific information from a table of customer inventory records.
- a server may generate a page or screen containing customer inventory information, including information from several tables. Table 1 below provides an example of columns displayed on a typical inventory request screen, as well as sample table and field names from which such data can be drawn.
- An advantage of the present invention over the prior art is the ability to simplify adding new items or restocking items into an inventory.
- Linked Suppliers shipping goods to a customer can provide a specially coded packing list, and a customer can automatically or manually enter such a code into client software.
- Client software can validate a packing list number as belonging to a customer and ensure a packing list is not credited to a customer system more than once. Entry of an invalid or previously validated packing slip can cause client software to display an error message.
- client software may retrieve shipment contents from a centralized database or from a supplier database, and automatically update customer inventory information to reflect inventory received. Client software may then display a message confirming successful inventory changes, and return a customer to a main page.
- a product search page may also be accessible through client software.
- a product search page can allow a user to select a search type and, if appropriate, search parameters and search parameter values (collectively "search criteria").
- search criteria search parameters and search parameter values
- a product search page may allow a customer to search by specific manufacturer and products of a certain classification.
- client software may pass such search criteria to a server.
- a server may query a database of products and product descriptions and return products matching or approximating customer search criteria.
- a server may select records from a Products table, or other similar table, whose data matches or approximates descriptive text entered by a user. If a user has selected a parameter search, a server may select Product table records whose fields match or approximate user search requests. To expedite such selections, a server may index descriptions, manufacturers, product classes, product names, and other frequently searched fields. When appropriate records are selected, a server may transmit such records to client software for display. Client software may present such records in a variety of formats, including, but not limited to, a columnar or tabular format. Table 2 lists sample column names, sample source table names, source field names, and additional functionality client software may present when displaying such records.
- client software can allow a customer to check product availability and add products to a stock plan.
- client software may make such functionality available for each record displayed.
- records may have check boxes or other selection controls, thereby allowing customers to check the availability of multiple items, and add multiple items to a stock plan.
- the present invention may search Linked Supplier inventories to determine quantities available, physical location, anticipated delivery times, and the like.
- client software may allow a customer to order a product.
- client software may request restocking and other parameters from a customer, then send appropriate information to a server.
- a server may add an appropriate entry to a Customer Inventory or other similar table, thereby enabling inventory tracking through the present invention.
- Client software can also allow a customer to request a telephone call, an E- mail, or other contact from a sales consultant.
- a customer may select a product or supplier, and client software can query a server to determine an appropriate sales consultant for the selected product or supplier.
- a user can then be presented with a dialog box or other interactive interface which asks a customer to confirm a contact request.
- client software may cause a server to store a request message in a Contact Log table or other similar table.
- a server may periodically scan Contact_Log table entries. When new or unanswered requests are found, a server may send a notification to a supplier alerting said supplier of such a request, where such a notification can include a customer E-mail address, telephone number, fax number, or other contact information, as well as other relevant customer and product information.
- While the present invention can monitor inventory use and automatically order new inventory when necessary, a customer may anticipate a need for additional inventory based on parameters outside the scope of the present invention.
- a hospital administrator may foresee the need to order additional quantities of frequently used supplies.
- Client software can provide a customer with the ability to quickly place such orders.
- a customer can initiate such an order by clicking a button or otherwise interacting with a graphical or physical interface.
- a customer may select from products or groups of products already included in an inventory or stocking plan, or a customer may search for products through an interface similar to that described earlier.
- customers can designate standard restocking quantities, and client software may use such quantities as defaults when clients are requesting additional inventory.
- Client software may also present quantities on hand to help customers make smarter purchasing decisions. Based on such information, customers can modify order quantities before submitting an order.
- Client software can transmit customer orders to a server.
- a server Upon receipt of a customer order, a server can initiate an order fulfillment process.
- a server may also automatically place an order based on customer demand.
- a server may periodically scan a customer inventory table and monitor inventory usage. As inventory is depleted, a server can predict frequently used items, and order appropriate quantities. Initially, a server may order limited quantities, to limit customer costs. A server may increase order quantities for frequently ordered products as customer usage habits dictate. A server may also construct an historical usage characterization, so that seasonal or other periodic usage patterns can be automatically taken into account.
- a server can query Linked Supplier inventories to determine each supplier's ability to fulfill an order.
- a server can calculate shipping costs as each order is processed, and a server can select one or more suppliers who can most cost effectively meet customer needs. As qualified suppliers are identified, orders are placed which can include expedited delivery and other options as specified by a customer or as determined by a server.
- a server can also post supplier invoices to an accounts payable system, generate customer invoices based on supplier invoices, post customer invoices to an accounts receivable system.
- a server may further integrate with an automated payment system, thereby limiting invoicing and other such expenses.
- a server can also provide administrative functions.
- a user who is not a customer can register to be a customer through a server- provided interface.
- Such an interface may allow a user to specify a business name, business type, executive director or general manager, physical address, mailing address, shipping address, one or more telephone numbers, employee names, employee licensing and accreditation information, and the like.
- a server may validate that an address, telephone number, and zip code are all valid with respect to each other, and that all necessary fields have been filled. If any validations fail, a server may present a data entry page along with any invalid data, thus simplifying data correction.
- a server and client software may also allow customers and suppliers to change various information.
- suppliers can change pricing; add or remove vendors and products; add, edit, or remove contacts; view account status and open invoices; and perform other such functions.
- Customers can adjust inventory counts to reflect audit results; add, edit, or remove employees and employee information; update payment and contact information; view account balances and make payments; and perform other such functions.
- Linked Suppliers can also take advantage of many of these same features.
- Linked Suppliers implementing the present invention can track inventory; provide real-time inventory information to prospective customers; accept electronic orders; generate pick/pack lists; track order fulfillment process, including tracking into which containers each item in an order has been placed; generate bar-coded packing lists and shipping labels for each container; and generate invoices.
- the present invention also provides Linked Suppliers with other advantages over the prior art.
- Linked Supplier inventory needs can be forecast based on prior order history, prior lead times, safety stock quantities, and the like, thereby reducing overall inventory investment.
- the present invention can also allow enable a Linked Supplier to track processing and shipping status for various products within an order, thereby providing a higher level of customer service.
- the present invention may also allow managers or other authorized individuals to electronically sign a purchase order, invoice, or other billing or order document and electronically transmit such a document to an appropriate recipient.
- a prefe ⁇ ed embodiment of the present invention includes the following table structure.
- the table structure described below is included for enablement and best mode pu ⁇ oses, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.
- Table Description and function - This table can reside locally on a customer computer. It can store one or more records containing control data needed to manage on and off-line functions remotely. These records can be updated via an update applet transferring data from the Web Server's SQL database to this control. Its pu ⁇ ose is to provide control over the processes running on the local machine even if it is offline, and to enable it to reconnect automatically.
- Table Description and function - This table contains an e ⁇ or generation history for processes originating on a customer machine. It can provide an audit trail and view of how well processes are functioning, and a place to record both fatal-error conditions and those that may not need to be displayed to customers. Its data may not be processed, but can be stored for review by system administrators and managers.
- Table Description and function - This table can contain a history of e ⁇ ors generated by processes originating from outside a customer machine. The table can provide an audit trail and view of how well processes are functioning, and provide a place to record both fatal and non-fatal e ⁇ ors. Such data can allow system administrators, programmers, and managers to monitor automated, unattended processes.
- SYSTEM_ERROR_LOG can use a data dictionary/field structure similar to a Client_E ⁇ or_Log table.
- Table Description and function - this table can have a data dictionary similar to the CUSTOMERS table, and can be used to temporarily store unapproved, unprocessed customer application data submitted by a Customer/Client Application page. When an application is processed, appropriate records can be deleted from this table.
- Table Description and function - this table has may use a data dictionary similar to PRACTICE_MEMBERS, and can temporarily store unapproved, unprocessed customer application data submitted by a Customer/Client Application page. When an application is processed, appropriate records can be deleted from this table.
- Table Description and function - Can store a unique identifier for each customer in a permanent table. Activity logged in CUSTOMERJVIAINT HISTORY table. Can be linked to third-party applications for credit terms, bill to, ship to addresses, phones and other financial data.
- This table can be linked to records in a CUSTOMERS table, and can store data pertaining to individual physicians or other health-care professionals working at or with a practice.
- Table Description and function - can contain decimal values representing a unique price to be charged or discount to be granted to each customer. Any number of customers may use a discount code. When a decimal value associated with a given code is changed, the result is that all prices for all customers using that code are changed. If a customer's discount code specifies a discount value greater than allowed for a given product, the present invention may limit a price to the maximum discount .
- Table Description and function - identifies products available for sale at any point in time. Includes products no longer active. One record for each product/SKU/Item Number.
- Table Description and function - This table stores all manufacturers whose products may be carried in the PRODUCTS table. It serves as a reference and validation table for products.
- Table Description and function - stores orders generated by nightly process and/or by critical ordering process, which are then downloaded to distributor. Serves as order "header" record. Linked to ORDER DETAIL table where line items are stored. No maintenance history log table. One record for each order generated and downloaded.
- Table Description and function - stores line item detail on ORDERS. One record for each line item on an order.
- Table Description and function - Stores and sets up each linked supplier, i.e., distributor that is linked into the web site. One record for each supplier that will be, is now, or has been linked at one time into Med-e-Track. Activity logged in LINKED SUPPLIER MA ⁇ NT_HISTORY. Account is linked to Supplier table in the SOLOMAN Accounts Payable subsystem.
- Table Description and function - stores uploaded invoice/pack lists from linked suppliers. Serves as "header" record for invoices. A given Order can have multiple invoices.
- Linked to SUPPLIER INVOICEJDETAIL records which carry line item detail. Invoices uploaded from distributor reflect orders they have shipped and are then used to generate Customer invoices. The uploaded invoice data is also transfe ⁇ ed to the Accounts Payable module of the Solomon IV software for co ⁇ orate accounting/tracking. Customer invoices generated and recorded in this table are also transfe ⁇ ed to the Accounts Receivable module.
- Table Description and function - This table contains shipment information for the shipment covered by the Internal Invoice. There is one record for each carton comprising the shipment covered by the Invoice. It is linked to the Internal_Invoice table.
- Table Description and function - this table carries the line item level detail for invoices uploaded from the linked supplier/distributor. Some line item level detail is used to update Order data to support quick order status inquiries and track back- ordered items.
- Each transaction affects only one data field.
- Transaction code indicates what update/change activity was performed, and therefore which data field was updated.
- Table Description and function - This table stores information about each user at a customer's site. There are two classes of users, supervisor and staff. Only a user with supervisor rights can add new users. The web page "hard-wires" who the customer is so customer users are kept associated with the co ⁇ ect customer.
- Table Description and function - This table stores data about each Sales Consultant. It is essentialy a reference table.
- the present invention allows inventory tracking and management through a combination of manual, semi- automated, and automated means.
- the present invention also allows a manager to purchase in bulk and take advantage of promotions and other special offerings, thus reducing inventory costs.
- the present invention reduces the amount of inventory which must be kept on-hand by accurately modeling and predicting inventory needs.
- the present invention further provides customers with the ability to review new equipment, communicate with each other, and buy and sell excess inventory, refurbished equipment, and the like.
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
JP2001565098A JP2003526166A (en) | 2000-03-07 | 2001-03-07 | Inventory management system and method |
AU2001249104A AU2001249104A1 (en) | 2000-03-07 | 2001-03-07 | Inventory control system and methods |
CA002402350A CA2402350A1 (en) | 2000-03-07 | 2001-03-07 | Inventory control system and methods |
BR0109095-0A BR0109095A (en) | 2000-03-07 | 2001-03-07 | Inventory Control System and Methods |
MXPA02008814A MXPA02008814A (en) | 2000-03-07 | 2001-03-07 | Inventory control system and methods. |
EP01922287A EP1281142A4 (en) | 2000-03-07 | 2001-03-07 | Inventory control system and methods |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US18738900P | 2000-03-07 | 2000-03-07 | |
US60/187,389 | 2000-03-07 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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WO2001067356A1 true WO2001067356A1 (en) | 2001-09-13 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2001/007253 WO2001067356A1 (en) | 2000-03-07 | 2001-03-07 | Inventory control system and methods |
Country Status (9)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP1281142A4 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2003526166A (en) |
KR (1) | KR100961804B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN1427974A (en) |
AU (1) | AU2001249104A1 (en) |
BR (1) | BR0109095A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2402350A1 (en) |
MX (1) | MXPA02008814A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2001067356A1 (en) |
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- 2001-03-07 AU AU2001249104A patent/AU2001249104A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2001-03-07 BR BR0109095-0A patent/BR0109095A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2001-03-07 CN CN01808966A patent/CN1427974A/en active Pending
- 2001-03-07 JP JP2001565098A patent/JP2003526166A/en active Pending
- 2001-03-07 KR KR1020027011724A patent/KR100961804B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
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Cited By (33)
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GB2378788A (en) * | 2001-05-16 | 2003-02-19 | Hewlett Packard Co | Tracking of Automatically Ordered Printing Device Component |
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WO2002097686A2 (en) * | 2001-05-25 | 2002-12-05 | Dedicated Engines Limited | Web server providing remote monitoring |
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FR2830643A1 (en) * | 2001-10-05 | 2003-04-11 | Medireport | Centralized stock control system for medical products, links both medical centers and suppliers to a restricted access central database allowing both groups to see relevant information |
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WO2004104885A1 (en) * | 2003-05-20 | 2004-12-02 | Min-Suh Kim | Electronic settlement method by conditional trade |
US7715633B2 (en) | 2005-12-28 | 2010-05-11 | Fujitsu Limited | Medium processing apparatus, medium processing method, medium processing system and computer readable recording medium with medium processing program recorded thereon |
US11360999B2 (en) | 2006-05-18 | 2022-06-14 | Surge Pricing Patent Holdings, Llc | Computer-implemented method for managing inventory allocations |
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US20220284041A1 (en) * | 2006-05-18 | 2022-09-08 | SurgeTech, LLC | Computer-implemented interface for bookings for transportation services |
WO2010029282A1 (en) * | 2008-09-10 | 2010-03-18 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc | Oilfield inventory control and communication system |
WO2011035329A3 (en) * | 2009-09-21 | 2011-06-16 | Carefusion 303, Inc. | Inventory monitoring and verification system |
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US9454868B2 (en) | 2012-02-02 | 2016-09-27 | Neo Eco Systems Ltd. | System and method for vending products |
US9665848B1 (en) | 2015-11-30 | 2017-05-30 | O-Ring Sales & Service, Inc. | Inventory management system and method of use |
US20210326951A1 (en) * | 2016-06-01 | 2021-10-21 | Jane Technologies, Inc. | Real-time internet capable device information interchange for coordinated queuing at locations |
US11720941B2 (en) * | 2016-06-01 | 2023-08-08 | Jane Technologies, Inc. | Real-time internet capable device information interchange for coordinated queuing at locations |
US10552791B2 (en) | 2016-10-24 | 2020-02-04 | Walmart Apollo, Llc | Systems and methods for monitoring and reconciling inventory |
US11341453B2 (en) | 2018-04-02 | 2022-05-24 | Walmart Apollo, Llc | Dynamic negative perpetual inventory resolution system |
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CN109658030B (en) * | 2018-12-14 | 2023-04-11 | 合肥美的智能科技有限公司 | Goods loading method, system, server and computer readable storage medium |
CN110866725A (en) * | 2019-11-20 | 2020-03-06 | 上海中商网络股份有限公司 | Channel checking method and device |
CN110956428A (en) * | 2019-11-28 | 2020-04-03 | 国网河北省电力有限公司深州市供电分公司 | Electric power material management system |
CN110956428B (en) * | 2019-11-28 | 2023-11-10 | 国网河北省电力有限公司深州市供电分公司 | Electric power material management system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN1427974A (en) | 2003-07-02 |
CA2402350A1 (en) | 2001-09-13 |
BR0109095A (en) | 2004-06-29 |
JP2003526166A (en) | 2003-09-02 |
MXPA02008814A (en) | 2004-10-15 |
KR20020092978A (en) | 2002-12-12 |
EP1281142A4 (en) | 2006-01-11 |
EP1281142A1 (en) | 2003-02-05 |
AU2001249104A1 (en) | 2001-09-17 |
KR100961804B1 (en) | 2010-06-08 |
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