METHODS OF ORDERING PRODUCTS

摘要

Methods of identifying need for replenishment product, and ordering replenishment product, when on-hand supply falls below a predetermined threshold. Product containers have computer readable labels which identify particular product to be stored in those containers. As a container is emptied, the empty container is tossed into a chute. An antenna subassembly reads the label as the container passes through the chute. The container label can alternatively be read by otherwise moving the label across the field of a suitable antenna, or by reading such label using a bar code reader. The antenna, or bar code reader, communicates label information to a local computer. The local computer communicates, to a host computer, certain of the label information. The host computer collects information from one or more local computers and communicates with vendor order-processing computers which receive the information, and confirm, process, and instruct shipment orders related to the needed replenishment product.

主权项

1. A method of capturing and processing information from a computer-readable tag on a container which is adapted and configured to hold consumable products, and to have such consumable products replenished when the container has been emptied, the method comprising:
(a) using an antenna transmitting an antenna signal having an effective signal range, the antenna comprising an antenna loop extending about an antenna perimeter, an opening extending through the antenna loop, from a front of the antenna loop to a rear of the antenna loop, thereby defining a front-to-rear path through the antenna loop, the opening having a cross-section adapted to receive such container therethrough along the front-to-rear path, (b) passing a such container through the antenna loop at a speed which enables the antenna signal to activate the computer readable tag on the respective container as the container is passing through the antenna loop, (c) the computer-readable tag receiving the signal transmitted by the antenna and emitting a tag response signal, (d) receiving the tag response signal emitted by the computer-readable tag, and (e) a signal reader reading the response signal.