Internet of things-based smart storage units

Embodiments relate to a system, computer program product, and method for smart storage units using Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities. The system includes a robot including one or more external lighting devices and a storage unit comprising a cap and a container portion, the cap is coupled to the container portion and is communicatively coupled to the robot. The cap includes one or more external energy collection devices configured to receive light energy from the one or more external lighting devices. The cap also includes a first processing device electrically coupled to the one or more external energy collection devices. The first processing device is configured to collect data associated with an inventory of the contents of the container portion and transmit the inventory data to the robot.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to smart storage units using Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities.

Many areas of peoples' daily lives include using a plurality of fungible items and materials, i.e., commodities that are normally stored within individual storage units. These commodities are used with some periodicity that may be irregular. For example, for a home kitchen where one or more family members bake at least occasionally, sugar is used occasionally. Irregular usage is typically accompanied with irregular observations of the quantity of sugar remaining.

SUMMARY

A system, computer program product, and method are provided for using smart storage units and Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities.

In one aspect, a computer system is provided to use smart storage units and Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities. The computer system includes a robot including one or more external lighting devices and a storage unit comprising a cap and a container portion. The cap is coupled to the container portion and the cap is communicatively coupled to the robot. The cap includes one or more external energy collection devices configured to receive light energy from the one or more external lighting devices. The cap also includes a first processing device electrically coupled to the one or more external energy collection devices. The first processing device is configured to collect data associated with an inventory of the contents of the container portion and transmit the inventory data to the robot.

In another aspect, a computer program product is provided for using smart storage units and Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities. The computer program product includes one or more computer readable storage media and program instructions collectively stored on the one or more computer-readable storage media. The program instructions include program instructions to boot up the first processing device in response to a first processing device being energized with at least a portion of light energy captured by one or more external energy collection devices coupled to a cap for a storage unit, the one or more external energy collection devices being illuminated with light energy radiating from one or more external lighting devices coupled to a robot. The program instructions further include program instructions to capture inventory data of contents within a container portion of the storage unit. The program instructions further include program instructions to transmit, with at least a portion of the light energy, the captured inventory data to the robot.

In yet another aspect, a computer-implemented method for using smart storage units and Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities. The method includes capturing, by one or more external energy collection devices coupled to a cap for a storage unit, at least a portion of light energy radiating from one or more external lighting devices coupled to a robot, the one or more external energy collection devices being illuminated by the light energy. The method further includes energizing, with at least a portion of the light energy, a first processing device within the cap with at least a portion of the light energy. The method also includes booting up the first processing device. The method further includes capturing inventory data of contents within a container portion of the storage unit. The method also includes transmitting, with at least a portion of the light energy, the captured inventory data to the robot.

The present Summary is not intended to illustrate each aspect of, every implementation of, and/or every embodiment of the present disclosure. These and other features and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description of the present embodiment(s), taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It will be readily understood that the components of the present embodiments, as generally described and illustrated in the Figures herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the apparatus, system, method, and computer program product of the present embodiments, as presented in the Figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments, as claimed, but is merely representative of selected embodiments.

Reference throughout this specification to “a select embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “another embodiment,” “other embodiments,” or “an embodiment” and similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “a select embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “in one embodiment,” “another embodiment,” “other embodiments,” or “an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment.

Many areas of peoples' daily lives include using a plurality of fungible items and materials, i.e., consumable commodities that are normally stored within individual storage units. These consumable commodities are used with some periodicity that may be irregular. For example, for a home kitchen where one or more family members bake, sugar is used occasionally. Irregular usage is typically accompanied with irregular observations of the quantity of sugar remaining. Therefore, the inventory is either actively managed to maintain some minimum inventory of sugar, or otherwise, some family member wanting sugar for any reason may be disappointed if the inventory of sugar has been depleted. Similarly, non-culinary consumable commodities for other residential purposes, such as cleaning materials and lubricants, may also be used irregularly and are susceptible to inadvertent exhaustion. Moreover, non-residential entities, such as, and without limitation, retailers of the residential commodities, office environments, service organizations, and maintenance facilities may also be reliant upon mechanisms for maintaining a satisfactory inventory of the many consumable commodities required for their businesses that occasionally may be neglected.

A system, computer program product, and method are disclosed and described herein for smart storage units using Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities. The system includes a storage unit that is used to contain a consumable and fungible commodity. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of storage units as described herein are positioned proximate each other, each storage unit with a different commodity therein. In one or more embodiments, more than one of the storage units contains a similar, or identical, commodity. In one or more embodiments, the plurality of storage units are positioned in a plurality of areas. Each of the storage units include a container portion that may have any geometrical configuration that enables the embodiments disclosed herein, including, without limitation, at least one or more of partially cylindrical and partially rectangular features. Each of the container portions includes a wall to contain the commodity, one or more level scales with predetermined level units inscribed thereon adjacent the wall to indicate a level of the commodity within the container portion, and a neck to receive a smart cap. In at least one embodiment, the wall is opaque to visible light. The wall defines an interior storage cavity that is configured to store the commodity. The storage units are sold by retailors for many grocery items.

The smart cap is a portion of the storage unit that is configured to be mechanically and removably coupled to the container portion at the neck of the container portion. In at least some embodiments, each smart cap includes a storage unit antenna for communication with external devices such as a robot (described further herein). The smart cap also includes a processing device with an embedded light-weight operating system for execution of all of the functions of the smart cap, as described further herein. The smart cap includes a plurality of cameras and a plurality of interior lamps. In addition, the smart cap includes one or more high energy capacitive devices coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) cell. The storage unit antenna is communicatively coupled to the processing device. The high energy capacitive devices are electrically coupled to the plurality of cameras, the plurality of interior lamps, the storage unit antenna, and the processing device. The processing device is communicatively coupled to the plurality of cameras and the plurality of interior lamps.

The system also includes a robot that includes a motive transport device, that is in at least one embodiment, a plurality of steerable wheels. The robot also includes one or more object handling devices that are in at least one embodiment, one or more arms. The robot also includes a robot antenna that may be communicatively coupled with the storage unit antenna. The robot further includes a robot lamp that is configured to illuminate the PV cell on the smart cap. The robot also includes an internal computer system that includes a memory device, a processing device, and a communications device, all communicatively coupled to each other.

A local/cloud network is configured to be communicatively coupled to the robot. The local/cloud network includes at least one network antenna. In addition, the local/cloud network includes a computer system that includes a processing device, memory device, and communications device, all communicatively coupled to each other. The local/cloud network is configured to communicate with at least one retailer through the cloud.

In operation, the smart cap is configured to be a passive device that is triggered by one of several events, where one such event is a robot/drone energizing the smart cap through non-contact energy means (primarily light) through illuminating the storage unit PV cell with light emanating from the robot lamp. Another potential event is the storage unit being opened through removal of the smart cap from the neck and the smart cap is left on a counter or other place where there is sufficient light and for a sufficient period of time (e.g., several seconds). Once the smart cap is properly repositioned on the neck, the high energy capacitive devices are sufficiently charged to boot up the dormant processing device to an active state with a light weight operating system. The booted processing device establishes communications with the robot through the storage unit and robot antennas. The high energy capacitive devices are also sufficiently charged to energize the plurality of interior lamps to illuminate the interior storage cavity of the container portion. The plurality of cameras are configured to capture images of the interior storage cavity when the cap is positioned on the container portion, and specifically, the level of the commodity as indicated by the level scales. These images are transmitted from the cameras to the processing device for further transmission to the robot. The images are transmitted to the robot through the storage unit antenna and the robot antenna. Accordingly, the robot is both an energy intermediary and a communications intermediary to the storage unit.

The robot processes and translates the image data received from the smart cap into information with respect to the present inventory in the storage unit. The robot transmits the image data to the local/cloud network through the robot and network antennas. The local/cloud network processes the information received from the robot and makes a first determination with respect to whether the imaged inventory level is below a predetermined threshold value. If the inventory level is not below the threshold value, the operation is complete for this commodity. If the inventory level for the commodity is below the threshold value, the network makes a second determination as to whether the container portion is empty. In addition, the captured image data of the inventory has sufficient clarity such that the local/cloud network will determine the nature of any remaining portions of the commodity. If the container portion is not empty, the robot removes the smart cap from the container portion, empties the remaining contents into a predetermined collection device, and places the empty container portion in a reserved area for the container portions. If the container portion is empty, the robot removes the smart cap from the container portion and places the empty container portion in the reserved area.

There are a number of operations that may be performed once the empty container portion is placed in the reserved area. In one embodiment, the local network orders a replacement container portion of the commodity from a retailer. The amount of the commodity ordered does not necessarily have to be a standard unit or standard units, i.e., any amount may be ordered. The retailer will arrive at the reserved area with the filled container portions ordered that have a temporary seal over the neck to protect the contents, pick up the empty container portion, and replace it with the filled, replacement container portion.

In another embodiment, the network orders any amount from the retailer and the retailer will pick up the empty container portions, transport them back to the retailer facility, wash and sterilize the container portions, refill the clean container portions, apply the seals, and return them to the reserved area.

In yet another embodiment, the network notifies the user that an empty container unit has been placed in the reserved area. The user then returns the empty container portion to the retailer that washes and sterilizes the container portions, and returns the cleaned container portions to the user. The user selects the commodities and the amounts to fill the container portions, and either the retailer or the user fills and seals the container portions, and the user returns the container portions to the reserved area.

Regardless of how the filled container portions arrive at the reserved area, the robot removes the seal on each container portion, places a smart cap on the container portion to restore the storage unit, and places the storage unit in the proper location. In at least one embodiment, any smart cap that is configured for the container portion may be used.

The interrogation of the storage units by the robot may be scheduled with any frequency that suits the user. For example, the robot may be programmed to perform the inventory at the same time every day. In addition, if the smart cap is placed in a sufficiently lighted area, the images of the contents therein may be taken by the cameras and either transmitted to the robot if the robot is within transmission distance, or store the image data until the robot is within range. Moreover, an inventory may be triggered through the user communicating directly through the local/cloud network.

The smart caps may be available in multiple sizes and configurations, and the necks of the container units may be configured to accept only particular configurations of the smart caps to facilitate proper imaging of the respective cavity with respect to the level scale, the interior lamps illumination cones, and the camera perspectives. The smart caps are content-neutral in that the processing devices of the smart caps are not programmed with any commodity-specific data, and the image data is not combined with content detail data until the robot uploads the image data to the network. Accordingly, the smart caps as described herein are interchangeable, within the limits of the coupling compatibilities, without any prior association with the contents of the storage units.

The use of refillable containers facilitates a reduction of use of plastic and paper bags, thereby providing at least some environmental benefits.

Referring toFIG.1, a schematic diagram is provided illustrating a portion of a computing platform100, i.e., a computer system100suitable for using smart storage units102and Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities. The computer system100includes a storage unit102that includes a container portion104and a smart cap106. The container portion104includes a neck110that is configured to receive the smart cap106through a mechanical coupling that includes, without limitation, a threaded coupling, one or more snap couplings, and a friction fit (neither shown). The container portion104also includes a wall112that, in at least some embodiments, is sufficiently opaque to facilitate capturing internal images of the container portion104while decreasing interference from external light. In at least some embodiments, the wall112is substantially opaque to substantially prevent transmittance of light therethrough. In embodiment shown inFIG.1, the wall112of the container portion104is cylindrical with a flat floor114. In at least some embodiments, the wall112and floor114include one or more configurations including, without limitation, at least one or more of partially cylindrical and partially rectangular features. In other embodiments, the wall112and the floor114include any geometrical configuration that enables the embodiments of the computer system100as disclosed herein.

The wall112is further configured to at least partially define an interior storage cavity116that is configured to store a commodity118therein. In at least one embodiment, the geometry of the interior storage cavity116is substantially similar to the outside geometries of the wall112and the floor114. In some embodiments, the geometry of the interior storage cavity116is substantially cylindrical or rectangular regardless of the geometries of the wall112and floor114. In at least one embodiment, the commodity118is consumable and fungible. In at least some embodiments, the commodity118is a baking or cooking ingredient such as, and without limitation, curry, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and olive oil. In some embodiments, the commodities118are individually stored in individual storage units102. In some embodiments, the commodities118are mixtures of two or more pure commodities118, for example, and without limitation, a variety of commonly used spices in combination such as oregano and basil and garlic in olive oil. In some embodiments, the commodities118are not ingestible, for example, and without limitation, motor oil, grass seed, weed killer, and particular nuts or bolts. Therefore, the commodity118may be either solid or liquid, with a solid shown inFIG.1. Also, in some embodiments, the commodity118is not fungible. For example, in some embodiments, the commodity118has an expiration date, and therefore, mixing various batches of the commodity118together may be inadvisable. In some embodiments, the commodity118is used with a regular frequency. In at least some embodiments, the commodity118is used irregularly or infrequently.

In at least some embodiments, the interior storage cavity116includes one or more level measurement scales120positioned therein. The level measurement scales120are positioned and configured to provide a visual measurement of the commodity118within the interior storage cavity116. In at least one embodiment, the level measurement scales120include predetermined level units in the form of markings or inscriptions thereon that indicate a present level of the commodity118. In some embodiments, the level indications120are numerical, with the numerals being simply sequential integers without reference to particular volume measurements, and numerals with reference to specific volumetric increments. In at least some embodiments, the level indications120are monochromatic in color, where the color of the level indications120are visually contrasted to the walls112, the floor114, and the commodity118. In at least one embodiment, the level indications120include a plurality of differently colored blocks, where each color is indicative of a volumetric measurement.

The smart cap106includes at least one external energy generation source130, such as, and without limitation a photovoltaic (PV) cell130configured to convert photonic energy received thereon to direct current (DC) electrical current at a predetermined voltage. In at least one embodiment, the PV cell130is configured to generate an electrical current within a range of approximately 100 milliampere (mA) to approximately 500 mA within a voltage range of approximately 4 volts DC to approximately 12 volts DC. The smart cap106also includes an electrical power storage device, that, in at least one embodiment, includes one or more high energy capacitive devices132. The high energy capacitive devices132are coupled in electrical communication with the PV cell130. The smart cap also includes at least one first processing device134, i.e., a smart cap processing device134. The smart cap processing device134includes a light-weight operating system (OS) (as discussed further herein) loaded thereon, where the smart cap processing device134includes sufficient processing capacity and onboard memory storage (not shown) to enable the smart cap106to operate as described further herein. In some embodiments, the onboard memory storage is non-volatile flash memory. In some embodiments, the smart cap106includes a separate memory device.

The smart cap106further includes one or more interior lamps136(two shown) to act as an interior light source for illuminating at least a portion of the commodity118and capturing images of the commodity118. In at least one embodiment, the interior lamps136include light-emitting diode (LED) lamps to provide the predetermined level of lumens for a predetermined period of time. The interior lamps136are configured to generate a light beam138with a predetermined angle Θ of photon emission at a predetermined photon intensity such that the installed number of interior lamps136are sufficient to illuminate the remaining commodity118, at least most, if not all, of the level scales120, and the floor114within the interior storage cavity116.

In addition, the smart cap106includes one or more imaging devices, i.e., cameras140(three shown), where each camera includes an aperture142(only one labeled for clarity). Each camera140is configured to capture an image of the remaining commodity118and the level scales120. In one embodiment, each camera140is configured to capture a portion of the remaining commodity118and the level scales120, and the separate images are combined in a subsequent operation. Moreover, the smart cap106includes a storage unit antenna144configurate to transmit information. In at least some embodiments, the storage unit antenna144is configured to transmit-only to preserve the finite energy resources. In some other embodiments, the storage unit antenna144is configured to transmit and receive. In some embodiments, the storage unit antenna144is omnidirectional. In some other embodiments, the storage unit antenna144is directional, where a directional antenna may facilitate lower energy usage for transmission, thereby preserving the finite energy supply. In some embodiments, the storage unit antenna144includes selectable features, either automated or operator-directed, between an omnidirectional state and a directional state as a function of the location of the target of the transmission (as discussed further herein).

In one or more embodiments, the plurality of storage units102are positioned in a plurality of areas. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of storage units102as described herein are positioned proximate each other, where each storage unit102is at least partially filled with a different commodity118therein. In one or more embodiments, more than one of the storage units102contains a similar, or identical, commodity118.

In at least one embodiment, the computer system100includes a mobile assistant, i.e., a robot150. The robot150includes a robot antenna152that is configured to obtain operable communication with the storage unit antenna144. The robot antenna152is configured to transmit and receive. For example, the robot antenna152is configure to receive image data154from the storage unit antenna144. For those embodiments where the storage unit antenna144is configured to receive transmissions from the robot150, the robot antenna152is configured to transmit to the storage unit antenna144. In some embodiments, the robot antenna152is omnidirectional. In some other embodiments, the robot antenna152is directional, where a directional antenna may facilitate lower energy usage for transmission, thereby preserving a finite energy supply. In some embodiments, the robot antenna152includes selectable features, either automated or operator-directed, between an omnidirectional state and a directional state as a function of the location of the target of the transmission, i.e., the storage unit antenna144.

The robot150includes one or more external lighting devices, i.e., robot lamps156(only one shown). The one or more robot lamps156are configured to transmit a light beam158to illuminate the PV cell130with sufficient luminosity to energize the electrical power storage device132with sufficient electrical energy to enable operation of the smart cap106as described herein. The robot150also includes a second processing device160, i.e., a robot processing device160, a first memory device162, i.e., a robot memory device162, and a first communications device164, i.e., a robot communications device164, where the robot processing device160, the robot memory device162, and the robot communications device164are communicatively coupled to each other, and the robot communications device164is communicatively coupled to the robot antenna152.

In at least one embodiment, the robot150includes one or more object handling devices, i.e., robot arms166(only one shown) that are configured to remove the smart cap106from the container portion104and to pick up, empty, and carry the container portion104. The robot arms166include the necessary articulation, grasping, and strength features required to enable the robot arms166to operate as described herein. The robot150further includes the transport features necessary to enable the mobility of the robot150to execute the tasks as described herein. In some embodiments, the robot150includes a plurality of wheels168, where the wheels168are configured to provide the robot150with turning features suitable for use in residential and commercial establishments, regardless of the configuration of those spaces. The robot150includes an onboard power supply (not shown) that is any device that provides the robot150with sufficient electrical power to enable operation of the robot150as described herein.

Referring toFIG.2, a schematic diagram is provided illustrating a magnified view of a portion of the computer system200. Also, referring toFIG.1, the computer system200includes the storage unit202that includes the container portion204and the smart cap206, where the smart cap206is shown magnified from smart cap106inFIG.1. The high energy capacitive devices232are electrically coupled to the PV cell230and DC electric power270is transmitted from the PV cell230to the high energy capacitive devices232. The PV cell230receives the light beam258from the robot lamp256and converts the photonic energy into electric power270. The luminescence of the light beam258is sufficient to illuminate the PV cell230for approximately several seconds and transmit sufficient energy to the smart cap206to execute the operations as described herein. In at least some embodiments, the time frame for illuminating the PV cell is approximately 10 seconds to approximately 30 seconds. Alternatively, in some embodiments the time from for illuminating the PV cell230is any period of time that enables operation of the storage unit202as described herein.

The high energy capacitive devices232are electrically coupled to the smart cap processing device234, the interior lamps236, and the cameras240. Therefore, the smart cap processing device234, the interior lamps236, and the cameras240all receive a portion of the electric power270.

The smart cap processing device234is configured to receive the electric power270that energizes the smart cap processing device234that initiates the associated booting sequence, thereby transitioning the smart cap106from a dormant state to an active state. A light-weight operating system embedded within the smart cap processing device234is booted. The term “light-weight” refers to the amount of coded instructions resident therein, where there are only sufficient instructions to perform the tasks described herein. Once the tasks are completed, and the energy within the high energy capacitive devices232is depleted, the operating system places the smart cap processing device234into the dormant state from the active state and the smart cap206remains a passive device. When the smart cap processing device234is fully booted and functional, the smart cap processing device234performs the actions necessary to establish communications with the robot250through the storage unit antenna244and the robot antenna252. The smart cap processing device234transmits instructions272to the plurality of cameras240and the interior lamps236. In some embodiments, the cameras240and the interior lamps236transmit reports274to the smart cap processing device234that the assigned tasks per the instructions272are completed, or not completed.

In addition, the smart cap processing device234captures inventory data of the contents, i.e., the commodity118within the container portion204of the storage unit202. To capture the inventory data of the commodity118, the smart cap processing device234energizes the plurality of interior lamps236to illuminate the interior storage cavity216of the container portion204. Specifically, the interior lamps236are configured to generate the light beam238with the predetermined angle Θ of photon emission at a predetermined photon intensity such that the installed number of interior lamps236are sufficient to illuminate the remaining commodity118, at least most, if not all, of the level scales120, and the floor114within the interior storage cavity216.

Moreover, the smart cap processing device234energizes the plurality of cameras240that are configured to capture images of the interior storage cavity216, and specifically, the level of the commodity118as indicated by the level scales120that is illuminated by the light beams238. Specifically, the apertures242of the cameras240open to capture light rays276reflected from the wall112, floor114, commodity118, and the level scales120within an aperture angle1. The cameras240are configured to capture the image data with sufficient clarity that the remaining contents within the are visually discernable. Once the images are transmitted to the smart cap processing device234, the smart cap processing device234transmits the image data to the robot250through the storage unit antenna244to the robot antenna252as image data transmissions254. In some embodiments, the robot250will acknowledge receipt of the image data transmissions254to the smart cap processing device234. Upon completion of transmitting the image data transmissions254, the smart cap processing device234deenergizes the cameras240and interior lamps236, and returns to a dormant state from the active state.

In at least some embodiments, and as shown inFIG.2, the smart cap206includes one or more pressure sensors290. In at least some other embodiments, the one or more pressure sensors290are positioned on the neck210(not shown). Regardless of the precise location of the pressure sensors290, the pressure sensors290are positioned and oriented on either (or both) the smart cap206and/or the neck210in any manner that enables operation of the smart cap206as described herein. As described further herein, the pressure sensors290act as a permissive to facilitate preventing the smart cap206from capturing images when not securely coupled to the neck210of the container portion204. In at least one embodiment, the pressure sensors290have piezoelectric features that enable the pressure sensors290to operate as pressure switches (as described further herein). The pressure sensors290are communicatively coupled to the processing device234(coupling not shown for clarity) and have sufficient voltage generating capacity to transmit a threshold signal (not shown for clarity) to operate as a permissive signal to the processing device234such that the smart cap206is sufficiently positioned on and secured to the neck210such that images may be successfully captured with minimal intrusion of outside light. Accordingly, the smart cap206includes features to prevent operation of the cameras240through mere exposure of the PV cell230to ambient light with the smart cap206removed from the neck210during routine user access to the commodity118, or in the circumstances where the smart cap206has been improperly affixed to the neck210.

Referring again toFIG.1, the robot antenna152is configured to receive the image data154from the smart cap106. The image data154are transmitted to the communications device164that converts the image data154to image data178that is transmitted to the robot processing device160. The robot processing device160receives the image data178that includes the one or more images of the one or more measurement scales120and analyzes the images to verify adequacy of the image data. In some embodiments, if the image data178is corrupted or otherwise inadequate, the robot150may be instructed through the robot processing unit160to re-execute the capturing of the images from that particular storage unit102. In at least some embodiments, the processed image data180is saved in the robot memory device162for further use as described herein.

In some embodiments, the robot150includes a plurality of robot lamps156to facilitate energizing a plurality of smart caps106simultaneously. Similarly, the robot antenna152is configured to receive a plurality of streams of image data154, where each of image data154includes one or more identification tags embedded therein to reduce a potential of mixing the image data154. Accordingly, the robot150is both an energy intermediary and a communications intermediary to the storage unit102.

Referring toFIG.3, a schematic diagram is provided illustrating another portion of the computer system300suitable for using smart storage units and Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities. The computer system300includes a local/cloud network308that is communicatively coupled to the robot350. The local/cloud network308includes a third processing device324, i.e., a network processing device324, a second memory device326, i.e., a network memory device326, and a second communications device328, i.e., a network communications device328. The network processing device324, the network memory device326, and the network communications device328are communicatively coupled to each other. The local/cloud network308also includes a network antenna346that is communicatively coupled to the communications device328. The network antenna346is also communicatively coupled to the robot antenna352. the communications device328is further communicatively coupled to one or more material suppliers, e.g., and without limitation, retail establishments382through the cloud384. In some embodiments, the network antenna346is omnidirectional. In some other embodiments, the network antenna346is directional, where a directional antenna may facilitate lower energy usage for transmission, thereby preserving the finite energy supply. In some embodiments, the network antenna346includes selectable features, either automated or operator-directed, between an omnidirectional state and a directional state as a function of the location of the target of the transmission (as discussed further herein).

Referring toFIGS.1and3, in at least one embodiment, the robot arms366and the robot wheels368of the robot350are in operable communication with the robot processing device360. The robot processing device360drives the wheels368of the robot350to the vicinity of the network antenna346through instructions388. The robot processing device360is also configured to transmit the image data354to the network processing device324from the robot memory device362, the robot processing device360, the robot communications device364, the robot antenna352, the network antenna346, and the network communications device328. The network processing device324is configured to receive the image data354and determine if the inventory of the commodity118is at or below a predetermined threshold. If the inventory of the commodity118is above the predetermined threshold, no further action will be taken. In addition, the network processing device324is configured to analyze the image data354to determine the identity of the respectively commodity118for reordering purposes.

If the inventory of the commodity118is at or below the predetermined threshold, the network processing device324is configured to determine the interior storage cavity116requires filling with additional commodity118. The network processing device324will transmit a commercial order386to the retail establishment382through the cloud384. The commercial order386for the additional commodity118may be any amount, including amounts that are not standard units, for example, and without limitation, 0.63 kilograms (kg) and 1.77 liters. In some embodiments, the commercial order386may only request a filling of the container portion104with the amount of the commodity118to be determined at filling. The network processing device324will transmit a plurality of instructions388to the robot350through the network antenna346and the robot antenna352to the robot memory device362for processing by the robot processing device360. The instructions388cause the robot processing device360to direct the robot wheels368to transport the robot350to the proximate location of the smart cap106that has remained coupled to the neck110of the storage unit102. The instructions388further cause the robot350to direct the robot arms366to uncouple the smart cap106from the container portion104. Moreover, the instructions388direct the robot arms366and the robot wheels368to transport the container portion104to a predetermined, reserved location (not shown) for transport to the retail establishment382. Once the container portion104is positioned at the predetermined, reserved location, the robot350will either enter the dormant state, or perform similar tasks for other storage units102. In at least one embodiment, the robot350has taken the inventories of all predetermined storage units102and has communicated all such inventories to the local/cloud network308such that a complete order386is transmitted to the retail establishment382.

When the container portions104are returned to the reserved area after filling (discussed further herein), and subject to a notification of a return of the container portions104to the reserved area, the robot150is directed to the reserved area, transport the container portions104to the proximate location of the smart cap106, remove any temporary sealing devices (e.g., without limitation, a cellophane cover), and use the robot arms166to couple the container cap106to the container portion104and place the storage unit102back to the proper location with the PV cell130oriented for successful illumination by the robot lamps156in a subsequent operation.

Referring toFIG.4, a flow chart is presented illustrating a process400for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities. The process400includes installing402a smart cap106on a storage unit102. Also referring toFIGS.1-3, in at least one embodiment, the robot150is typically in a dormant state. In at least one embodiment, the computer system100is configured to perform an inventory on a predetermined basis. The interrogation of the storage units102by the robot150may be scheduled with any frequency that suits the user. For example, the robot150may be programmed to perform the inventory at the same time every day. The robot150enters an active state from a dormant state, travels to the storage units102, and the robot150illuminates404the smart cap106and the smart cap106converts the photonic energy from the light beam158on the PV cell130as described herein.

In at least some embodiments, the smart cap106is exposed406to ambient light when the storage unit102, and specifically, the smart cap106is positioned in ambient light. When the PV cell130of the smart cap106is placed in a sufficiently lighted area, while remaining coupled to the container portion104, the images of the contents therein may be taken by the cameras140and either transmitted to the robot150if the robot150is within transmission distance, or store the image data154within a non-volatile portion of the smart cap processing device134, e.g. and without limitation, onboard memory storage that in at least some embodiments, is non-volatile flash memory. In some embodiments, the image data154is stored within a separate memory device. If the smart cap106is permitted to reenter its dormant state, the image data will be stored until the robot150is within range. This alternative operation provides for opportunities to take an immediate inventory when the storage unit102is opened by the user to remove a portion of the commodity118from the container portion104and the smart cap106is restored. As described elsewhere herein, the smart cap106(206inFIG.2) includes one or more pressure sensors290that are positioned on either of (or both) the smart cap106and the neck110to sense proper engagement between the smart cap106and the neck110. These pressure sensors290facilitate this alternative operation while preventing operation of the cameras140while the smart cap106is removed from the neck110as discussed further herein.

The process400includes a determination408made with respect to the smart cap106being energized. If there is a negative response to the determination operation408, it is an indication that the PV cell130is not charging the high energy capacitive devices132, and the lack of a response from the smart cap106after a predetermined period of time, the process400returns to the illumination operation404. A positive response to the determination operation408results in a determination410if the smart cap106is adequately secured to the neck110through the pressure sensors290. A positive response to the determination operation410is indicative of the pressure sensors290sensing sufficient pressure thereon to generate at least the threshold voltage that is transmitted to the processing unit134. The receipt of the appropriate voltage signals by the processing unit134results in a permissive to allow the process400to proceed to the smart cap106energizing and initiating a boot412of the smart cap processing device134. In at least one embodiment, when the smart cap processing device134is fully booted and functional, the smart cap processing device134performs the actions necessary to establish communications with the robot150through the storage unit antenna144and the robot antenna152.

In the event of a negative response to the determination operation410, the process400returns to either of the operations404and406. The negative response to the determination operation410is indicative of the smart cap106not sufficiently secured to the neck110such that the voltage from the pressure sensors290does not attain the threshold value to provide the permissive for booting of the processing unit134.

In at least one embodiment, the storage unit102is located in its usual location when the robot executes the illumination operation404. If the smart cap106is not correctly affixed to the neck110, the PV cell130device will be sufficiently charged to boot up412the processing unit134, but as the pressure sensors290are not mechanically stressed to a sufficient pressure, the processing device134will abort the boot process412. In some embodiments, there is sufficient logic embedded within the processing unit134such that to initiate the boot process operation412, it is verified that the voltage threshold permissive is transmitted from the pressure sensors290to indicate that the smart cap106is properly engaged with the neck110. In at least some embodiments, only one pressure sensor290is used. In at least one other embodiment, two or more pressure sensors290are used and the permissive logic is either configured in parallel for just one of the permissive threshold voltage signals necessary to be received to initiate the boot process412, or configured in series to require all permissive threshold voltage signals necessary to be received to initiate the boot process412.

Regardless, if the logic fails due to lack of receipt of the permissive signals, the boot process will abort and no signals will be sent to the robot150. In this case, when no smart cap106-to-robot150communication is established, the robot150includes sufficient programming to properly affix the smart cap106to the neck110. In addition, the robot150is not programmed to immediately act to properly affix the smart cap150as there is a possibility that user is removing the commodity118from the container portion104. Under such conditions, the smart cap106is placed on the counter surface (or similar location) where sufficient light to illuminate the PV cell130is received. However, the pressure sensors290cannot even partially indicate engagement since the smart cap106and the neck110are fully separated from each other, even though there is sufficient energy within the PV cell130to initiate the boot process412of the processing device134. Hence the robot150will be programmed to act only after certain iterations of the boot process operation410failing. For example, in at least one embodiment, after10iterations of the operation406(or operation404) to the operation410loop, where the boot process operation412fails, the robot150will go and check the status of the smart cap150and the neck110and will correct any tightness deficiencies if the smart cap106and the neck are not properly engaged. The most likely cause of this scenario may be the circumstances where a user has opened the storage unit102to take out some commodity118present in the container portion104and has not affixed the smart cap106on the neck110tightly enough for the pressure sensors290to induce the threshold voltage to generate the permissive to boot up the processing device134. Alternatively, the user may not have properly affixed the smart cap106to the neck110.

The process400continues with capturing414one or more images of the commodity118. The interior lamps136generate the light beam138to illuminate the remaining commodity118, at least most, if not all, of the level scales120, and the floor114within the interior storage cavity116. Each camera140is configured to capture a portion of the remaining commodity118and the level scales120. The captured commodity image data154is transmitted416from the storage unit antenna144to the robot antenna152. The quality and clarity of the commodity image data154is sufficient to facilitate identification of the material features of the remaining commodity118. In at least one embodiment, the commodity image data154will be erased when the smart cap106shifts to the dormant state. Once the commodity image data154is received by the robot150, the robot processing device160analyzes418the commodity image data154and translates the commodity image data into communicable information with respect to the inventory of the commodity118. Specifically, the communications device164converts the image data154to image data178that is transmitted to the robot processing device160.

The process400proceeds to a determination420if all of the storage units102that are to inspected have in fact been inspected. For a negative response to the determination operation420, the operations404through420will be repeated for each storage unit102. A positive response to the determination operation420results in the process400proceeding to the robot150travelling to the network antenna346to transmit422the image data354to the network antenna346of the local/cloud network308from the robot antenna152.

The local/cloud network308processes424the received image data354In at least one embodiment, the network processing device324identifies426the respective commodity118through analysis of the received image data354. The received image data354includes image data of sufficient quality that the network processing device324distinguishes the respective commodity118from all other commodities. In at least some embodiments, the network processing device324includes sufficient cognitive learning features to enable learning of subtle distinguishing characteristics of the varying commodities. For example, and without limitation, the network processing device354discerns liquids from solids, powders from granules, colors, textures, and shapes to accurately identify the respective commodity118. Further, for example, and without limitation, the network processing device324distinguishes between curry powder and seasoned salt granules, cold breakfast cereal from oatmeal, baking soda from baking powder, and bread crumbs from corn meal. The commodity identification features of the local/cloud network308through analyzing the received image data354facilitates the interchangeability of the caps106, since the caps106are not directly associated with any one commodity118. Accordingly, identification of the respective commodity118by the local/cloud network308to facilitate proper ordering is performed.

The network processing device324executes a determination428as to whether the recorded inventories of the commodities118are at or below their predetermined and respective threshold levels. A negative response to the determination operation428results in no further action taken and the process400ends. In some embodiments, the robot150will return to it's predetermined resting area and shift from the active state to the dormant state until the next inventory cycle is initiated.

A positive response to the determination operation428results in the process400proceeding to a determination operation430if the associated container portions104are completely empty. A positive response to the determination operation430results in the network processing device324transmitting a plurality of instructions388to the robot350through the network antenna346and the robot antenna352to the robot memory device362for processing by the robot processing device360. The instructions388cause the robot processing device360to direct the robot wheels368to transport the robot350to the proximate location of the smart cap106that has remained coupled to the neck110of the storage unit102. The instructions388further cause the robot350to direct the robot arms366to uncouple432the smart cap106from the container portion104. Moreover, the instructions388direct the robot arms366and the robot wheels368to transport432the container portion104to a predetermined location (reserved area) (not shown) for transport to the retail establishment382. Once the container portion104is positioned at the reserved area, the robot350will either enter a quiet, or dormant state, or perform similar tasks for other storage units102. A negative response to the determination operation430results in a similar result as the positive response with the principle difference being that the instructions388to the robot350include using the robot arms366to empty434any remaining contents in the respective container portion104into a predetermined receptacle (not shown) for future disposal or use.

In some embodiments, the operations432and434also include placing the smart cap106into a reserved area where the PV cell130will not be exposed to sufficient ambient light to attempt to initiate a boot of the processing device134, that will fail due to the lack of permissive signals from the pressure sensors290.

There are a number of operations that may be performed once the empty container portion104is placed in the reserved area by the robot150per operations432and434. In at least one embodiment, the service provided by the retail establishment382dovetails with the activities of the computer system100to seamlessly maintain the inventories of the various commodities118above the threshold level with replacement, from the perspective of the user, and with no direct interaction with the user. The local/cloud network308orders434a replacement container portion104of the commodity118from the retail establishment382. In some embodiments, the local/cloud network308has transmitted a complete order386to the retail establishment382for a plurality of container portions104. The amount of the commodity ordered does not necessarily have to be a standard unit or standard units, i.e., any amount may be ordered.

A representative of the retail establishment382will arrive at the reserved area with the ordered filled container portions104that have a temporary seal over the neck110to protect the commodity118contents, pick up438the empty container portions104, and replace them with the filled, replacement container portions104. In at least one embodiment, the retail establishment382notifies the local/cloud network308through the cloud384that the replacement container portions104are positioned at the reserved area. Subject to such notification, the robot150is transported to the reserved area by the robot wheels168to use the robot arms166to transport the filled container portion104to the proximate location of the smart cap106. The robot150removes440a temporary seal positioned over the neck110of the container portion104and couples, through the one or more robot arms166, the smart cap106to the container portion104. Once the respective storage unit102is reassembled by the robot150, the instructions388to the robot150include instructions to place the storage unit102back to the proper location with the PV cell130oriented for successful illumination by the robot lamps156in a subsequent operation. Subsequently, once all of the storage units102are properly placed, the process400ends.

In at least some embodiments, once the empty container portions104are placed in the reserved area by the robot150per operations432and434, the service provided by the retail establishment382again dovetails seamlessly, from the perspective of the user, and with no direct interaction with the user, with the activities of the computer system100to maintain the inventories of the various commodities118above the threshold level with replacement. The local/cloud network308orders442replacement commodities118from the retail establishment382. In some embodiments, the local/cloud network308has transmitted a complete order386to the retail establishment382for a plurality of replacement commodities118. The amount of the commodity ordered does not necessarily have to be a standard unit or standard units, i.e., any amount may be ordered.

A representative of the retail establishment382will arrive at the reserved area, pick up444the empty container portions104, transport the empty container portions104to a cleaning facility, wash and sterilize the empty container portions104, refill them with the respective commodities118, place a seal over each of the necks110to protect the commodity118contents, and return the refilled container portions104to the reserved area. In at least one embodiment, the retail establishment382notifies the local/cloud network308through the cloud384that the replacement container portions104are positioned at the reserved area. Subject to such notification, the robot150is transported to the reserved area by the robot wheels168to use the robot arms166to transport the filled container portion104to the proximate location of the smart cap106. The robot150removes440the temporary seal and couples, through the one or more robot arms166, the smart cap106to the container portion104. Once the respective storage unit102is reassembled by the robot150, the instructions388to the robot150include instructions to place the storage unit102back to the proper location with the PV cell130oriented for successful illumination by the robot lamps156in a subsequent operation. Subsequently, once all of the storage units102are properly placed, the process400ends.

In at least some embodiments, once the empty container portions104are placed in the reserved area by the robot150per operations432and434, the local/cloud network308notifies446the user through any mechanism the user typically uses to communicate with the local/cloud network308, including, without limitation, the cloud384. The user collects the empty container portions104and returns448them to the retail establishment. The retail establishment washes450and sterilizes the empty container portions104and returns them to the user. The user selects452the material, or commodity118and the amount to be purchased. The amount of the commodity ordered does not necessarily have to be a standard unit or standard units, i.e., any amount may be ordered. The user refills them with the respective commodities118, places a temporary seal over each of the necks110to protect the commodity118contents, and returns the refilled container portions104to the reserved area. In at least one embodiment, the user notifies the local/cloud network308through the cloud384that the replacement container portions104are positioned at the reserved area. Subject to such notification, the robot150is transported to the reserved area by the robot wheels168to use the robot arms166to transport the filled container portion104to the proximate location of the smart cap106. The robot150removes436the temporary seal and couples, through the one or more robot arms166, the smart cap106to the container portion104. Once the respective storage unit102is reassembled by the robot150, the instructions388to the robot150include instructions to place the storage unit102back to the proper location with the PV cell130oriented for successful illumination by the robot lamps156in a subsequent operation. Subsequently, once all of the storage units102are properly placed, the process400ends.

In addition to residential uses, the embodiments of the storage units102facilitate similar improvements in retail operations. For example, and without limitation, bakeries and pizza outlets may use the storage units102for the non-perpetual ingredients such as flour and sugar, as compared to perpetual ingredients such as water. The process400for using automation to manage the inventories decreases the efforts of the human resources for the businesses, facilitates improved inventory estimations, usage rates, and wastage. Further retail embodiments include use in large retail stores, where, for example, automated inventory management as disclosed herein facilitates a reduction in the volume of overstock of particular stock keeping units (SKUs), thereby facilitating more effective use of limited floor and shelf space, especially with respect to SKUs of different, non-standard, or large sizes and shapes. Also, as described herein, increases the flexibility in ordering non-standard quantities by the retail establishment on a larger scale and the customers on a smaller scale. Furthermore, with respect to grocery stores, the embodiments described herein may be extended to fruits and vegetables according to the customer's usage of such items, thereby decreasing wastage and the associated costs. Moreover, with respect to the grocery store embodiments, the costs of packaging by the suppliers of the commodities may be reduced, thereby providing at least some economic advantages to the vendors. In addition, many consumers will benefit from the more economical quantities and the retail establishments will benefit from sales that they may not otherwise have experienced.

Aspects of the computer system100may be embodied in a computer system/server in a single location, or in at least one embodiment, may be configured in a cloud-based system sharing computing resources. With reference toFIG.5, a block diagram is provided illustrating an example of a computer system500including a computer/server502, hereinafter referred to as a host502in communication with a cloud based support system, to implement the system, tools, and processes described above with respect toFIGS.1-4. Host502is operational with numerous other general purpose or special purpose computer system environments or configurations. Examples of well-known computer systems, environments, and/or configurations that may be suitable for use with host502include, but are not limited to, personal computer systems, server computer systems, thin clients, thick clients, hand-held or laptop devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, set top boxes, programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputer systems, mainframe computer systems, and file systems (e.g., distributed storage environments and distributed cloud computing environments) that include any of the above systems, devices, and their equivalents.

As shown inFIG.5, host502is shown in the form of a general-purpose computing device. The components of host502may include, but are not limited to, one or more processors or processing devices or units504, e.g. hardware processors, a system memory506, and a bus508that couples various system components including system memory506to processing device504. Bus508represents one or more of any of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. By way of example, and not limitation, such architectures include Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus, Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) local bus, and Peripheral Component Interconnects (PCI) bus. Host502typically includes a variety of computer system readable media. Such media may be any available media that is accessible by host502and it includes both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media.

Memory506can include computer system readable media in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM)530and/or cache memory532. By way of example only, a storage system534can be provided for reading from and writing to a non-removable, non-volatile magnetic media (not shown and typically called a “hard drive”). Although not shown, a magnetic disk drive for reading from and writing to a removable, non-volatile magnetic disk (e.g., a “floppy disk”), and an optical disk drive for reading from or writing to a removable, non-volatile optical disk such as a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM or other optical media can be provided. In such instances, each can be connected to bus808by one or more data media interfaces.

Program/utility540, having a set (at least one) of program modules542, may be stored in memory506by way of example, and not limitation, as well as an operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data. Each of the operating systems, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data or some combination thereof, may include an implementation of a networking environment. Program modules542generally carry out the functions and/or methodologies of embodiments as described inFIGS.1-4.

Host502may also communicate with one or more external devices514, such as a keyboard, a pointing device, etc.; a display524; one or more devices that enable a user to interact with host502; and/or any devices (e.g., network card, modem, etc.) that enable host502to communicate with one or more other computing devices. Such communication can occur via Input/Output (I/O) interface(s)522. Still yet, host502can communicate with one or more networks such as a local area network (LAN), a general wide area network (WAN), and/or a public network (e.g., the Internet) via network adapter520. As depicted, network adapter520communicates with the other components of host502via bus508. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of nodes of a distributed file system (not shown) is in communication with the host502via the I/O interface522or via the network adapter520. It should be understood that although not shown, other hardware and/or software components could be used in conjunction with host502. Examples, include, but are not limited to: microcode, device drivers, redundant processing units, external disk drive arrays, RAID systems, tape drives, and data archival storage systems, etc.

In this document, the terms “computer program medium,” “computer usable medium,” and “computer readable medium” are used to generally refer to media such as main memory506, including RAM530, cache memory532, and storage system534, such as a removable storage drive and a hard disk installed in a hard disk drive.

Computer programs (also called computer control logic) are stored in memory506. Computer programs may also be received via a communication interface, such as network adapter520. Such computer programs, when run, enable the computer system to perform the features of the present embodiments as discussed herein. In particular, the computer programs, when run, enable the processing device504to perform the features of the computer system500. As such, computer programs may represent controllers of the computer system500.

In at least one embodiment, host502is a node of a cloud computing environment. It is to be understood that although this disclosure includes a detailed description on cloud computing, implementation of the teachings recited herein are not limited to a cloud computing environment. Rather, embodiments of the present disclosure are capable of being implemented in conjunction with any other type of computing environment now known or later developed.

Characteristics are as follows:

Service Models are as follows:

Deployment Models are as follows:

Referring now toFIG.6, a schematic diagram is provided illustrating an example cloud computing network600. As shown, cloud computing network600includes a cloud computing environment650having one or more cloud computing nodes610with which local computing devices used by cloud consumers may communicate. Examples of these local computing devices include, but are not limited to, personal digital assistant (PDA) or cellular telephone654A, desktop computer654B, laptop computer654C, and/or automobile computer system654N. Individual nodes within nodes610may further communicate with one another. They may be grouped (not shown) physically or virtually, in one or more networks, such as Private, Community, Public, or Hybrid clouds as described hereinabove, or a combination thereof. This allows the cloud computing network600to offer infrastructure, platforms and/or software as services for which a cloud consumer does not need to maintain resources on a local computing device. It is understood that the types of computing devices654A-N shown inFIG.6are intended to be illustrative only and that the cloud computing environment650can communicate with any type of computerized device over any type of network and/or network addressable connection (e.g., using a web browser).

Referring now toFIG.7, a set of functional abstraction layers700provided by the cloud computing network ofFIG.7is shown. It should be understood in advance that the components, layers, and functions shown inFIG.7are intended to be illustrative only, and the embodiments are not limited thereto. As depicted, the following layers and corresponding functions are provided: hardware and software layer710, virtualization layer720, management layer730, and workload layer740.

The hardware and software layer710include hardware and software components. Examples of hardware components include mainframes; RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture-based servers; servers; blade servers; storage devices; networks and networking components. Examples of software components include network application server software, and database software.

Workloads layer740provides examples of functionality for which the cloud computing environment may be utilized. Examples of workloads and functions which may be provided from this layer include, but are not limited to: mapping and navigation; software development and lifecycle management; virtual classroom education delivery; data analytics processing; transaction processing; and smart storage units using Internet of things (IoT) technology, and, more specifically, for substantially end-to-end autonomous management of consumable commodities.

It will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein. Accordingly, the scope of protection of the embodiments is limited only by the following claims and their equivalents.