1. An automated supply chain management system comprising: a blockchain network with distributed ledgers configured to securely record, verify, and timestamp supply chain transactions; an Internet of Things (IoT) module configured to collect data from a plurality of IoT devices situated throughout a supply chain, wherein said data comprises at least location, condition, and identity data of goods within the supply chain; a processor interfaced with the blockchain network and the IoT module, configured to: execute smart contracts on the blockchain network, wherein said smart contracts are activated in response to predefined criteria based on the data received from the IoT module; orchestrate automated actions within the supply chain based on the outcome of the executed smart contracts; a database in communication with the processor, storing predefined rules and parameters for the execution of the smart contracts, wherein the rules define conditions and thresholds related to supply chain events; a user interface configured to allow supply chain stakeholders to view real-time data, blockchain transaction histories, and to customize the predefined rules stored in the database; a communication module to enable interoperability between different blockchain platforms and legacy supply chain management systems; and an analytics engine configured to process and analyze the data received from the IoT module to generate insights, forecasts, and alerts related to supply chain performance and potential disruptions.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the IoT module is further configured to communicate with said IoT devices using an end-to-end encrypted communication protocol.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the blockchain network utilizes a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus algorithm to validate and verify supply chain transactions.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the user interface provides visualization tools for mapping the movement and condition of goods within the supply chain in real-time.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the analytics engine employs machine learning algorithms to predict potential supply chain disruptions based on historical data and real-time IoT inputs.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the smart contracts automatically initiate payment transactions to stakeholders once predefined delivery or quality criteria, as detected by the IoT devices, are met.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the communication module supports bridging functionalities to facilitate data exchange between multiple blockchain networks.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the database is a decentralized database distributed across multiple nodes in the blockchain network, ensuring data redundancy and resilience against failures.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the IoT devices include sensors for temperature, humidity, vibration, and light exposure, allowing for detailed condition monitoring of perishable goods in the supply chain.

10. A method for automated supply chain management, comprising the steps of: collecting data from a plurality of IoT devices situated throughout a supply chain using an IoT module, wherein said data comprises location, condition, and identity data of goods; recording and verifying supply chain transactions on a blockchain network with distributed ledgers; processing said data with a processor interfaced with the blockchain and IoT module; executing smart contracts on the blockchain network based on predefined criteria from the data received, wherein the smart contracts orchestrate automated actions within the supply chain; storing predefined rules and parameters for smart contract execution in a database; displaying real-time data and transaction histories to supply chain stakeholders through a user interface; and analyzing the data using an analytics engine to provide insights and forecasts related to supply chain operations. BLOCKCHAIN AND IOT BASED MODEL FOR AUTOMATED SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT Abstract The disclosure details an automated supply chain management system integrating blockchain and IoT technologies. This system leverages distributed ledgers to securely record and validate supply chain transactions. An IoT module gathers data from diverse devices, capturing details such as location, condition, and identity of goods. A processor executes smart contracts on the blockchain, automating supply chain actions based on data-driven criteria. The system also incorporates a database for rule storage, a user interface for data visualization and customization, and an analytics engine. This holistic approach enhances transparency, accuracy, and efficiency in supply chain operations. , Claims:Claims :

1. An automated supply chain management system comprising: a blockchain network with distributed ledgers configured to securely record, verify, and timestamp supply chain transactions; an Internet of Things (IoT) module configured to collect data from a plurality of IoT devices situated throughout a supply chain, wherein said data comprises at least location, condition, and identity data of goods within the supply chain; a processor interfaced with the blockchain network and the IoT module, configured to: execute smart contracts on the blockchain network, wherein said smart contracts are activated in response to predefined criteria based on the data received from the IoT module; orchestrate automated actions within the supply chain based on the outcome of the executed smart contracts; a database in communication with the processor, storing predefined rules and parameters for the execution of the smart contracts, wherein the rules define conditions and thresholds related to supply chain events; a user interface configured to allow supply chain stakeholders to view real-time data, blockchain transaction histories, and to customize the predefined rules stored in the database; a communication module to enable interoperability between different blockchain platforms and legacy supply chain management systems; and an analytics engine configured to process and analyze the data received from the IoT module to generate insights, forecasts, and alerts related to supply chain performance and potential disruptions.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the IoT module is further configured to communicate with said IoT devices using an end-to-end encrypted communication protocol.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the blockchain network utilizes a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus algorithm to validate and verify supply chain transactions.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the user interface provides visualization tools for mapping the movement and condition of goods within the supply chain in real-time.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the analytics engine employs machine learning algorithms to predict potential supply chain disruptions based on historical data and real-time IoT inputs.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the smart contracts automatically initiate payment transactions to stakeholders once predefined delivery or quality criteria, as detected by the IoT devices, are met.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the communication module supports bridging functionalities to facilitate data exchange between multiple blockchain networks.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the database is a decentralized database distributed across multiple nodes in the blockchain network, ensuring data redundancy and resilience against failures.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the IoT devices include sensors for temperature, humidity, vibration, and light exposure, allowing for detailed condition monitoring of perishable goods in the supply chain.

10. A method for automated supply chain management, comprising the steps of: collecting data from a plurality of IoT devices situated throughout a supply chain using an IoT module, wherein said data comprises location, condition, and identity data of goods; recording and verifying supply chain transactions on a blockchain network with distributed ledgers; processing said data with a processor interfaced with the blockchain and IoT module; executing smart contracts on the blockchain network based on predefined criteria from the data received, wherein the smart contracts orchestrate automated actions within the supply chain; storing predefined rules and parameters for smart contract execution in a database; displaying real-time data and transaction histories to supply chain stakeholders through a user interface; and analyzing the data using an analytics engine to provide insights and forecasts related to supply chain operations.

Description:BLOCKCHAIN AND IOT BASED MODEL FOR AUTOMATED SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
Field of the Invention
[0001] The invention pertains to supply chain management systems, specifically utilizing a combination of blockchain technology and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to automate and enhance supply chain operations and transparency.
Background
[0002] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] The modern-day supply chain is a complex web of producers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Managing this intricate system requires constant monitoring, verification, and tracking of goods as they pass through various stages. Historically, supply chains have relied on centralized systems, which are prone to inefficiencies, vulnerabilities, and data inaccuracies. Furthermore, the manual tracking of products, often involving paper records, introduces delays, errors, and a lack of real-time transparency.
[0004] Blockchain, a decentralized and distributed ledger technology, has emerged as a transformative solution, providing a secure, transparent, and tamper-proof way of recording transactions. It offers an immutable record, ensuring the integrity of data once stored. Smart contracts, self-executing contracts with the agreement between buyer and seller written directly into code, have been pivotal in blockchain’s application in various sectors, allowing for predefined actions to be executed automatically.
[0005] In parallel, the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized data collection with the capability of continuous and remote monitoring. With IoT devices becoming more advanced, their application in the supply chain presents opportunities for real-time data gathering on goods' location, condition, and identity. However, integrating this vast amount of data from IoT devices with blockchain has presented challenges, primarily in terms of processing, scalability, and communication between legacy systems.
[0006] There is a growing need for a comprehensive system that seamlessly merges the robustness and security of blockchain with the real-time data collection prowess of IoT to bring about a revolution in supply chain management.
[0007] All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.
[0008] It also shall be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. This invention can be achieved by means of hardware including several different elements or by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the unit claims that list several means, several ones among these means can be specifically embodied in the same hardware item. The use of such words as first, second, third does not represent any order, which can be simply explained as names.
Summary
[0009] The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
[00010] The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
[00011] The invention pertains to supply chain management systems, specifically utilizing a combination of blockchain technology and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to automate and enhance supply chain operations and transparency.
[00012] In an embodiment, the disclosed system seamlessly blends blockchain technology's power with the data collection capabilities of IoT. A blockchain network, using distributed ledgers, functions as the backbone of the system, ensuring secure, transparent, and immutable record-keeping of all supply chain transactions.
[00013] In an embodiment, an IoT module acts as the primary data collector, interfacing with multiple IoT devices situated throughout the supply chain. This module gathers diverse data sets, including but not limited to the location, condition, and identity of goods, creating a real-time snapshot of the supply chain.
[00014] In an embodiment, the system houses a processor which, when interfaced with both the blockchain and the IoT module, becomes a powerhouse for decision-making. This processor is tailored to execute smart contracts that activate based on specific criteria derived from the IoT data. The outcome of these smart contracts orchestrates various automated actions within the supply chain, streamlining operations and ensuring that every action is backed by verified data.
[00015] In an embodiment, a specialized database is in communication with the processor. This database is not just a storage space but also a rulebook. It meticulously stores predefined rules and parameters essential for the precise execution of smart contracts. These rules set the conditions and thresholds tied to numerous supply chain events, ensuring that the system's response is always in line with organizational objectives.
[00016] In an embodiment, the system features a user interface, designed keeping in mind the needs of supply chain stakeholders. This interface allows users to dive deep into real-time data, inspect blockchain transaction histories, and even customize the predefined rules in the database, offering a blend of transparency, control, and customization.
[00017] In an embodiment, recognizing the heterogeneity of supply chain systems, a communication module is integrated. This module bridges the gap between different blockchain platforms and traditional supply chain management systems, ensuring interoperability and smooth data exchange.
[00018] In an embodiment, the system is not just about data collection and execution but also about foresight. An analytics engine, built into the system, processes and analyzes the deluge of data from the IoT module. This engine doesn't just report but predicts. Using advanced algorithms, it generates insights, forecasts, and alerts related to supply chain performance, ensuring that stakeholders are always a step ahead of potential disruptions.
[00019] In an embodiment, the method disclosed herein provides a blueprint for revolutionary supply chain management. By harmonizing data collection, secure record-keeping, automation, and advanced analytics, this method paves the way for a future where supply chains are not just managed but optimized to perfection.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[00020] The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
[00021] FIG. 1 illustrates an automated supply chain management system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a method for automated supply chain management, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
[00022] In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
[00023] The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
[00024] Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
[00025] The invention pertains to supply chain management systems, specifically utilizing a combination of blockchain technology and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to automate and enhance supply chain operations and transparency.
[00026] FIG. 1 illustrates an automated supply chain management system 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The automated supply chain management system 100 comprises a blockchain network 102, an Internet of Things (IoT) module 104, a processor 106, a database 108, a user interface 110, a communication module 112 and an analytics engine 114.
[00027] In an embodiment, a transformative approach to modern supply chain management is introduced, harnessing the combined capabilities of blockchain technology and the Internet of Things (IoT). The blockchain, renowned for its secure, immutable, and transparent nature, serves as a backbone, ensuring that every transaction within the supply chain is not only recorded but also verified and timestamped. This brings about an unprecedented level of accountability and traceability to supply chain operations, a sector historically plagued by inaccuracies, fraud, and inefficiencies.
[00028] In an embodiment, an IoT module is integrated, designed to function as the system's eyes and ears. This module, sophisticated in its capabilities, interfaces with multiple IoT devices strategically positioned throughout the supply chain. These devices, which can range from simple RFID tags to advanced sensors, continuously collect a plethora of data. Notably, the data encapsulates the location, condition, and identity of goods as they journey through the supply chain. This constant flow of real-time data ensures that stakeholders are never in the dark about the whereabouts or the status of their goods.
[00029] In an embodiment, a specialized processor plays a pivotal role, acting as the brain of the system. This processor, while interfaced with both the blockchain network and the IoT module, takes on a multitude of responsibilities. One of its primary functions involves the execution of smart contracts on the blockchain network. These smart contracts, self-executing pieces of code, are designed to activate upon the fulfillment of predefined criteria based on the data received from the IoT module. For instance, if an IoT device detects that a shipment has reached its destination and is in the desired condition, a smart contract could automatically trigger a payment, reducing the need for manual intervention and accelerating the transaction process.
[00030] In an embodiment, the processor is further equipped to orchestrate a myriad of automated actions within the supply chain, all based on the outcome of the executed smart contracts. Imagine a scenario where a shipment of perishable goods is detected, via IoT sensors, to be deviating from required temperature parameters. A smart contract could automatically instruct a rerouting of the shipment to the nearest warehouse or facility, ensuring the goods are salvaged and losses minimized.
[00031] In an embodiment, a robust database is in continuous communication with the processor. But this isn’t any ordinary database. It is tasked with storing an assortment of predefined rules and parameters essential for the smart contracts' flawless execution. These rules act as guidelines, setting conditions and thresholds related to various supply chain events. For instance, a rule might dictate the acceptable temperature range for a shipment of pharmaceuticals, and should this range be breached, the associated smart contract would initiate predefined corrective actions.
[00032] In an embodiment, the system is made complete with a user interface, meticulously designed to cater to the diverse needs of supply chain stakeholders. Through this interface, users can delve into real-time data, retracing the steps of every product through blockchain transaction histories. Moreover, in a nod to customization, users have the ability to tweak and adjust the predefined rules stored in the database. This ensures that the system remains flexible, accommodating the evolving needs of businesses.
[00033] In an embodiment, acknowledging the diverse landscape of supply chain systems and the varying technologies they employ, a communication module is incorporated. This module is no mere translator but a bridge, enabling seamless interoperability between different blockchain platforms and even legacy supply chain management systems. With this, businesses can adopt the proposed system without the daunting prospect of overhauling their existing infrastructure.
[00034] In an embodiment, the system doesn’t just stop at data collection and transaction execution. It looks ahead. An analytics engine, a culmination of advanced algorithms and computational prowess, diligently processes and scrutinizes the data pouring in from the IoT module. This engine is capable of offering insights that transcend mere observations. It forecasts, predicting potential supply chain disruptions based on historical data juxtaposed with real-time IoT inputs. Stakeholders receive timely alerts, arming them with the foresight to preemptively tackle challenges before they escalate into crises.
[00035] In a use-case scenario, consider a pharmaceutical company shipping temperature-sensitive vaccines across continents. As the shipment embarks on its journey, IoT sensors within the packaging constantly monitor the temperature, feeding this data to the system. As the vaccines traverse different geographies, the blockchain records every transaction, from the truck driver taking custody of the shipment to its transfer to an airplane's cargo hold. Midway through the journey, the IoT sensors detect a temperature anomaly, indicating potential exposure to conditions that might render the vaccines ineffective. Instantly, a smart contract is activated, rerouting the shipment to the nearest facility for verification. Simultaneously, stakeholders are alerted via the user interface, with the analytics engine suggesting potential causes for the anomaly based on historical data. Upon reaching the destination and passing all quality checks, another smart contract executes, automatically initiating payment to the shipping company. All this while, every stakeholder, from the vaccine manufacturer to the end distributor, has complete visibility into the process, with every transaction immutably recorded on the blockchain.
[00036] In an embodiment concerning the IoT module's communication capabilities, paramount importance is placed on data security. Recognizing the sensitive nature of supply chain information and the potential repercussions of breaches, the IoT module is enhanced to communicate with the affiliated IoT devices using an end-to-end encrypted communication protocol. This encryption ensures that the data, from the moment it's captured by the IoT device to its final destination within the system, remains shielded from unauthorized access. Even if intercepted during transmission, the data would remain incomprehensible, safeguarding the integrity of the supply chain and the privacy of stakeholders.
[00037] In an embodiment focusing on the blockchain network's consensus mechanism, the system leverages the proof-of-stake (PoS) algorithm to validate and verify supply chain transactions. Unlike the energy-intensive proof-of-work mechanisms, PoS offers a more sustainable and efficient alternative. In this setup, validators are chosen to create new blocks based on the number of coins they hold and are willing to "stake" or lock up as collateral. This not only speeds up transaction verification but also reinforces the network's security, ensuring that every supply chain transaction recorded is both accurate and trustworthy.
[00038] In an embodiment detailing the user interface's capabilities, visualization tools are integrated to enhance user comprehension and engagement. Recognizing that raw data can often be overwhelming, the interface transforms this data into intuitive visual representations. Stakeholders can map the real-time movement and condition of goods within the supply chain, witnessing their journey through interactive charts, graphs, and even geospatial displays. Such visualization not only offers a snapshot of the present but, when juxtaposed with historical data, can also highlight patterns and trends, aiding in decision-making.
[00039] In an embodiment emphasizing predictive capabilities, the analytics engine is supercharged with machine learning algorithms. Moving beyond mere data analysis, this engine delves into prediction. By sifting through historical data and juxtaposing it with real-time inputs from IoT devices, the system can forecast potential supply chain disruptions. For instance, if a particular shipping route consistently experiences delays during a specific month, the engine could proactively alert stakeholders in advance, allowing them to preemptively adjust their strategies.
[00040] In an embodiment pertaining to transaction automation, the system's smart contracts are designed to further reduce manual interventions. Once the IoT devices detect that specific delivery or quality criteria have been met, the smart contracts can autonomously initiate payment transactions to the relevant stakeholders. This ensures that suppliers or service providers are promptly compensated upon fulfillment of their obligations, fostering trust and streamlining operations within the supply chain ecosystem.
[00041] In an embodiment centered on the communication module, bridging functionalities are incorporated to champion data exchange between multiple blockchain networks. Recognizing the heterogeneous nature of blockchain platforms in the industry, this module acts as a conduit, facilitating seamless communication and data transfer between disparate networks. Such functionality ensures that the system remains versatile, accommodating various blockchain architectures without necessitating major overhauls or adjustments.
[00042] In an embodiment focused on data storage, the system employs a decentralized database architecture. Unlike traditional centralized databases, which are susceptible to single points of failure, this database is distributed across multiple nodes within the blockchain network. Such distribution not only ensures data redundancy, mitigating data loss risks, but also bolsters the system's resilience against potential failures, ensuring uninterrupted supply chain operations.
[00043] In an embodiment spotlighting the diversity of IoT devices, the system is compatible with a range of sensors, each tailored to monitor specific conditions. These include sensors for temperature, humidity, vibration, and light exposure. Especially crucial for perishable goods within the supply chain, such detailed condition monitoring ensures that products like fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, or sensitive electronics are consistently maintained within their optimal conditions, minimizing wastage and maximizing quality upon delivery.
[00044] FIG. 2 illustrates a method 200 for automated supply chain management, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. AT step 202, the process initiates with the IoT module gathering data from a network of IoT devices strategically deployed throughout the supply chain. These devices provide critical information about the goods being transported, including location, condition, and identity data. At step 204, the collected data is then recorded on a blockchain network with distributed ledgers. This blockchain serves as an immutable ledger, ensuring transparency and security in all supply chain transactions. Each transaction is verified and time-stamped, creating an indisputable record. At step 206, the data collected from IoT devices is processed by a dedicated processor interfaced with both the blockchain and IoT module. This processor is equipped to handle the data efficiently, preparing it for subsequent actions based on the blockchain's distributed ledger. At step 208, based on predefined criteria derived from the received data, smart contracts are executed on the blockchain network. These smart contracts are programmed to autonomously trigger specific actions within the supply chain. They facilitate automated decision-making and execution of tasks. At step 210, predefined rules and parameters governing the execution of smart contracts are stored in a dedicated database. These rules serve as the guiding principles for the smart contracts, dictating their behavior and actions in response to specific data inputs. At step 212, supply chain stakeholders are provided with access to real-time data and transaction histories through a user-friendly interface. This interface allows stakeholders to monitor the progress of goods, track their conditions, and view the status of various transactions within the supply chain. At step 214, the collected data is subjected to comprehensive analysis using an advanced analytics engine. This engine evaluates the data to extract valuable insights and generate forecasts related to supply chain operations. These insights can be used to optimize processes, enhance efficiency, and make informed decisions.
[00045] Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
[00046] Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘Artificial intelligence (AI)’ as used herein relates to any mechanism or computationally intelligent system that combines knowledge, techniques, and methodologies for controlling a bot or other element within a computing environment. Furthermore, the artificial intelligence (AI) is configured to apply knowledge and that can adapt it-self and learn to do better in changing environments. Additionally, employing any computationally intelligent technique, the artificial intelligence (AI) is operable to adapt to unknown or changing environment for better performance. The artificial intelligence (AI) includes fuzzy logic engines, decision-making engines, preset targeting accuracy levels, and/or programmatically intelligent software.
[00047] Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘processing means’ or ‘microprocessor’ or ‘processor’ or ‘processors’ includes, but is not limited to, a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor).
[00048] The term “non-transitory storage device” or “storage” or “memory,” as used herein relates to a random access memory, read only memory and variants thereof, in which a computer can store data or software for any duration.
[00049] Operations in accordance with a variety of aspects of the disclosure is described above would not have to be performed in the precise order described. Rather, various steps can be handled in reverse order or simultaneously or not at all.
[00050] While several implementations have been described and illustrated herein, a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein may be utilized, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the implementations described herein. More generally, all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, implementations may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims
I/We Claim:
1. An automated supply chain management system comprising:
a blockchain network with distributed ledgers configured to securely record, verify, and timestamp supply chain transactions;
an Internet of Things (IoT) module configured to collect data from a plurality of IoT devices situated throughout a supply chain, wherein said data comprises at least location, condition, and identity data of goods within the supply chain;
a processor interfaced with the blockchain network and the IoT module, configured to:
execute smart contracts on the blockchain network, wherein said smart contracts are activated in response to predefined criteria based on the data received from the IoT module;
orchestrate automated actions within the supply chain based on the outcome of the executed smart contracts;
a database in communication with the processor, storing predefined rules and parameters for the execution of the smart contracts, wherein the rules define conditions and thresholds related to supply chain events;
a user interface configured to allow supply chain stakeholders to view real-time data, blockchain transaction histories, and to customize the predefined rules stored in the database;
a communication module to enable interoperability between different blockchain platforms and legacy supply chain management systems; and
an analytics engine configured to process and analyze the data received from the IoT module to generate insights, forecasts, and alerts related to supply chain performance and potential disruptions.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the IoT module is further configured to communicate with said IoT devices using an end-to-end encrypted communication protocol.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the blockchain network utilizes a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus algorithm to validate and verify supply chain transactions.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the user interface provides visualization tools for mapping the movement and condition of goods within the supply chain in real-time.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the analytics engine employs machine learning algorithms to predict potential supply chain disruptions based on historical data and real-time IoT inputs.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the smart contracts automatically initiate payment transactions to stakeholders once predefined delivery or quality criteria, as detected by the IoT devices, are met.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the communication module supports bridging functionalities to facilitate data exchange between multiple blockchain networks.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the database is a decentralized database distributed across multiple nodes in the blockchain network, ensuring data redundancy and resilience against failures.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the IoT devices include sensors for temperature, humidity, vibration, and light exposure, allowing for detailed condition monitoring of perishable goods in the supply chain.
10. A method for automated supply chain management, comprising the steps of:
collecting data from a plurality of IoT devices situated throughout a supply chain using an IoT module, wherein said data comprises location, condition, and identity data of goods;
recording and verifying supply chain transactions on a blockchain network with distributed ledgers;
processing said data with a processor interfaced with the blockchain and IoT module;
executing smart contracts on the blockchain network based on predefined criteria from the data received, wherein the smart contracts orchestrate automated actions within the supply chain;
storing predefined rules and parameters for smart contract execution in a database;
displaying real-time data and transaction histories to supply chain stakeholders through a user interface; and
analyzing the data using an analytics engine to provide insights and forecasts related to supply chain operations.

BLOCKCHAIN AND IOT BASED MODEL FOR AUTOMATED SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
Abstract
The disclosure details an automated supply chain management system integrating blockchain and IoT technologies. This system leverages distributed ledgers to securely record and validate supply chain transactions. An IoT module gathers data from diverse devices, capturing details such as location, condition, and identity of goods. A processor executes smart contracts on the blockchain, automating supply chain actions based on data-driven criteria. The system also incorporates a database for rule storage, a user interface for data visualization and customization, and an analytics engine. This holistic approach enhances transparency, accuracy, and efficiency in supply chain operations. , Claims:Claims
I/We Claim:
1. An automated supply chain management system comprising:
a blockchain network with distributed ledgers configured to securely record, verify, and timestamp supply chain transactions;
an Internet of Things (IoT) module configured to collect data from a plurality of IoT devices situated throughout a supply chain, wherein said data comprises at least location, condition, and identity data of goods within the supply chain;
a processor interfaced with the blockchain network and the IoT module, configured to:
execute smart contracts on the blockchain network, wherein said smart contracts are activated in response to predefined criteria based on the data received from the IoT module;
orchestrate automated actions within the supply chain based on the outcome of the executed smart contracts;
a database in communication with the processor, storing predefined rules and parameters for the execution of the smart contracts, wherein the rules define conditions and thresholds related to supply chain events;
a user interface configured to allow supply chain stakeholders to view real-time data, blockchain transaction histories, and to customize the predefined rules stored in the database;
a communication module to enable interoperability between different blockchain platforms and legacy supply chain management systems; and
an analytics engine configured to process and analyze the data received from the IoT module to generate insights, forecasts, and alerts related to supply chain performance and potential disruptions.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the IoT module is further configured to communicate with said IoT devices using an end-to-end encrypted communication protocol.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the blockchain network utilizes a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus algorithm to validate and verify supply chain transactions.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the user interface provides visualization tools for mapping the movement and condition of goods within the supply chain in real-time.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the analytics engine employs machine learning algorithms to predict potential supply chain disruptions based on historical data and real-time IoT inputs.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the smart contracts automatically initiate payment transactions to stakeholders once predefined delivery or quality criteria, as detected by the IoT devices, are met.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the communication module supports bridging functionalities to facilitate data exchange between multiple blockchain networks.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the database is a decentralized database distributed across multiple nodes in the blockchain network, ensuring data redundancy and resilience against failures.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the IoT devices include sensors for temperature, humidity, vibration, and light exposure, allowing for detailed condition monitoring of perishable goods in the supply chain.
10. A method for automated supply chain management, comprising the steps of:
collecting data from a plurality of IoT devices situated throughout a supply chain using an IoT module, wherein said data comprises location, condition, and identity data of goods;
recording and verifying supply chain transactions on a blockchain network with distributed ledgers;
processing said data with a processor interfaced with the blockchain and IoT module;
executing smart contracts on the blockchain network based on predefined criteria from the data received, wherein the smart contracts orchestrate automated actions within the supply chain;
storing predefined rules and parameters for smart contract execution in a database;
displaying real-time data and transaction histories to supply chain stakeholders through a user interface; and
analyzing the data using an analytics engine to provide insights and forecasts related to supply chain operations.