Carla Devette Rogers

US Patent:

8442876, May 14, 2013

Filed:

Nov 17, 2008

Appl. No.:

12/272568

Inventors:

Carla Rogers - Dillon SC, US
Ken Parker - Florence SC, US
Steve Jewell - Hartsville SC, US
Matthew Milligan - Cades SC, US

Assignee:

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. - Tokyo
Midwest Express Inc. - East Liberty OH

International Classification:

G06Q 10/00

US Classification:

705 28, 705 11

Abstract:

A computerized system and method for managing a returnable container inventory and repairs of the returnable containers. The computerized system and method has features and functionality for tracking and managing repairs of special returnable containers that comprise multiple parts. The computerized system and method supports tracking of containers through a distribution network and management of data related to repairs performed on returnable containers as well as the spare parts that are used to repair the containers. Special handling features support removal of the containers from the distribution network for a variety of reasons. Report features allow a shipper to determine the status of containers throughout the distribution network, to view data related to the container and spare parts inventory, and to manage the container inventory using data collection and analysis features.

US Patent:

8463426, Jun 11, 2013

Filed:

Oct 29, 2009

Appl. No.:

12/608699

Inventors:

Carla Rogers - Dillon SC, US
Veronica Harden - Florence SC, US
Nancy Baker - Florence SC, US
Kazuhiko Honda - Florence SC, US

Assignee:

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. - Tokyo
Midwest Express Inc. - East Liberty OH

International Classification:

G06F 7/00

US Classification:

700215, 701469, 235375

Abstract:

A computerized bulk parts control system and method. Parts are repacked (consolidated or divided) and palletized to prevent production problems such as unnecessary shortages of parts. Parts are traced from departure at a supplier's facility to arrival at a manufacturer's facility and then to production line side delivery. Traceability data is collected at various stages in the parts transportation, repacking, and delivery processes. The traceability data allows the manufacturer to evaluate information regarding the impact of late shipments and short shipments as well as changes in the production schedule. The computerized system and method creates a “part history” for each part that facilitates its delivery to the right place at the right time. The history allows the manufacturer to trace parts to their origins which is important for many quality control activities. The history also allows the manufacturer to track and replace parts used outside of a normal production sequence.