STORAGE DEVICE AND ITEM MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Field of the Invention

[001] The present invention relates to storage devices and item management systems for the storage and monitoring of items such as, for example, tools or parts thereof.

Background

[002] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[003] In many industries, and in particular the airline industry, it is necessary to monitor the usage of tools. At first instance it is important to ensure that tools are stored correctly such that they are readily accessible between coworkers. It is also important to know if a tool is missing or has not been replaced at its storage location such that appropriate measures can be taken to ensure the tool has not unknowingly been left within any machinery. For example, leaving a tool or part thereof in the engine of an aeroplane may have disastrous consequences. Some tools also require routine calibration, such as, for example, torque wrenches.

[004] In the past, people have sought to monitor the usage of tools in several ways. One method is via the use of RFID, wherein each tool is provided with an RFID tag. However this can be onerous to implement as each tool has to be tagged, and furthermore, the tag itself may physically interfere with usage and/or storage of the tool. Some RFID systems also require the tools to be scanned before being placed in their storage position, or that they be stored in a certain orientation to be read effectively/accurately. RFID tags may also be damaged if a tool is dropped.

[005] Other approaches/systems use cameras to take images of the tools and then compare the images against stored reference images (e.g. using RGB or other data). These systems are expensive to implement and do not account for any modifications made to the tools by workers such as, for example, the wrapping of tape around a handle for comfort.

[006] The present invention seeks to address some of the above mentioned issues associated with the monitoring and storage of tools and other items.

Summary of the Invention

[007] In a first broad form the present invention provides a storage device including: at least one item storage location; and at least one sensor for detecting a parameter indicative of the presence or absence of an item at the at least one item storage location.

[008] In one form, the storage device includes at least one indicator to indicate the presence, absence, removal or replacement of an item at one or more of the at least one item storage location/s based on information received from the at least one sensor.

[009] In another form, the at least one indicator includes a visual indicator.

[0010] In one form, the at least one sensor is configured to detect electromagnetic radiation.

[0011] In a further form, the at least one sensor is a visual light sensor.

[0012] In one form, the at least one sensor includes a visual light sensor positioned at the at least one item storage location such that when an item is stored at the at least one item storage location light is substantially blocked from reaching the sensor and when an item is removed from the at least one item storage location light is substantially permitted to reach the sensor.

[0013] In one form, the at least one sensor is at least one infrared sensor. [0014] In one form, an infrared emitter and corresponding infrared sensor are positioned at the at least one item storage location such that when an item is stored at the at least one item storage location infrared light from the emitter is substantially blocked from reaching the sensor and when an item is removed from the at least one item storage location infrared light from the emitter is substantially permitted to reach the sensor.

[0015] In one form, the storage device further includes a processing system configured to process information received from the at least one sensor.

[0016] In one form, the processing system is configured to generate and store a transaction record each time an item is removed or replaced at any one of the at least one item storage locations.

[0017] In a further form, the storage device includes an input device for receiving user identity information.

[0018] In one form, the input device is an identity card reader.

[0019] In a further form, the processing system is configured to receive user identity information from the input device and validate it against a stored database of authorized user identity information.

[0020] In one form, the at least one item storage location is situated within at least one closable compartment, the at least one compartment being movable between an open configuration, wherein item/s can be removed or replaced, and a closed configuration, wherein the item storage locations are not accessible.

[0021] In a further form the storage device includes a locking mechanism to lock the at least one compartment in the closed configuration.

[0022] In one form, the processing system is configured to control the locking mechanism such that when the identity of a user is validated as an authorized user, the at least one compartment is unlocked.

[0023] In another form, each time an item is removed from one of the at least one item storage locations, the processing system assigns the item to the user.

[0024] In a further form moving the at least one compartment from the open configuration to the closed configuration initiates a status determination process during which visual light or infrared light is emitted within the container and information from the at least one sensor used to determine the presence or absence of items at each one of the at least one item storage location.

[0025] In one form, based on the status determination process, the visual indicator is configured to display a first status indicator if all of the least one item storage locations are full and a second status indicator if any one of the at least one storage items are empty.

[0026] In another form, the visual indicator is a display screen.

[0027] In one form, based on the status determination process, the display screen is configured to display device status information or item transaction log information.

[0028] In one form, the processing system includes a communications interface for transmission of data to one or more peripheral devices.

[0029] In one form, the processing system includes a touch screen computer or tablet.

[0030] In a further form, each of the at least one item storage locations is configured to store a particular item.

[0031] In one form, each item storage location is shaped to fit a particular item. [0032] In one form, the storage device is a tool cabinet storage device.

[0033] In another form, the processing system is configured to generate and display a calibration alert when an item is due for calibration based on information received by a user or a pre set calibration interval.

[0034] In one form, each transaction record includes, item information and user identity information.

[0035] In one preferred form, the at least one item storage location is situated within a container and the visual indicator is at least one light element on the outside of the container.

[0036] In one form, moving the container from an open configuration to a closed configuration initiates a status determination process during which an artificial light source is activated within the container, information from the at least one sensor thereby used to determine the presence or absence items at each one of the at least one item storage locations.

[0037] In a further form, the light element is configured to display a first colour if all of the least one item storage locations are full and a second colour if any of the at least one item storage location are empty.

[0038] In one form, the container is a tool box.

[0039] In a further broad form the present invention provides a storage device including; at least one item storage location including an infrared or visual light sensor such that when an item is stored at the at least one item storage location infrared or visual light is substantially blocked from reaching the sensor and when an item is removed from the at least one item storage location visual light/infrared light is substantially permitted to reach the sensor; and a processing module configured to process information received from the at least one sensor and generate item transaction log information; and a communication module for transmitting item transaction log information to a server.

[0040] In a further broad form the present invention provides an item management system including: one or more storage devices as claimed in claim 31; a server configured to receive and store item transaction log information from the one or more storage devices ;a peripheral user processing system configured to receive transaction log information from the server.

[0041] In one form, the user processing system is configured to permit a user to generate and transmit transaction log information to the server or edit transaction log information stored on the server.

[0042] In another form, the user processing system is a mobile communication device.

[0043] In one form, the mobile communication device is an internet enabled smart phone, tablet or PC.

Brief description of the Drawings

[0044] This invention may be better understood with reference to the illustrations of embodiments of the invention in which:

Figure 1 is an example of a generic processing system which may be implemented with a storage device;

Figure 2 is a component schematic of one example of a storage device when embodied as a tool cabinet;

Figure 3 is one example of a storage device when embodied as a tool cabinet;

Figure 4 is an overview of an item management system configuration, including a storage device;

Figure 5 shows a decision tree for operation of the user interface of one example of the storage device. Detailed Description

[0045] Embodiments of the present invention provide a storage device including at least one item storage location. The storage device includes at least one sensor for detecting a parameter indicative of the presence or absence of an item at the at least one item storage location. Thus the at least one sensor is essentially configured to detect the removal and replacement of items from the storage device.

[0046] The storage device typically includes at least one indicator to indicate the presence, absence, removal or replacement of an item at one or more of the at least one item storage location/s based on information received from the at least one sensor. In most instances, the at least one indicator includes a visual indicator such as display screen or one or more light elements which may indicate, for example, whether one or more items have been removed from the storage device. For example, the indicator may display a first indication (e.g. green coloured light) if all items are rightly placed at their respective storage locations and a second status indication (e.g. a red coloured light) if any items are missing from their storage location.

[0047] The at least one indicator may also include a sound indicator, such as a speaker, which may, for example, play a sound when an item is removed or replaced from the storage device.

[0048] The sensor/s of the storage device are typically configured to detect electromagnetic radiation and, in particular, visual light or infrared light. However, it will be appreciated that the sensor/s may be of other types, such as, for example, magnetic, proximity, or contact sensors. Generally, a light/infrared sensor is positioned at each item storage location such that when an item is stored at the at least one item storage location visual/infrared light is substantially blocked from reaching the sensor and when an item is removed from the at least one item storage location visual/infrared light is substantially permitted to reach the sensor. The storage device and sensors may, for example, be configured to detect a change of light/infrared input to identify removal/replacement of an item or may, for example, be calibrated to identify the amount of infrared radiation/light (or a particular intensity range) that correlates to an item being present or absent from an item storage location.

[0049] In the case of visual light sensors, the storage device may rely on ambient light being detected by the sensors when an item is removed, and ambient light being blocked from the sensors when an item is replaced. However, when using infrared type sensors, it is typically necessary to have an infrared light source/emitter at each item storage location positioned such that the when an item is placed at an item storage location, the infrared light emitted is blocked from reaching the sensor and when the item is removed, the infrared beam allowed to hit the sensor.

[0050] Whilst the use of visual light sensors may have advantages related to power consumption, convenience and reduced complexity in construction, the infrared approach (using an emitters and sensors) typically provides more robust performance, such as, for example, in low or dim ambient light conditions. In either case, the use of visual light/infrared light has significant advantages over conventional systems. For example, items do not need to be individually tagged (e.g. if using RFID), and expensive imaging equipment is not required.

[0051] In simpler forms, the storage device may be a container having one or more item storage locations on the inside and one or more visual indicators positioned on the outside. For example the storage device may be a tool box with a plurality of storage spaces for particular tools. The container would typically include a switch that triggers on closure of the container such that moving the container from an open configuration to a closed configuration initiates a status determination process. The status determination process checks whether all items locations are populated (i.e. if any items are missing). It will be appreciated that the status may be determined in a variety of ways depending on the nature of the device and arrangement of the sensors. In examples where the device utilises an infrared sensor and corresponding emitter at each item storage location, the emitters would typically be activated on closure of the container (e.g. via a switch). The sensor signals may then be processed and received by the one or more visual indicators on the outside of the container.

[0052] Typically the visual indicators are one or more light elements (e.g. LEDs) positioned on the outside of the container. If all items are present in the container, a container full status indication may be shown which may be, for example, a particular light element being turn on, or a particular light element showing a particular colour (e.g. green). To the contrary if one or more of the storage locations are empty (i.e. if an item is missing) then a missing status indication would be shown. This may be, for example, a second light element being turned on, or the display of a different colour (e.g. red). It will be appreciated that the storage device and indicators may take several forms. One alternative may be the sounding of a sound alert if the container is closed with one or more of the storage locations empty, e.g. when items are missing.

[0053] More complex forms of the storage device may include a processing module/system as part of the storage device. The processing module/system being configured to process data received from the one or more sensors and able to generate and store information like transaction log information related to the removal/replacement of items from the container. Such information may be retrieved at a later time and brought up for review on a visual display or screen. This usage information may help a user of the storage device to quickly determine the availability of items usually stored in the device, when items were taken from the device and/or determine who they were taken by.

[0054] It will be appreciated that the processing system/module may take a variety of forms. In general terms a processing module/system is shown in figure 1, the processing system (100) generally includes a processor (101), memory (102), and an input/output interface (103) for connecting one or more input/output devices. The components are connected together via a bus or group of buses (104). For example, sensors (201, 202 and 203) at the item storage locations (301, 302 and 303) may be connected to the input/output interface (103). By executing appropriate application software the processing system can process information received from the sensors and generate, for example, transaction log information and status information. Generated information may be displayed on a display (106) and/or stored in memory either within the processing system or externally (e.g. external hard drive etc.). The processing system may also include a communication module/interface such that data/information may also be transmitted to a peripheral device via a communication network (e.g. LAN, WAN, the internet). The communication interface may include, for example, a Wi-Fi adapter, Ethernet connection, 3/4g adapter, modem etc.

[0055] Accordingly, it will be appreciated the processing system may be or may be include any suitably programmed controller, microcontroller, control system, computer system, tablet, PC, smart phone, server, and/or any other suitable electronic processing device. The processing system may also be a distributed processing system and/or combination of processing systems. For example, the processing system may be the combination of a one or more signal processors and a tablet computer.

[0056] The processing module/system is typically configured to generate and store item transaction log information based on information received from the sensors. In particular, the processing system is typically configured to generate and store a transaction record each time an item is removed or replaced at any one of the at least one item storage locations. The processing system is also typically configured to receive user identity information such that removal/replacement of items from/to the device can be assigned to a particular user. Apart form helping to identify which users have taken particular items, having a transaction recorded each time an item is removed or replaced allows the identification of users who place decoy or non-authentic items in the storage device.

[0057] To assist with monitoring the usage of items by particular users the storage device also typically includes an input device to receive user identity information. For example the input device may be an identity card reader. The storage device may be configured such that user identity information is required before an item can be removed from the storage device. It will be appreciated that the input device, or method of inputting user data can take a variety of forms and may simply involve the entry of a user name and password via a touch screen or keyboard.

[0058] Generally, the processing system is configured to receive user identity information from the input device and validate it against a stored database of authorized user identity information before permitting access to the container. This is typically achieved by having the at least one item storage location situated within at least one closable compartment, the at least one compartment being movable between an open configuration, wherein item/s can be removed or replaced, and a closed configuration, wherein item/s are not accessible. For example the storage device may take the form of a cabinet with multiple closable drawers, each drawer to storing a range of items.

[0059] A locking mechanism controllable by the processing system would typically be included to lock the one or more compartments (e.g. drawers) in the closed configuration. Thus to access/unlock the compartments, the identity of a user would first need to be validated as an authorized user. Typically, once a user closes the compartment, signs out of the system, or confirm the items that are to be borrowed, the locking mechanism is reengaged and the removed items assigned to that particular user.

[0060] In more complex forms the visual indicator may include a display screen that is part of or connected to the processing system. The processing system may also be configured to provide transaction log information or live status information to the display screen. For example, the screen could provide a visual representation of each compartment which indicates the status of each item storage location. Alternatively, the display screen may display a first status indication (e.g. green colour band) when all items are present and a second status indication (red colour band) when one or more items are missing from the storage device. The storage device may also be configured to display other types of alerts. For example, in the case of a tool cabinet, the storage device may also be configured to generate and display a calibration alert when an item is due for calibration based on information received by a user or in accordance with a pre set calibration interval. [0061] Status information is typically determined by performing a status determination process on closure of the compartments and/or log off by the user. For example, the status determination process would typically include activation of one or more artificial light/infrared sources within the compartments of the device. Items stored would block the visual light/infrared radiation from reaching the sensors, whereas the absence of items would permit the visual light/infrared beam to hit the sensors. As such, based on information from the sensors, current status of items usually stored in the storage device could be determined.

[0062] The storage device generally also includes a communications module/interface for transmission of data to one or more peripheral devices via a communication network. The communication module/interface may be connected to or part of the processing system/module. The communication interface/module would typically allow connection to communication network (e.g. LAN, WAN, the internet) using any suitable wired or wireless connection. The communication/module may, for example include a modem, Wi- Fi adapter, Bluetooth, Ethernet connection etc. Typically, the communications module allows internet connectivity. It will be appreciated that when the processing system includes touch screen computer or tablet the communication interface/module may be inbuilt.

[0063] Generally, each item storage location is configured to store a particular item. For example each item storage location may be shaped to fit a particular item. For example, the storage device may be a tool cabinet, each drawer of the cabinet having a plurality tool shaped recesses each configured to fit the shape of a particular tool.

[0064] It will be appreciated that one or more storage devices as described herein may be utilised as part of a larger item management system wherein information from one or more storage devices can be access remotely by a user. For example, information from the storage devices may be transmitted to and stored on a cloud based server or database. It will be appreciated that storage devices to be used in conjunction with a larger item management systems would typically includes a communications module/interface for transmitting information, e.g. transaction log or status information on a communication network (e.g. WAN, internet) to a central location e.g. cloud based server.

[0065] A user would typically be able to access the server using any suitable internet enabled device or mobile communication device, such as for example an internet capable laptop, PC or smart phone. In addition to retrieving information/data from the server, a user may be permitted to update, or edit information e.g. transaction log information. This would allow for functionality, such as, for example, reassigning an item from one user to another without having to return it to the storage device.

[0066] The central server may also be configured communicate with other peripheral devices such as a display unit and/or other types of storage management devices e.g. load sensor devices. An example schematic of an item management system is shown in figure 4 wherein cloud based server (30) is connected to storage device (31), load sensor device (32), peripheral user device (e.g. smart phone) (33), and display unit (34).

Example 1 - Tool Cabinet

[0067] In one particular embodiment the storage device is a tool cabinet (1) which is used to store a plurality of tools (3) and/or tool parts/attachments such as, for example, drill bits or sockets (see figure 3 for example).

[0068] The tool cabinet (1) has a plurality of drawers (2) for storing tools/parts (3). Each tool/part has a specific storage location formed by a recess (4) in the drawer (2) shaped to fit the particular tool/part. An infrared or visual light sensor is positioned within each recess (4) such that when a tool is in place, light/infrared radiation is blocked from hitting the sensor and when the tool is removed light is permitted to hit the sensor. When using infrared sensors, it is typically required to have an infrared emitter located at each recess. Generally the infrared emitter and corresponding sensor are located in opposing walls of the recess such that placement of the tools in the recess blocks the emitted infrared beam from hitting the corresponding sensor. For visual light sensors, ambient light can be used, wherein placement of the tool simply blocks ambient light from hitting the sensor. [0069] Information from the sensors is received by a touch screen tablet computer (5) (may also be other suitable processing system) with purpose built software installed for processing and/or display of information relating to the usage of tools/parts in the cabinet. The tablet computer (via the application software) may be configured to display the information in a variety of ways. For example, as shown in figure 3, it may display a mirror of each drawer of the cabinet which visually indicates to a user where tools are missing from the cabinet. A user may also elect to retrieve or display transaction log information such as when particular tools where taken, who took them and the locations or jobs where the tools are currently being used. The software may also be configured to display one or more status indicators when in standby mode such that a passer-by can easily assess the status of the tool cabinet at a glance. For example, the software may provide that a green band is displayed if all tools are present in the cabinet, a red band displayed if one or more tools are missing, and orange band displayed if any of the tools are due for calibration.

[0070] The tool cabinet has a locking mechanism to lock the drawers of the cabinet in the closed configuration. To unlock the drawers of the cabinet, a user has to swipe their identity card. This is generally an RFID identity card reader system. However, alternatives for authentication may be for the user to input a user name and password to using the touch screen of the tablet. The software on the tablet checks the user's identity against a stored database of authorised users. Once a user is authenticated, access to the drawers and thus tools is provided. In the instance that power is lost to the cabinet a key may be provided to allow for manual unlocking of the drawers of the cabinet.

[0071] As the user is typically authenticated before any tools are removed, each transaction (e.g. tool withdrawal) can be assigned to a particular user. Thus if a tool is not returned, the last user to withdraw the tool can easily be determined. Generally, once a user has taken the tools they require, they will typically log off or close the borrowing session and the software would assign the tools to the user. Alternatively or additionally, a confirm input button on the cabinet may be used to confirm the tools withdrawn are to be assigned to user. Pressing the confirm input button may also reengage the locking mechanism. In addition, the cabinet will also typically record a transaction every time a tool is removed or replaced, this helps to identify users who place decoy items in the storage recesses in an attempt to "trick" the device.

[0072] The software may also be configured, such that a user can assign a job id or location to every withdrawal transaction. This would typically help a user to identify the location of where tools were used last etc. It will be appreciated that the software can be designed in a variety of ways to provide a range of different borrowing or logging functionality and the tablet may be any suitable processing system/electronic processing device able to be connected to the mainboard/sensor hardware of the cabinet.

[0073] After closure of the cabinet, the cabinet typically undergoes a status determination process whereby one or more internal light/infrared sources are activated within the cabinet such that the current contents of the cabinet can be determined. When using the visual light sensors, typically one or more lights are placed in each drawer for this purpose. In the infrared version, the infrared emitters at each storage location can be activated during the status determination process.

[0074] Typically via the communication capability of the tablet computer, information/data like transaction, usage or status information may be transmitted to a cloud based server such that it can be accessed and updated remotely by a user e.g. via the internet (e.g. see figure 4).

[0075] An example schematic layout for components of the tool cabinet is shown in figure 2. Each drawer includes a plurality of sensors (10) connected to an interface board (11) where some initial signal processing is performed. Each interface board connected to a central main circuit board (12) (with appropriate circuitry e.g. may include microcontroller and/or other signal processors). The main board (12) is connected to a tablet computer (13) typically via a USB connection. The tablet computer (13) can thereby receive information related to the sensor signals for further processing and display (e.g. in relation to the removal/usage of tools). Also connected to the mainboard (12) are draw close switches (14) which activate on closure of drawers (e.g. to activate the status determination process), a buzzer speaker (15) (which can be used, for example, to sound an alert when an un-calibrated tool is removed), the internal visual light elements/infrared emitters (16), the lock mechanism (17) and a confirm input button (18). The tablet includes a communication interface (19) for connection with a communication network (typically providing internet access via WiFi and/or 3/4g connectivity). The RFID identity card reader (20) is also connected to the touch screen tablet computer (1).

Example 2 - Portable Tool Box

[0076] It will also be appreciated that in some embodiments, the storage device may take a less complex and more compact form. One particular embodiment has the device as a portable tool box/kit which does not include a substantial processing system (e.g. tablet component). The tool box simply includes one or more light elements on the outside configured to provide status indication of whether all tools have been replaced in the box or whether tools are missing. Inside, the tool box has a similar configuration to the tool cabinet with recesses shaped to fit particular tools. Infrared sensors and emitters are placed at each recess such that placement of a tools in the recess blocks the emitted infrared signal from reaching the sensor. It will be appreciated that sensors configured for other forms of electromagnetic radiation may be used.

[0077] Typically, the sensors are connected to a main circuit board with appropriate circuity to process the signals for operation the light elements. A closure switch is also connected to the main board such that activation of the emitters/sensors occurs on closure of the tool box to determine whether items are stored at each recess. The outside lighting elements, also connected to the main board, are configured generally such that a first colour (e.g. green is displayed if all tools are present and a second colour (e.g. red) displayed if any of the tools are missing. It will be appreciated that the lighting elements (e.g. LEDs) may be configured to display other colors or lighting patterns etc. Example 3 - Tool Cabinet Operation Home Screen

[0078] The Home Screen will be the default screen for the tool cabinet when in normal operation. This screen will be a "Full Screen" which can only be exited to a normal Operating System desktop style screen via the "Supervisor" or "Administrator Login" buttons. In the case of proximity or magnetic card being used, the screen will display "Present ID", if not, screen to have login button when pressed has a user name and password with keypad. The screen will also display Supervisor Login, Administrator Log In, Error Log (if any), Tools Out or an All Tools Returned Indicator.

Issuing of Tools

[0079] From the Home Screen, user will present ID to open cabinet and system will either recognise or not recognise the employee. If recognised, the system (software) sends signal to main board to release electric lock. If not recognised, system disallows opening of cabinet, displaying: "Unauthorised User". When unlocked, the screen displays "Welcome User - Open Cabinet". Once a drawer is opened, the screen displays "Drawer X open" (identifies drawer open, e.g. B second drawer down). While drawer is opened a light panel above that drawer is switched on (or infrared emitters at each location activated) and remains on for a certain time after the drawer is shut.

[0080] As a tool is taken out of the drawer a bleep will sound and a transaction is recorded that the tool has been removed from its assigned location by that user (background Audit record at this stage). As a drawer is shut, screen will display "All Drawers Shut" and any tool which has been removed will be recorded during the time the light panel remains on and is accordingly issued and recorded to that user.

[0081] Once all drawers have remained shut for a set time (user adjustable), the screen will display "Tools Issued (shown in a list), Please Confirm" and the user is requested to confirm within 3-5 seconds (a count-down "Hour Glass" or other will display as well as list of tools). By pressing a confirm button (industrial vandal resistant switch) on front of cabinet that the information displayed is correct. Once he confirms, cabinet is electrically locked. Should he require more time than 3-5 seconds to check his list, he should hit a button "More Time" which is next to Hour Glass

[0082] If the user does not confirm within 3-5 seconds (adjustable) the system will record the tools taken but log a non-confirm against users name and reverts back to Home Screen (locking cabinet) but an errors indicator on screen will show (see supervisor section).

Issuing of Out of Calibration & Unserviceable Tools

[0083] Any tool overdue for calibration or unserviceable will not be able to be issued, and should one be lifted out, a continuous bleep will sound. Should the user ignore this and shut drawers, the bleep will stop and on the listing of tools taken this item will be shown in red text with status not allowed. Should he confirm to take the item, the incident will be logged.

Returning of Tools

[0084] From Home Screen, user will present ID to open cabinet and returns tools. When unlocked, the screen displays "Welcome John - Open Cabinet". While drawer is opened, the screen displays "Drawer X open" and a light panel above that drawer is switched on and remains on for a certain time after the drawer is shut. As tools are replaced, a double bleep will sound if it is the correct user, tool and location.

[0085] Should the user try place a tool into the wrong location the system will not bleep (giving user indication of wrong location) and when the drawer is shut the screen will display " Tool in Wrong Location - XX" (XX equals tool position e.g.: A7 drawer A position 7). User cannot confirm until he relocates the tool.

[0086] Should the user be unsuccessful in relocating the tool and believe there may be an error with the system, he may then press "log a fault" which then reverts screen back to home but shows indicator of error. As a drawer is shut, screen will display "All Drawers Shut" and any tool which has been returned will be recorded during the time the light panel remains on and is accordingly returned against that user.

[0087] Returned tools and outstanding tools will then be displayed on the screen (see example) and the user is requested to confirm by pressing a confirm button (industrial vandal resistant switch) on front of cabinet that the information displayed is correct. If the user does not confirm within 3-5 seconds (adjustable) the system will record the tools taken but log a non-confirm against users name and reverts back to Home Screen but an errors indicator on screen will show.

Returning of an unserviceable Tool

[0088] The "Welcome John - Open Cabinet" will have a "Return U/S Tool" button on screen and in the event of returning a U/S Tool, this function must be selected. The screen will then display the users list of outstanding tools from which the user selects which tool is U/S and places it in the correct location confirmed with a double bleep. Then it requests Confirm the Tool (shown) is U/S. User then confirms and the cabinet is locked and returns to Home Screen

Issuing and returning of tools at the same time

[0089] A user can issue and return tools all at the same time, same procedures apply. Once cabinet is shut, a complete list of Issued, Returned and Outstanding tools will display.

Toolbox status dashboard

[0090] The Home Screen will have a button to show the Overall Toolbox Status Dashboard. This dashboard will show a list of all tools currently issued and who they are issued to, and the status of any tools which cannot be issued, due to being unserviceable or due for calibration, etc. It will also show the Error Log button and Supervisor login button and a Return to Home Screen. It should return to Home Screen automatically after a certain time. Supervisor Section

[0091] The supervisor section may include the following aspects:

• The supervisor login;

• System fault tool return - manual override to a fault;

• Return to Main Screen button;

• Make tool Serviceable;

• Restart entire system;

• The Supervisor should be able to look at what is taken out and who has the tools at quick press of a button on the touch screen that has a button on the screen that says "view tools out";

• Following a system failure, eg power failure, it may be necessary to have a "Manual Database Complete" confirmation after a visual check has been conducted to ensure that all tools are returned;

• Calibration of sensors etc;

• Error logs/checking;

• New user set up;

• Cabinet to Cabinet transfer of tools;

Reporting

[0092] The reporting capabilities may include the following:

• Full cabinet inventory;

• Issues returns selectable by date and/or user;

• Report of tools out;

• Tools out since selectable date;

• Tools out longer than (x) Days; and

• Top to Bottom Usage of Tools.

Administrator Section

[0093] Typically provides the ability to adjust the user fields/options. [0094] Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features, and wherein specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0095] Although a preferred embodiment has been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0096] It will be appreciated that various forms of the invention may be used individually or in combination.