Methods and systems for smart handling of warehouse items

Abstract

Methods and systems for smart handling of warehouse items. An embodiment takes the form of a wearable accessory that is configured to (a) identify an object, (b) detect an attachment-triggering event, (c) responsive to detecting the attachment-triggering event, attach to the object, (d) determine at least one handling constraint associated with the object, where the at least one handling constraint includes an acceptable pressure range, (e) measure a pressure exerted on the object via the accessory, (f) provide an indication, via a user interface, based on the measured pressure and the acceptable pressure range; and (g) detect a release-triggering event, and responsively release the object.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]Proper handling of warehouse items involves diverse operations that are vital to industry. These operations include, amongst other things, identifying items, manually carrying items to predetermined locations, and storing items at those respective locations. These operations (and others) provide for a continuous flow of items through the warehouse and ensure that items are available when needed. Improper handling of warehouse items, on the other hand, can negatively impact the continuous flow of items through the warehouse and may result in increased costs.[0002]There are many factors that contribute to the improper handling of warehouse items. One factor is user notification of the item's physical nature. There is no process in place to indicate to a user that an item should be handled safely based on the physical nature of that item. The item may be brittle, fragile, or contain a liquid substance, among numerous other possibilities. While the physi...

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