Storage and sequencing components for target processing and extraction systems

Abstract

The present application relates to a storage and sequencing section for a target processing and extraction system comprising a storage system for storing a plurality of containers, at least one work station and a container drop-off point, the storage and sequencing section being configured to interface with the container drop-off point and comprising a frame, a plurality of temporary storage locations for storing a plurality of containers being arranged within the frame, the frame comprising a track on which a carrier adapted to carry the containers is mounted, the carrier comprising the temporary storage locations, the containers being storable on the temporary storage locations before being moved to the work station, the frame and the associated track and carrier enabling a control device to sequence the arrival of the containers at the work station independently of the sequence in which the containers arrive at the storage and sequencing section from the storage system.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the PCT application filed on June 8, 2015, with application number CN 201680036548.9 (international application number PCT / EP2016 / 063059), entitled "System and method for storing, processing and retrieving objects". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to storage systems and methods for retrieving units from storage systems. Specifically, but not exclusively, this invention relates to robotic systems for handling boxes in a warehouse, the warehouse comprising racks of stacked units.

[0003] U.S. Patent Application No. 7861844 and PCT patent applications with publication numbers WO / 2013 / 167907 and WO / 2015 / 019055 are incorporated herein by reference. The contents of these applications and publications are therefore deemed to be incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] This application claims priority to UK patent application GB1509921.1, filed on 8 June 2015, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0005] Some commercial and industrial activities require systems capable of storing and retrieving large quantities of different products. One known type of system for storing and retrieving items across multiple product lines involves arranging storage bins or containers on multiple rows of shelves arranged in aisles. Each bin or container holds multiple products of one product type. The aisles provide passageways between the rows of shelves, allowing desired products to be retrieved by operators or robots circulating within the aisles. However, it should be understood that the need to provide aisle space for product access implies a relatively low storage density for such systems. In other words, the actual amount of space used to store the products is relatively small compared to the overall space required by the storage system.

[0006] Another drawback of the aforementioned system is the need for multiple channels available for a single order. This drawback stems from the requirement to compile customer orders, which include a large number of targets, into at least one transfer. This is particularly problematic if the volume of orders to be compiled is high.

[0007] In an alternative approach that offers significant improvements in storage density, containers are stacked on top of each other and arranged in multiple rows. Containers can be accessed from above, thus eliminating the need for aisles between rows and allowing more containers to be stored in a given space.

[0008] Meanwhile, the method described in detail below has the ability to access all parts of the storage system and move all targets to all workstations via a loading processing unit, which causes congestion in the loading processor at the top of the rack.

[0009] Methods for handling containers stacked in multiple rows have been known for decades. In some such systems (e.g., the system described in US2701065), the individual stacks of containers are arranged in multiple rows to reduce the storage space associated with storing the container while still providing access to a specific container, if needed. Access to a given container is made possible by providing a relatively complex lifting mechanism that can be used to place the stacked containers and remove a given container from the stack. However, the cost of such systems is impractical in many cases, and they are primarily commercialized for the storage and handling of large shipping containers.

[0010] The idea of ​​using independent stacks of containers and providing mechanisms for retrieving and storing specific containers has been further developed, for example, as described in EP0767113B (applicant Cimcorp). Cimcorp discloses a method for removing multiple stacked containers using a robotic loading processor in the form of a rectangular tube that descends around the stack of containers and is configured to grip containers at any level of the stack. This allows multiple containers to be lifted from the stack at once. The movable tube can be used to move multiple containers from the top of one stack to the top of another, or to move containers from the stack to an external location, and vice versa. This system is particularly useful when all containers in a single stack contain the same product (referred to as a single-product stack). The loading processor can be used to move containers between single-product stacks, for example, to add multiple containers containing a single type of product to a warehouse, and to retrieve one or more containers from two or more single-product stacks to establish a multi-product output stack. One example of this is the collection of vegetable crates from a central warehouse to create a multi-product sequence for delivery to retail warehouses.

[0011] In the system described by Cimcorp, the height of the tube must be at least equal to the height of the largest stack of containers so that the highest stack can be removed in a single operation. Therefore, when used in enclosed spaces such as warehouses, the maximum height of the stack is limited by the requirements of the tube accommodating the loading processor. Furthermore, the system is not well-suited for selecting individual containers from multi-product stacks.

[0012] Online retailers selling multiple product lines (e.g., online grocers and supermarkets) need to be able to store dozens or even hundreds or thousands of different product lines. Using single-product stacking is impractical in this case because it would require a very large floor area to accommodate all the necessary stacks. Furthermore, it is expected that only a small number of items, such as perishable or infrequently ordered goods, will be stored, making single-product stacking an inefficient solution.

[0013] International patent application WO98 / 049075A (applicant Autostore), which is incorporated herein by reference, describes a system in which multi-product stacks of containers are arranged within a frame structure.

[0014] PCT patent application No. WO2015 / 185628A (applicant Ocado) describes another known storage and fulfillment system in which stacks of boxes or containers are arranged within a frame structure. The boxes or containers are accessed by loading processing devices that operate on tracks located at the top of the frame structure. The loading processing devices raise the boxes or containers from the stacks, and multiple loading processing devices cooperate to access the boxes or containers located at the lowest position of the stack. Figures 1 to 4 in the accompanying drawings schematically illustrate this type of system.

[0015] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, stackable containers (referred to as boxes 10) are stacked on top of each other to form a stack 12. The stack 12 is arranged in a lattice frame structure 14 in a storage or manufacturing environment. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the frame structure 14, and Figure 2 is a top view showing the stack 12 of boxes 10 arranged within the frame structure 14. Each box 10 typically holds multiple product items (not shown), and, depending on the application, the product items within a box 10 can be of the same product type or different product types.

[0016] The frame structure 14 includes a plurality of upright members 16 supporting the horizontal members 18, 20. A first set of parallel horizontal members 18 is arranged perpendicular to a second set of parallel horizontal members 20 to form a plurality of horizontal lattice structures supported by the upright members 16. Members 16, 18, 20 are typically made of metal. Boxes 10 are stacked between members 16, 18, 20 of the frame structure 14 such that the frame structure 14 constrains the horizontal movement of the stack 12 of boxes 10 and guides the vertical movement of boxes 10.

[0017] The top layer of the frame structure 14 includes tracks 22 arranged in a grid array spanning the top of the stack 12. Additionally, referring to Figures 3 and 4, the tracks 22 support multiple robotic loading and handling units 30. A first set 22a of parallel tracks 22, spanning the top of the frame structure 14, guides the loading and handling units 30 to move along a first direction (X), and a first set 22b of parallel tracks 22 is arranged perpendicular to the first set 22a and guides the loading and handling units 30 to move along a second direction (Y) perpendicular to the first direction. Thus, the tracks 22 allow the loading and handling units 30 to move laterally in two dimensions in the horizontal XY plane, enabling the loading and handling units 30 to be moved to positions above any of the stacks 12.

[0018] One form of the loading processing device 30 is further described in Norwegian patent application No. 317366, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Figures 3(a) and 3(b) are schematic perspective views of the loading processing device 30 from the rear and front, respectively, and Figure 3(c) is a schematic front perspective view of the loading processing device 30 of the lifting box 10. However, other forms of loading processing devices exist that can be used in conjunction with the system described herein. For example, PCT patent application (Ocado) Publication No. WO2015 / 019055 describes another form of robotic loading processing device, which is also incorporated herein by reference, in which each robotic loading processor covers only one grid space of the frame structure, thus achieving a higher density of loading processors and consequently a higher overall processing capacity for a system of a given size.

[0019] Each loading and handling device 30 includes a carrier 32 arranged to travel along tracks 22 of the frame structure 14 in the X and Y directions above the stack 12. A first set of wheels 34, consisting of a pair of wheels 34 on the front and a pair of wheels 34 on the back of the carrier 32, is arranged to engage with two adjacent tracks of a first set 22a of the tracks 22. Similarly, a second set of wheels 36, consisting of wheels 36 on the respective sides of the carrier 32, is arranged to engage with two adjacent tracks of a second set 22b of the tracks 22. Each set of wheels 34, 36 can be raised or lowered such that the first set of wheels 34 or the second set of wheels 36 engages with the corresponding set 22a, 22b of tracks at any given time.

[0020] When the first set of wheels 34 engages with the first set 22a of the track and the second set of wheels 36 is lifted from the track 22, the wheels 34 can be driven by a drive mechanism housed in the carrier 32 to move the loading processing device 30 in the X direction. To move the loading processing device 30 in the Y direction, the first set of wheels 34 is lifted from the track 22, and the second set of wheels 36 is lowered to engage with the second set 22a of the track. The drive mechanism can then be used to drive the second set of wheels 36 to achieve movement in the Y direction.

[0021] The loading and handling device 30 is equipped with a lifting device. The lifting device 40 includes a gripping plate 39, which is suspended from the body 32 of the loading and handling device by four cables 38. The cables 38 are connected to a winding mechanism (not shown) housed within the carrier 32. The cables 38 can be wound in or released from the loading and handling device, allowing the position of the gripping plate 39 relative to the carrier 32 to be adjusted in the Z direction.

[0022] The gripper 39 is adapted to engage with the top of the housing 10. For example, the gripper 39 may include a pin (not shown) and a sliding clamp (not shown), the pin engaging with a corresponding hole (not shown) in the periphery forming the top surface of the housing 10, the sliding clamp being able to engage with the periphery to grip the housing 10. The clamp is driven to engage with the housing 10 by a suitable drive mechanism housed within the gripper 39, the drive mechanism being powered and controlled by a signal carried by the cable 38 itself or a separate control cable (not shown).

[0023] To remove box 10 from the top of stack 12, loading handling device 30 moves along the X and Y directions as necessary so that gripper 39 is positioned above stack 12. Gripper 39 then descends vertically along the Z direction to engage box 10 on top of stack 12, as shown in Figure 3(c). Gripper 39 grips box 10 and is subsequently pulled upwards along cable 38 with the attached box 10. At the top of the vertical travel, box 10 is housed within carrier body 32 and held above the level of track 22. Thus, loading handling device 30 carrying box 10 can be moved to different positions in the XY plane to transport box 10 to another location. Cable 38 is long enough to allow loading handling device 30 to extract or place box from any level of stack 12, including the bottom level. Carrier 32 is heavy enough to balance the weight of box 10 and maintain stability during lifting. The weight of the vehicle 32 can be partially contained in the battery used to power the drive mechanism of the wheels 34 and 36.

[0024] As shown in Figure 4, multiple identical loading and handling units 30 are arranged so that each loading and handling unit 30 can operate simultaneously to increase the total processing capacity of the system. The system shown in Figure 4 includes two specific locations (referred to as ports 24) where boxes 10 can be moved into or out of the system. An additional conveyor system (not shown) is associated with each port 24 so that boxes 10 transported to port 24 via loading and handling units 30 can be moved to another location via the conveyor system, for example, to a packaging station (not shown). Similarly, boxes 10 can be moved from an external location (e.g., a box filling station (not shown)) to port 24 via the conveyor system and transported by loading and handling units 30 to stacks 12 for refilling in the system.

[0025] Each loading and handling unit 30 is capable of raising and moving one box 10 at a time. If a box 10 that is not located at the top of the stack 12 (“target box”) must be retrieved, the boxes 10 covering it (“non-target box”) must first be moved to allow access to the target box 10. This is achieved in the operation referred to below as “digging”.

[0026] Referring to Figure 4, during the excavation operation, one of the loading and handling devices 30 successively lifts a non-target container 10a from the stack 12 containing the target container 10b and places it in an empty position on another stack 12. Thus, the target container 10b can be approached by the loading and handling device 30 and moved to port 24 for further transport.

[0027] Each of the loading and processing units 30 is controlled by a central computer. Each individual container 10 in the system is tracked, enabling the appropriate container 10 to be retrieved, transported, and replaced as needed. For example, during excavation operations, the location of each non-target container 10a is recorded, allowing the non-target container 10a to be tracked.

[0028] The system described with reference to Figures 1 to 4 has many advantages and is suitable for a wide range of storage and retrieval operations. Specifically, it allows for very dense storage of products and provides a very economical method for storing a wide range of different items in bins 10, while simultaneously allowing reasonable and economical access to all bins 10 when retrieval is required.

[0029] However, this system has some drawbacks caused by the aforementioned digging operation, which must be performed when the target box 10b is not on top of the stack 12.

[0030] In a typical installation, the stack 12 can be up to twenty-four boxes high. This means that in order to access the target box 10b near the bottom of the stack 12, a large number of non-target boxes 10a must first be removed. Because multiple loading and handling units 30 must be provided to avoid delays, the digging operation consumes most of the operating time of the loading and handling units 30, reducing efficiency and increasing the cost of the system.

[0031] The digging operation is relatively slow and can take many minutes to approach the target box 10b near the bottom of the stack 12. It should be understood that multiple digging operations have a cumulative negative effect on system efficiency. To mitigate the delays caused by digging operations, the collection process needs to be scheduled for a considerable period, typically at least thirty minutes. Therefore, the system cannot respond quickly to changes in demand without significantly sacrificing productivity.

[0032] Another strategy to minimize the time spent on digging operations is to arrange the boxes 10 in the stack 12 such that the boxes 10 that are most frequently accessed are placed near the top of the stack 12. However, this approach becomes limited in applications where products are collected to assemble orders consisting of a relatively large number of products selected from a large range of product lines; this is because it is often possible that each order will contain a small number of relatively few ordered products that require time-consuming digging operations.

[0033] In this context, there is a need to provide systems and methods that can reduce or mitigate the problem to some extent.

[0034] Therefore, for some applications, the use of multi-product stacking (where the containers that make up each stack can hold different products) is welcomed to maximize system storage density. Stored items must be reasonably, quickly, and easily accessible so that multiple different items needed to fulfill a customer order can be retrieved from the storage system efficiently, even if some required items are stored at the lower levels of the stack and below multiple other containers.

[0035] The disadvantage of the above system is that frequently accessed items that are moved quickly or stored in the containers of the storage system must be continuously removed and replaced by the loading and processing device. This leads to extreme overuse of the loading and processing device and reduced efficiency.

[0036] In this context, there is a need to provide systems and methods that can reduce or mitigate the problem to some extent. Summary of the Invention

[0037] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a target processing and retrieval system, comprising a storage system, a plurality of loading processing devices, unloading points, and a workstation. The storage system includes two generally perpendicular sets of tracks forming a grid above a workspace, the workspace comprising a plurality of stacked containers. A robotic loading processing device operates on the grid above the workspace. The loading processing device includes a body mounted on wheels. A first set of wheels is arranged to engage with at least two tracks in the first set of tracks, and a second set of wheels is arranged to engage with at least two tracks in the second set of tracks. The first set of wheels is independently movable and actuated relative to the second set of wheels, such that: during movement, at any given time, only one set of wheels engages with the grid, thereby enabling the loading processing device to move along the tracks to any point on the grid above any stack of containers by actuating only the set of wheels engaged with the grid. At least one unloading point is adapted to engage with a sorting section adapted to receive containers transferred to the unloading point or each unloading point by the loading processing device and to move the transferred containers to the workstation in a predetermined sequence. The sorting section further includes a frame adjacent to the storage system, the frame having multiple container storage locations, and the sorting section further includes a moving device for moving containers from the container storage locations within the frame to a workstation in a predetermined sequence, the predetermined sequence being independent of the sequence in which the containers arrive at the unloading point, so that targets located within the containers can be accessed at the workstation.

[0038] The solution provides a sorting section with storage locations, offering a solution to the problem of continuous access by a loading processing device to a small number of boxes containing frequently needed targets. In this case, the loading processing device only needs to raise the boxes containing frequently needed targets once, and these boxes can be arranged in a fast access position adjacent to the workstation where the targets need to be moved. The boxes can be sorted to reach the workstation when needed.

[0039] Preferably, the system has multiple unloading points, at which containers, or each container, can be transferred from the storage system to the sorting and storage section. This ability to unload multiple containers at a given time in a given sorting and storage section further reduces the impact of congestion on the loading and processing equipment on the racks.

[0040] Preferably, each sorting and storage section may have multiple associated drop-off points. However, it should be understood that, depending on the configuration of the sorting and storage section, only one drop-off point may be provided.

[0041] Advantageously, this reduces congestion of the loading and handling devices on the grid.

[0042] Therefore, the sorting and storage section can be configured to store multiple bins containing frequently needed targets.

[0043] Preferably, the moving device within the sorting and storage section may include a plurality of carriers movably arranged within the frame, the carriers carrying containers around the frame. The moving device may include a series of reciprocating tools located on auxiliary tracks within the frame, each of the reciprocating tools being adapted to carry containers around the frame.

[0044] Preferably, the frame of the storage and sorting section includes an access port adjacent to the workstation, such that when a container is adjacent to the access port at the workstation, a container moving around the frame on the mobile device can be accessed while on the mobile device.

[0045] Preferably, the storage and sorting section further includes a transfer device adapted to transfer containers from the mobile device to a storage location and from the storage location to the mobile device.

[0046] In this way, containers stored in the storage and sorting sections can be transferred between temporary storage locations and locations accessible from the workstation.

[0047] Preferably, the transfer device includes a pulling and pushing mechanism acting on the container, such that the container of the moving device can be pushed from the track to the storage location or pulled from the storage location onto the track.

[0048] In a second embodiment of the invention, the mobile device includes at least one receiving device adjacent to the frame, the receiving device being adapted to select a predetermined container from the frame and transport the container to the workstation.

[0049] In this embodiment of the invention, the container can be removed from and / or replaced in the altered stack of containers. Preferably, a device is used to support all containers located above the target container and to remove the target container onto a moving device, the altered stack of containers being accessible from one side via the moving device. Similarly, the container can be replaced within the altered stack of containers.

[0050] Preferably, the target processing system further includes a control device for selecting containers and sorting the arrival of containers at the workstation port in a required sequence.

[0051] Preferably, the target processing system further includes a selection device suitable for selecting containers, such that any container can be selected to move to the workstation, said selection device including control equipment for controlling and monitoring the position of all containers within the system.

[0052] In this way, the arrival sequence of one or more containers at the sorting and storage section of the target processing system is not important. The selection and control devices acting on the containers within the sorting and storage section ensure that the correct containers arrive at the workstation port at the correct time and in the correct sequence, and greatly reduce the number of lifting operations required to load the processing unit.

[0053] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for retrieving containers from a container storage system and transporting the containers to a workstation, comprising the steps of: (a) identifying a target container; (b) retrieving the target container from the storage system using a loading processing device; and (c) transporting the container to a discharge point using the loading processing device, the discharge point being associated with a sorting section. The sorting section includes a moving device for sorting the target containers, thereby moving the target containers to a location adjacent to a workstation using the moving device, the containers arriving at a container access point associated with the workstation in a predetermined sequence, the predetermined sequence being independent of the sequence in which the containers arrived at the sorting section.

[0054] Preferably, the method for extracting the container further includes the step of placing the target container in a storage location associated with a sorting portion of the storage system, the storage location being accessible to a mobile device.

[0055] Preferably, the method further includes the step of: using a control device to control the sorting of containers, the control device monitoring the location of each target container in the storage system. Attached Figure Description

[0056] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0057] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a frame structure for accommodating multiple stacks of boxes in a known storage system;

[0058] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of a portion of the frame structure in Figure 1;

[0059] Figures 3(a) and 3(b) are perspective views from the rear and front, respectively, of a loading handling device used with the frame structures of Figures 1 and 2, and Figure 3(c) is a schematic perspective view of a known loading handling device for raising the box;

[0060] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of a known storage system including multiple loading processing devices of the type shown in Figures (a), 3(b) and 3(c), which are mounted on the frame structure of Figures 1 and 2. The storage system includes multiple unloading points or output ports.

[0061] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the remaining drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are used to denote the same features, and in the drawings:

[0062] Figure 5a This is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of the present invention, showing the storage and sorting portion adjacent to the storage and processing system of the form shown in Figures 1 to 4;

[0063] Figure 5b yes Figure 5a The alternative schematic perspective view of the embodiment shown illustrates the drop point and collection point, which enable the box to be moved from the storage system to the storage and sorting section;

[0064] Figure 6a A schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the present invention is shown, illustrating a sorting and storage section between a target processing and storage system and a workstation, the sorting and storage section including a frame having multiple bin storage locations thereon, the frame further including tracks on which bins are movable;

[0065] Figure 6b It shows Figure 6a Alternative schematic perspective views of the embodiments;

[0066] Figure 7 A schematic perspective view of the sorting and storage section of another form of target processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown, the sorting and storage section including... Figure 6a and 6b The type shown is located between two interactive frames between the target processing system and two workstations;

[0067] Figure 8a This is a schematic perspective view of a third embodiment of the present invention, showing a storage and sorting section between a target processing and storage system and a workstation. The sorting section includes a moving device for engaging or removing boxes within a stack of boxes in a modified portion of the target processing and storage system.

[0068] Figure 8b Show Figure 8a An enlarged view of the moving device, showing the removal of a box from a stack of boxes within the sorting and storage section of the target processing and storage system;

[0069] Figure 9a A schematic perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the invention is shown, illustrating a portion of a storage and sorting section, which includes a frame with tracks on which a carrier device is mounted, the carrier device being adapted to carry storage boxes;

[0070] Figure 9b It shows Figure 9aA schematic perspective view of the frame of a workstation of a proximity target processing and storage system, the frame being further provided with storage locations and a track mechanism thereon, the track mechanism enabling bins to be presented at the output port of the frame, thereby allowing targets therein to be accessed at the workstation.

[0071] Figure 9c It shows Figure 9b A schematic plan view of the sorting and storage section, showing multiple boxes in the storage location and multiple boxes on the track mechanism;

[0072] Figure 9d It shows Figure 9a , 9b The fourth embodiment of the present invention operates in conjunction with a neighboring workstation of 9c;

[0073] Figure 10 A schematic perspective view according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is shown, illustrating a portion of a storage and sorting section, which includes a frame with tracks on which a carrier device is mounted, the carrier device being adapted to carry storage boxes;

[0074] Figure 11 Show Figure 10 The schematic side view of the sorting and storage section shown has input and output ports that provide locations on the frame for accessing objects stored within the box when the box is located on the frame.

[0075] Figure 12 A schematic perspective view of the sorting and storage section according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 10 and 11 The frame includes an output port from which the target stored in the box can be accessed; and

[0076] Figure 13 Show Figure 10 , 11 A schematic perspective view of the sorting and storage framework of the proximity target processing and storage system in 12. Detailed Implementation

[0077] Figure 5a This is a perspective view of the sorting and storage portion of a target processing, storage, and retrieval system 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The storage system 100 is generally similar to the known systems described above with reference to FIG1 to 4, and includes a plurality of storage containers or boxes 10 stacked on top of each other to form a plurality of stacks 12. The stacks 12 are arranged within a frame structure 14.

[0078] The frame structure 14 includes a plurality of upright members 16 extending along the Z direction and supporting horizontal members 18, 20. A first set of parallel horizontal members 18 arranged along the X direction is arranged perpendicular to a second set of parallel horizontal members 20 arranged along the Y direction (not shown in Figure 5). The horizontal members 18, 20 form a plurality of horizontal lattice structures supported by the upright members 16. Boxes 10 are stacked between the members 16, 18, 20 of the frame structure 14, such that the frame structure 14 constrains the horizontal movement of the stack 12 of boxes 10 and guides the vertical movement of boxes 10.

[0079] The top layer of the frame structure 14 includes tracks 22 arranged in a grid array spanning the top of the stack 12. A first set 22a and a second set 22b of parallel tracks 22 are configured to guide the loading and handling device to move in the X and Y directions, respectively, across the top of the frame structure 14.

[0080] Figure 5a Further illustrated is a sorting and storage section according to a first form of the invention, adjacent to the target processing, storage, and retrieval system 100. The sorting and storage section includes a series of conveyors arranged between the storage system 100 and a workstation 120, at which a user retrieves a target from a storage container 10 to a transfer container DT. Figure 5a and 5b In this embodiment, the storage container 10 is sorted for arrival at the workstation, so that the user can collect the desired item directly from the storage container 10 to the correct delivery container DT. The storage container 10 containing the item to be collected travels on conveyor 110', and the delivery container DT containing the customer order travels on a separate but adjacent conveyor 110''.

[0081] The storage container 10 containing the target to be collected is located in the target processing and storage system 100.

[0082] In use, the loading and processing unit 30, operating under the control of a computer-controlled device, retrieves the target container 10 from the stack 12 within the storage system 100. The loading and processing unit 30 carries the container 10 to the unloading point 130. The unloading point 130 may include a port 24 (as shown in Figure 4), or may include a ramp device located above the conveyor, such as... Figure 5bAs shown, the storage container descends from the loading processing unit onto conveyor 110'. If the storage container 10 includes a target requesting immediate receipt of the transfer container DT at the workstation, the container 10 is transferred to workstation 120 via the conveyor device. However, if a storage container 10 including an alternative target is requested at the workstation before the currently described storage container 10, a transfer device (not shown) acts on the target container to transfer the current storage container 10 to one of a plurality of temporary storage locations 140'. When the control device determines that the currently described target storage container 10 is requested at the workstation, the transfer device acts in the opposite manner, thereby moving the storage container 10 from the temporary storage location 140' back to the storage container conveyor 110' for delivery to workstation 120.

[0083] Similarly, when a transport container DT is moved from storage system 100 to workstation 120, the arrival of a given transport container DT can be ordered under the control of a computer device (not shown) in a manner similar to that described for storage container 10. The transport container DT can be stored at a temporary storage location 140'' adjacent to the transport container conveyor 110'' and transferred from conveyor 110'' to storage location 140'' via a suitable transfer device (not shown). Furthermore, in a manner similar to that described with reference to storage container 10, when a transport container DT is requested at the workstation, the transfer device operates under the control of the computer device to move the transport container DT from the temporary storage location to the transport conveyor device 110'', thereby moving it forward to workstation 120.

[0084] like Figure 5a and 5b As shown, the conveyor 110'' and storage container conveyor 110' include a conveyor loop such that storage container 10 and conveyor container DT leave the storage system via loading handling device 30 and conveyor devices 110' and 110'' to reach workstation 120 and return to storage system 100. However, it should be understood that conveyors 110' and 110'' may receive container 10 and DT from alternative locations and return containers to alternative locations without returning them to storage system 100.

[0085] It should be understood that this embodiment describes a system in which the conveyor container 110'' and the storage container 110' respectively include a plurality of temporary storage locations 140'' and 140'. However, it is not required that both conveyor devices 110'' and 110' include temporary storage locations, but either of the conveyor devices may include temporary storage locations.

[0086] The following refers to the attached diagram. Figure 6a , 6b The second embodiment of the present invention will be described using numbers 7 and 8.

[0087] Figure 6a A framework architecture 14 of a storage system 100 according to another form of the invention is shown, the framework architecture including adjacent sorting and storage portions 145. (See also...) Figure 6a As shown, frame 150 is located between storage system 100 and workstation 120. Frame 150 includes rails 160 on which storage container 10 is located. Figure 6a and 6b As further shown, the frame 150 of the second embodiment includes a guide rail 160 having a container positioning position thereon.

[0088] In use, the loading and handling device 30 operates on the storage system 100, positioning and raising the target container 10 from the stack 12. The loading and handling device 30 transports the container 10 to a drop point 170 above the frame 150 of the sorting and storage section 145. Once in position above the frame 150, the loading and handling device 30 lowers the container 10 onto the frame 150. The frame 150 includes multiple locations for storing the container 10, which includes items that are moved quickly or frequently needed from the storage system 100. A track 160 is movable around the frame 150, thereby moving the container 10 located thereon. The container 10 is positioned on the track by a positioning device, such as a support, carrier, or shuttle 170. The track 160 and the associated positioning device move the container 10 around the frame 150 as it moves around the frame 150.

[0089] Frame 150 includes an output point 148 from which container 10 can be output to workstation 120 when it is adjacent to the output point. The output point may include a transfer device as previously described to move container 10 from frame 150 toward workstation 120. The output container 10 may be moved toward workstation 120 via any suitable means, such as a conveyor device. Figure 6a The arrows indicate the movement path of the target container 10 via the workstation.

[0090] In a manner similar to that described above with reference to the foregoing embodiments, container 10 is held in a temporary storage location within frame 150 until the control device determines that container 10 is needed at the workstation. At this point, the desired target container is transferred from frame 150 to the means of transporting container 10 to the workstation, and the desired target is retrieved from the workstation into the transfer container DT. Once the desired target has been retrieved, container 10 is returned to frame 150 until it is needed again at the workstation. If the contents of storage container 10 are emptied, storage container 10 can be refilled at the filling station of frame 150 or the workstation (not shown).

[0091] In reference Figure 6a , 6b In embodiments 7 and 8, frame 150 only processes storage container 10. For example... Figure 6a and 6b As shown, the transport container DT arrives at the workstation 120 via the unloading point 170 in the storage system 100. The loading processing unit 130 lowers the transport container DT from above to the workstation 120. However, it should be understood that the transport container DT can also arrive at the workstation from the storage system 100 via any suitable means. Furthermore, the storage and sorting frame 150 described with reference to the storage container 10 can be used.

[0092] like Figure 7 As shown, two sorting and storage sections 145, each comprising two connected frames 145, are shared between a single workstation 120. In this second embodiment of this form, storage containers 10 stored in temporary locations within the frames 145 serve as targets for one or both workstations 120. A control device (not shown) monitors the position of all containers 10 located within the frames 145, and the containers 10 are moved to the appropriate workstation 120 via frame output ports associated with the relevant workstation 120. It should be understood that multiple vertical guide profiles are provided in the system described herein. However, for clarity, these guide profiles are not shown. Figure 8a and 8b A third embodiment of the invention is shown, including a storage and sorting section 145 located between the storage system 100 and the workstation 120.

[0093] like Figure 8a As shown, the storage and sorting section 145 includes a modified section of the frame 14 that allows the stack 12 of containers 10 to be accessed from the side. A container moving device 170 is located on the motorized upright section 165, allowing the device 170 to access any container 10 within the modified section of the frame. The container moving device 170 functions to remove a target container 10 from the stack 12 without necessarily removing all non-target containers above the target container 10. Figure 8b As shown, the container moving device 170 is arranged adjacent to and inserted around the target container 10, such that non-target containers above the target container 10 are lifted away from the target container and non-target containers below the target container are held in place. The target container 10 is then moved to the container moving device 170 and removed from the stack 12. Once removed, the target container is moved to the unloading point of the workstation 120 via the motorized upright 165.

[0094] It should be understood that the container moving device 170 includes means for separating non-target containers from target containers 10. Furthermore, the container moving device 170 includes a conveyor device 172 for removing containers from the stack. It should be understood that any suitable form of separation device 174 and conveyor device capable of separating containers from and removing them from the stack 12 may be used.

[0095] It should be understood that the motorized upright unit 165 can move between the storage system 100 and the workstation 120 on a track adjacent to the base of the storage system. The container moving device 170 can move the motorized upright unit 165 up and down via a suitable drive device. In addition, the motorized upright unit 165 can move along the side of the storage system via a suitable track device.

[0096] Furthermore, while this embodiment is described with reference to storage container 10, the present invention can also be applied to the movement of transport container DT.

[0097] Figure 9a Images 9b, 9c, and 9d illustrate a fourth embodiment of the invention, wherein the sorting and storage section 145 of the storage system 100 includes a frame 250 comprising a track 260 on which a carrier 270 is driven. The carrier 270 includes a temporary storage location 240 where containers 10 can be stored before being moved to workstation 120. The frame 250 and the associated track and carrier enable a computer-controlled device to sort the arrival of containers 10 at workstation 120, regardless of the sequence in which containers arrive at the storage and sorting section from the storage system 100. Figure 9b As shown, the additional storage location is set adjacent to the top surface of the frame. The storage location 240 and the additional storage location enable the container 10, which is moved quickly or is frequently needed, to be positioned close to the workstation 120 to reduce the number of times the container 10 needs to be raised from the storage system 100 via the loading processing device 30.

[0098] In a manner similar to that described above with reference to the foregoing embodiments of the present invention, the frame 250 is loaded with a container 10 which is transferred to the frame 250 by a loading processing device 30 that can run on the storage system 100.

[0099] For example, a target container 10, including the target required at workstation 120, is positioned in storage system 100 and retrieved from stack 12, wherein it is positioned by loading processing device 30. Loading processing device 30 transports the container 10 within its carrier body to unloading point 24 on storage system 100.

[0100] The container 10 is stored from the loading processing device 30 to a storage location adjacent to the frame 250. Alternatively, the loading processing device 30 may store the container 10 directly to one of the additional storage locations defined by the vehicle positions 270 on the track 260 of the frame 250.

[0101] The container 10 stored in storage location 240 or 270 can be moved between these locations via a suitable transfer device.

[0102] Track 260 moves around frame 250 under the control of computer equipment. Container 10 is moved onto or away from track 260 as needed. Frame 250 further includes sections capable of being positioned adjacent to workstation 120. Container 10 moves around frame 250 on carrier 270, which moves on track 260. The frame and track interact such that when container 10 is adjacent to workstation 120, container 10 is presented to the operator at the workstation, thereby presenting the target located within container 10 in an easily accessible manner. Thus, the operator can remove the desired target. It should be understood that, as Figure 9a , 9b As shown in Figure 9d, for safety reasons, the frame 250, track 260, and carrier 270 are completely enclosed. The only time container 10 can be accessed is when it is near workstation 120.

[0103] This embodiment is described again with reference to storage container 10. However, in the context of logistics systems for targets and goods ordered through an online retail environment, similar systems can also be used to store and sort transport containers DT.

[0104] It should be understood that the embodiments described above in terms of storage systems include the retrieval and collection of items to complete orders related to online ordering occasions. However, it should be understood that such storage systems are adaptable for use in many other applications and are not limited to the specific examples described herein.

[0105] In a fifth embodiment of the invention, the sorting and storage section is located between the storage system 100 and the workstation 120. Figure 10 , 11In the fifth embodiment shown in 12 and 13, a storage and sorting frame 350 is illustrated. The frame 350 includes a guide rail 360 with a reciprocating tool mounted thereon. In a manner similar to that described with reference to the fourth embodiment of the invention, containers 10 are transferred from the storage system 100 to the sorting and storage frame 350 via a loading processing device 30. The frame 350 can store multiple containers 10 in fixed storage locations adjacent to the guide rail 360, or can store containers 10 in movable storage locations on the guide rail 360 associated with the reciprocating tool. Containers 10 can be moved from fixed storage locations to the reciprocating tool on the guide rail 360 or from the reciprocating tool to fixed storage locations via suitable transfer devices.

[0106] Container 10 is accessed at workstation 120 in a manner similar to that described with reference to the fourth embodiment, i.e., the track 360 and the reciprocating tool are arranged such that, when in use, the track, which moves around the frame, is arranged such that the reciprocating tool sequentially presents each container 10 to the port of the adjacent workstation, and the reciprocating tool and the track interact at the adjacent workstation 120 such that the container 10 is presented in a manner that allows for easy access.

[0107] This embodiment is described again with reference to storage container 10. However, in the context of logistics systems for targets and goods ordered through an online retail environment, similar systems can also be used to store and sort transport containers DT.

[0108] In all the embodiments described above, the sorting and storage components are positioned between the storage system and the workstations. The objective of all the embodiments of the invention described above is that the component between the main storage system and the workstations functions to improve the overall efficiency of the system. In storage containers requiring frequent access, or in storage containers containing goods typically needed at and close to the workstations, fewer containers need to be accessed via loading processing or by digging or simply lifting them from the top of the stack in the storage system. This improves the speed at which sequences can be retrieved at the workstations and thus reduces the delivery cycle for retrieving sequences. This allows the system to respond more proactively to changes in proximity delivery times.

[0109] It should be understood that there are many ways to achieve this goal using a classification and sorting framework placed between the storage system and the workstation. The embodiments described above are merely examples, and variations or modifications of particular embodiments are contemplated without departing from the core inventive conception herein. The specific mechanisms of the invention presented above should not be considered limiting, as those skilled in the art can obtain the mechanisms of the invention in various ways without departing from the general ideas described above.

[0110] It should be understood that although the storage and sorting section is described as being located between the storage system and the workstation, it can also be physically located close to the storage system or the workstation. Furthermore, it can form a physical part of the storage system or the workstation. In practice, it can be used to physically connect the storage system to the workstation.

[0111] Furthermore, it should be understood that the sorting and storage components of the system can be physically separated from both the storage system and the workstation.

[0112] Additionally, it should be understood that a portion of the rack extends over the sorting and storage section to facilitate the unloading of containers from the loading processing unit. Alternatively, the loading processing unit may store containers 10 in an intermediate location between the storage system and the sorting and storage section.

[0113] In all the embodiments described above, storage containers and transport containers are involved. It should be understood that these containers may take the same or different forms, and the dimensions of the storage and sorting portions may be set and adapted accordingly for alternative constructions of the containers.

[0114] Additionally, it should be understood that in all matters involving frames, framing, and upright structural components, they can be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to metals such as aluminum and steel, and suitable structural plastics.

[0115] Additionally, it should be understood that the storage and sorting portions described above may be located between the storage system and each workstation, or only between a portion of the workstation and the storage system.

[0116] It should be understood that the embodiments described above regarding the storage system include entries for retrieving and collecting information to complete orders related to online grocery ordering. However, it should be understood that such a storage system is adaptable for use in many other applications and is not limited to the specific examples described herein. For example, such a storage system could be used for parcel sorting in a mail processing system.

[0117] Although the specific embodiments described relate to a system including a loading and handling device having a cavity within a body including means for carrying containers, other forms of loading and handling devices are also conceivable. For example, a loading and handling device having a cantilever section and a winch mechanism for raising the container can replace the loading and handling device described above.

[0118] It should be understood that the storage system can be designed for a specific application, using various combinations of the loading processing apparatus and arrangements described above. Many variations and modifications not explicitly described above are also possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A storage and sequencing assembly for a target processing and extraction system, the target processing and extraction system comprising a storage system for storing a plurality of containers, at least one workstation and a container drop-off point, the storage and sequencing assembly configured to interface with the container drop-off point and comprising a frame, a plurality of temporary storage locations for storing a plurality of containers being arranged within the frame, the frame comprising a track on which a carrier adapted to carry the containers is mounted, the carrier comprising the temporary storage locations, the containers being storable on the temporary storage locations before being moved to the workstations, the frame and the associated track and carrier enabling a control device to sequence the arrival of the containers at the workstations independently of the sequence in which the containers arrive at the storage and sequencing assembly from the storage system; and the frame comprising fixed storage locations, the containers being movable between the temporary storage locations and the fixed storage locations via a transfer device.

2. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the frame comprising a first frame and a second frame, the first frame being connected to the second frame and the first frame and the second frame being configured to interface with a single workstation of the at least one workstation to deliver containers to the single workstation.

3. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the frame comprising a first frame and a second frame, the first frame being connected to the second frame and the first frame and the second frame being configured to deliver containers to a first workstation and a second workstation of the at least one workstation.

4. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the frame being configured to store a plurality of containers in a stack.

5. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the carrier being arranged on the track and configured to store the containers as movable storage locations.

6. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the frame being configured to be adjacent to the workstations.

7. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the frame being configured to be adjacent to the target processing and extraction system.

8. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the frame being configured to be located between the storage system and the workstations.

9. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the containers stored in the temporary storage locations are storage containers.

10. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the containers stored in the temporary storage locations are delivery containers.

11. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, comprising an output point, the containers being output from the output point to the workstations when the containers are adjacent to the output point.

12. The storage and sequencing assembly of claim 1, wherein, the frame, the track and the carrier being fully enclosed and a container access port being adjacent to the at least one workstation.

Images