Book in-out system and book storage method

Abstract

The application provides a book warehouse-in and warehouse-out system and a book storage method. The book warehouse-in and warehouse-out system comprises a book warehouse-in conveying line, a book warehouse-out conveying line, a book box carrying conveying line, a mechanical hand, a goods shelf and an AGV robot. The book warehouse-in conveying line conveys books to be stored in the warehouse. The book warehouse-out conveying line conveys books to be taken out of the warehouse. The book box carrying conveying line conveys book boxes. When the books are stored in the warehouse, the mechanical hand identifies and checks the books to be stored in the warehouse conveyed to a set area, and puts the books to be stored in the warehouse into corresponding book boxes on the book box carrying conveying line. When the books are taken out of the warehouse, the mechanical hand puts the books to be taken out of the warehouse in the book boxes on the book warehouse-out conveying line. When the books are stored in the warehouse, the AGV robot carries the book boxes containing the books to be stored in the warehouse temporarily on the book box carrying conveying line to the goods shelf. When the books are taken out of the warehouse, the AGV robot carries the book boxes containing the books to be taken out of the warehouse stored on the goods shelf to the book box carrying conveying line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of book management technology, specifically to a book entry and exit system and a book storage method. Background Technology

[0002] With the increasing cultural demands of the public, the frequency of borrowing books from libraries has increased dramatically, and the library's book inventory has also increased year by year. However, the existing library buildings have limited floor space, and the space available for book storage is also very limited. New libraries aim to open up more space for readers. In recent years, with the continuous development of electronic tag technology, the overall planning and management of books has become more accurate, leading to the development of intelligent bookshelves, compact bookshelves, and other intelligent equipment for book storage.

[0003] However, the library's existing book handling and storage models still require staff involvement for online borrowing and returning. This involves a series of processes, including book lamination, shelving, deshelving, location tracking, picking, packing, and labeling. Each step requires human intervention, resulting in a heavy workload and low efficiency. A single order typically takes 3-5 days to reach the reader's designated location, leading to extremely low efficiency in book receiving and issuing, and making it difficult to locate ordered books. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a book entry and exit system and a book storage method that can automate the entire process of book entry and exit, improve the efficiency of book entry and exit, increase the accuracy of book picking, increase the storage capacity of books, and save the resources that libraries would otherwise need to invest in.

[0005] The technical solution adopted in this invention is as follows:

[0006] A book inbound / outbound system includes an inbound / outbound device, comprising: a book inbound conveyor line, the beginning of which is connected to an inbound port, for conveying books to be inbound; a book outbound conveyor line, the end of which is connected to an outbound port, for conveying books to be outbound; a book box handling conveyor line for conveying book boxes; and a robotic arm, which, upon book inbound, identifies and verifies the books to be inbound conveyed to a designated area by the book inbound conveyor line, and then... Books are picked up and placed on the top layer of the corresponding book box on the book box conveyor line. When books are out of the warehouse, the robotic arm picks up the books to be out of the book box and places them on the book out of the warehouse conveyor line. Shelves are used to store the book boxes. AGV robots are used to move the book boxes containing the books to be in the warehouse from the book box conveyor line to the shelves when books are in the warehouse, and to move the book boxes containing the books to be out of the warehouse from the shelves to the book box conveyor line when books are out of the warehouse.

[0007] The inbound / outbound device also includes a disinfection machine and a laminating machine. The disinfection machine and the laminating machine are located between the inbound port and the beginning of the book inbound conveyor line. The disinfection machine is used to disinfect the books to be inbound, and the laminating machine is used to automatically laminate the disinfected books to be inbound.

[0008] The disinfection machine is an ozone disinfection machine.

[0009] The robotic arm includes a suction cup, which is used to pick up the books to be put into storage and the books to be taken out of storage. The robotic arm also includes a visual positioning device, which is used to determine the specific location of the books to be put into storage and the books to be taken out of storage.

[0010] The inbound / outbound device also includes a packing and labeling component, which includes a packing machine and a labeling machine. The packing and labeling component is located between the end of the book outbound conveyor line and the outbound port. The packing and labeling component is used to pack and label the picked books to be outbound.

[0011] The book box handling and conveying line is equipped with inbound and outbound book box temporary storage lines, and the inbound and outbound book box temporary storage lines are equipped with multiple book box temporary storage positions.

[0012] The robotic arm is equipped with an electronic tag reader at the docking point with the book outbound conveyor line and the book inbound conveyor line.

[0013] The books to be added to the warehouse are single books, and the books to be removed from the warehouse are single books or multiple books.

[0014] A book storage method includes the following steps:

[0015] S1: The books to be stored are transported to a designated area via the book storage conveyor line; S2: The robotic arm's visual positioning device identifies and verifies the books to be stored located in the designated area. Based on the electronic tag information of the books to be stored, it determines the shelf and book box that match the electronic tag information of the books to be stored. Then, the AGV robot takes the book box from the shelf and moves the book box to the book box conveyor line; S3: The robotic arm then puts the books to be stored into the book box, with the books to be stored on the top layer of the book box. The AGV robot moves the book box containing the books to be stored to the shelf for storage.

[0016] In step S3, the books to be stored are placed on the top layer of the book box.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0018] This invention utilizes a book receiving conveyor line to transport books to be received, a book leaving conveyor line to transport books to be left out, and a book box handling conveyor line to transport book boxes. Robotic arms and AGV robots perform corresponding picking and handling actions between the corresponding conveyor lines. As a result, the entire process of book receiving and leaving can be automated, improving the efficiency of book receiving and leaving, increasing the accuracy of book picking, increasing the storage capacity of books, and saving the resources that libraries would otherwise need to invest in. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a book entry and exit system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a book storage method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the background software system architecture according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0023] like Figure 1As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a book entry and exit system, which includes entry and exit devices, including a book entry conveyor line 1, a book exit conveyor line 2, a book box handling conveyor line 3, a robotic arm 4, a shelf 5, and an AGV robot 6.

[0024] The book receiving conveyor line 1 starts at the receiving port and is used to transport books to be received, which are single books. The book leaving conveyor line 2 ends at the leaving port and is used to transport books to be left, which are single books or multiple books. The book box transport conveyor line 3 is used to transport book boxes. When books are received, a robotic arm 4 is used to identify and verify the books to be received by the book receiving conveyor line 1 to the designated area, and then picks up the books to be received and puts them into the top layer of the corresponding book box on the book box transport conveyor line 3. When books are left, the robotic arm 4 picks up the books to be left from the book box and places them on the book leaving conveyor line 2. The shelf 5 is used to store book boxes. When books are received, an AGV robot 6 is used to move the book boxes containing books to be received temporarily stored on the book box transport conveyor line 3 to the shelf 5. When books are left, the AGV robot 6 is used to move the book boxes containing books to be left stored on the shelf 5 to the book box transport conveyor line 3.

[0025] Furthermore, the inbound / outbound device of this embodiment may also include a disinfection machine 7 and a laminating machine 8. The disinfection machine 7 and the laminating machine 8 are disposed between the inbound port and the beginning of the book inbound conveyor line 1. The disinfection machine 7 is used to disinfect the books to be inbound, and the laminating machine 8 is used to automatically laminate the disinfected books to be inbound.

[0026] Furthermore, the inbound and outbound device may also include a packing and labeling component 9, which includes a packing machine and a labeling machine. The packing and labeling component 9 is located between the end of the book outbound conveyor line 2 and the outbound port. The packing and labeling component 9 is used to pack and label the picked books to be outbound.

[0027] It should be further explained that in one embodiment of the present invention, the book inbound conveyor line 1 and the book outbound conveyor line 2 are belt conveyors. This ensures the stability and safety of the books during transport. The guardrails of the belt conveyor are designed with protective plates to prevent books from getting caught in the guardrails or from changing direction due to impacts. This maximizes both conveying efficiency and the stability of the belt conveyor and the safe operation of the books. Reflective photoelectric sensors are also installed on both sides of the belt conveyor to track and locate each book in real time, ensuring that books are transported sequentially with a certain spacing between them. This provides a guarantee for the subsequent identification, positioning, and picking up of each book by the robotic arm. The end and sides of the book inbound conveyor line 1 are equipped with book-adjusting and edge-blocking devices to ensure the fixed position of the books to be stored on the belt conveyor, adapting to the subsequent actions of the robotic arm 4.

[0028] In one embodiment of the present invention, the book box handling conveyor line is equipped with inbound and outbound book box temporary storage lines, and the inbound and outbound book box temporary storage lines are equipped with multiple book box temporary storage positions. By setting the inbound and outbound book box temporary storage lines and book box temporary storage positions, the docking mode of book boxes and other robotic arms is realized, ensuring that the working efficiency of the robotic arms is maximized, thereby improving the efficiency of book inbound and outbound operations.

[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, the robotic arm 4 includes a suction cup, which can pick up books to be put into storage and books to be taken out of storage. The robotic arm 4 picks up single books. The robotic arm 4 also includes a visual positioning device, which determines the specific location of the books to be put into storage and the books to be taken out of storage, ensuring accurate positioning of books entering and leaving the storage.

[0030] In one embodiment of the present invention, shelf 5 is an intelligent automated storage and retrieval system shelf, which is the core storage device of the inbound and outbound system.

[0031] In one embodiment of the invention, the book box is a plastic turnover box. The plastic turnover box ensures the safe storage of multiple books and allows for organized storage, increasing the system's storage capacity. Additionally, identification information is affixed to the book box, linking the book's entry information to the box for easy subsequent book release.

[0032] The robotic arm 4 and AGV robot 6 replace manual labor in completing the book picking and unloading operations. This not only makes the book picking process faster and more accurate, increasing the accuracy of book picking and warehousing, but also helps the back-end software system to more accurately record the specific location of each book in the book box, ensuring the accuracy of subsequent picking and unloading. This invention can set up multiple robotic arms 4 and AGV robots 6 to perform corresponding picking and handling operations, further improving the efficiency of book warehousing and unloading.

[0033] In one embodiment of the present invention, an electronic tag reader is installed at the docking position between the robotic arm 4 and the book receiving conveyor line 1 and the book leaving conveyor line 2. When books are received, the electronic tag reader identifies and verifies the information of the books to be received. After verification, the subsequent receiving action is performed. When books are left, the electronic tag reader identifies and verifies the information of the books to be left. After verification, the subsequent leaving action is performed. In another embodiment of the present invention, a barcode reader is installed on the book box handling conveyor line 3. When books are left, after the book boxes are transported to the designated position on the handling conveyor line 3, the barcode reader identifies the identification information of the book boxes containing the books to be left. After verification, the subsequent leaving action is performed.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present invention, the disinfection machine 7 is an ozone disinfection machine. The ozone disinfection machine utilizes the strong oxidizing properties of ozone to sterilize, causing various components in the microbial cells on the surface of the books to oxidize, resulting in irreversible changes that kill the microorganisms. After disinfection, a small amount of atomic oxygen is released, which can also freshen the air, making book storage more beneficial. The ozone disinfection machine can disinfect a single book or an entire box of books simultaneously, with professionally guaranteed disinfection effects.

[0035] In one embodiment of the present invention, the laminating machine 8 can perform book lamination and subsequent venting and heat shrinking. It can heat and vent the air after laminating a single book to ensure a better fit between the film and the book, providing protection against moisture, insects, dust, and oxidation, thus ensuring safe storage and providing a theoretical basis for the subsequent robotic arm to pick up the book. The laminating material can be POF, and the laminating machine uses a non-stick, high-temperature resistant alloy sealing blade coated with a Teflon non-stick film to ensure lamination and sealing quality. This ensures that the film will not tear or break during the picking process, providing a foundation for the subsequent robotic arm 4 to pick up the book.

[0036] Before books are laminated, sensors can detect whether any books are entering the warehouse and automatically identify the size of the books to be laminated. Based on the size of the books to be laminated, actions such as feeding, cutting, sealing, transporting, and shrinking the books to be laminated are completed. By laminating the books to be laminated, the books can be protected from moisture, insects, dust, and oxidation, and some necessary wear and tear can be avoided during the process of books entering and leaving the warehouse.

[0037] In one embodiment of the present invention, the packaging and labeling component 9 uses corresponding sensors and photoelectric sensors to confirm the size of the books to be shipped out, and completes automated actions such as film feeding, packaging, and affixing of express delivery labels, ultimately forming a complete package, which may contain a single book or multiple books.

[0038] In summary, the book warehousing system according to the embodiments of the present invention uses a book inbound conveyor line 1 to transport books to be stored, a book outbound conveyor line 2 to transport books to be outbound, a book box transport conveyor line 3 to transport book boxes, and a robotic arm 4 and an AGV robot 6 to complete corresponding picking and handling actions between the corresponding conveyor lines. Thus, the entire process of book warehousing and outbound can be automated, improving the efficiency of book warehousing and outbound, increasing the accuracy of book picking, increasing the storage capacity of books, and saving the resources that the library needs to invest in construction.

[0039] Based on the book entry and exit system of the above embodiments, the present invention also proposes a book storage method.

[0040] like Figure 3 As shown, the book storage method of this invention includes the following steps:

[0041] S1: Transport the books to be stored to the designated area via the book storage conveyor line 1.

[0042] S2: The visual positioning device of the robotic arm 4 identifies and verifies the books to be put into storage located in the set area. Based on the electronic tag information of the books to be put into storage, it determines the shelf 5 and book box that match the electronic tag information of the books to be put into storage. Then, the AGV robot 6 takes out the book box from the shelf 5 and moves the book box to the book box conveyor line 3.

[0043] S3: The robotic arm 4 then places the books to be stored into the book box. The books to be stored are placed on the top layer of the book box. The AGV robot 6 then moves the book box containing the books to the shelf 5 for storage.

[0044] It should be further explained that the interior of the book box can be divided into two or four compartments according to the size of the books to be stored. Books of different sizes are placed in different compartments according to their categories, which greatly improves the utilization rate of the internal space of the book box and increases the storage capacity of the entire smart library. The book storage method of this invention is based on the distributed storage of books according to their popularity. The background software system automatically tracks all book boxes and counts the entry and exit data of books in the book boxes. Based on the entry and exit data of books, the corresponding book popularity is analyzed, and then the books are distributed for storage according to their popularity. For example, if the shelf 5 is divided into area A, area B, area C, etc., area A has the highest book popularity and the most entry and exit frequency, area B has the second highest book popularity and the middle entry and exit frequency, and area C has the lowest book popularity and the least entry and exit frequency. The book box is used as the storage unit of the book, and the popularity of the book box corresponds to the popularity of the shelf. When books are put into storage, they are distributed and stored according to the popularity of the shelf and the popularity of the book box. In addition, when the books are put into storage, the robotic arm 4 puts the books to be put into storage on the top layer of the book box, gradually forming a storage form in which the higher the book box, the higher the frequency of book entry and exit.

[0045] In summary, the book storage method according to the embodiments of the present invention analyzes the popularity of books to be stored by analyzing the inbound and outbound data of the books to be stored, and then determines the shelves 5 and book boxes that match the popularity of the books to be stored. During storage, the books to be stored are placed on the top layer of the book box, gradually forming a storage form in which the frequency of book inbound and outbound is higher on the upper layer of the book box and closer to the robotic arm 4. As a result, the frequency of book inbound and outbound is also higher. This can reduce the handling time of the AGV robot 6 and the picking time of the robotic arm 4, thereby reducing the book outbound time and improving the efficiency of book inbound and outbound.

[0046] like Figure 3 As shown in the figure, a book entry and exit system of the present invention is used in conjunction with a back-end software system. The back-end software system realizes the scheduling and control of the book entry and exit system. The back-end software system includes a book storage inventory management system (WMS), a book storage scheduling and control system (WCS), and a supervisory control system (SCADA).

[0047] The Book Warehouse Inventory Management System (WMS) interfaces with the Book Management System to enable functions such as book transfer inbound, book transfer outbound, book return inbound, and book borrowing outbound. Simultaneously, the WMS interfaces with the Book Warehouse Dispatch and Control System (WCS) to issue handling and picking tasks, thereby automating the corresponding book inbound and outbound operations. The WMS includes, but is not limited to, functions such as basic book data, shelf management, inbound / outbound storage, job processing, and display screen prompts.

[0048] The Book Warehouse Scheduling and Control System (WCS) is mainly responsible for the scheduling and control of the book inbound and outbound system. The WCS receives the handling tasks issued by the Book Warehouse Inventory Management System (WMS) and then controls the corresponding devices in the book inbound and outbound system to perform actions, such as robotic arms 4 and AGV robots 6. The WCS includes, but is not limited to, functions such as equipment management, path calculation, intelligent scheduling, task execution, and log reports.

[0049] The SCADA system is mainly used to facilitate on-site maintenance personnel to monitor equipment and task status and perform maintenance. It displays the overall project status in real time and provides timely and prominent alerts when faults occur. The SCADA system is deployed on the control room monitoring screen or on the maintenance personnel's PC. Through the SCADA system, maintenance personnel can solve maintenance needs more promptly and in a more targeted manner.

[0050] The following will combine Figure 1 Inbound and outbound devices and Figure 2 This invention describes the book storage method and the backend software system, outlining the book entry and exit process.

[0051] Book warehousing: Books to be warehoused first undergo disinfection by disinfection machine 7 to ensure that each book is disinfected. After disinfection, they are automatically transported to laminating machine 8, where each book is automatically laminated. After lamination, the books are transported to designated locations via book warehousing conveyor line 1. During transport, the book warehousing conveyor line 1 uses electronic tag readers and photoelectric sensors to confirm the specific location and verify the information of the books. The robotic arm 4, equipped with a corresponding vision recognition system, identifies and verifies the specific location and dimensions of the books, then picks them up and places them into the corresponding book boxes on the book box handling line 3. The books are placed on the top layer of the book boxes. Simultaneously, the background software system records the information of the books and issues instructions to the AGV robot 6. The AGV robot 6 then moves the book boxes containing the books to the designated shelves 5 for storage. The background software system updates the corresponding book box and book information, and the book warehousing is completed.

[0052] Book Outbound Process: The back-end software system issues instructions to the AGV robot 6. The AGV robot 6 moves to the designated shelf 5, removes the corresponding book box containing the books to be outbound, and transports it to the book box conveyor line 3. The book box conveyor line 3 reads the identification information on the book box using a barcode reader. After verifying that the identification information is correct, the robotic arm 4 picks the books to be outbound from the corresponding book box and places them on the book outbound conveyor line 2. Then, the books are transported to the packaging and labeling component 9 for packaging and affixing of express delivery labels, forming a package. The corresponding package information is transmitted to the outside through the back-end software system, which updates the outbound book information, and the book outbound process is completed.

[0053] Compared with the traditional library operation model, the book entry and exit system and book storage method of this invention have the following advantages:

[0054] (1) Higher book inventory:

[0055] Intelligent automated book storage systems offer high-density book storage, with a maximum book capacity of over 2.5 times that of traditional bookshelves within the same building area.

[0056] (2) Fewer workers:

[0057] The intelligent automated library only requires 3 operation and maintenance personnel, while the traditional operation model requires an average of 8 people for every 1 million books. In the intelligent automated library, staff are only responsible for the normal operation and maintenance of the library and the wear and tear of the equipment, which greatly reduces the workload of the staff.

[0058] (3) Faster book borrowing and returning speed:

[0059] Books are handled by automated handling equipment and systems, and the process of putting them on shelves and retrieving them from the warehouse can usually be completed within 1 to 5 minutes, which is much faster than traditional book warehouses.

[0060] (4) More accurate information:

[0061] In the intelligent automated library, books are moved in and out of the library through a software system and automated handling equipment. Each book can be monitored in real time, and historical data on book entry and exit can be queried, exported, and analyzed at any time, further empowering the library with digitalization.

[0062] (5) A safer book borrowing environment:

[0063] Equipped with automated disinfection facilities or equipment, all books in the warehouse are disinfected and sterilized, ensuring the safety of borrowers and staff.

[0064] (6) Improved reader experience:

[0065] The efficient and fast intelligent three-dimensional library borrowing service enhances the reader's experience in many aspects, including feeling and mindset.

[0066] (7) A better museum image:

[0067] Both readers and library staff have their library experience and impressions fully satisfied.

[0068] The book inbound / outbound system and book storage method of this invention have the following advantages over the warehousing and logistics industry:

[0069] (1) Full-process automation reduces manpower and labor intensity, leading the industry:

[0070] All books are processed using a fully automated system, including inbound wrapping, shelving, unshelving, positioning, picking, packing, and labeling. The entire process from inbound to outbound is automated.

[0071] The entire process of book storage, from receiving and boxing to handling, shelving, unshelving, outbound handling, and outbound picking, utilizes automated equipment to replace manual labor. This reduces the workload and improves efficiency in outbound operations. Books are automatically picked from orders and transported via conveyor lines to automated packing and labeling machines for packaging and labeling. While ensuring the overall storage capacity and efficiency of book handling in and out of the automated library, this approach increases space utilization, enhances the safety of book handling and storage, and improves the speed and accuracy of library management.

[0072] The overall solution adopts leading intelligent warehousing technology. Under the coordination and instruction of the back-end system, the collaboration and cooperation between various automated devices realize the full automation of the book process from entry to exit. The overall technology application has innovative and leading significance in the industry.

[0073] (2) Disinfect books before they are put into storage; disinfect multiple books or entire boxes of books; disinfect the inside and outside of books:

[0074] This invention utilizes ozone sterilization technology and automated book disinfection conveying technology to avoid the impact of books on the human body before sterilization. All books are disinfected before entering the warehouse. Ozone's strong oxidizing properties destroy various components on the book's surface and within the microbial cells, causing irreversible changes that kill the bacteria. Compared to conventional ultraviolet disinfection, which only disinfects the book's surface, ozone immersion disinfection disinfects both the surface and the interior of the book. Furthermore, during the oxidation process, excess oxygen atoms (O) recombine to form oxygen molecules (O2) after 30 minutes, leaving no toxic residues. It is non-toxic, harmless, residue-free, and causes no secondary pollution, providing 360-degree sterilization without blind spots. The small amount of atomic oxygen released also helps to freshen the air.

[0075] In this embodiment of the invention, the disinfection machine, in conjunction with the book box storage equipment, can disinfect the entire box of books. It can also be used in conjunction with conveying equipment to complete the self-disinfection of multiple boxes of books, thereby eliminating the virus transmission route at the source, ensuring the safety of books entering and leaving the warehouse, and also ensuring the personal safety of readers and staff.

[0076] (3) Automatic film covering upon entry into the warehouse provides protection against moisture, insects, dust, and oxidation, facilitating machine picking and addressing industry pain points:

[0077] In this embodiment of the invention, an automatic laminating machine is used in conjunction with a conveyor line to complete the automatic laminating and transport of books. This is a highly innovative approach in the library field. It not only ensures that the books stored in the intelligent automated library are protected from moisture, insects, dust, and oxidation, but also avoids some necessary wear and tear on the books during their circulation within the library.

[0078] The laminating machine uses sensors and photoelectric sensors to automatically determine whether a book has entered and automatically identifies the size of the book. Based on the book size, it completes automated actions such as feeding, cutting, sealing, transporting, and shrinking the book to achieve automated lamination. The lamination effect is excellent, with no internal bubbles and no external burrs.

[0079] (4) Robotic arms can pick and store items, replacing manual labor, and are highly efficient and intelligent:

[0080] In this invention, a robotic arm is used to replace manual labor in the book picking and retrieval process. This is highly innovative in the library field. Using a robotic arm to complete the picking action not only makes the overall process faster and more accurate, but also increases the system's picking accuracy. It also makes it easier for the system to record the specific location of each book in the book box more accurately, ensuring the accuracy of subsequent picking and retrieval. The extremely high mechanical efficiency perfectly replaces manual labor and saves on warehouse operating costs.

[0081] The complete robotic arm system includes a vision recognition system and robotic arm hardware. On the system side, the vision system automatically identifies the position of books and completes automated book picking according to system task instructions. On the hardware side, based on a 6-axis robotic arm and equipped with suction cups, it can more perfectly realize a series of actions such as picking up, selecting, and putting into boxes the laminated books.

[0082] (5) Parallel destocking of multiple orders can improve destocking and picking efficiency:

[0083] This invention allows for the simultaneous operation of multiple robotic arms for order picking. Each robotic arm picking station is equipped with multiple order storage locations, greatly improving the order picking efficiency of the entire project and ensuring a perfect borrowing experience for readers even in the event of a sudden surge in outbound orders.

[0084] (6) Book popularity distribution storage, using advanced algorithms, can shorten the time for retrieving and placing books:

[0085] Storing books according to their heat distribution makes it easier for robots to handle them within the warehouse, reducing the total distance from the unshelf to the picking location and greatly shortening the time required for books to leave and enter the warehouse.

[0086] In the shelving area, all books are stored in book boxes. At the system level, all book boxes are automatically tracked and their book entry and exit data is statistically analyzed to determine book popularity. Upon entry, books are prioritized for storage based on location popularity and book box popularity. Books in section A are the most popular and borrowed most frequently; books in section B are the second most popular and borrowed in between; and books in section C are the least popular and borrowed least frequently.

[0087] The book popularity distribution storage method, combined with the characteristics of robotic arm access (returned books are stored on the top layer of the book box), will gradually optimize the popularity distribution of the books in the whole box with the support of the back-end system. This will gradually form a storage method in which the books on the top layer are borrowed more frequently. This method is also more conducive to the robotic arm's picking action.

[0088] (7) Orders placed outside of working hours are automatically shipped out and reused during off-peak hours to balance shipping efficiency:

[0089] The intelligent automated library is staffed with 7 days a week, 8 hours a day, to handle daily operations. Outside of working hours, the library continues to operate normally. If the online borrowing frequency exceeds the normal processing peak, orders can be arranged and automatically processed outside of working hours. After the automated equipment in the library processes the orders, the books are transported to the operations studio for buffering. The operations staff will then expedite the processing of the previous day's book orders the following day.

[0090] The construction of intelligent three-dimensional libraries is highly innovative, flexible, and will have a higher degree of automation.

[0091] (8) Using AGV robots as the main storage and logistics equipment can increase the flexibility of the solution:

[0092] While ensuring the overall efficiency of inbound and outbound operations and the total storage capacity, the system also increases scalability and flexibility for future deployments. To increase storage capacity, simply add the corresponding number of shelves; to increase overall inbound and outbound efficiency, simply add the corresponding number of robots. The bin-type robots are also perfectly adaptable to future warehouse relocation or transfer needs.

[0093] (9) Plastic turnover boxes serve as carriers for books, providing a foundation for automation:

[0094] The books are stored in plastic crates. The crate design serves two purposes: it protects against dust and allows for easy packing and shipping of the entire crate with the books during warehousing, reducing the need for manual handling. Barcode labels are affixed to each crate, linking the book's entry information to the corresponding crate for easy book picking and shipping.

[0095] In the description of this invention, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. "A plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0096] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0097] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0098] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0099] Any process or method description in the flowchart or otherwise herein can be understood as representing a module, segment, or portion of code comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing a particular logical function or process, and the scope of the preferred embodiments of the invention includes additional implementations in which functions may be performed not in the order shown or discussed, including substantially simultaneously or in reverse order depending on the functions involved, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which embodiments of the invention pertain.

[0100] The logic and / or steps represented in the flowchart or otherwise described herein, for example, can be considered as a ordered list of executable instructions for implementing logical functions, and can be embodied in any computer-readable medium for use by, or in conjunction with, an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device (such as a computer-based system, a processor-included system, or other system that can fetch and execute instructions from, an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device). For the purposes of this specification, "computer-readable medium" can be any means that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transmit programs for use by, or in conjunction with, an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of computer-readable media include: an electrical connection having one or more wires (electronic device), a portable computer disk drive (magnetic device), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable and editable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), fiber optic devices, and portable optical disc read-only memory (CDROM). Alternatively, the computer-readable medium may be paper or other suitable media on which the program can be printed, since the program can be obtained electronically, for example, by optically scanning the paper or other medium, followed by editing, interpreting, or otherwise processing as necessary, and then stored in a computer memory.

[0101] It should be understood that various parts of the present invention can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In the above embodiments, multiple steps or methods can be implemented in software or firmware stored in memory and executed by a suitable instruction execution system. For example, if implemented in hardware, as in another embodiment, it can be implemented using any one or a combination of the following techniques known in the art: discrete logic circuits having logic gates for implementing logical functions on data signals, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) having suitable combinational logic gates, programmable gate arrays (PGAs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0102] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the steps of the methods in the above embodiments can be implemented by a program instructing related hardware. The program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, the program includes one or a combination of the steps of the method embodiments.

[0103] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of the present invention can be integrated into a processing module, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into a module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. If the integrated module is implemented as a software functional module and sold or used as an independent product, it can also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0104] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A book entry and exit system, characterized in that, Includes an inbound / outbound device, the inbound / outbound device comprising: A book storage conveyor line, the beginning of which is connected to the warehouse entrance, is used to transport books to be stored. A book outbound conveyor line, the end of which is connected to an outbound port, is used to transport books to be outbound. A book box transport conveyor line, wherein the book box transport conveyor line is used to transport book boxes; When books are being stored, the robotic arm is used to identify and verify the books to be stored that are being transported to the designated area by the book storage conveyor line. Then, the robotic arm picks up the books to be stored and places them on the top layer of the corresponding book box on the book box handling conveyor line. When books are being stored, the robotic arm picks up the books to be stored from the book box and places them on the book outbound conveyor line. A shelf for storing the book box; When books are received into the warehouse, the AGV robot is used to move the boxes containing the books to be received from the temporary storage on the book box conveyor line to the shelf. When books are taken out of the warehouse, the AGV robot is used to move the boxes containing the books to be taken out from the shelf to the book box conveyor line. The inbound / outbound device also includes a disinfection machine and a laminating machine. The disinfection machine and the laminating machine are located between the inbound port and the beginning of the book inbound conveyor line. The disinfection machine is used to disinfect the books to be put into the warehouse, and the laminating machine is used to automatically laminate the disinfected books to be put into the warehouse. The robotic arm includes a suction cup, which is used to pick up the books to be put into storage and the books to be taken out of storage. The robotic arm also includes a visual positioning device, which is used to determine the specific location of the books to be put into storage and the books to be taken out of storage. The inbound / outbound device also includes a packing and labeling component, which includes a packing machine and a labeling machine. The packing and labeling component is located between the end of the book outbound conveyor line and the outbound port. The packing and labeling component is used to pack and label the picked books to be outbound.

2. The book entry and exit system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The disinfection machine is an ozone disinfection machine.

3. The book entry and exit system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The book box handling and conveying line is equipped with inbound and outbound book box temporary storage lines, and the inbound and outbound book box temporary storage lines are equipped with multiple book box temporary storage positions.

4. The book entry and exit system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Electronic tag readers are installed at the docking points of the robotic arm with the book outbound conveyor line and the book inbound conveyor line.

5. The book entry and exit system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The books to be added to the warehouse are single books, and the books to be removed from the warehouse are single books or multiple books.

6. A book storage method based on the book entry and exit system according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: The books to be stored are transported to the designated area via the book storage conveyor line; S2: The visual positioning device of the robotic arm identifies and verifies the books to be put into storage located in the set area. Based on the electronic tag information of the books to be put into storage, it determines the shelf and book box that match the electronic tag information of the books to be put into storage. Then, the AGV robot takes out the book box from the shelf and transports the book box to the book box transport conveyor line. S3: The robotic arm then places the books to be stored into the book box, with the books stored on the top layer of the book box. The AGV robot then moves the book box containing the books to the shelf for storage.

7. The book storage method according to claim 6, characterized in that, In step S3, the books to be stored are placed on the top layer of the book box.

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