Method of operating a loading and unloading system with improved load handling

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a storage device, comprising the following method steps: determining, by an evaluation unit, a first storage characteristic value for a first storage area of the rack device and a second storage characteristic value for a second storage area of the rack device and comparing the first and second storage characteristic values with one another, wherein the first storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between the existing storage locations and the occupied storage locations in the first storage area and the second storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between the existing storage locations and the occupied storage locations in the second storage area, and the first storage area extends vertically in a different manner to the second storage area, and the loading of goods into the rack device takes place in consideration of the adaptation of the storage characteristic values in the first and second storage areas to one another.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with international application number PCT / AT2019 / 060392, national application number 201980080345.3, application date November 19, 2019, entitled "Storage device and picking system with improved loading and unloading and operation method therefor". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for operating a storage device.

[0003] Such storage devices include:

[0004] - A shelving unit having a first storage rack and a second storage rack, each having a storage location for loading goods, wherein each storage location is arranged in an overlapping storage plane, and the shelving unit having a shelving aisle between the first and second storage racks.

[0005] - An inbound buffer device with inbound supply means, wherein each of the inbound supply means is arranged in overlapping supply planes and is respectively configured to buffer one or more loads in the middle.

[0006] - A vertical conveyor system for inbound transport, comprising multiple independently operable inbound transport platforms capable of planar displacement relative to each other within the inbound movement area, by means of which loads are transported from inbound conveying equipment to inbound supply devices.

[0007] - An outbound buffer device with outbound supply units, each of which is arranged in overlapping supply planes and is respectively configured to buffer one or more loads in the middle.

[0008] - An outbound vertical conveyor system comprising multiple outbound transport platforms that can be independently controlled and are capable of planar displacement relative to each other within the outbound movement area, by means of which loads are transported from an outbound supply device to outbound conveying equipment.

[0009] - Shelf operators, each of which is movable on a horizontal plane in the shelf aisle in front of a storage location, in front of an inbound supply device, and in front of an outbound supply device; and each of the shelf operators has a carrying device for transporting loads between the storage location, the inbound supply device, and the outbound supply device.

[0010] - In terms of conveying technology, an inbound conveying device is connected to an inbound vertical conveyor system, the inbound conveying device being used to transport loads to the inbound vertical conveyor system.

[0011] - Outbound conveying equipment connected to the outbound vertical conveyor system, the outbound conveying equipment being used to remove loads from the outbound vertical conveyor system, and

[0012] - A control system that controls the inbound transport platform so that the loads to be stored are received by the inbound conveying equipment and handed over to the inbound buffer device, and the control system controls the outbound transport platform so that the loads to be outbound are received by the outbound buffer device and handed over to the outbound conveying equipment. Background Technology

[0013] AT 509 294 A1 discloses a similar storage device and a similar method for operating the storage device. Vertical conveyor systems compatible with rack aisles each include transport platforms arranged at a fixed vertical distance from each other, one transport platform constituting an inbound transport platform and the other a outbound transport platform. The vertical conveyor systems are respectively connected to inbound and outbound transport equipment, through which loaded goods are transported to and from the corresponding vertical conveyor systems.

[0014] Storage devices and methods of operation for such storage devices are known in principle from the prior art. For example, US 2016 / 264356 A2 discloses a storage device having storage racks, inbound / outbound buffers, and rack operators that are movable in the plane of movement of the storage device. A vertical conveyor mechanism is connected to the end side, the vertical conveyor having two transport platforms that are movable vertically and laterally.

[0015] Furthermore, JP 2016 / 169083 A discloses a storage device having a storage rack, an inbound / outbound buffer, and a rack operator that can move within the moving plane of the storage device. Additionally, JP 2016 / 169083 A discloses two vertical conveyor mechanisms connected in series, each having two transport platforms and a buffer connected between the transport platforms.

[0016] Finally, EP 3 354 598 A1 discloses another storage device with storage racks, inbound / outbound buffers, and rack operators that are movable within the moving plane of the storage device. A vertical conveyor mechanism with two vertically movable transport platforms is connected to the end side.

[0017] A drawback of the known method is that the inbound and outbound transport platforms cannot move within their respective inbound and outbound movement areas without interfering with each other. This creates a dependency between the inbound and outbound processes. Overall, the system becomes slow and susceptible to interference, and congestion may occur during both inbound and outbound operations. Consequently, the control technology used for the storage devices is very expensive. Summary of the Invention

[0018] The objective of this invention is to provide an improved method for operating a storage device. In particular, it aims to avoid interdependence between the loading and unloading processes, thereby reducing the control technology costs associated with the aforementioned storage device.

[0019] The objective of this invention is achieved by an operating method for a storage device, in which:

[0020] - The evaluation unit obtains a first storage characteristic value for a first storage area of ​​the shelving unit and a second storage characteristic value for a second storage area of ​​the shelving unit, and compares the first and second storage characteristic values ​​with each other. The first storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between existing and occupied storage locations in the first storage area, and the second storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between existing and occupied storage locations in the second storage area. The first storage area extends vertically in a manner different from the second storage area.

[0021] - Taking into account the compatibility of storage characteristic values ​​in the first and second storage areas, the loaded items are stored in the shelving unit.

[0022] This avoids uneven load rates in the storage locations within the first and second storage areas, thus preventing so-called "unbalanced loads," and achieves a uniform load rate for the outbound supply device, rack operator, outbound transport platform, and outbound conveyor during the outbound process. The difference between the first and second storage characteristic values ​​can be formed, for example, by generating this difference or by generating a quotient between the first and second storage characteristic values. These storage areas are defined by "logical" separation. Therefore, the "logical" separation is unstructured. For example, the storage area below the "logical" separation is the first storage area and includes multiple storage planes, while the storage area above the "logical" separation is the second storage area and includes multiple storage planes. The number of storage locations in the first and second storage areas can, in particular, be the same. In this case, the quotient between the first and second storage characteristic values ​​corresponds to the quotient between the number of loads stored in the first storage area and the number of loads stored in the second storage area. Storage areas can each include a single storage plane or multiple storage planes. The allocation of storage areas can be static or dynamic (i.e., the storage areas change their size and / or location over time).

[0023] Typically, storage areas can be separate from or overlap with each other. If overlapping areas exist, there will be mutual influence between the stored feature values.

[0024] It may also be advantageous that the storage device of the type described at the beginning additionally includes:

[0025] - A vertical inbound conveyor system provided for the racking aisles, comprising multiple independently operable inbound transport platforms, each capable of planar displacement within an inbound movement area, and inbound conveying technology equipment provided for the racking aisles and technically connected to the vertical inbound conveyor system. This inbound conveying technology equipment transports loaded goods to the vertical inbound conveyor system, wherein the loaded goods can be transported from the inbound conveying technology equipment to the inbound supply device by means of the inbound transport platforms.

[0026] - An outbound vertical conveyor system provided to the rack aisle, the outbound vertical conveyor system having multiple outbound transport platforms that can be independently operated and each can be displaced relative to the providing plane within the outbound movement area, and an outbound conveying technology device provided to the rack aisle and technically connected to the outbound vertical conveyor system, the outbound conveying technology device being used to transport loads from the outbound vertical conveyor system, wherein the loads can be transported from the outbound providing device to the outbound conveying technology device by means of the outbound transport platforms, and

[0027] - A control system configured to independently operate the inbound transport platform and the outbound transport platform.

[0028] Specifically, on the inlet side (i.e., especially on the outlet side away from the inlet buffer device), the inlet conveying equipment is connected only to the inlet vertical conveyor, and on the outlet side (i.e., especially on the inlet side away from the outlet buffer device), the outlet conveying equipment is connected only to the outlet vertical conveyor. This means that in this variant, the outlet conveying equipment is not connected to the inlet vertical conveyor, and the inlet conveying equipment is not connected to the outlet vertical conveyor. Loads to be stored are brought in by the inlet conveying equipment and delivered only to the inlet vertical conveyor, and loads to be stored are delivered only to the outlet vertical conveyor and transported away by the outlet conveying equipment. In this case, it is also advantageous that the inlet supply devices of the inlet buffer device are used (only) for inleting in all supply planes where these inlet supply devices are arranged, and the outlet supply devices of the outlet buffer device are used (only) for outleting in all supply planes where these outlet supply devices are arranged.

[0029] Advantageously, the inbound transport platform and the outbound transport platform are operated separately or independently by the control system. The inbound movement area therefore does not overlap with the outbound movement area. Thus, the process of loading goods into the warehouse via multiple inbound transport platforms and the process of loading goods outbound via multiple outbound transport platforms can be executed in parallel and decoupled from each other. That is to say, the inbound and outbound transport platforms can move within the inbound movement area and the outbound movement area (with maximum movement speed) without affecting each other. The conveying flow is handled separately by the inbound vertical conveyor and the outbound vertical conveyor, which includes a conveying flow with loads to be loaded into the warehouse and a conveying flow with loads to be loaded out of the warehouse. The control technology structure or cost of the storage device can be reduced in this way. In particular, the loading goods to be loaded into the warehouse will not cause congestion when loading goods out of the warehouse, and vice versa, as may occur in the prior art.

[0030] The first and second inbound transport platforms each serve multiple storage areas. The control system can operate the first and second inbound transport platforms such that goods are received by the first inbound conveyor via the first platform, and by the second inbound conveyor via the second platform. The inbound movement areas of the first and second inbound transport platforms can be separated yet adjacent to each other. Through this control measure, the first and second inbound transport platforms can move at high speeds within their respective inbound movement areas without the risk of collision, thereby achieving high storage efficiency.

[0031] However, it is also possible that these inbound movement areas overlap, thus creating an overlapping inbound area. In this case, the control system prevents the first and second inbound transport platforms from colliding in the overlapping area. Alternatively, the control system can be configured to operate the first and second inbound transport platforms such that goods are received by the second inbound conveyor via the first inbound transport platform, and vice versa. This control measure allows for particularly flexible use of the first and second inbound transport platforms.

[0032] The first and second outbound transport platforms each serve multiple storage areas. The control system operates these platforms such that goods are transferred from the first platform to the first outbound conveyor and then from the second platform to the second outbound conveyor. The outbound movement areas of the first and second outbound transport platforms can be separate yet adjacent to each other. Through these control measures, the first and second outbound transport platforms can move at high speeds within their designated outbound movement areas without the risk of collision, thus achieving high outbound efficiency.

[0033] However, it is also possible that the outbound movement areas overlap, thus creating an overlapping outbound area. In this case, the control system prevents the first and second outbound transport platforms from colliding in the overlapping area. Alternatively, the control system can be configured to operate the first and second outbound transport platforms such that the load is transferred from the first platform to the second outbound conveyor and vice versa. This control measure allows for particularly flexible use of the first and second outbound transport platforms.

[0034] The control system may include, in particular, an outbound control unit and an inbound control unit.

[0035] Another advantage is that the outbound vertical conveyor system is structurally separate from the inbound vertical conveyor system. This means there is no overlap in the mechanical components required to move the transport platform. In other words, there is no shared use of the mechanical components required to move the transport platform. As a result, the process of loading goods into the warehouse via multiple inbound transport platforms can be better decoupled from the process of loading goods outbound via multiple outbound transport platforms.

[0036] The outbound vertical conveyor and the inbound vertical conveyor can be spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction of the rack aisle or substantially located at the same transverse position in the transverse direction of the rack aisle. Furthermore, the outbound vertical conveyor and the inbound vertical conveyor can be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the rack aisle or substantially located at the same longitudinal position in the longitudinal direction of the rack aisle.

[0037] The outbound vertical conveyor and the inbound vertical conveyor can be set up with a channel width between them and arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner opposite each other.

[0038] It is also possible that the outbound vertical conveyor and the inbound vertical conveyor are arranged staggered from each other in the longitudinal direction of the rack aisle and on the same side of the rack aisle.

[0039] Finally, it is also possible that the outbound vertical conveyor and the inbound vertical conveyor are set apart from each other by one aisle width and are staggered from each other along the longitudinal direction of the rack aisle.

[0040] Storage units typically have two or more storage racks and one or more rack aisles. In this case, outbound vertical conveyors and inbound vertical conveyors can be installed for each rack aisle.

[0041] Inbound loading includes loading from the goods inlet (new or returned goods), and may also include loading (not required by the picking order) being returned from one or more picking stations. Outbound loading includes loading required by the picking order.

[0042] Preferably, the inbound buffer device is arranged between the first storage rack and the inbound vertical conveyor device, and the outbound buffer device is arranged between the second storage rack and the outbound vertical conveyor device.

[0043] If the inbound movement areas have overlapping regions, they can completely overlap or only partially overlap. Similarly, if they have overlapping regions, the outbound movement areas can also completely overlap or only partially overlap.

[0044] The first and second inbound transport platforms are arranged directly stacked vertically. In principle, the first and second inbound transport platforms can move on separate poles. However, it is advantageous for the first and second inbound transport platforms to move on a single pole.

[0045] The same applies to the outbound side. The first and second outbound transport platforms can be arranged directly and perpendicularly stacked. In principle, the first and second outbound transport platforms can move on separate poles. However, it is also advantageous for the first and second outbound transport platforms to move on a single pole.

[0046] Therefore, the (multiple) inbound transport platforms can be vertically stacked on the inbound guiding device (which includes the inbound vertical conveyor) and can be moved independently of each other by the control system. The (multiple) outbound transport platforms can be vertically stacked on the outbound guiding device (which includes the outbound vertical conveyor) and can be moved independently of each other by the control system.

[0047] The inbound guiding device for the inbound transport platform can be constructed on an inbound vertical frame that is fixedly positioned. The outbound guiding device for the outbound transport platform can be constructed on an outbound vertical frame that is fixedly positioned. As described above, the inbound and outbound vertical frames can be structurally separate from each other. Preferably, the inbound vertical frame, the inbound transport platform, and the inbound buffer device are arranged on a first side extending longitudinally transversely to the aisle and outside the aisle, while the outbound vertical frame, the outbound transport platform, and the outbound buffer device are arranged on a second side extending longitudinally transversely to the aisle and outside the aisle.

[0048] Alternatively, the inbound and outbound vertical racks can be combined and formed by individual inbound and outbound vertical racks. In this case, the inbound transport platform and inbound buffer device can be arranged on a first side extending longitudinally transversely to the rack aisle and outside the rack aisle, while the outbound transport platform and outbound buffer device can be arranged on a second side extending longitudinally transversely to the rack aisle and outside the rack aisle. The (individual) inbound and outbound vertical racks then form a first guide device for the inbound transport platform on the first side and a second guide device for the outbound transport platform on the second side. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when the rack aisle ends at the inbound and outbound vertical racks.

[0049] Generally, inbound and / or outbound vertical conveyor systems can be precisely configured for rack aisles. However, it is also possible to configure one inbound and / or one outbound vertical conveyor system for multiple rack aisles. For example, inbound transport platforms configured for two rack aisles can be arranged on a single inbound vertical rack. For instance, two overlapping inbound transport platforms can be configured for a first rack aisle, and two other overlapping inbound transport platforms can be configured for a second rack aisle. Similarly, outbound transport platforms configured for two rack aisles can be arranged on a single outbound vertical rack. For instance, two overlapping outbound transport platforms can be configured for a first rack aisle, and two other overlapping outbound transport platforms can be configured for a second rack aisle.

[0050] The first inbound conveying device preferably includes conveying sections arranged sequentially along the inbound conveying direction of the loads. The first conveying section has at least one first input track, the second conveying section has a first distribution track, the third conveying section has at least one first return track, and the fourth conveying section has a first inbound track assigned to an inbound vertical conveyor. At least one first input track is connected to the first distribution track and transports the loads from the goods inlet. The first inbound track is connected to the first distribution track and transports the loads to their respective inbound vertical conveyors. At least one first return track connects at least one first picking station to the first distribution track and removes unwanted loads from the first picking station after the picking process.

[0051] The first distribution track preferably (but not mandatory) consists of a closed first inbound conveyor loop track (inbound ring), through which multiple first input tracks are connected, guiding the inbound vertical conveyor device. Loads to be inbound can be distributed by the first inbound conveyor loop track (inbound ring) onto one or more first inbound tracks.

[0052] The second inbound conveying device preferably includes inbound conveying sections arranged sequentially along the inbound conveying direction of the loads. The first conveying section has at least one second input track, the second conveying section has a second distribution track, the third conveying section has at least one second return track, and the fourth conveying section has a second inbound track assigned to an inbound vertical conveyor. The second input track connects to the second distribution track and transports the loads from the goods inlet. The second inbound track connects to the second distribution track and transports the loads to the corresponding inbound vertical conveyor. At least one second return track connects the second picking station to the second distribution track and removes the loads from the second picking station after the picking process.

[0053] The second distribution track preferably consists of a closed second inbound conveyor loop track (inbound ring), through which multiple second inbound tracks are connected, and these second inbound tracks guide to the inbound vertical conveyor device. The load to be inbound can be distributed to one or more second inbound tracks by the second inbound conveyor loop track (inbound ring).

[0054] The first / second input track, the first / second warehouse distribution track, the first / second return track, and the first / second warehouse track may each include a conveying device, such as a belt conveyor, a roller conveyor, etc.

[0055] The conveying of loads from the first / second input track to the first / second warehouse distribution track, the conveying of loads from the first / second return track to the first / second warehouse distribution track, and the conveying of loads from the first / second warehouse distribution track to the first / second warehouse track can be achieved through a feeding device and a discharging device. The feeding device and discharging device include, for example, belt changers, pulley dividers, etc.

[0056] Preferably, the first outbound conveying device includes outbound conveying sections arranged sequentially in the outbound conveying direction of the loaded goods. The first conveying section includes a first outbound track equipped with an outbound vertical conveyor. The second conveying section includes a first outbound distribution track connecting the first outbound track. The third conveying section includes at least one second input track. The second input track connects the first picking station to the first outbound distribution track and transports the loaded goods to the first picking station.

[0057] The first outbound distribution track preferably (but not mandatory) consists of a closed first outbound conveyor loop track (outbound ring), through which multiple first outbound tracks leading from the outbound vertical conveyor are connected and the outbound loads are distributed to one or more first picking stations.

[0058] The second outbound conveying device preferably includes outbound conveying sections arranged sequentially in the outbound conveying direction of the loaded goods. The first conveying section has an outbound track equipped with an outbound vertical conveyor. The second conveying section includes a second outbound distribution track connecting the second outbound track. The third conveying section includes at least one second input track. The second input track connects the second picking station to the second outbound distribution track and transports the loaded goods to the second picking station.

[0059] The second outbound distribution track is preferably formed by a closed second outbound conveyor loop (outbound ring), which connects multiple second outbound tracks, which are drawn from the outbound vertical conveyor. Outbound loads can be distributed to one or more second picking stations from the second outbound conveyor loop (outbound ring).

[0060] The first / second outbound track, the first / second outbound distribution track, and the first / second input track each include conveying devices, such as belt conveyors, roller conveyors, etc.

[0061] The transfer of loads from the first / second outbound track to the first / second outbound distribution track, and from the first / second outbound distribution track to the first / second input track, can be achieved through a feeding device and a discharging device. The feeding device and discharging device may include, for example, belt changers, pulley dividers, etc.

[0062] It should be noted that the distribution track or conveyor loop (ring) must not only be used for inbound or outbound operations, but can also perform both functions, and then a combined inbound / outbound distribution track or a combined inbound / outbound conveyor loop (inbound / outbound ring) is constructed. This combined inbound / outbound distribution track or inbound / outbound conveyor loop (inbound / outbound loop) can enter the positions of the aforementioned outbound distribution track / outbound conveyor loop (outbound ring) and the aforementioned inbound distribution track / outbound conveyor loop (inbound ring). However, the inbound conveyor section of the inbound conveyor equipment guided away from the combined inbound / outbound conveyor loop can also be used solely for the inbound of loaded goods, and the outbound conveyor section guided by the outbound conveyor equipment to the combined inbound / outbound distribution track or inbound / outbound conveyor loop can also be used solely for the outbound of loaded goods.

[0063] It has also proven advantageous that the outbound conveying technology equipment includes a first outbound conveying device, which is configured with a first outbound transport platform and a second outbound transport platform within the outbound transport platform, and allows the load to be accessed by both the first and second outbound transport platforms. In this variant, the storage device therefore includes only one (single) outbound conveying device. Thus, the load is transported from the outbound supply device to the (single) outbound conveying device via the outbound transport platform. Multiple outbound transport platforms can be moved independently of each other and controlled by a control system.

[0064] Furthermore, the outbound conveying technology includes a first outbound conveying device and a second outbound conveying device arranged in overlapping conveying planes. The loaded goods are transported by an outbound supply device to either the first or second outbound conveying platform within the outbound transport platform. This allows for flexible outbound delivery of goods to both the first and second outbound conveying devices.

[0065] It has also proven advantageous that the outbound conveying technology equipment includes a first outbound conveying device and a second outbound conveying device arranged in overlapping conveying planes, wherein,

[0066] - The first outbound conveying device is configured to be connected to the first outbound transport platform in the outbound transport platform, and in order for the outbound goods to be accessible from the first outbound transport platform, and

[0067] - The second outbound conveying device is configured to the second outbound transport platform in the outbound transport platform, and the outbound goods can be approached by the second outbound transport platform.

[0068] In this variant implementation, two outbound conveying devices are provided, which are fixedly connected to the outbound transport platform. Thus, goods can be transported from the first outbound supply device to the first outbound conveying device via the first outbound transport platform, or from the second outbound supply device to the second outbound conveying device via the second outbound transport platform. The (multiple) outbound transport platforms can be moved independently of each other and controlled by a control system.

[0069] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the outbound conveying technology equipment includes a first outbound conveying device and a second outbound conveying device arranged in overlapping conveying planes, wherein,

[0070] - The first outbound conveying device can be selectively configured on either the first outbound transport platform or the second outbound transport platform within the outbound transport platform, and in order for the loading goods to be accessed by either the first or second outbound transport platform, and

[0071] - The second outbound conveying device can be selectively configured on either the first outbound transport platform or the second outbound transport platform in the outbound transport platform, and the outbound goods can be approached by either the first or the second outbound transport platform.

[0072] In this variant implementation, two outbound conveying devices are provided, which are flexibly configured to supply outbound transport platforms. Therefore, goods can be selectively transported from the outbound supply device to either the first or second outbound transport platform. Multiple outbound transport platforms can be moved independently of each other and controlled by a control system.

[0073] It is also particularly advantageous that the first and second outbound conveyors are technically connected to each other. This allows any outbound transport platform to be used for the outbound of goods (provided the goods are within the access area of ​​the selected outbound transport platform), even if the goods are to be transported on a specific outbound conveyor. That is, even if the first outbound transport platform can only operate some of the multiple storage planes, and the second outbound transport platform can only operate some of the multiple storage planes, the transport flow can be diverted from the first outbound conveyor to the second outbound conveyor, or vice versa, as needed via the transport connection between the first and second outbound conveyors.

[0074] In this way, the load can be handed over to the second outbound conveyor and then transported to the first picking station, which is primarily connected to the first outbound conveyor in terms of conveying technology. Correspondingly, the load can be handed over to the first outbound conveyor and subsequently transported to the second picking station, which is primarily connected to the second outbound conveyor in terms of conveying technology. Therefore, as long as the load is within the access area of ​​the selected outbound transport platform, the load can also be outbound "randomly," meaning that one outbound transport platform can be randomly selected for outbound processing. Therefore, the described implementation variant also supports "randomly" inbound processing, that is, randomly selecting the storage location for the load to be inbound. Thus, the control technology costs for the storage device can be kept particularly low.

[0075] The technical connection between the first and second outbound conveyors can include a simply constructed conveyor. These conveyors may include, for example, belt conveyors, roller conveyors, discharge conveyors, feed conveyors, etc., or may each include a vertical conveyor. Belt conveyors are particularly well-suited for achieving height balance between the first and second outbound conveyors. In principle, the technical connection between the first and second outbound conveyors can also include a single conveyor, such as a vertical conveyor, especially a screw conveyor, elevator, etc. However, when this single conveyor can operate in multiple conveying directions, it can function as a technical connection between inbound and outbound conveyors or between distribution tracks.

[0076] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the technical connection between the first and second outbound conveying devices is arranged in the area of ​​the second conveying section, specifically between the first outbound distribution track / conveyor loop track and the second outbound distribution track / conveyor loop track. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when multiple vertical outbound conveying devices are provided and these outbound tracks are connected by the first / second outbound distribution track / conveyor loop track, because a single technical connection between the first and second outbound conveying devices is sufficient. This simplifies the structure of the conveying technology. However, this does not preclude the possibility of providing (additional) technical connections between the first and second outbound tracks for each vertical outbound conveying device.

[0077] However, another possible implementation is that the connection between the first and second outbound conveying devices is located in the area of ​​the first conveying section, particularly between the first and second outbound tracks. This implementation is applicable, for example, when a single vertical outbound conveyor is provided.

[0078] It is advantageous that the connection between the first and second outbound conveying devices includes a junction of the first and second outbound conveying devices. This reduces the number of outbound conveying devices connected according to the aforementioned conveying technology. Therefore, the structure of the storage device is further simplified by incorporating this junction.

[0079] Furthermore, the warehousing conveying equipment includes a first warehousing conveying device and a second warehousing conveying device arranged in overlapping conveying planes. The loaded goods are transported from the first warehousing conveying device to the warehousing supply device via either the first warehousing conveying device or the second warehousing conveying device within the warehousing transport platform. Thus, the warehousing of the loaded goods can be carried out flexibly by both the first and second warehousing conveying devices.

[0080] However, it also has the advantage that the inbound conveying technology equipment includes a first inbound conveying device and a second inbound conveying device arranged in overlapping conveying planes, wherein,

[0081] - The first inbound conveying device is configured to be connected to the first inbound transport platform in the inbound transport platform, and in order for the loading goods to be approached by the first inbound transport platform, and

[0082] - The second inbound conveying device is configured to be connected to the second inbound transport platform in order for the loading of goods to be approached by the second inbound transport platform.

[0083] In this variant implementation, two inbound conveying devices are fixedly mounted on the inbound transport platform. Thus, goods can be transported from the first inbound conveying device to the inbound supply device via the first inbound transport platform, or from the second inbound conveying device to the inbound supply device via the second inbound transport platform. Multiple inbound transport platforms can also be moved independently of each other and controlled by a control system.

[0084] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the inbound conveying technology equipment includes a first inbound conveying device and a second inbound conveying device arranged in overlapping conveying planes, wherein,

[0085] - The first inbound conveying device can be selectively configured on either the first inbound transport platform or the second inbound transport platform, and in order for the loading goods to be approached by either the first or the second inbound transport platform, and

[0086] - The second inbound conveying device can be selectively configured on either the first or second inbound transport platform of the inbound transport platform, so that the loading can be approached by either the first or the second inbound transport platform.

[0087] In this variant implementation, two inbound conveying devices are provided, which are flexibly configured with the inbound transport platform. Therefore, goods can be selectively transported from the first inbound conveying device to the inbound supply device via either the first or second inbound transport platform. Multiple inbound transport platforms can also be moved independently of each other and controlled by a control system.

[0088] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous that the first and / or second inbound and / or first and / or second outbound conveyors are arranged at the middle third of the vertical extension dimension of the first or second storage rack. This allows for particularly efficient inbound and / or outbound operations of the loads, as the distance traversed by the transport platform is relatively short.

[0089] Advantageously, the picking system includes storage devices of the type described above, as well as a first picking station and a second picking station, which are connected to both the first and second outbound conveyors via a conveying technology connection. In this way, the outbound shipment of goods can be decoupled from the allocation at a specific picking station.

[0090] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous that the control system is constructed as

[0091] - For operation in a first operating mode, the first and second inbound transport platforms are configured such that their inbound movement areas overlap vertically when the load is being inbound.

[0092] - It is configured to operate the first and second outbound transport platforms in a first operating mode such that the outbound movement areas of the first and second outbound transport platforms are always vertically separated from each other when the load is being unloaded.

[0093] Therefore, one approach is advantageous, in which

[0094] - The control system operates the first and second inbound transport platforms in the first operating mode, such that when the load is being stored, the inbound movement areas of the first and second inbound transport platforms vertically overlap each other, and

[0095] - The control system operates the first outbound transportation platform and the second outbound transportation platform in the first operating mode, so that the outbound movement areas of the first outbound transportation platform and the second outbound transportation platform are always vertically separated from each other when the loaded goods are outbound.

[0096] This utilizes the fact that the allocation of storage locations to inbound loads can typically be designed more flexibly than the allocation of loads to one of multiple picking stations connected to the outbound conveying technology equipment. Loads must also typically be outbound faster (response time) than they would be upon inbound, depending on the requirements. The total time allocated for inbound loads can also be greater than the available time for outbound loads (process time).

[0097] In other words, it takes advantage of the fact that any unoccupied storage location is usually accessible when loading goods into the storage unit, which is particularly useful when goods are stored haphazardly in the storage device. This is because these loading and unloading areas overlap and have overlapping loading areas. Therefore, the loading and unloading transport platform can cover a relatively large area of ​​the storage plane.

[0098] In contrast to inbound, outbound operations typically involve accessing a specific storage location where the required goods are stored. Furthermore, the outbound process is generally more time-sensitive than the inbound process because the time from ordering the goods to delivery must be kept short. This is because the outbound movement areas are separate and do not overlap. Therefore, these outbound transport platforms can move at high speeds within their designated outbound movement areas without interfering with each other.

[0099] In another particularly advantageous implementation variant of this method,

[0100] - The evaluation unit calculates a first storage characteristic value for a first storage area of ​​the shelving unit and a second storage characteristic value for a second storage area of ​​the shelving unit and compares them with each other. The first storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between existing storage locations and occupied storage locations in the first storage area, and the second storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between existing storage locations and occupied storage locations in the second storage area. The first storage area extends vertically in a manner different from that of the second storage area.

[0101] - When the difference between the first storage characteristic value and the second storage characteristic value is greater than the first threshold, the control system operates the first inbound transportation platform and the second inbound transportation platform in the first operating mode (and therefore there is uneven occupancy of the storage area, or in other words, the storage area is unbalanced in its occupancy).

[0102] - When the difference between the first storage characteristic value and the second storage characteristic value is lower than the first threshold or lower than a second threshold lower than the first threshold, the control system operates the first and second inbound transport platforms in a second operating mode (and therefore there is a substantially uniform occupancy of the storage areas, or in other words, the storage areas are substantially balanced in terms of their occupancy), wherein the inbound movement areas of the first and second inbound transport platforms are vertically separated from each other when loading goods in the second operating mode, and

[0103] - The outbound movement areas of the first and second outbound transport platforms are always vertically separated from each other when outbound in the second operating mode and regardless of the storage characteristic value.

[0104] In other words, the overlap of the movement areas of the inbound transportation platform is used to adapt the storage characteristic values ​​in the first and second storage areas to each other, that is, to balance the relative occupancy of the storage areas by the loads.

[0105] The proposed measures can avoid uneven load rates in the storage locations of the first and second storage areas, thereby avoiding so-called "unbalanced loads," and achieve a uniform load rate for the outbound supply device, rack operator, outbound transport platform, and outbound conveyor during the outbound process. The difference between the first and second storage characteristic values ​​can be formed, for example, by generating this difference or by generating the quotient between the first and second storage characteristic values. These storage areas are further defined by "logical" separation. For example, the storage area below the "logical" separation is the first storage area and includes multiple storage planes, while the storage area above the "logical" separation is the second storage area and includes multiple storage planes. The number of storage locations in the first and second storage areas can be the same. In this case, the quotient between the first and second storage characteristic values ​​corresponds to the quotient between the number of loads stored in the first storage area and the number of loads stored in the second storage area. Storage areas can each include a single storage plane or multiple storage planes. The allocation of storage areas can be static or dynamic (i.e., the storage areas change their size and / or location over time).

[0106] Advantageously, a variation is applied where, when the difference between the first and second stored feature values ​​is lower than a second threshold (which is lower than the first threshold), a switch to the second operating mode is initiated. In this case, the hysteresis prevents excessively frequent transitions between the first and second operating modes. However, in principle, a variation can also be used where, when the difference between the first and second stored feature values ​​is lower than the first threshold (i.e., no hysteresis is applied), a switch to the second operating mode is initiated.

[0107] Like storage areas, inbound movement areas can be separate from or overlap each other.

[0108] Furthermore, it is advantageous that when the operational capabilities of the first and second outbound transport platforms, as well as the first and second outbound conveying devices, are determined by the diagnostic unit (or their operational capabilities are not impaired), the control system operates the first and second outbound transport platforms in either the first or second operating mode. In other words, the outbound transport platform operates using separate outbound movement areas, regardless of whether these inbound movement areas are also separate or overlap.

[0109] It is also particularly advantageous that when the diagnostic unit determines that the operating capacity of the first outbound transport platform or the second outbound transport platform or the first outbound conveyor or the second outbound conveyor is impaired (or no longer has operating capacity), the control system operates the first outbound transport platform and the second outbound transport platform in a third operating mode or a fourth operating mode, wherein,

[0110] - The outbound movement areas of the first and second outbound transport platforms overlap vertically with each other not only in the third operating mode but also in the fourth operating mode when the loaded goods are being unloaded.

[0111] - The loading and unloading areas of the first and second loading and unloading transport platforms overlap vertically when loading goods in the third operating mode, and

[0112] - The storage movement areas of the first and second storage transport platforms are vertically separated when loading goods in the fourth operating mode.

[0113] In this variant of the described method, the multiple arrangements of the outbound transport platforms and / or outbound conveyors are fully utilized in case of failure, thereby eliminating the strict separation of the movement areas of the outbound transport platforms. This ensures that automated storage operations are maintained even if one of the outbound transport platforms or one of the outbound conveyors fails. For example, when the (lower) first outbound conveyor is blocked, the (lower) first outbound transport platform can access the (upper) second outbound conveyor, and so on.

[0114] Depending on whether the functions of the first or second outbound transportation platform are impaired.

[0115] - The first outbound conveying device can be selectively configured on either the first outbound transport platform or the second outbound transport platform within the outbound transport platform, and can be approached by either the first or second outbound transport platform for the outbound / transportation of loaded goods.

[0116] - The second outbound conveying device can be selectively configured on either the first outbound transport platform or the second outbound transport platform in the outbound transport platform, and can be approached by either the first outbound transport platform or the second outbound transport platform for the outbound / transportation of the loaded goods.

[0117] Depending on whether the function of the first or second outbound conveyor is damaged.

[0118] - The first outbound transport platform can be selectively configured with either the first or second outbound conveyor and can be accessed by the first outbound transport platform for the outbound / transportation of loaded goods, or

[0119] - The second outbound transport platform can be selectively assigned to either the first or second outbound transport device and can be accessed by the second outbound transport platform for the outbound / transportation of the loaded goods.

[0120] Furthermore, it is advantageous that

[0121] - The evaluation unit calculates a first storage characteristic value for a first storage area of ​​the shelving unit and a second storage characteristic value for a second storage area of ​​the shelving unit and compares them with each other. The first storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between existing storage locations and occupied storage locations in the first storage area, and the second storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between existing storage locations and occupied storage locations in the second storage area. The first storage area extends vertically in a manner different from that of the second storage area.

[0122] - When the difference between the first storage characteristic value and the second storage characteristic value is greater than a first threshold (and therefore there is uneven occupancy of the storage area, or in other words, the storage area is unbalanced in its occupancy), the control system operates the first and second inbound transportation platforms in the third operating mode.

[0123] When the difference between the first storage characteristic value and the second storage characteristic value is lower than the first threshold or lower than the second threshold (and therefore there is a substantially uniform occupancy of the storage area, or in other words, the storage area is substantially balanced in terms of its occupancy), the control system operates the first inbound transportation platform and the second inbound transportation platform in a fourth operating mode.

[0124] In this variant implementation, the measures implemented in the first and second operating modes on the receiving side are transferred to the third and fourth operating modes. Therefore, on the receiving side, the third operating mode corresponds to the first operating mode, and the fourth operating mode corresponds to the second operating mode.

[0125] It is also advantageous that the inbound movement area of ​​the first inbound transport platform (especially in the second and fourth operating modes) is allocated to the storage plane of the first storage area, and the inbound movement area of ​​the second inbound transport platform (especially in the second and fourth operating modes) is allocated to the storage plane of the second storage area.

[0126] Therefore, the stored characteristic values ​​are not only related to the storage area, but also to the inbound movement area of ​​the inbound transportation platform. This can further simplify the inbound process, or reduce the control technology costs required previously.

[0127] What is particularly advantageous is that

[0128] - When the second storage area in the second / fourth operating mode is excessively occupied by loads compared to the first storage area, the first inbound movement area is maintained and the second inbound movement area expands into the first inbound movement area when changing from the second operating mode to the first operating mode or from the fourth operating mode to the third operating mode. This state change therefore involves a transformation from an operating mode where the inbound movement areas are separated to an operating mode where the inbound movement areas overlap. Therefore, in this embodiment, the second inbound movement area after the transformation includes the first inbound movement area effective in the second / fourth operating mode and the second inbound movement area effective in the second / fourth operating mode, minus, if necessary, the storage plane that the second inbound transport platform cannot reach in the first inbound movement area due to structural reasons.

[0129] It is also particularly advantageous that

[0130] - When the first storage area in the second / fourth operating mode is excessively occupied by loads compared to the second storage area, the second inbound movement area is maintained and the first inbound movement area expands to the second inbound movement area when changing from the second operating mode to the first operating mode or from the fourth operating mode to the third operating mode. This state change also involves a change from an operating mode where the inbound movement areas are separated to an operating mode where the inbound movement areas overlap. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first inbound movement area after the change includes both the first inbound movement area effective in the second / fourth operating mode and the second inbound movement area effective in the second / fourth operating mode, minus, if necessary, the storage plane that the first inbound transport platform cannot reach in the second inbound movement area due to structural reasons.

[0131] It is also particularly advantageous that

[0132] - The first inbound movement area after changing from the first operating mode to the second operating mode or from the third operating mode to the fourth operating mode (with no overlap in the inbound movement areas) corresponds to the first inbound movement area before changing from the second operating mode to the first operating mode / from the fourth operating mode to the third operating mode, and

[0133] - The second inbound movement area after switching from the first operating mode to the second operating mode or from the third operating mode to the fourth operating mode (without overlapping inbound movement areas) corresponds to the second inbound movement area before switching from the second operating mode to the first operating mode / from the fourth operating mode to the third operating mode.

[0134] In other words, after changing from the first operating mode to the second operating mode or from the third operating mode to the fourth operating mode, the first and second inbound movement areas are restored to their original dimensions.

[0135] It is generally advantageous that the loads in the first and / or second storage areas are randomly placed into the racking system. This allows for keeping the cost of control technologies for the loading of goods to be kept low.

[0136] It is also generally advantageous that the loads to be stored in the racking system are randomly and / or evenly distributed onto the first and second inbound conveyors of the inbound conveying equipment. This minimizes the control costs associated with transporting the loads. Therefore, a "Y-shaped component" is incorporated into the inbound conveying equipment, which allows for the selective transfer of loads to either the first or second inbound conveyor. Alternatively or additionally, this can be achieved through a mutual conveying connection between the first and second inbound conveyors.

[0137] Therefore, the operating mode can be summarized in the following way in terms of the layout of the inbound and outbound movement areas:

[0138]

[0139] Furthermore, the operating mode can be summarized in the following way based on the selection of a specific operating mode:

[0140]

[0141] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous that the first and second outbound conveyors are technically connected to each other. In other words, the first outbound conveyor is connected to the second outbound conveyor and vice versa, through a technical connection. Alternatively, a cross section (Auskreuzung) is provided between the first and second outbound conveyors.

[0142] Therefore, the process flow that can be made using this storage device can be designed with particular flexibility. For example, loads delivered from the first outbound transport platform to the first outbound conveyor can be transferred to the second outbound conveyor, and loads delivered from the second outbound transport platform to the second outbound conveyor can be transferred to the first outbound conveyor.

[0143] The above-suggested measures enable an advantageous variation of this method, in which some loads are transferred to a second outbound conveyor of the outbound conveying equipment as they are transported by the first outbound conveyor and / or some loads are transferred to the first outbound conveyor as they are transported by the second outbound conveyor. The conveying technology connection of the outbound conveyors enables the transfer of outbound loads from the first outbound conveyor to the second outbound conveyor as needed, and / or vice versa.

[0144] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the warehousing conveying equipment includes a first warehousing conveying device, which is configured to connect a first warehousing transport platform and a second warehousing transport platform within the warehousing transport platform, and allows the loaded goods to be accessed by both the first and second warehousing transport platforms. Therefore, in this variant, the storage device comprises only a single warehousing conveying device. Thus, the loaded goods are transported to the warehousing supply device via the warehousing transport platform by the single warehousing conveying device. Multiple warehousing transport platforms can be moved independently of each other and controlled by a control system. Attached Figure Description

[0145] To better understand the present invention, it will be explained in more detail with the aid of the following figures.

[0146] Here, each is illustrated with a very simplified diagram:

[0147] Figure 1 A schematic view of a storage device with shelving is shown in oblique angle.

[0148] Figure 2 A first exemplary embodiment of the picking system is shown in oblique view, wherein inbound conveying technology equipment and outbound conveying technology equipment are arranged in the aisle sections of the racking aisle;

[0149] Figure 3 A second exemplary embodiment of the picking system is shown in oblique view, wherein inbound conveying technology equipment and outbound conveying technology equipment are arranged in different aisle sections of the racking aisle;

[0150] Figure 4 A side view shows a schematic representation of a storage device in a first operating mode with overlapping inbound movement areas and separate outbound movement areas;

[0151] Figure 5 This illustrates a second operating mode with separate inbound and outbound movement areas. Figure 4 Storage device in;

[0152] Figure 6 This illustrates a third operating mode with overlapping inbound and outbound movement areas. Figure 4 The storage device in, and

[0153] Figure 7 This illustrates a fourth operating mode with separate inbound movement areas and overlapping outbound movement areas. Figure 4 Storage device in the middle. Detailed Implementation

[0154] First, it must be determined that identical components in different described embodiments are given the same reference numerals or the same component names. The disclosure contained throughout the specification can be applied semantically to the same components having the same reference numerals or the same component names. Location descriptions selected in the specification, such as "upper," "lower," and "side," also refer to the directly described and illustrated figures and are semantically applied to the new location when the location changes.

[0155] Figure 1 An example of the storage device 1 is shown in oblique view. The storage device 1 includes a shelving unit 2 having a first storage rack 3a and a second storage rack 3b, each having a storage position 4 for loading goods 5, wherein the storage positions 4 are arranged in overlapping storage planes L. The shelving unit 2 also includes a shelving aisle 6 located between the first storage rack 3a and the second storage rack 3b.

[0156] Furthermore, the storage device 1 also includes an inbound buffer device 7 with inbound supply devices 8, which are arranged in overlapping supply planes and are respectively configured to buffer one or more loads 5 in between. In this example, each supply plane is assigned to a storage plane L and is therefore not specifically shown. However, other configurations are also possible in principle.

[0157] Furthermore, the storage device 1 also includes an outbound buffer device 9 with an outbound supply device 10, which is arranged in overlapping supply planes and is also configured to buffer one or more loads 5 in between. In this example, each supply plane is assigned to a storage plane L. However, other arrangements are also possible in principle.

[0158] Furthermore, the storage device 1 also includes a rack operator 11, which can move on horizontal movement planes in the rack aisle 6 in front of the storage position 4, in front of the inbound supply device 8, and in front of the outbound supply device 10. The rack operator 11 has a carrying device and is configured to transport the load 5 from the inbound supply device 8 to the storage position 4 and to transport the load 5 from the storage position 4 to the outbound supply device 10. In other words, the technical connection between the inbound supply device 8 and the storage position 4, and the technical connection between the inbound position 4 and the outbound supply device 10, are made via the rack operator 11. In this example, each movement plane is assigned to a storage plane L and is therefore not specifically shown, but there are fewer rack operators 11 than movement planes. In this example, the rack operator 11 can move from one movement plane to another via a rack operator lift 12 (not shown in detail). However, rack operators 11 can also be present on each movement plane, thus eliminating the need for the rack operator lift 12.

[0159] In addition, the storage device 1 includes an inbound vertical conveyor 13 configured for the shelving aisle 6. This inbound vertical conveyor has multiple independently operable components located in the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 (see [link to storage device]). Figures 4 to 7 The storage device includes inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b that can provide planar displacement, and includes inbound conveying equipment 15 configured for the rack aisles 6 and technically connected to the inbound vertical conveyor 13 for transporting the load 5 to the inbound vertical conveyor 13. The load 5 is then transported by the inbound conveying equipment 15 to the inbound supply device 8 via the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b. The load 5 can move not only vertically but also horizontally via the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b. For this purpose, the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b each have a transport device, in this example a roller conveyor. However, a conveyor belt could also be considered, for example.

[0160] In this example, the inbound conveying equipment 15 includes a first inbound conveying device 16a in the first conveying plane F1 and a second inbound conveying device 16b in the second conveying plane F2. However, it is also conceivable that the inbound conveying equipment 15 has only one inbound conveying device 16a. This inbound conveying device can be arranged at the height level of the lowest storage plane L. The inbound conveying devices 16a and 16b are here constructed as simple inbound tracks, but the inbound conveying devices can also have more complex shapes (see also...). Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0161] The storage device 1 also includes an outbound vertical conveyor 17 configured for the shelf aisle 6. The outbound vertical conveyor has multiple independently operable components located in outbound movement areas A1, A2 (see...). Figures 4 to 7 The storage device includes outbound transport platforms 18A and 18b that can provide planar displacement, and includes an outbound conveying device 19 configured for the shelving aisle 6 and technically connected to an outbound vertical conveyor 17 for transporting loads 5 from the outbound vertical conveyor 17, wherein the loads 5 can be transported from the outbound supply device 10 to the outbound conveying device 19 by means of the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b. The loads 5 can move not only vertically but also horizontally by means of the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b. For this purpose, the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b each have a transport device, in this example a roller conveyor. However, a conveyor belt could also be considered, for example.

[0162] In this example, the outbound conveying equipment 19 includes a first outbound conveying device 20a in the first conveying plane F1 and a second outbound conveying device 20b in the second conveying plane F2. However, it is also conceivable that the outbound conveying equipment 19 has only one outbound conveying device 20a. This inbound conveying device can be arranged, in particular, at the height level of the lowest storage plane L. The outbound conveying devices 20a and 20b are here constructed as simple outbound tracks, but the outbound conveying devices can also have more complex shapes (see also...). Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0163] Finally, the storage device 1 includes a control system 21, through which the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b can be operated independently of each other, and the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b can also be operated independently of each other. Furthermore, the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b can be operated by the control system 21 independently of the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b, and vice versa. The control system 21... Figure 1 The control system is symbolically shown as a switch cabinet, which is wired or wirelessly connected to the actuators and sensors of storage device 1. However, it is clear that the control system can also appear in other structural forms. In particular, the control system 21 may also include an inbound control unit and a separate outbound control unit.

[0164] In the example shown, the inbound buffer device 7 is arranged between the first storage rack 3a and the inbound vertical conveyor 13, and the outbound buffer device 9 is arranged between the second storage rack 3b and the outbound vertical conveyor 17. However, other arrangements can also be considered in principle, especially the inbound and outbound sides can be interchanged.

[0165] Multiple inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b are vertically stacked on the inbound guide device of the inbound vertical conveyor 13 and can be independently moved by the control system 21. The inbound guide device for the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b can be constructed on the inbound vertical frame 22, which is fixedly positioned, especially on a single inbound vertical frame 22, such as... Figure 1 The situation in the middle.

[0166] Multiple outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b are vertically stacked at the outbound guide device of the outbound vertical conveyor 17, and can be independently moved by the control system 21. The outbound guide device for the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b can be constructed on the outbound vertical frame 23, which is fixedly positioned, especially on the single inbound vertical frame 23, such as... Figure 1 The situation shown in the figure.

[0167] The inbound vertical conveyor 13 can be structurally separate from the outbound vertical conveyor 17, as in the example shown. This means that there is no overlap in the mechanical components necessary for moving the inbound transport platforms 14a, 14b and the outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b. In other words, there is no shared use of the mechanical components required for moving the inbound transport platforms 14a, 14b and the outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b.

[0168] Therefore, the process of loading 5 entering the warehouse through multiple inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b and the process of loading 5 leaving the warehouse through multiple outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b can be well decoupled from each other.

[0169] The inbound vertical conveyor 13 and the outbound vertical conveyor 17 can be spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction z perpendicular to the longitudinal extension x of the shelf aisle 6, or substantially placed at the same lateral position in the lateral direction z of the shelf aisle 6. Furthermore, the inbound vertical conveyor 13 and the outbound vertical conveyor 17 can be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction x of the shelf aisle 6, or substantially arranged at the same longitudinal position in the longitudinal direction x of the shelf aisle 6.

[0170] The inbound vertical conveyor 13 and the outbound vertical conveyor 17 can be arranged substantially spaced apart from each other by a channel width and placed opposite each other in a mirror-symmetrical manner, as in... Figure 1 That's the situation in China.

[0171] It is also possible that the inbound vertical conveyor 13 and the outbound vertical conveyor 17 are arranged staggered from each other in the longitudinal direction x of the rack aisle 6 and are arranged on the same side of the rack aisle 6 (not shown).

[0172] Finally, it is also possible that the inbound vertical conveyor 13 and the outbound vertical conveyor 17 are spaced apart by one aisle width and are staggered from each other along the longitudinal direction x of the shelf aisle 6.

[0173] In the above text, the inbound vertical rack 22 can be structurally separated from the outbound vertical rack 23, as already mentioned. Preferably, the inbound vertical rack 22, the inbound transport platforms 14a, 14b, and the inbound buffer device 7 are arranged on a first side in the transverse direction z perpendicular to the longitudinal extension x of the shelf aisle 6 and outside the shelf aisle 6, while the outbound vertical rack 23, the outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b, and the outbound buffer device 9 are arranged on a second side in the transverse direction z perpendicular to the longitudinal extension x of the shelf aisle 6 and outside the shelf aisle 6.

[0174] However, it is also possible to combine the inbound vertical rack 22 and the outbound vertical rack 23 together and form a single inbound and outbound vertical rack (not shown). In this case, the inbound transport platforms 14a, 14b and the inbound buffer device 7 can be arranged on a first side in the transverse direction z perpendicular to the longitudinal extension x of the rack aisle 6 and outside the rack aisle 6, and the outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b and the outbound buffer device 9 can be arranged on a second side in the transverse direction z perpendicular to the longitudinal extension x of the rack aisle 6 and outside the rack aisle 6. This (single) inbound and outbound vertical rack then forms a first guide device for the inbound transport platforms 14a, 14b on the first side and a second guide device for the outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b on the second side, and can be arranged in the middle of the rack aisle 6 in the transverse direction z. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when the rack aisle 6 ends at the inbound and outbound vertical racks.

[0175] Generally, the inbound vertical conveyor 13 and / or the outbound vertical conveyor 17 can be precisely matched with the rack aisle 6, such as... Figure 1This is one possible scenario. However, it is also possible to equip multiple rack aisles 6 with one inbound vertical conveyor 13 and / or one outbound vertical conveyor 17. For example, inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b assigned to two rack aisles 6 can be arranged on a single inbound vertical rack 22. For example, two stacked inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b can be assigned to a first rack aisle 6, while two other stacked inbound transport platforms can be assigned to a second rack aisle 6. Similarly, outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b assigned to two rack aisles 6 can be arranged on a single outbound vertical rack 23. For example, two stacked outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b can be assigned to a first rack aisle 6, while two other stacked outbound transport platforms can be assigned to a second rack aisle 6.

[0176] Advantageously, in the storage device 1 shown, the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 do not overlap with the outbound movement areas A1 and A2 (see [reference]). Figures 4 to 7 The inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b and the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b are controlled separately or independently by the control system 21. Therefore, the process of loading goods 5 entering the warehouse via multiple inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b and the process of loading goods 5 exiting the warehouse via multiple outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b can be executed in parallel and decoupled from each other. Therefore, the control technology structure or cost of the storage device 1 can be reduced. In particular, loading goods 5 will not cause congestion when exiting the warehouse, and vice versa, as may occur in the prior art. Therefore, within the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 and the outbound movement areas A1 and A2 (with maximum movement speed), the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b and the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b can move without affecting each other.

[0177] Advantageously, not only do the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b move independently of the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b, but the first inbound transport platform 14A also moves independently of the second inbound transport platform 14b (provided that the inbound transport areas E1 and E2 do not overlap), and the first outbound transport platform 18a moves independently of the second outbound transport platform 18b (provided that the inbound transport areas A1 and A2 do not overlap).

[0178] Preferably, on the exit side (that is, especially on the entrance side away from the outbound buffer device 9), only the outbound conveying device 19 is connected to the outbound vertical conveyor 17, and on the entrance side (that is, especially on the exit side away from the inbound buffer device 7), only the inbound conveying device 15 is connected to the inbound vertical conveyor 13. This means that in this embodiment, the outbound conveying device 19 is not connected to the inbound vertical conveyor 13, and the inbound conveying device 15 is not connected to the outbound vertical conveyor 17. In this case, it is also advantageous that the inbound supply device 8 of the inbound buffer device 7 is used (only) for inbound in all supply planes where these inbound supply devices are arranged, and the outbound supply device 10 of the outbound buffer device 9 is used (only) for outbound in all supply planes where these outbound supply devices are arranged. The conveying flow is handled separately by the inbound vertical conveyor 13 and the outbound vertical conveyor 17. The conveying flow includes a conveying flow with loads 5 to be put into storage and a conveying flow with loads 5 to be taken out of storage.

[0179] Now, Figure 2 An exemplary picking system 24a is shown, comprising a storage device 1a, multiple inbound vertical conveyors 13a-13c (shown only symbolically), multiple outbound vertical conveyors 17a-17c (shown only symbolically), and multiple shelving units 2 (not shown in detail), each shelving unit having multiple shelving aisles 6a-6c and storage racks 3a, 3b adjacent to the shelving aisles. Therefore, the storage device 1a can be considered as... Figure 1 The storage device 1 shown is multiplied. In fact, Figure 2 The storage device 1a includes Figure 1 The system consists of three storage units 1 arranged in a row, but of course, any number of storage units 1 can be used. For better overview, only the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b of the first inbound vertical conveyor 13a and the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b of the first outbound vertical conveyor 17a are explicitly shown. Of course, the inbound vertical conveyors 13b and 13c also each have two inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b, and the outbound vertical conveyors 17b and 17c each have two outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b. Furthermore, the picking system 24a includes multiple picking stations 25a...25f that are technically connected to the storage units 1a.

[0180] exist Figure 2In the example shown, the inbound conveying equipment 15 is arranged in two conveying planes F1 and F2. In the lower first conveying plane F1, multiple conveying sections of the first inbound conveying device 16a are arranged sequentially in the inbound conveying direction of the load 5 (note: in all figures, the conveying direction of the load 5 is indicated by arrows). The optional first conveying section includes a first input track 26, the second conveying section includes a first distribution track 27a, the optional third conveying section includes multiple return tracks 28, and the fourth conveying section includes multiple first inbound tracks 29a. Each first inbound track 29a is assigned to an inbound vertical conveying device 13a...13c (note: the first inbound track 29a in the lower first conveying plane F1 is arranged sequentially in the inbound conveying direction of the load 5). Figure 2 The direction is indicated by dashed lines to more clearly emphasize its trajectory. However, the use of dashed lines has no particular meaning. The first input track 26 is connected to the first distribution track 27a, and from... Figure 2 Load 5 is delivered to the cargo entrance, which is not explicitly shown in the text. The first receiving track 29a connects to the first distribution track 27a and transports load 5 to their respective receiving vertical conveyors 13a...13c. The return track 28 connects picking stations 25a...25e to the first distribution track 27a and removes load 5 (if not required for the order) from picking stations 25a...25e after the picking process.

[0181] In this example, the first distribution track 27a is advantageously formed by a closed first conveying loop track (ring) through which the first input track 26, a plurality of return tracks 28, and a plurality of first storage tracks 29a are technically interconnected in terms of conveying. However, this is not a mandatory condition for the invention, and an open first distribution track 27a can also be provided.

[0182] In the upper second inbound conveying plane F2, multiple inbound conveying sections of the second inbound conveying device 16b are arranged sequentially along the inbound conveying direction of the load 5. Optional first conveying sections may include a first input track 26 (not listed), second conveying sections include a second distribution track 27b, optional third conveying sections include multiple return tracks 28 (not explicitly shown), and fourth conveying sections include multiple second inbound tracks 29a. Each second inbound track 29b is assigned to an inbound vertical conveying device 13a...13c. The second inbound track 29b connects to the second distribution track 27b and transports the load 5 to the corresponding inbound vertical conveying device 13a...13c.

[0183] In this example, the second distribution track 27b is advantageously formed by a closed second conveying loop track (ring), through which multiple second inbound tracks 29b are technically interconnected in terms of conveying. However, this is not a mandatory condition for the invention, and an open second distribution track 27b can also be provided.

[0184] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the outbound conveying equipment 19 is also arranged in two conveying planes, namely, in the same conveying planes F1 and F2, where the inbound conveying equipment 15 is also arranged. In the lower first conveying plane F1, multiple conveying sections of the first outbound conveying device 20a are arranged sequentially in the outbound conveying direction of the load 5. The fifth conveying section includes multiple second input tracks 30, and the sixth conveying section includes multiple first outbound tracks 31a. In this example, the first distribution track 27a (the second conveying section) is not only part of the first inbound conveying device 16a but also part of the first outbound conveying device 20a.

[0185] Each first outbound track 31a is respectively equipped with an outbound vertical conveyor device 17a...17c (Note: the first outbound track 31a on the lower first conveyor plane F1 is...) Figure 2 The direction is further emphasized by dashed lines. However, the use of dashed lines has no particular significance.

[0186] The second input track 30 connects picking stations 25a-25e to the first distribution track 27a and transports the load 5 to picking stations 25a-25e. Therefore, in this example, the first distribution track 27a not only connects the first input track 26 and the return track 28 to the first inbound tracks 29a and 29b, but also connects the first outbound track 31a to the second input track 30.

[0187] In the upper second conveying plane F2, multiple conveying sections of the second outbound conveying device 20b are arranged sequentially in the outbound conveying direction of the load 5. An optional fifth conveying section includes multiple (not explicitly shown) second input tracks 30, and a sixth conveying section includes multiple second outbound tracks 31b. In this example, the second distribution track 27b (second conveying section) is part not only of the second input conveying device 16b but also of the second outbound conveying device 20b. Each second outbound track 31b is assigned to a corresponding outbound vertical conveyor 17a...17c. The second outbound tracks 31b are connected via the second distribution tracks 27b and transport the load 5 from the corresponding outbound vertical conveyor 17a...17c.

[0188] It should be noted that the third conveying section with return track 28 and the fifth conveying section with input track 30 are required when the first picking stations 25a..25e are connected to the return track and the input track.

[0189] like Figure 2 As shown, one or more first picking stations 25a..25e are connected to the first outbound conveyor 20a (especially the first distribution track 27a).

[0190] The second picking station 25f is also indicated (i.e., drawn with a dashed line), and it is connected to the second outbound conveyor 20b (especially the second distribution track 27b). Multiple second picking stations 25f may also be provided, connected to the second outbound conveyor 20b (especially the second distribution track 27b), but this is not shown for better overview. Specifically, one or more second picking stations 25f are connected to the second distribution track 27b via (not explicitly shown) one or more return tracks 28 and (one or more) input tracks 30.

[0191] exist Figure 2 In this configuration, the first distribution track 27a is connected to the second distribution track 27b via two first connecting tracks 32a and 32b, and the second distribution track 27b is connected to the first distribution track 27a via two second connecting tracks 33a and 33b. Therefore, the first distribution track 27a and the second distribution track 27b are interconnected at two locations. However, it should be noted that the two first connecting tracks 32a and 32b and the two second connecting tracks 33a and 33b can be configured as optional.

[0192] In this example, conveyor planes F1 and F2 are used not only for inbound and outbound transport but can also be referred to as "(combined) inbound and outbound conveyor planes". A similar situation applies to the distribution tracks / conveyor loop tracks 27a and 27b used for inbound and outbound transport in this example. Therefore, the conveyor loop tracks can also be referred to as "(combined) inbound and outbound distribution tracks" or "(combined) inbound and outbound conveyor loop tracks".

[0193] Therefore, the "(combined) distribution track / conveyor loop track 27a, 27b" is not only part of the inbound conveying equipment 16, but also part of the outbound conveying equipment 20. Specifically, the first distribution track / conveyor loop track 27a on the first conveying plane F1 is part of the first inbound conveying device 16a and the first outbound conveying device 20a, and the second distribution track / conveyor loop track 27b on the second conveying plane F2 is part of the second inbound conveying device 16b and the second outbound conveying device 20b. Due to its multiple functions, the distribution track / conveyor loop track 27a, 27b... Figure 2 The accompanying drawings do not use reference numerals to indicate inbound conveying equipment 16, outbound conveying equipment 20, inbound conveying devices 16a and 16b, and outbound conveying devices 20a and 20b. Only the first input track 26, inbound tracks 29a and 29b, and return track 28 are clearly assigned to inbound conveying equipment 16, and the second input track 30 and outbound tracks 31a and 31b are clearly assigned to outbound conveying equipment 20.

[0194] Although the conveyor planes F1 and F2 and the conveyor loop tracks 27a and 27b are used not only for inbound and outbound operations, the (combined) inbound and outbound conveyor planes F1 and F2 within the scope of this disclosure may also be referred to or regarded as "inbound conveyor planes" when referring to the inbound function, and as "outbound conveyor planes" when referring to the outbound function. Similarly, within the scope of this disclosure, the (combined) inbound and outbound allocation tracks / conveyor loop tracks 27a and 27b may also be referred to or regarded as "inbound allocation tracks / conveyor loop tracks" when referring to the inbound function, and as "outbound allocation tracks / conveyor loop tracks" when referring to the outbound function.

[0195] As described above, the transport sections leading out from the combined inbound / outbound transport loop tracks 27a and 27b can also be used solely for storing the load 5 (e.g., the inbound tracks 29a and 29b of the inbound transport equipment 15), and the transport sections leading to the combined inbound / outbound transport loop tracks 27a and 27b can also be used solely for the outbound of the load 5 (e.g., the outbound tracks 31a and 31b of the outbound transport equipment 19).

[0196] Furthermore, it should be noted that the combined use of the conveyor tracks 27a and 27b for the inbound conveyor equipment 16 and the outbound conveyor equipment 20 is important for... Figure 2The picking system 24a shown is not a mandatory condition. Instead, it is also possible to consider arranging the inbound conveyor equipment 16 and the outbound conveyor equipment 20 separately from each other. For example, the first inbound conveyor 16a can be arranged on the first conveyor plane F1, the second inbound conveyor 16b can be arranged on the second conveyor plane F2, the first outbound conveyor 20a can be arranged on the third conveyor plane, and the second outbound conveyor 20b can be arranged on the fourth conveyor plane. A hybrid configuration is also possible. In this case, some of the conveyor tracks 27a and 27b are used only for inbound, some are used only for outbound, and some are used for both inbound and outbound in a mixed manner.

[0197] The warehousing of load 5 generally includes the entry of load 5 from the goods entrance (new goods or returned goods) and the return of load 5 from picking stations 25a..25f. The outbound shipment of load 5 includes transporting load 5 to picking stations 25a..25f.

[0198] As mentioned, the distribution tracks 27a and 27b need not be mandatory to be implemented as closed transport loops (loops), although this is advantageous. Alternatively, the first distribution track 27a and / or the second distribution track 27b may also be constructed as open transport sections(s).

[0199] The first input track 26, two distribution / conveyor loop tracks 27a and 27b, a return track 28, a second input track 30, first connecting tracks 32a and 32b, second connecting tracks 33a and 33b, and inbound tracks 29a and 29b and outbound tracks 31a and 31b include driven conveying devices, such as belt conveyors, roller conveyors, chain conveyors, etc. In particular, hybrid structures are also possible.

[0200] The conveyance of the load 5 from the first input track 26 to the first distribution track 27a, from the return track 28 to the first distribution track 27a, from the first distribution track 27a to the first storage track 29a, from the second distribution track 27b to the second storage track 29b, from the first discharge track to the first distribution track 27a, from the second discharge track to the second distribution track 27b, and from the first distribution track 27a to the second input track 30 can be achieved through a feeding device and a discharging device. The feeding device and the discharging device may include, for example, a belt changer, a pulley deflector, etc.

[0201] The technical connections between the first inbound conveyor 16a and the second inbound conveyor 16b, and between the first outbound conveyor 20a and the second outbound conveyor 20b (in the illustrated example, the connecting tracks 32a, 32b, 33a, 33b between the first distribution track 27a and the second distribution track 27b) can each include driven conveying devices, such as belt conveyors, roller conveyors, discharge conveyors, feed conveyors, etc., or each include driven vertical conveying devices. Belt conveyors are particularly well-suited for achieving height balance between the first inbound conveyor 16a and the second inbound conveyor 16b, and between the first outbound conveyor 20a and the second outbound conveyor 20b (or between the first distribution track 27a and the second distribution track 27b). In principle, the technical connections can also include a single conveying device, such as a driven vertical conveyor, especially a screw conveyor, a lift, etc. However, when the single conveyor can operate in two directions, i.e., conveying from bottom to top and from top to bottom, the single conveyor can function as a connection between the inbound conveyors 16a, 16b and the outbound conveyors 20a, 20b or between the distribution tracks 27a, 27b.

[0202] By connecting tracks 32a, 32b, 33a, and 33b, some of the loads in load 5 can be transferred from the first distribution track 27a to the second distribution track 27b during arrival or departure, and some of the loads in load 5 can be transferred from the second distribution track 27b to the first distribution track 27a.

[0203] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the technical connection between the first inbound conveyor 16a and the second inbound conveyor 16b is arranged in the region of the second conveying section, and therefore in the region of the first distribution track 27a and the second distribution track 27b. The first inbound conveyor 16a and the second inbound conveyor 16b are technically connected to the first connecting tracks 32a, 32b and the second connecting tracks 33a, 33b. When multiple vertical inbound conveyors 13a...13c are provided (e.g....)... Figure 2 As in the case described above, this implementation scheme is particularly advantageous because, in principle, a single connection of the conveying technology between the multiple first inbound tracks 29a and the multiple second inbound tracks 29b is sufficient. Therefore, the structure of the inbound conveying technology equipment 15 is simplified.

[0204] However, one possible implementation is that, in this implementation, the connection between the first inbound conveyor 16a and the second inbound conveyor 16b is arranged in the area of ​​the fourth conveying section, that is, directly in the area of ​​the first inbound track 29a and the associated second inbound track 29b (see also...). Figures 4 to 7 For example, this implementation scheme is used when there are few or even only one vertical inbound conveyor device 13a..13c. However, this does not preclude the provision of conveyor connections 32a, 32b, 33a, 33b in the areas of the first distribution track 27a and the second distribution track 27b.

[0205] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the technical connection between the first outbound conveyor 20a and the second outbound conveyor 20b is also arranged in the region of the second conveying section, specifically in the region of the first distribution track 27a and the second distribution track 27b, i.e., having first connecting tracks 32a, 32b and second connecting tracks 33a, 33b. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when multiple outbound vertical conveyors 17a...17c are provided, because in principle, a single technical connection between the multiple first outbound tracks 31a and the multiple second outbound tracks 31b is sufficient. This simplifies the structure of the outbound conveying equipment 19.

[0206] However, one possible implementation is that, in this implementation, the connection between the first outbound conveyor 20a and the second outbound conveyor 20b is arranged in the area of ​​the sixth conveying section, that is, directly in the area of ​​the first outbound track 31a and the associated second outbound track 31b (see also...). Figures 4 to 7 For example, this implementation scheme is used when there are few or even only a single vertical conveyor device 17a..17c for outbound transport. However, this does not preclude the provision of conveyor connections 32a, 32b, 33a, 33b in the area of ​​the first distribution track 27a and the second distribution track 27b.

[0207] It should also be noted that the second conveyor plane F2 can be constructed in the same way as the first conveyor plane F1, and can also include multiple picking stations 25f and the first input track 26. Alternatively, it is also possible that the picking stations 25f and the first input track 26 are arranged only in the second conveyor plane F2. The first input track 26 can also be arranged in other conveyor planes F1 and F2 that are different from the picking stations 25a...25f.

[0208] Now Figure 3 Showing with Figure 2The picking system 24b is very similar to the picking system 24a disclosed herein. However, unlike the former, inbound processing occurs at the end of the first aisle and outbound processing occurs at the end of the second aisle. Specifically, the picking system 24b includes a storage unit 1b in which one or more inbound vertical conveyor devices 13 are arranged in the first aisle section of the aisle 6a..6e (in Figure 3 For example, at the end of the first passageway and therefore in Figure 3 (Not visible in the middle) and one or more outbound vertical conveyor devices 17a..17e are arranged in the second aisle section of rack aisles 6a, 6e (in the middle) Figure 3 For example, at the end of the second shelf aisle and in Figure 3 (Symbolically shown in the middle). The first and second aisle sections can typically be located in the direction of the aisles 6a...6e (e.g., in the middle) or on the end sides of the aisles 6a...6e and can be separated from each other. For better overview, only the outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b of the first outbound vertical conveyor 17a are explicitly shown. Of course, the inbound vertical conveyor 13 also has two inbound transport platforms 14a, 14b, and the outbound vertical conveyors 17b...17e each have two outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b. The picking system 24b may include multiple goods input stations 34a...34d connected to the storage device 1b in a conveying technology and multiple picking stations 25a...25d connected to the storage device 1b in a conveying technology, as shown in... Figure 3 That's the situation in China.

[0209] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the inbound conveying equipment 15 is arranged in two conveying planes F1 and F2. In the lower first conveying plane F1, multiple conveying sections of the first inbound conveying device 16a are arranged sequentially in the inbound conveying direction of the load 5. The first conveying section includes multiple first input tracks 26, the second conveying section includes a first inbound distribution track 35a, and the third conveying section includes multiple first inbound tracks 29a. Therefore, Figure 3 The third conveying section of the picking system 24b shown corresponds to Figure 2 The fourth conveyor section of the picking system 24a shown. Each first inbound track 29a is assigned to an inbound vertical conveyor device 13a (Note: the first inbound track 29a on the lower first conveyor plane F1 is in...). Figure 3(This is shown in dashed lines. However, the use of dashed lines has no particular meaning.) The first input track 26 connects to the first inbound distribution track 35a and transports the load 5 from the cargo input stations 34a...34d. The first inbound track 29a connects to the first inbound distribution track 35a and transports the load 5 to its respective inbound vertical conveyor 13. In this example, the first inbound distribution track 35a is advantageously formed by a closed first conveyor loop track (ring), through which the first input track 26 and the plurality of first inbound tracks 29a are technically interconnected in terms of conveying technology.

[0210] In the upper second conveying plane F2, a plurality of second inbound conveying sections of the second inbound conveying device 16b are arranged sequentially in the inbound conveying direction of the load 5. Specifically, these are the second inbound distribution track 35b and a plurality of second inbound tracks 29b. Each second inbound track 29b is assigned to an inbound vertical conveying device 13. The second inbound tracks 29b are connected to the second inbound distribution track 35b and transport the load 5 to their respective inbound vertical conveying devices 13. In this example, the second inbound distribution track 35b is advantageously formed by a closed second conveying loop track (ring), through which the plurality of second inbound tracks 29b are technically interconnected in conveying direction.

[0211] exist Figure 3 In this configuration, the first inbound distribution track 35a is connected to the second inbound distribution track 35b via a first connecting track 32c, and the second inbound distribution track 35a is connected to the first inbound distribution track 35a via a second connecting track 33c. Therefore, the first inbound distribution track 35a and the second inbound distribution track 35b are interconnected.

[0212] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the outbound conveying equipment 19 is also arranged in two conveying planes, namely, in the same conveying planes F1 and F2, where the inbound conveying equipment 15 is also arranged. In the lower first conveying plane F1, multiple conveying sections of the first outbound conveying device 20a are arranged sequentially in the outbound conveying direction of the load 5. The first conveying section includes multiple first outbound tracks 31a, the second conveying section includes a first outbound distribution track 36a, and the third conveying section includes multiple second input tracks 30. Each first outbound track 31a is assigned to an outbound vertical conveying device 17a...17e (Note: the first outbound track 31a in the lower first conveying plane F1 is...). Figure 3The path is indicated by a dashed line to more clearly emphasize its direction. However, the use of dashed lines has no particular significance. In this example, the first outbound distribution track 36a connects the first outbound track 31a to the second input track 30, through which the load 5 is transported to picking stations 25a...25d.

[0213] In the upper second conveying plane F2, multiple conveying sections of the second outbound conveying device 20b are arranged sequentially in the outbound conveying direction of the load 5. Specifically, these are the second outbound distribution track 36b and multiple second outbound tracks 31b. Each second outbound track 31b is assigned to an outbound vertical conveying device 17a...17e. The second outbound tracks 31b are connected to the second outbound distribution tracks 36b and transport the load 5 from the corresponding outbound vertical conveying device 17a...17e.

[0214] exist Figure 3 In this configuration, the first outbound distribution track 36a is connected to the second outbound distribution track 36b via a first connecting track 32d, and the second outbound distribution track 36b is connected to the first outbound distribution track 36a via a second connecting track 33d. Therefore, the first outbound distribution track 36a and the second outbound distribution track 36b are also interconnected.

[0215] The warehousing of load 5 includes the warehousing of load 5 from goods input stations 34a..34d (new or returned goods), and may also include the return of load 5 from picking stations 25a..25d. Figure 3 Although return track 28 is not shown, it can be set in picking system 24b (see also...). Figure 2 Load 5 (not shown) can be transported from the outbound side to the inbound side via one or more connecting sections from the outbound distribution tracks 36a, 36b to the inbound distribution tracks 35a, 35b. The outbound process of load 5 further includes transporting load 5 to picking stations 25a...25d.

[0216] It should also be noted that the inbound distribution tracks 35a, 35b and the outbound distribution tracks 36a, 36b are not necessarily required to be implemented as closed conveyor loops (rings), although this is advantageous. Alternatively, the first inbound distribution track 35a and / or the second inbound distribution track 35b and / or the first outbound distribution track 36a and / or the second outbound distribution track 36b can also be constructed as open conveyor sections(s).

[0217] The first input track 26, two inbound distribution tracks / conveyor loop tracks 35a and 35b, two outbound distribution tracks / conveyor loop tracks 36a and 36b, the second input track 30, the first connecting tracks 32c and 32d, the second connecting tracks 33c and 33d, and the inbound tracks 29a and 29b and the outbound tracks 31a and 31b include driven conveying devices, such as belt conveyors, roller conveyors, chain conveyors, etc. In particular, hybrid structures are also considered.

[0218] The conveyance of the load 5 from the first input track 26 to the first inbound distribution track / conveyor loop track 35a, from the first inbound distribution track / conveyor loop track 35a to the first inbound track 29a, from the second inbound distribution track / conveyor loop track 35b to the second inbound track 29b, from the first outbound track 31a to the first outbound distribution track / conveyor loop track 36a, from the second outbound track 31b to the second outbound distribution track / conveyor loop track 36b, and from the first outbound distribution track / conveyor loop track 36a to the second input track 30 can be achieved through a feeding device and an output device. The feeding device and output device may include, for example, a belt changer, a pulley divider, etc.

[0219] The technical connection between the first inbound conveyor 16a and the second inbound conveyor 16b (in the illustrated example, that is, the connecting tracks 32c and 33c between the first inbound distribution track 35a and the second inbound distribution track 35b) and the technical connection between the first outbound conveyor 20a and the second outbound conveyor 20b (in the illustrated example, that is, the connecting tracks 32d and 33d between the first outbound distribution track 36a and the second outbound distribution track 36b) may further include driven conveying devices, such as belt conveyors, roller conveyors, discharge conveyors, feed conveyors, etc., or corresponding driven vertical conveying devices. Belt conveyors are particularly well-suited for achieving height balance between the first inbound conveyor 16a and the second inbound conveyor 16b, or for achieving height balance between the first inbound distribution track 35a and the second inbound distribution track 35b. Furthermore, belt conveyors are particularly well-suited for height balance between the first outbound conveyor 20a and the second outbound conveyor 20b, or between the first outbound distribution track 36a and the second outbound distribution track 36b. In principle, the conveying connection can also include simple conveying devices, such as driven vertical conveyors, especially screw conveyors, elevators, etc. However, when such a conveying device can operate in both directions, i.e., from bottom to top and from top to bottom, it can be used for the conveying connection between the inbound conveyors 16a and 16b or between the inbound distribution tracks 35a and 35b, or for the conveying connection between the outbound conveyors 20a and 20b or between the outbound distribution tracks 36a and 36b.

[0220] By connecting tracks 32c and 33c, some of the loads in load 5 can be transferred from the first inbound distribution track 35a to the second inbound distribution track 35b upon arrival, and some of the loads in load 5 can be transferred from the second inbound distribution track 35b to the first inbound distribution track 35a upon arrival. Furthermore, by connecting tracks 32d and 33d, some of the loads in load 5 can be transferred from the first outbound distribution track 36a to the second outbound distribution track 36b upon departure, and some of the loads in load 5 can be transferred from the second outbound distribution track 36a to the first outbound distribution track 36a upon departure.

[0221] The following uses Figures 4 to 7 The functions of storage devices 1, 1a, 1b and picking systems 24a, 24b are explained. These figures show schematic side views of storage device 1c in different system states.

[0222] Specifically, Figures 4 to 7A storage device 1c is shown, which includes a shelf device 2 having an entrance side (right side) and an exit side (left side).

[0223] On the entrance side, the storage device 1c includes an inbound vertical conveyor 13 and two inbound conveyor devices 16a and 16b connected upstream of the inbound vertical conveyor 13. Each inbound vertical conveyor has two vertically movable inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b. The inbound conveyor devices 16a and 16b can be connected to each other via a first connecting rail 32c and a second connecting rail 33c if necessary. Figure 4 That's the situation in [the context]. Furthermore, in [the context of the previous sentence]... Figure 4 The image also shows the inbound movement area E1 of the first inbound transport platform 14a and the inbound movement area E2 of the second inbound transport platform 14b.

[0224] On the exit side, the storage device 1c includes an outbound vertical conveyor 17 and two outbound conveyor devices 20a and 20b connected downstream of the outbound vertical conveyor 17. Each outbound vertical conveyor has two vertically movable outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b. The outbound conveyor devices 20a and 20b are connected to each other via a first connecting rail 32d and a second connecting rail 33d. Additionally, in Figure 4 The image also shows the outbound movement area A1 of the first outbound transport platform 18A and the outbound movement area A2 of the second outbound transport platform 18b.

[0225] exist Figure 4 The storage device 1c shown is structurally and functionally similar to that in Figure 3 The storage device 1b shown is similar. Figure 4 The first connecting track 32c and the second connecting track 33c shown can be arranged between the inbound distribution track / conveyor surrounding tracks 35a and 35b (as shown in...). Figure 3 (as in the case described above) and / or directly arranged between the inbound tracks 29a and 29b. The transfer of the load 5 from the first inbound conveyor 16a to the second inbound conveyor 16b, and vice versa, is possible in both cases.

[0226] The same applies to the export side. Figure 4 The first connecting track 32d and the second connecting track 33d shown can be arranged between the outbound distribution track / conveyor surrounding tracks 36a and 36b (as shown in...). Figure 3 (as in the case described above) and / or directly arranged between the outbound tracks 31a and 31b. The transfer of the load 5 from the first outbound conveyor 20a to the second outbound conveyor 20b, and vice versa, is possible in both cases.

[0227] even though Figure 4 The storage device 1c shown is structurally more likely to be similar to Figure 3 The storage device 1b shown is similar. Figure 4 The functional range of the storage device 1c shown is the same as Figure 2 The functional range of the storage device 1a shown is still quite comparable. For this reason, the entrance side is flipped from right to left.

[0228] In particular, one or more inbound vertical conveyor devices 13, 13a..13c and one or more outbound vertical conveyor devices 17, 17a..17e are arranged in the shelf aisle section along (one or more) shelf aisles 6, 6a..6e or at one of the shelf aisle ends of (one or more) shelf aisles 6, 6a..6e.

[0229] The inbound conveying technology equipment 15 may include either a first inbound conveying device 16a and a second inbound conveying device 16b, or only the first inbound conveying device 16a.

[0230] It should be pointed out again that the connection between the first inbound conveyor 16a and the second inbound conveyor 16b in terms of conveying technology is optional.

[0231] The outbound conveying technology equipment 19 may include either a first outbound conveying device 20a and a second outbound conveying device 20b, or only the first outbound conveying device 20a.

[0232] It should also be noted that the interconnection of the two outbound conveyors 20a and 20b via the first connecting rail 32d and the second connecting rail 33d is not mandatory. While this advantageously allows for the transfer of loads 5 from the first outbound conveyor 20a to the second outbound conveyor 20b and vice versa, increasing flexibility in the outbound process, either the first connecting rail 32d or the second connecting rail 33d can be omitted. Thus, there is essentially a simple convergence of the outbound distribution rails 36a and 36b, or consequently, a simple convergence of the outbound conveyors 20a and 20b. The two connecting rails 32d and 33d can also be omitted.

[0233] The following describes together... Figures 2 to 7 The operation mode of the storage devices 1a..1c shown in the figure.

[0234] Load 5 is conveyed for the warehousing process, for example from goods entry stations 34a..34d or the first input track 26, or from picking stations 25a..25f or the return track 28. Paths on the distribution / conveyor loop tracks (rings) 27a, 27b, 35a, 35b, 36a, 36b are possible but not mandatory.

[0235] The control system 21 operates the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b, causing the load 5 to be received by the inbound conveying equipment 15 and transferred to the inbound buffer device 7. The inbound buffer device 7 then receives the load 5 by the rack operator 11 and places it in the selected storage location 4. The first inbound transport platform 14a moves within the first inbound movement area E1, and the second inbound transport platform 14b moves within the second inbound movement area E2.

[0236] For the outbound process, the rack operator 11 removes the load 5 from the storage location 4 and transfers it to the outbound buffer device 9. The control system 21 operates the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b, so that the load 5 to be outbound is received by the outbound buffer device 9 and transferred to the outbound conveying equipment 19. The first outbound transport platform 18A moves within the first outbound movement area A1, and the second outbound transport platform 18b moves within the second outbound movement area A2.

[0237] As a result, load 5 is transported, for example, via the second input track 30 to one of the picking stations 25a...25f. Paths on the distribution track / conveyor loop tracks (rings) 27a, 27b, 35a, 35b, 36a, 36b are also possible, but not mandatory.

[0238] Therefore, the load 5 to be stored is transported by the storage conveying equipment 15 and advantageously conveyed only to the storage vertical conveyors 13, 13a...13c. Advantageously, the load 5 to be discharged is conveyed only by the discharge vertical conveyor 17 to the discharge conveying equipment 19 and transported away by the discharge conveying equipment. Thus, the storage process and the discharge process can be performed completely decoupled from each other.

[0239] In principle, several possibilities can be considered for the operation of storage devices 1a...1c. For example, it can be considered that the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b are strictly assigned to the inbound conveyor devices 16a and 16b. That is, the first inbound conveyor device 16a is assigned to the first inbound transport platform 14a and can only be approached by the first inbound transport platform 14a for the loading of the item 5. Correspondingly, the second inbound conveyor device 16b is assigned to the second inbound transport platform 14b and can only be approached by the second inbound transport platform 14b for the loading of the item 5.

[0240] However, it is also possible to flexibly equip the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b with the inbound conveying devices 16a and 16b. In this case, the first inbound conveying device 16a can be selectively equipped with either the first inbound transport platform 14a or the second inbound transport platform 14b, so that the loading of the goods 5 can be approached by either the first or the second inbound transport platform 14a or 14b. Correspondingly, the second inbound conveying device 16b can also be selectively equipped with either the first inbound transport platform 14a or the second inbound transport platform 14b, so that the loading of the goods 5 can be approached by either the first or the second inbound transport platform 14a or 14b.

[0241] It should also be noted that the mutual connection between the two inbound conveyor devices 16a and 16b via the first connecting rail 32c and the second connecting rail 33c is not mandatory. While this advantageously allows for the transfer of loads 5 from the first inbound conveyor device 16a to the second inbound conveyor device 16b, and vice versa, increasing flexibility in the inbound process, either the first connecting rail 32c or the second connecting rail 32d can be omitted. Thus, there is essentially a simple convergence of the inbound distribution rails 35a and 35b, or consequently, a simple convergence of the inbound conveyor devices 16a and 16b. The two connecting rails 32c and 33c can also be omitted.

[0242] Finally, it is also possible to consider that the storage device 1a..1c includes only the first inbound conveyor 16a (but without the second inbound conveyor 16b), wherein the first inbound conveyor 16a is provided to the first inbound transport platform 14a and the second inbound transport platform 14b, and in order for the loading 5 to be accessed by the first inbound transport platform 14a and the second inbound transport platform 14b.

[0243] In principle, the above possibilities can also be considered in the outbound process. Therefore, for example, it can be considered that the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b are strictly assigned to the outbound conveyor devices 20a and 20b. That is, the first outbound conveyor device 20a is assigned to the first outbound transport platform 18a and can only be approached by the first outbound transport platform 18a for the outbound of the load 5. Correspondingly, the second outbound conveyor device 20b is assigned to the second outbound transport platform 18b and can only be approached by the second outbound transport platform 18b for the outbound of the load 5.

[0244] However, it is also possible to flexibly configure the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b to the outbound conveying devices 20a and 20b. In this case, the first outbound conveying device 20a can be selectively configured to either the first outbound transport platform 18a or the second outbound transport platform 18b, so that the outbound cargo 5 can be approached by either the first or the second outbound transport platform 18a or 18b. Correspondingly, the second outbound conveying device 20b can also be selectively configured to either the first outbound transport platform 18a or the second outbound transport platform 18b, so that the outbound cargo 5 can be approached by either the first or the second outbound transport platform 18a or 18b.

[0245] If the storage device 1a..1c only includes the first outbound conveyor 20a (but not the second outbound conveyor 20b), then the first outbound conveyor 20a is configured to be connected to the first outbound transport platform 18a and the second outbound transport platform 18b, and the first outbound conveyor 20a is designed so that the outbound cargo 5 can be approached by the first outbound transport platform 18a and the second outbound transport platform 18b.

[0246] In another implementation variation, the first storage characteristic value of the first storage area B1 of the shelving device 2 and the second storage characteristic value of the second storage area B2 of the shelving device 2 are used in the warehousing process. Specifically, the first and second storage characteristic values ​​are obtained by an evaluation unit (which may be arranged in or part of the control system 21) and compared with each other.

[0247] Here, the first storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between the existing storage location 4 and the occupied storage location 4 in the first storage area B1, and the second storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between the existing storage location 4 and the occupied storage location 4 in the second storage area B2. Therefore, the load 5 is advantageously stored in the shelving device 2 with consideration of the mutual adaptation of the storage characteristic values ​​in the first storage area B1 and the second storage area B2.

[0248] The first storage area B1 and the second storage area B2 extend vertically, unlike the latter. Figure 4 In the example shown, the first storage area B1 and the second storage area B2 are arranged vertically overlapping each other without overlapping areas. However, it is also possible for the first storage area B1 and the second storage area B2 to overlap each other. Furthermore, it is possible to consider that the implementation variant is based on more than two storage areas B1 and B2.

[0249] The proposed measures can avoid uneven load rates of storage locations 4 in the first storage area B1 and the second storage area B2, thereby avoiding so-called “unbalanced loads”, and can achieve uniform load rates of the outbound supply device 10, shelf operator 11, outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b and outbound conveyor devices 20a, 20b when the load 5 is outbound.

[0250] The difference between the first stored feature value and the second stored feature value can be formed, for example, by forming the difference between the first stored feature value and the second stored feature value, or by forming the quotient between the first stored feature value and the second stored feature value.

[0251] Storage areas B1 and B2 are defined by a "logical" separation. For example, the first storage area B1 below the "logical" separation includes multiple storage planes L, and the second storage area B2 above the "logical" separation includes multiple other storage planes L. The number of storage locations 4 in the first storage area B1 and the second storage area B2 can be the same. In this case, the quotient between the first storage characteristic value and the second storage characteristic value corresponds to the quotient between the number of loads 5 stored in the first storage area B1 and the number of loads 5 stored in the second storage area B2.

[0252] Storage areas B1 and B2 may each comprise a single storage plane L or multiple storage planes L. Specifically, the vertical extension dimensions of storage areas B1 and B2 may correspond to the vertical extension dimensions of inbound movement areas E1 and E2 and / or outbound movement areas A1 and A2. That is, for a given example, the vertical extension dimension of the first storage area B1 may correspond to the vertical extension dimensions of the first inbound movement area E1 and / or the first outbound movement area A1, and the vertical extension dimension of the second storage area B2 may correspond to the vertical extension dimensions of the second inbound movement area E2 and / or the second outbound movement area A2.

[0253] Advantageously, the load 5 can be randomly stored in the storage devices 1a...1c within the first storage area B1 and / or the second storage area B2. This keeps the cost of control technology for storing the load 5 low.

[0254] Furthermore, the allocation of storage areas B1 and B2 can be static or dynamic (i.e., the size and / or location of storage areas B1 and B2 can change over time).

[0255] In another variation of the described method, the loads 5 to be stored in the storage device 1c are randomly and / or uniformly distributed onto the first and second inbound conveying devices 16a and 16b of the inbound conveying technology equipment 15. This is a possibility to keep the control technology costs of conveying the loads 5 relatively low.

[0256] Particularly advantageous is that the first inbound movement area E1 and the second inbound movement area E2 overlap, while the first outbound movement area A1 and the second outbound movement area A2 are separate from each other, as in... Figure 4 As shown in the diagram. Therefore, the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 have an inbound overlap area E3, which can be approached by the first inbound transport platform 14a and the second inbound transport platform 14b. Collisions between the two inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b are prevented by the control system 21.

[0257] This variant implementation utilizes the fact that there is typically a degree of freedom in selecting the storage location 4 during the warehousing of the load 5. This is particularly applicable if the load 5 is stored haphazardly in the storage devices 1a...1c. This is because the warehousing movement areas E1 and E2 overlap each other and have a warehousing overlap area E3. Therefore, the warehousing transport platforms 14a and 14b can cover a relatively large area of ​​the storage plane L.

[0258] In contrast to inbound, outbound operations typically involve accessing a specific storage location 4 where the required goods 5 are stored. Furthermore, the outbound process is generally more time-sensitive than the inbound process because the time from ordering the goods 5 to delivery must be kept short. This is because the outbound movement areas A1 and A2 are separate and do not overlap. Therefore, these outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b can move within their designated outbound movement areas A1 and A2 at high speeds without interfering with each other.

[0259] However, it is also possible to consider setting different operating modes, wherein the operating mode is... Figures 4 to 7 As can be seen in the text.

[0260] The first operating mode has been basically described above. In the first operating mode, the control system 21 operates the first inbound transport platform 14a and the second inbound transport platform 14b so that the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 of the first inbound transport platform 14a and the second inbound transport platform 14b overlap vertically during the inbound of the load 5. In the first operating mode, the control system 21 also operates the first outbound transport platform 18a and the second outbound transport platform 18b so that the outbound movement areas A1 and A2 of the first outbound transport platform 18a and the second outbound transport platform 18b are always vertically separated during the outbound of the load 5.

[0261] exist Figure 5 In the second operating mode, as can be seen, the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 of the first inbound transport platform 14a and the second inbound transport platform 14b are vertically separated from each other when the load 5 is inbound. Similarly, the outbound movement areas A1 and A2 of the first outbound transport platform 18a and the second outbound transport platform 18b are vertically separated from each other when the load 5 is outbound in the second operating mode.

[0262] The transition between the first and second operating modes can be performed via the control system 21, specifically based on the storage characteristic values ​​of storage areas B1 and B2 of storage device 1c. As explained above, the first storage characteristic value for the first storage area B1 of storage device 1c and the second storage characteristic value for the second storage area B2 of storage device 1c can be obtained by the evaluation unit and compared with each other. The first storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between the existing storage location 4 and the occupied storage location 4 in the first storage area B1, and the second storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between the existing storage location 4 and the occupied storage location 4 in the second storage area B2. The first storage area B1 and the second storage area B2 extend vertically, unlike the first storage area B1.

[0263] When the difference between the first storage characteristic value and the second storage characteristic value is greater than the first threshold, that is, when the occupancy between storage areas B1 and B2 is unbalanced, the control system 21 then operates the first inbound transportation platform 14a and the second inbound transportation platform 14b in the first operating mode.

[0264] Conversely, when the difference between the first storage characteristic value and the second storage characteristic value is lower than a first threshold or a second threshold lower than the first threshold, the control system 21 operates the first inbound transport platform 14a and the second inbound transport platform 14b in a second operating mode. This means that the second operating mode is then set when the occupancy of storage areas B1 and B2 is (substantially) balanced. Advantageously, a variation is applied where the switch to the second operating mode occurs when the difference between the first and second storage characteristic values ​​is lower than a second threshold lower than the first threshold. The hysteresis set in this case prevents overly frequent switching between the first and second operating modes. However, in principle, a variation can also be used where the switch to the second operating mode occurs when the difference between the first and second storage characteristic values ​​is lower than the first threshold, i.e., without hysteresis.

[0265] The outbound movement areas A1 and A2 of the outbound transportation platforms 18a and 18b are vertically separated from each other not only in the first operating mode but also in the second operating mode and therefore regardless of the stored feature values.

[0266] In particular, when the operating capabilities of the first outbound transport platform 18a and the second outbound transport platform 18b, as well as the first outbound conveying device 20a and the second outbound conveying device 20b, are determined by the diagnostic unit (which may be part of the control system 21) or when the operating capabilities are not impaired, the control system 21 then operates the first outbound transport platform 18a and the second outbound transport platform 18b in the first operating mode or the second operating mode.

[0267] However, it is also possible to consider that when the diagnostic unit determines that the operating capacity of the first outbound transport platform 18a or the second outbound transport platform 18b or the first outbound conveyor 20a or the second outbound conveyor 20b is impaired or no longer has operating capacity, the control system 21 operates the first outbound transport platform 18a and the second outbound transport platform 18b in the third operating mode or the fourth operating mode.

[0268] Not only in the third operating mode but also in the fourth operating mode, there is a vertical overlap between the outbound movement areas A1 and A2 of the first outbound transport platform 18a and the second outbound transport platform 18b when the load 5 is unloaded. Therefore, there is an outbound overlap area A3. Here, the collision between the two outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b is prevented by the control system 21.

[0269] In the third operating mode, when the load 5 is stored, the storage movement areas E1 and E2 of the first storage transport platform 14a and the second storage transport platform 14b are vertically overlapping. However, in the fourth operating mode, when the load 5 is stored, the storage movement areas E1 and E2 of the first storage transport platform 14a and the second storage transport platform 14b are vertically separated.

[0270] The third operating mode is Figure 6 As shown, the fourth operating mode is in Figure 7 As shown in the image.

[0271] In this variant of the described method, the multiple arrangements of outbound transport platforms 18A, 18b and / or outbound conveyors 20A, 20b are fully utilized in case of failure. This eliminates the strict separation of the movement areas A1 and A2 of outbound transport platforms 18A, 18b in case of failure, so that automated storage operation is maintained even if one of the outbound transport platforms 18A, 18b fails and / or one of the outbound conveyors 20A, 20b fails. For example, when the (lower) first outbound conveyor 20a is locked, the (lower) first outbound transport platform 18a can access the (upper) second outbound conveyor 20b, and so on.

[0272] Depending on whether the function of the first outbound transport platform 18a or the second outbound transport platform 18b is impaired, the first outbound conveyor 20a may be selectively configured to the first outbound transport platform 18a or the second outbound transport platform 18b so that the loading 5 can be accessed by the first outbound transport platform 18a or the second outbound transport platform 18b, or the second outbound conveyor 20b may be selectively configured to the first outbound transport platform 18a or the second outbound transport platform 18b so that the loading 5 can be accessed by the first outbound transport platform 18a or the second outbound transport platform 18b.

[0273] Depending on whether the function of the first outbound conveyor 20a or the second outbound conveyor 20b is impaired, the first outbound transport platform 18a may be selectively configured to be connected to the first outbound conveyor 20a or the second outbound conveyor 20b so that the loading 5 can be accessed by the first outbound transport platform 18a, or the second outbound transport platform 18b may be selectively configured to be connected to the first outbound conveyor 20a or the second outbound conveyor 20b so that the loading 5 can be accessed by the second outbound transport platform 18b.

[0274] The switching between the third and fourth operating modes can be performed by the control system 21 based on the storage characteristic values ​​of storage areas B1 and B2, which have been explained previously. Specifically, when the difference between the first and second storage characteristic values ​​is higher than a first threshold, the control system 21 operates the first inbound transport platform 14a and the second inbound transport platform 14b in the third operating mode, and when the difference between the first and second storage characteristic values ​​is lower than the first threshold or lower than a second threshold less than the first threshold, the control system operates the first and second inbound transport platforms in the fourth operating mode.

[0275] In particular, in the second and fourth operating modes, it is advantageous that the inbound movement area E1 of the first inbound transport platform 14a is assigned to the storage plane L of the first storage area B1, and the inbound movement area E2 of the second inbound transport platform 14b is assigned to the storage plane L of the second storage area B2. Therefore, the storage characteristic value is related not only to storage areas B1 and B2, but also to the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 of the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b.

[0276] It is also possible that the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 extend onto the conveying planes F1 and F2 of the corresponding inbound conveyors 16a and 16b, which should be accessible by the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b. For example, the first inbound movement area E1 may extend to the first inbound conveyor 16a or further to the second inbound conveyor 16b. The second inbound movement area E2 may extend to the second inbound conveyor 16b or further to the first inbound conveyor 16a.

[0277] The same applies to outbound shipments. Outbound movement areas A1 and A2 extend onto the conveying planes F1 and F2 of the corresponding outbound conveyors 20a and 20b, which should be accessible by outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b. For example, the first outbound movement area A1 may extend to the first outbound conveyor 20a or further to the second outbound conveyor 20b. The second outbound movement area A2 may extend to the second outbound conveyor 20b or further to the first outbound conveyor 20a.

[0278] Therefore, the operating mode can be summarized in the following way regarding the layout of the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 and the outbound movement areas A1 and A2:

[0279]

[0280] Furthermore, the operating mode can be summarized in the following way based on the selection of a specific operating mode:

[0281]

[0282] Particularly advantageously, when the second storage area B2 is excessively occupied by the load 5 compared to the first storage area B1 in the second / fourth operating mode, the first inbound movement area E1 is maintained and the second inbound movement area E2 extends into the first inbound movement area E1 when switching from the second operating mode to the first operating mode or from the fourth operating mode to the third operating mode. This change of state therefore involves a transformation from an operating mode where the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 are separate to an operating mode where they overlap. Therefore, in this embodiment, the second inbound movement area E2 after the transformation includes both the first inbound movement area E1 effective in the second / fourth operating mode and the second inbound movement area E2 effective in the second / fourth operating mode, minus, if necessary, the storage plane L that is structurally inaccessible in the first inbound movement area E1 by the second inbound transport platform 14b.

[0283] It is also particularly advantageous that when the first storage area B1 in the second / fourth operating mode is excessively occupied by the load 5 compared to the second storage area B2, the second warehousing movement area E2 is maintained when changing from the second operating mode to the first operating mode or from the fourth operating mode to the third operating mode, and the first warehousing movement area E1 expands into the second warehousing movement area E2. This state change also involves a change from an operating mode where the warehousing movement areas E1 and E2 are separate to an operating mode where they overlap. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first warehousing movement area E1 after the change includes both the first warehousing movement area E1 effective in the second / fourth operating mode and the second warehousing movement area E2 effective in the second / fourth operating mode, minus, if necessary, the storage plane L that is structurally inaccessible in the second warehousing movement area E2 by the first warehousing transport platform 14a.

[0284] It is also particularly advantageous that the first inbound movement area E1 after changing from the first operating mode to the second operating mode or from the third operating mode to the fourth operating mode corresponds to the first inbound movement area E1 before changing from the second operating mode to the first operating mode / from the fourth operating mode to the third operating mode, and the second inbound movement area E2 after changing from the first operating mode to the second operating mode or from the third operating mode to the fourth operating mode corresponds to the second inbound movement area E2 before changing from the second operating mode to the first operating mode / from the fourth operating mode to the third operating mode. In other words, the first inbound movement area E1 and the second inbound movement area E2 after changing from the first operating mode to the second operating mode or from the third operating mode to the fourth operating mode are restored to their original dimensions.

[0285] Generally, it is advantageous that the first inbound conveyor 16a and / or the second inbound conveyor 16b and / or the first outbound conveyor 20a and / or the second outbound conveyor 20b are arranged at the middle third of the vertical extension dimension y of the first or second storage racks 3a, 3b. This allows for particularly efficient inbound and / or outbound transport of the load 5, as the distance traversed by the inbound transport platforms 14a, 14b or the outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b is relatively short.

[0286] However, in principle, the first inbound conveyor 16a and / or the second inbound conveyor 16b and / or the first outbound conveyor 20a and / or the second outbound conveyor 20b can also be arranged at the lower third or upper third of the vertical extension dimension y of the first or second storage rack 3a, 3b.

[0287] Furthermore, when the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 overlap, it is advantageous that the two inbound conveyor devices 16a and 16b are located within either the two inbound movement areas E1 and E2 or the overlapping inbound area E3. In this way, the configuration of the inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b with the inbound conveyor devices 16a and 16b can be achieved with particular flexibility.

[0288] Furthermore, when the outbound movement areas A1 and A2 overlap, it is advantageous that the two outbound conveyor devices 20A and 20b are located either within the two outbound movement areas A1 and A2 or within the overlapping outbound area A3. In this way, the configuration of the outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b with the outbound conveyor devices 20a and 20b can also be particularly flexible.

[0289] It should be noted that the mutual connection of the inbound conveying devices 16a and 16b through the connecting tracks 32c and 33c is not related to the defined design of the inbound movement areas E1 and E2 or the defined operating mode. Rather, the mutual connection of the inbound conveying devices 16a and 16b can be achieved independently through the connecting tracks 32c and 33c.

[0290] It should also be noted that the mutual connection of the outbound conveying devices 20a and 20b through the connecting tracks 32d and 33d is not related to the defined design of the outbound movement areas A1 and A2 or the defined operating mode. Instead, the mutual connection of the outbound conveying devices 20a and 20b can be achieved independently through the connecting tracks 32d and 33d.

[0291] It should also be pointed out that, although the proposed measures are in Figure 1The proposed measures have been described within the scope of box-shaped loading aids (containers, cartons, etc.), but can also be used in conjunction with other shaped loading aids. In particular, the proposed measures can also be used in conjunction with hanging bags and hanging conveyor technologies.

[0292] Furthermore, it should be noted that although the proposed measures are described in conjunction with two inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b, two inbound movement areas E1 and E2, two inbound conveyor devices 16a and 16b, two inbound transport platforms 18a and 18b, two outbound movement areas A1 and A2, two outbound conveyor devices 20a and 20b, two storage areas B1 and B2, and two conveyor planes F1 and F2, the disclosed principles can also be applied to two or more inbound transport platforms 14a and 14b, two or more inbound movement areas E1 and E2, two or more inbound conveyor devices 16a and 16b, two or more outbound transport platforms 18a and 18b, two or more outbound movement areas A1 and A2, two or more outbound conveyor devices 20a and 20b, two or more storage areas B1 and B2, and two or more conveyor planes F1 and F2.

[0293] In general, the measures proposed in the shelving unit 2 or in the picking systems 24a, 24b enable decoupling of the inbound and outbound processes. This is especially true when only the inbound conveyor equipment 15 is connected to the inlet side of the inbound vertical conveyor 13 and only the outbound conveyor equipment 19 is connected to the outlet side of the outbound vertical conveyor 17 and / or the inbound vertical conveyor 13 and the outbound vertical conveyor 17 are structurally separated. This decoupled operation is also typically supported by the rigid configuration of inbound transport platforms 14a, 14b with inbound conveyors 16a, 16b or the rigid configuration of outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b with the outbound conveyors 20a, 20b. On the other hand, the flexible configuration of inbound transport platforms 14a, 14b with inbound conveyors 16a, 16b, or outbound transport platforms 18a, 18b with outbound conveyors 20a, 20b, enables the operation of racking devices 2 or picking systems 24a, 24b, which can be well adapted to different situations or operating states. This is especially applicable when inbound conveyors 16a, 16b and / or outbound conveyors 20a, 20b are connected to each other. Setting different operating modes also supports adapting the operation of racking devices 2 or picking systems 24a, 24b to different situations. The different operating modes of inbound vertical conveyors 13, 13a...13c and outbound vertical conveyors 17, 17a...17e also utilize the phenomenon that there is mostly freedom of choice in selecting storage location 4 when loading goods 5 is stored, while this is usually not applicable when it is outbound. The proposed measures take into account and thus enable a particularly efficient mode of operation for the shelving unit 2 or picking systems 24a, 24b.

[0294] A particularly preferred embodiment of the inbound vertical conveyor device 13, 13a..13c and / or the outbound vertical conveyor device 17, 17a..17e is described in Austrian patent application A 51090 / 2018 (AT 521359 B1), and this embodiment is the technical solution of this disclosure.

[0295] Finally, it should be noted that the scope of protection is defined by the claims. However, the claims should be interpreted with reference to the specification and drawings. A single feature or combination of features from the different embodiments shown and described can be an independent inventive solution in itself. The task upon which an independent inventive solution is based can be derived from the specification.

[0296] It is also noted that the illustrated device may, in practice, include more or fewer components than shown. The illustrated device or its components may also be shown partially out of scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size.

[0297] List of reference numerals

[0298] 1. 1a..1c storage device

[0299] 2. Shelving unit

[0300] Storage racks 3a and 3b

[0301] 4. Storage location

[0302] 5 Loads

[0303] 6, 6a..6e shelving aisles

[0304] 7. Warehouse buffer device

[0305] 8. Warehouse supply device

[0306] 9. Outbound buffer device

[0307] 10 Outbound Supply Device

[0308] 11. Shelf Operator (Shuttle)

[0309] 12-rack operator lift

[0310] 13, 13a, 13c Vertical Conveying Device for Warehousing

[0311] 14a and 14b Inbound Transportation Platform

[0312] 15. Warehouse conveying technology and equipment

[0313] 16a and 16b Inbound Conveying Devices

[0314] 17, 17a, 17e Vertical Conveying Device for Outbound Transport

[0315] 18a and 18b outbound transportation platforms

[0316] 19 Outbound Conveying Technology Equipment

[0317] 20a and 20b outbound conveying devices

[0318] 21 Control System

[0319] 22 Vertical support frames for warehouse entry

[0320] 23 Vertical support frame for outbound shipment

[0321] 24a, 24b picking systems

[0322] 25a..25f Picking Station

[0323] 26 First Input Track

[0324] 27a and 27b Inbound and Outbound Assignment Tracks / Conveying Ring Tracks

[0325] 28 return tracks

[0326] 29a and 29b storage tracks

[0327] 30 Second Input Track

[0328] 31a and 31b outbound tracks

[0329] 32a..32d First connecting track

[0330] 33a..33d Second connecting track

[0331] 34a..34d Cargo Input Station

[0332] 35a and 35b warehousing and distribution tracks / conveyor loop tracks (rings)

[0333] 36a, 36b Outbound Distribution Track / Conveying Circular Track (Loop)

[0334] A1 and A2 outbound movement areas

[0335] A3 Overlapping Area for Outbound Delivery

[0336] Storage areas B1 and B2

[0337] E1 and E2 parking areas

[0338] E3 Overlapping Area

[0339] F1, F2 conveyor planes

[0340] L storage plane

[0341] x (longitudinal direction of the shelving aisle) / longitudinal extension

[0342] Vertical direction / vertical extension dimension of the storage rack (y)

[0343] The lateral direction / lateral extension of z (shelf aisle)

Claims

1. A method for operating a storage device (1, 1a...1c), the storage device comprising: - A shelving unit (2) having a first storage rack (3a), a second storage rack (3b), a shelving aisle (6, 6a...6e) between the first storage rack (3a) and the second storage rack (3b), a first storage area (B1) and a second storage area (B2), the first storage rack having a storage position (4) for loading goods (5), the second storage rack having a storage position (4) for loading goods (5), wherein each of the storage positions (4) is arranged in overlapping storage planes (L), and the first storage area (B1) and the second storage area (B2) are vertically overlapping and each includes multiple storage planes (L). - An inbound buffer device (7) having an inbound supply device (8), each of the inbound supply devices being arranged in overlapping supply planes and respectively configured to buffer one or more loads (5) in the middle. - Inbound vertical conveyor device (13, 13a..13c), the inbound vertical conveyor device having inbound transport platforms (14a, 14b) that can be independently controlled and can be provided with planar displacement in the inbound movement areas (E1, E2). - A warehouse conveying device (15) for transporting a load (5) to a warehouse vertical conveyor (13, 13a...13c), the warehouse conveying device (15) being technically connected to the warehouse vertical conveyor (13, 13a...13c). - An outbound buffer device (9) having an outbound supply device (10), each of the outbound supply devices being arranged in overlapping supply planes and respectively configured to buffer one or more loads (5) in the middle. - Outbound vertical conveyor (17, 17a, 17e), the outbound vertical conveyor having outbound transport platforms (18a, 18b) that can be independently controlled and can be provided with planar displacement in the outbound movement areas (A1, A2). - Outbound conveying equipment (19) for transporting the load (5) from the outbound vertical conveyor (17, 17a...17e), the outbound conveying equipment (19) being technically connected to the outbound vertical conveyor (17, 17a...17e). - Shelf operators (11), each of which is capable of moving on a horizontal plane in the shelf aisles (6, 6a...6e) in front of the storage location (4), in front of the receiving supply device (8), and in front of the outgoing supply device (10); and each of which has a carrying device for transporting loads (5) between the storage location (4), the receiving supply device (8), and the outgoing supply device (10), and - Control system (21), which controls the inbound transport platform (14a, 14b) so that the load (5) is received by the inbound conveying equipment (15) and the load is handed over to the inbound supply device (8) of the inbound buffer device (7), and the control system controls the outbound transport platform (18a, 18b) so that the outbound supply device (10) of the outbound buffer device (9) receives the load (5) and the load is handed over to the outbound conveying equipment (19). The method is characterized by: - The evaluation unit calculates a first storage characteristic value for the first storage area (B1) and a second storage characteristic value for the second storage area (B2) and compares the first and second storage characteristic values ​​with each other. The first storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between the existing storage locations (4) and the occupied storage locations (4) in the first storage area (B1), and the second storage characteristic value is defined by the ratio between the existing storage locations (4) and the occupied storage locations (4) in the second storage area (B2). - Considering the compatibility between the first storage characteristic value and the second storage characteristic value, the load (5) is stored in the first storage area (B1) and the second storage area (B2) of the racking device (2) by means of the inbound transport platform (14a, 14b), and - The control system (21) operates the inbound transport platform (14a, 14b) in the first operating mode so that the inbound movement areas (E1, E2) of the inbound transport platform (14a, 14b) overlap vertically when the load (5) is put into the warehouse, and the control system operates the outbound transport platform (18a, 18b) in the first operating mode so that the outbound transport platform (18a, 18b) is always vertically separated when the load (5) is put out of the warehouse.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The inbound conveying technology equipment (15) includes a first inbound conveying device (16a) and a second inbound conveying device (16b) arranged in overlapping conveying planes (F1, F2), and the inbound transport platform (14a, 14b) includes a first inbound transport platform (14a) and a second inbound transport platform (14b). During inbound, the load (5) is transported from the first inbound conveying device (16a) to the inbound supply device (8) or from the second inbound conveying device (16b) to the inbound supply device (8) via the first inbound transport platform (14a) or the second inbound transport platform (14b).

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, - The first inbound conveying device (16a) can be selectively configured on either the first inbound transport platform or the second inbound transport platform, and in order for the loading (5) to be accessible to either the first inbound transport platform or the second inbound transport platform, and - The second inbound conveying device (16b) can be selectively configured on the first inbound transport platform or the second inbound transport platform, and the loading (5) can be approached by the first inbound transport platform or the second inbound transport platform for the inbound of the loading.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The outbound conveying technology equipment (19) includes a first outbound conveying device (20a) and a second outbound conveying device (20b) arranged in overlapping conveying planes (F1, F2), and the outbound transport platform (18a, 18b) includes a first outbound transport platform (18a) and a second outbound transport platform (18b), wherein, during outbound delivery, the loaded goods (5) are transported from the outbound supply device (10) to the first outbound conveying device (20a) or from the outbound supply device (10) to the second outbound conveying device (20b) via the first outbound transport platform (18a) or the second outbound transport platform (18b).

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, - The first outbound conveying device (20a) is equipped with a first outbound transport platform (18a) and is designed so that the loaded goods (5) can be approached by the first outbound transport platform (18a). - The second outbound conveying device (20b) is configured to the second outbound transport platform and is accessible to the second outbound transport platform for the transport of the load (5).

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, The load (5) is brought to the warehouse by the inbound conveying equipment (15) and handed over to the inbound vertical conveyor (13, 13a...13c) by the inbound conveying equipment. When the load (5) leaves the warehouse, it is handed over to the outbound conveying equipment (19) by the outbound vertical conveyor (17, 17a...17e) and carried away by the outbound conveying equipment.

7. The method according to claim 1 or 4, characterized in that, - When the difference between the first storage feature value and the second storage feature value is higher than the first threshold, the control system (21) operates the inbound transportation platform (14a, 14b) in the first operating mode. - When the difference between the first storage characteristic value and the second storage characteristic value is lower than the first threshold or lower than the second threshold which is lower than the first threshold, the control system (21) operates the inbound transport platform (14a, 14b) in the second operating mode, wherein the inbound movement areas (E1, E2) of the inbound transport platform (14a, 14b) are vertically separated from each other when loading (5) is inbound in the second operating mode, and - The outbound movement areas (A1, A2) of the outbound transport platforms (18a, 18b) are always vertically separated from each other when outbound in the second operating mode and regardless of the storage characteristic value.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, When the diagnostic unit determines the operational capabilities of the outbound transport platform (18a, 18b) and the first outbound conveyor (20a) and the second outbound conveyor (20b), the control system (21) operates the outbound transport platform (18a, 18b) in either the first operating mode or the second operating mode.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, When the diagnostic unit determines that the operational capability of the outbound transport platform (18a, 18b), the first outbound conveyor (20a), or the second outbound conveyor (20b) is impaired, the control system (21) operates the outbound transport platform (18a, 18b) in a third or fourth operating mode, wherein, - The outbound movement areas (A1, A2) of the outbound transport platforms (18a, 18b) overlap vertically with each other not only in the third operating mode but also in the fourth operating mode when the load (5) is outbound. - The inbound movement areas (E1, E2) of the inbound transport platforms (14a, 14b) overlap vertically when loading (5) is being done in the third operating mode, and - The inbound movement areas (E1, E2) of the inbound transport platforms (14a, 14b) are vertically separated from each other when loading (5) is carried out in the fourth operating mode.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, - When the difference between the first storage feature value and the second storage feature value is higher than the first threshold, the control system (21) operates the inbound transportation platform (14a, 14b) in the third operating mode. - When the difference between the first storage feature value and the second storage feature value is lower than the first threshold or lower than the second threshold which is lower than the first threshold, the control system (21) operates the inbound transportation platform (14a, 14b) in the fourth operating mode.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The first inbound movement area (E1) of the first inbound transport platform (14a, 14b) is assigned to the storage plane (L) of the first storage area (B1), and the second inbound movement area (E2) of the second inbound transport platform (14a, 14b) is assigned to the storage plane (L) of the second storage area (B2).

12. The method of claim 1, wherein, When loading (5) into storage, the loading (5) in the first storage area (B1) and / or the second storage area (B2) is randomly loaded into the racking device (2).

13. The method of claim 2 or 3, wherein, When loading the load (5) into the racking device (2), the load (5) is randomly and / or evenly distributed onto the first loading conveyor (16a) and the second loading conveyor (16b).

14. The method of claim 1, 4 or 5, wherein, When the loads (5) are transported, some of the loads are transferred from the first outbound conveyor (20a) of the outbound conveyor equipment (19) to the second outbound conveyor (20b) of the outbound conveyor equipment (19), and some of the loads (5) are transferred from the second outbound conveyor (20b) to the first outbound conveyor (20a) when they are transported away.

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