Management device, management method, and computer-readable medium

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a management device, a management method, and a computer-readable medium that can suppress inefficient replenishment. The management device has: an information acquisition unit that acquires frequency information as information indicating a frequency of consumption for each item; an allocation decision unit that decides an allocation of a storage container for storing the item for each item based on a frequency of consumption of the item; and an instruction unit that instructs a robot to perform an action for replenishing the item that has been consumed for the storage container in which the item has been consumed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to management devices, management methods, and procedures. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, there has been an ongoing development of technologies for automating logistics. For example, International Publication No. 2017 / 168678 discloses a method for efficiently handling outbound and replenishment operations by using robots to move goods to designated storage destinations in warehouses.

[0003] The inventors researched a technique for replenishing items stored in containers using robots when those items have been consumed, and discovered the following problems: When frequently consumed items are stored in multiple containers, replenishment operations are performed on all of these containers, thus reducing the efficiency of the replenishment process. Therefore, a technique for achieving efficient replenishment is required. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure was made against the backdrop of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a management device, management method, and procedure that can suppress inefficient replenishment.

[0005] One solution of the present disclosure for achieving the above objectives is a management device comprising: an information acquisition unit that acquires frequency information as information representing consumption frequency for each item; an allocation decision unit that determines the allocation of a storage container for storing each item based on the consumption frequency of each item; and an instruction unit that instructs a robot to perform an action to replenish the consumed items in the storage container.

[0006] According to this management device, the item is stored in a storage container selected based on its consumption frequency. Therefore, it prevents frequently consumed items from being scattered across various storage containers and reduces the need for robotic replenishment of multiple containers. Thus, inefficient replenishment is minimized.

[0007] In one of the above solutions, the allocation decision unit may also determine the allocation of a storage container for storing an item based on the compatibility between the items.

[0008] This design avoids undesirable items being packaged together in the same storage container, thus improving user convenience.

[0009] In one of the above solutions, the allocation decision unit may also determine the allocation of storage containers for storing the item based on the number of available storage containers.

[0010] With this configuration, even when the number of available storage containers is limited, it is possible to determine which storage containers to use for the items.

[0011] In one of the above solutions, replenishing the consumed items can also be done by replacing the storage container containing the consumed items with a storage container containing a predetermined number of the items. The management device also has a timing determination unit that determines the timing for replacing the storage container for replenishment based on whether any of the items allocated to the same storage container is below a predetermined quantity.

[0012] Based on this configuration, the storage container is replaced when any item allocated to the same storage container is reduced to a specified quantity, thus preventing inconvenience to the user due to insufficient quantity for any item.

[0013] In one of the above solutions, replenishing the consumed items can also be done by replacing the consumed storage container with a storage container that holds a predetermined number of the items. The management device also has a timing determination unit, which determines the timing for replenishing the first storage container based on the consumption of items allocated to the first storage container and the consumption of backup items stored in the second storage container. The second storage container is a storage container that stores backup items stored in the first storage container.

[0014] With this structure, even if the number of items remaining in a storage container decreases, the storage container does not need to be replaced immediately, thus reducing the frequency of storage container replacement.

[0015] In one of the above solutions, the timing determination unit may also adjust the timing of replacing the second storage container in such a way that the replacement frequency of the second storage container is less than the replacement frequency of the first storage container.

[0016] Based on this configuration, the second storage container is replaced less frequently than the first storage container, thus further suppressing the frequency of storage container replacement.

[0017] Another aspect of this disclosure for achieving the above objectives is a management method in which a management device acquires frequency information as information representing the frequency of consumption for each item, the management device determines the allocation of a storage container for the item based on the consumption frequency of each item, and the management device instructs a robot to perform actions to replenish the consumed item in the storage container.

[0018] This management method stores items in containers selected based on their consumption frequency. Therefore, it prevents frequently consumed items from being scattered across various containers and reduces the need for robotic replenishment of multiple containers. Consequently, inefficient replenishment is minimized.

[0019] Another aspect of this disclosure for achieving the above objectives is a program that causes a computer to perform: an information acquisition step, acquiring frequency information as information representing the frequency of consumption for each item; an allocation decision step, determining the allocation of a storage container for storing the item based on the consumption frequency of each item; and an instruction step, instructing a robot to perform an action to replenish the consumed item in the storage container.

[0020] According to this procedure, the item is stored in a storage container selected based on its consumption frequency. Therefore, it prevents frequently consumed items from being scattered across various storage containers and reduces the need for robotic replenishment of multiple containers. Thus, inefficient replenishment is minimized.

[0021] According to this disclosure, management devices, management methods, and procedures that can suppress inefficient replenishment can be provided.

[0022] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become clearer from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, wherein the drawings are by way of example only and should not be considered as limiting the disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an item management system implemented in this way.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic front view illustrating an example of the structure of a shelf that houses storage boxes.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic side view illustrating an example of the configuration of a pickup robot.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic side view illustrating an example of the configuration of a transport robot.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the management device in an implementation method.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a table representing specific examples of the information acquired by the information acquisition department.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the management device in an implementation method.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the allocation-related actions of the management device in an implementation method.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the supplementary related operations of the management device in an implementation method. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the item management system 10 according to the embodiment. The item management system 10 is a system that manages the storage of items using storage containers and replenishes consumed items when the items stored in the storage containers have been consumed. It should be noted that the storage container is a container used to store items. In this embodiment, as an example, it is specifically a storage box described later, but the storage container is not limited to any container that can hold items.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the item management system 10 includes a management device 100, a picking robot 200, and a conveying robot 300. The management device 100 is wirelessly or wiredly connected to the picking robot 200 and the conveying robot 300, respectively, in a communicable manner. It should be noted that, as needed, the picking robot 200 and the conveying robot 300 can also be wirelessly or wiredly connected in a communicable manner.

[0034] The management device 100 is a device for managing the storage of items and controlling the replenishment of consumed items. Details about the management device 100 will be described later. Items for user use are stored in a storage box. Items stored in the storage box are consumable items such as food and daily necessities. The user takes out and uses the items stored in the storage box. As a result, the number of items stored in the storage box decreases. That is, the items are consumed. In this embodiment, the storage box is, for example, housed on a shelf placed in the user's living space, but the storage box may not necessarily be housed on a shelf.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic front view illustrating an example of the configuration of a shelf 50 that houses storage boxes. Shelf 50 is a shelf for housing storage boxes, for example, installed within a living space of a house. It should be noted that in this specification, "house" includes apartment buildings, office buildings, etc., and "living space" includes "office space." Figure 2As shown, the shelf 50 includes storage boxes 60a to 60c for storing consumable items. The storage boxes 60a to 60c are of different sizes. Hereinafter, the storage boxes 60a to 60c will be referred to as storage box 60 unless specifically distinguished.

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, the shelf 50 includes a housing 51, a partition plate 52, a track 53, and a locking mechanism 54.

[0037] It should be noted that, Figure 2 The right-handed xyz orthogonal coordinate system shown is a convenient orthogonal coordinate system for illustrating the positional relationships of constituent elements. Typically, the positive z-axis is vertically upward, and the xy plane is horizontal. Furthermore, Figure 2 This is the main view, but for ease of understanding, the storage box 60 is shown with shading. Furthermore, Figure 2 The configuration of the shelf 50 shown is merely an example; other configurations capable of accommodating storage boxes may also be used.

[0038] The housing 51 forms the outer frame of the shelf 50. Figure 2 In the example shown, the housing 51 has a frame structure in which a top plate on the positive z-axis side, a bottom plate on the negative z-axis side, and side panels on the positive y-axis and negative y-axis sides are integrally formed. That is, the front and back surfaces of the housing 51 are open in a manner that allows the storage box 60 to be taken out / placed.

[0039] It should be noted that doors that can be opened / closed can also be provided on the front and back surfaces of the open housing 51. Alternatively, the front or back surface of the housing 51 can also be closed.

[0040] like Figure 2 As shown, the partition plate 52 is arranged parallel to the side panel constituting the housing 51 (i.e. parallel to the xz plane) and is arranged such that it extends from the front surface of the open housing 51 to the back surface.

[0041] Here, the partition 52 is arranged such that the spacing between the side panel of the housing 51 and the adjacent partition 52 is equal to the spacing between the partitions 52 and each other.

[0042] It should be noted that, in Figure 2 In the example, there are two partitions 52 and three rows of storage boxes 60, but there is no limit to the number of partitions 52. Alternatively, the partitions 52 can be omitted, and the storage boxes 60 can be stored in one row.

[0043] like Figure 2As shown, multiple pairs of tracks 53 extend in the depth direction (x-axis direction) and are arranged side-by-side at equal intervals in the height direction (z-axis direction) within the inner surface of the housing 51 and the partition plate 52. Here, the tracks 53 are configured to rise substantially vertically from the inner surface of the housing 51 and the partition plate 52. Figure 2 In the example, each column has four pairs of tracks 53, and each column can hold four minimum-sized storage boxes 60a.

[0044] It should be noted that, of course, there is no limit to the number of tracks 53. Furthermore, as long as the tracks 53 can support the storage box 60, they can be discontinuously extended in the depth direction (x-axis direction). Alternatively, short support bodies arranged neatly in the depth direction (x-axis direction) can be used instead of tracks 53.

[0045] Flanges 61 are provided on both sides of the storage box 60. The flanges 61 are supported from below by a pair of adjacent and opposing rails 53, thereby supporting the storage box 60 in the shelf 50. It should be noted that the flanges 61 are protrusions that project outward from the storage box 60 in the width direction. The flanges 61 are arranged so that they extend from the front to the back on both sides of the storage box 60. The storage box 60 can be taken out / placed by sliding the flanges 61 on the pair of rails 53.

[0046] In this way, the shelf 50 can support and accommodate all the pre-defined storage boxes 60 of multiple sizes so that they can slide along each pair of tracks 53.

[0047] A locking mechanism 54 is provided on the upper side of each pair of tracks 53. Using the locking mechanism 54, the storage box 60 housed in the shelf 50 and its lid (not shown) can be locked to the housing 51, preventing the theft of the storage box 60 and the consumables stored inside it. It should be noted that the shelf 50 may not necessarily have the locking mechanism 54. Furthermore, the storage box 60 may not necessarily have a lid.

[0048] In this embodiment, the width in the y-axis direction and the depth in the x-axis direction of the pre-defined multiple sizes of storage boxes 60a to 60c are common. However, the heights in the z-axis direction of the storage boxes 60a to 60c are different. The height of the smallest storage box 60a is designed to match the spacing between adjacent tracks 53 in the z-axis direction. Naturally, the height of the smallest storage box 60a is smaller than the spacing between the tracks 53. The height of the intermediate-sized storage box 60b is designed to be approximately twice the height of the storage box 60a. Furthermore, the height of the largest storage box 60c is designed to be approximately three times the height of the storage box 60a.

[0049] That is, the heights of the storage boxes 60a to 60c of multiple pre-defined sizes are designed to be approximately integer multiples of the spacing between adjacent tracks 53 in the z-axis direction.

[0050] It should be noted that, in Figure 2 The example shown illustrates three different sizes of storage boxes, but it could also be one, two, or more than four sizes. Figure 2 In the example, in addition to storage boxes 60a to 60c, another storage box with a height approximately four times that of storage box 60a may also be provided.

[0051] The storage box 60 is used to store consumable items such as food and daily necessities. The consumable items stored inside the storage box 60 are replenished at a time determined by the timing determination unit 103 (described later) using either a first replenishment method or a second replenishment method. The first replenishment method refers to using a pickup robot 200 to replenish items individually to the storage box 60 where items have been consumed. That is, the first replenishment method involves the pickup robot 200 adding items to the storage box 60, where the quantity of items has decreased compared to the initial state. The addition of items is repeated until the quantity of items reaches a predetermined amount (the quantity in the initial state). It should be noted that in the first replenishment method, other robots (e.g., the conveyor robot 300 described later) may also be used to move the storage containers. Furthermore, the second replenishment method refers to replacing the storage box 60 where items have been consumed with a storage box 60 containing the item in a predetermined quantity. That is, the second replenishment method is to replace the first storage box 60, which has a reduced quantity of items compared to the initial state, with a new second storage box 60 containing items of the prescribed quantity (the quantity in the initial state). In other words, the picking robot 200 is not used in this method. It should be noted that in the second replenishment method, other robots (e.g., the conveyor robot 300 described later) may also be used to move the storage boxes 60.

[0052] Next, the picking robot 200 will be described. The picking robot 200 is a robot that picks up items and replenishes them to the storage box 60 based on instructions from the management device 100. It should be noted that the picking robot 200 can also pick up items for the purpose of sorting. That is, the picking robot 200 can also be used to implement the allocation determined by the allocation decision unit 102, which will be described later.

[0053] Figure 3 This is a schematic side view showing an example of the configuration of the picking robot 200.

[0054] The picking robot 200 is a manipulator comprising a base 201, a link root 202, a first link 203, a second link 204, and an end effector 205. The picking robot 200 uses the end effector 205 to pick up the item 90 and place the item 90 into the storage box 60. Figure 3 The illustration shows an item 90 being placed from a storage box 70 (used for delivering item 90) into a storage box 60. It should be noted that the storage box 60 can also be used as the storage box 70 for delivering items. It should also be noted that in logistics centers or similar locations, item 90 is pre-placed in the storage box 70.

[0055] It should be noted that as long as the end effector 205 can pick up the item, its configuration is not limited. For example, the end effector 205 can pick up the item by gripping it or by suction. Furthermore, in Figure 3 In the example shown, the linkage mechanism consists of two links, the first link 203 and the second link 204, but the linkage mechanism can also consist of more than three links.

[0056] The base 201 can be fixed in any location. For example, the base 201 can be fixed to the top plate of the shell 51 that constitutes the shelf 50, or it can be fixed to the wall or floor in the living space of the house.

[0057] The connecting rod root 202 is rotatable about a rotation axis 202a and connected to the base 201 via the rotation axis 202a. The rotation axis 202a of the connecting rod root 202 is an axis perpendicular to the plane for fixing the base 201. The connecting rod root 202 is driven to rotate by a motor or the like (not shown).

[0058] The first link 203 is rotatably connected to the link root 202 via a first joint 203a located at the rear end of the first link 203. Furthermore, the second link 204 is rotatably connected to the top end of the first link 203 via a second joint 204a located at the rear end of the second link 204. The end effector 205 is connected to the top end of the second link 204.

[0059] Here, the rotation axis of the first joint 203a and the second joint 204a is an axis parallel to the surface for fixing the base 201. Figure 3 In the example shown, the height of the end effector 205 can be changed by rotating the first link 203 and the second link 204. The first link 203 and the second link 204 are respectively driven by a motor or the like (not shown) for rotation.

[0060] Based on this configuration, the pickup robot 200 can replenish the item 90 to the storage box 60.

[0061] It should be noted that, although not illustrated, the pickup robot 200 includes, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit); and a memory storing various control programs or data. That is, the pickup robot 200 functions as a computer, executing various control processes based on the aforementioned control programs.

[0062] Next, the conveyor robot 300 will be described. The conveyor robot 300 is a robot that conveys the storage box 60 and the storage box 70 based on the instructions of the management device 100.

[0063] In this embodiment, the conveying robot 300 performs the following conveying operations to replenish items handled by the picking robot 200: The conveying robot 300 transports storage boxes 60 housed in shelves 50 to the working area of ​​the picking robot 200. Furthermore, the conveying robot 300 transports storage boxes 70 pre-filled with items from designated locations such as logistics centers to the working area of ​​the picking robot 200. Then, when the replenishment operation performed by the picking robot 200 is completed, the conveying robot 300 transports the replenished storage boxes 60 to designated storage locations on the shelves 50. Additionally, the conveying robot 300 transports storage boxes 70 with removed items to designated locations such as logistics centers.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the conveying robot 300 performs the following conveying operation to replenish the storage boxes 60 containing items by replacing the consumed items with a predetermined number of storage boxes 60 containing items. The conveying robot 300 conveys a predetermined number of storage boxes 60 containing items from a designated location such as a logistics center to a designated storage position on the shelf 50. Additionally, the conveying robot 300 conveys the storage boxes 60 that are to be replaced, housed on the shelf 50, to a designated location such as a logistics center.

[0065] It should be noted that the conveyor robot 300 can also convey the storage box 60 or the storage box 70 for sorting items by the picking robot 200. That is, the conveyor robot 300 can also be used to implement the allocation determined by the allocation decision unit 102 described later.

[0066] It should be noted that the storage boxes can also be transported by using multiple transfer robots 300 as transit points. For example, the transport can be achieved by using a transfer robot 300 responsible for transport between the logistics center and the vicinity of the living space, and a transfer robot 300 that transports within the living space.

[0067] Thus, in this embodiment, a conveyor robot 300 is used to transport the storage boxes, and replenishment is achieved by a picking robot or by replacing the storage boxes. However, the conveyor robot 300 may not necessarily be used. That is, the transport of the storage boxes may also be performed by a person (operator).

[0068] Figure 4 This is a schematic side view illustrating an example of the configuration of the conveyor robot 300. Figure 4 The conveyor robot 300 shown is an autonomous vehicle that retrieves / places storage boxes 60 relative to the shelf 50 and transports the storage boxes 60. It should be noted that the conveyor robot 300 can also perform the same operation on the storage boxes 70.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, the conveying robot 300 has wheels 301 and 302, a main body 303, a top plate 304, and a support column 305.

[0070] Two pairs of wheels 301 and 302 are rotatably fixed to the lower side of the main body 303 and are driven by a motor or other drive source (not shown).

[0071] like Figure 4 As shown, the top plate 304 is connected to the main body 303 via a retractable support column 305. The top plate 304 is connected to the upper end of the support column 305, and the conveying robot 300 places the storage box 60 on the top plate 304 to convey the storage box 60.

[0072] The support column 305, for example, has a telescopic mechanism that extends and retracts via a drive source such as a motor (not shown). For example, in Figure 4 As indicated by the hollow arrow, the height of the top plate 304 can be changed by altering the length of the support column 305. Therefore, the storage box 60 can be removed / placed in all storage locations on the shelf 50.

[0073] Here, the conveying robot 300 is equipped with, for example, a robotic arm (not shown), which moves the storage box 60 from the shelf 50 to the top plate 304. Then, the robotic arm moves the storage box 60 on the top plate 304 back to the shelf 50.

[0074] It should be noted that, although not shown in the diagram, the conveyor robot 300 also possesses, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit); and a memory storing various control programs or data. That is, the conveyor robot 300 also functions as a computer, executing various control processes based on the aforementioned control programs.

[0075] Next, details of the management device 100 will be explained. Figure 5This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the management device 100. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the management device 100 includes an information acquisition unit 101, an allocation decision unit 102, a timing decision unit 103, and an instruction unit 104.

[0076] The information acquisition unit 101 acquires frequency information, representing the frequency of consumption, for each item to be stored in the storage box 60. The information acquisition unit 101 can acquire the frequency information using any method. For example, the information acquisition unit 101 can acquire the frequency information by receiving it from any other device, or by reading it from a storage device such as the memory of the management device 100. It should be noted that the frequency information can be generated in advance using any method. For example, it is possible to perform image recognition processing on images captured by a camera inside the storage box 60 to periodically check the number of remaining items, thereby generating the frequency information. In this case, the management device 100 can also periodically receive images captured by a camera inside the storage box 60 to generate the frequency information. That is, the management device 100 may also have a frequency information generation unit that parses the received images to generate the frequency information. It should be noted that the method for generating the frequency information is not limited to the methods described above. For example, frequency information can also be generated based on the consumption history information of items entered by the user via an input device such as a keyboard or a point-and-click device. In this case, such information can also be generated by the management device 100.

[0077] Furthermore, the information acquisition unit 101 acquires category information indicating the category of each item to be stored in the storage box 60. The category information may be based on the item's purpose. Specifically, these categories may include, for example, food, toilet supplies, kitchenware, and personal care products, but are not limited to these; the category information may also represent more detailed categories. The information acquisition unit 101 can acquire predefined category information for each item by any method. For example, the information acquisition unit 101 may acquire category information by receiving it from any other device, by reading it from a storage device such as the memory of the management device 100, or by referring to a database.

[0078] Figure 6 This is a table showing specific examples of the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 101. In this embodiment, as described above, category information and frequency information are acquired for each item. Figure 6 In the example shown, only information about three items (item A, item B, and item C) is displayed. However, if more items are stored in the storage box 60 (shelf 50), the information acquisition unit 101 will also acquire information about those more items. It should be noted that in... Figure 6In the example shown, the frequency information indicates the consumption quantity per week, but it doesn't necessarily have to be the consumption quantity per week. That is, the frequency information can be expressed as the consumption quantity per specified unit of time. Thus, the frequency information only needs to be information that can determine the rate of consumption, and its specific definition is not limited. It should be noted that the information acquisition unit 101 can also acquire further information as needed. For example, the information acquisition unit 101 can also further acquire information indicating the number of usable storage boxes 60 in the shelf 50.

[0079] The allocation decision unit 102 determines the allocation of items to the storage boxes 60. Therefore, each item is stored in the storage box 60 according to the allocation determined by the allocation decision unit 102. In this embodiment, the allocation decision unit 102 determines the allocation based on the consumption frequency of each item, the compatibility between items, and the number of available storage boxes 60, but it is sufficient to determine the allocation based at least on the consumption frequency. That is, the allocation decision unit 102 may not necessarily determine the allocation based on the compatibility between items. Similarly, the allocation decision unit 102 may not necessarily determine the allocation based on the number of available storage boxes 60.

[0080] The allocation decision unit 102 first groups the items according to their consumption frequency. Specifically, the allocation decision unit 102 groups items whose consumption frequency is above a predetermined threshold into the same group. Here, the predetermined threshold is a threshold used to extract items with high consumption frequency; it can be a pre-set value or calculated based on statistics of the consumption frequency of each item (such as an average). That is, the allocation decision unit 102 groups items at least in a way that items consumed at high frequencies belong to the same group. It should be noted that for items whose consumption frequency is below the predetermined threshold, the allocation decision unit 102 can classify them either into the same group or into multiple groups. The allocation decision unit 102 determines the allocation of the storage box 60 relative to the items by storing items classified in the same storage box 60. Therefore, the allocation decision unit 102 determines the allocation by storing items consumed at high frequencies in the same storage box 60.

[0081] However, as described above, in this embodiment, the allocation is determined based on the compatibility between items. This will be explained below. Sometimes, depending on the nature of the items, it is not preferable to store them in the same storage box 60. For example, users may feel uncomfortable storing food and toilet supplies in the same storage box 60. Therefore, in this case, it is preferable to store items categorized as food and items categorized as toilet supplies in different storage boxes 60. Therefore, in this embodiment, the allocation decision unit 102 corrects the grouping of items according to consumption frequency based on the compatibility between items. That is, the allocation decision unit 102 corrects the grouping in such a way that items with poor compatibility belong to different groups. Specifically, the allocation decision unit 102 performs the following processing, for example: The allocation decision unit 102 determines the mismatch degree between items by referring to category information. It should be noted that the mismatch degree is predefined for each category combination. The mismatch degree is an index value representing the user's tolerance for placing items in the same storage box 60. The mismatch degree can also be set by the user. When the mismatch between items classified into the same group exceeds a predetermined threshold, the allocation decision unit 102 corrects the grouping so that the items belong to different groups. For example, the allocation decision unit 102 can either increase the number of groups by splitting the group to make the poorly matched items belong to different groups, or it can move one of the items to another existing group to make the poorly matched items belong to different groups.

[0082] Furthermore, as described above, in this embodiment, the allocation is determined based on the number of available storage boxes 60. This will be explained below. If the number of available storage boxes 60 is insufficient, the number of storage boxes 60 required for the storage of items corresponding to the allocation based on the above grouping results may exceed the number of available storage boxes 60. In such a case, storage corresponding to the allocation determined by the allocation decision unit 102 cannot be achieved. Therefore, in this embodiment, the allocation decision unit 102 corrects the grouping of items in such a way that the number of storage boxes 60 required for storage corresponding to the grouping-based allocation is less than the number of available storage boxes 60. Specifically, for example, the allocation decision unit 102 performs grouping again by changing the value of the above-mentioned threshold. That is, the allocation decision unit 102 resets the threshold and re-groups. For example, considering the result of fit, in the grouping based on consumption frequency, multiple items belonging to one group are reclassified into different groups. In this case, the number of required storage boxes 60 may increase and exceed the number of available storage boxes 60. In such cases, for example, the allocation decision unit 102 may reset the value of the predetermined threshold compared with the degree of mismatch, that is, change the value of the threshold from the initial setting to a higher value without making corrections based on the fit. Furthermore, for example, if the initial setting threshold is used for grouping based on consumption frequency, the following situation may occur: when a storage box 60 is used only by items determined to be consumed at high frequencies, sometimes all items consumed at frequencies other than these cannot be fully stored in the remaining available storage boxes 60. In this case, it is preferable to correct the grouping in a way that more items are stored in the aforementioned storage box 60. Therefore, in such cases, for example, the allocation decision unit 102 may reset the value of the predetermined threshold compared with the consumption frequency, that is, change the value of the threshold from the initial setting to a lower value, thereby increasing the number of items determined to be consumed at high frequencies (i.e., the number of items stored in the aforementioned storage box 60).

[0083] When the allocation decision unit 102 determines the final allocation, the items corresponding to that allocation are stored. In this embodiment, as described later, such storage is achieved, for example, by outputting instructions to the picking robot 200 and the conveying robot 300 through the instruction unit 104, but such storage can also be achieved by a person (operator).

[0084] The timing determination unit 103 determines the replenishment time of the stored items according to the allocation determined by the allocation determination unit 102. The timing determination unit 103 determines the replenishment time based, for example, on the consumption rate of the items. It should be noted that, like frequency information, the consumption rate can be determined by any method. Furthermore, the replenishment time can be either the time of the first replenishment method (the method of replenishing items individually using the picking robot 200) or the time of the second replenishment method (the method of replenishing by replacing the storage box 60).

[0085] In this embodiment, in particular, when replenishment is performed by replacing the storage box 60, replenishment is carried out at the following timing: The timing determination unit 103 can determine the timing for replacing the storage box 60 for replenishment based on whether any item among the items allocated to the same storage box 60 is below a predetermined quantity. For example, when any one of the various items stored in the storage box 60 containing items determined to be consumed frequently is below a predetermined quantity, the timing determination unit 103 determines that the replacement time for the storage box 60 has arrived. In this case, the storage box 60 is replaced with a new storage box 60 containing predetermined quantities of each of the various items. By determining the timing in this way, the replacement of the storage box 60 can be performed at the point when any one of the items allocated to the same storage box 60 decreases to below a predetermined quantity. Therefore, for any item, inconvenience to the user due to insufficient quantity can be suppressed. That is, replacement is based on the consumption of each item allocated to the same storage box 60. Therefore, the replenishment time can be determined more appropriately compared to the case where replacement is based on the total consumption of all items allocated to the same storage box 60.

[0086] The instruction unit 104 outputs instructions to the picking robot 200 and the conveying robot 300. The instruction unit 104 instructs at least one robot to replenish the consumed items in the storage box 60. Specifically, to achieve replenishment based on a first replenishment method or a second replenishment method, the instruction unit 104 instructs the conveying robot 300 to convey the storage boxes 60 and 70. That is, the instruction unit 104 notifies the conveying robot 300 of an instruction to transport the storage box 60 or the storage box 70. In the case of replenishment based on the first replenishment method, this instruction can be either an instruction to transport the consumed storage box 60 to the working area of ​​the picking robot 200, or an instruction to transport a storage box 70 pre-placed with items at a designated location such as a logistics center to the working area of ​​the picking robot 200. Furthermore, the instruction can also be an instruction to transport the storage box 70 to a designated location such as a logistics center after the pickup robot 200 has completed its work, or an instruction to transport the replenished storage box 60 to the shelf 50. In addition, when implementing replenishment based on the second replenishment method, the instruction can be either an instruction to transport the storage box 60 containing items pre-placed at a designated location such as a logistics center to the shelf 50, or an instruction to transport the consumed storage box 60 from the shelf 50 to the designated location such as a logistics center. Furthermore, to implement replenishment based on the first replenishment method, the instruction unit 104 can also instruct the pickup robot 200. That is, the instruction unit 104 notifies the pickup robot 200 of an instruction to move the consumed items from the storage box 70 containing items to the consumed storage box 60. The instruction unit 104 instructs the robot to replenish at the time determined by the timing determination unit 103.

[0087] Furthermore, the instruction unit 104 can also output instructions to the picking robot 200 and the conveying robot 300 to achieve the storage of items corresponding to the allocation determined by the allocation decision unit 102. In this case, for example, the instruction unit 104 can also instruct the picking robot 200 and the conveying robot 300 to replace the items already stored in the storage bin 60 according to the determined allocation. For example, the instruction unit 104 notifies the conveying robot 300 of an instruction to transport the storage bin 60 to the working area of ​​the picking robot 200. In addition, in order to perform sorting corresponding to the determined allocation, the instruction unit 104 notifies the picking robot 200 of an instruction to move items from one storage bin 60 to another storage bin 60.

[0088] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the management device 100. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the management device 100 includes a network interface 151, a memory 152, and a processor 153.

[0089] Network interface 151 is used to communicate with any device such as pickup robot 200 and conveyor robot 300. Network interface 151 may also include, for example, a network interface card (NIC).

[0090] The memory 152 is, for example, a combination of volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The memory 152 is used to store programs executed by the processor 153 and data used in various processes of the management device 100.

[0091] Processor 153 performs the following by reading a program from memory 152 and executing the program. Figure 5 The processor 153 is used for processing the various components shown. For example, it may be a microprocessor, a microprocessor unit (MPU), or a central processing unit (CPU). The processor 153 may also include multiple processors.

[0092] Thus, the management device 100 has the function of a computer.

[0093] The program includes a set of commands (or software code) that, when read by a computer, cause the computer to perform one or more functions described in the implementation. The program may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium or a physical storage medium. By way of example, and not limitation, a computer-readable medium or a physical storage medium includes: random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD) or other memory technologies, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc (registered trademark) or other optical disc storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices. The program may also be transmitted on a transient computer-readable medium or a communication medium. By way of example, and not limitation, a transient computer-readable medium or communication medium includes electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of propagated signals.

[0094] Next, the operation process of the management device 100 will be explained. Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the management device 100 related to allocation. Furthermore, Figure 9This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the management device 100 related to supplementation.

[0095] First, refer to Figure 8 The procedure for the operation of the management device 100 related to allocation is explained.

[0096] In step S100, the information acquisition unit 101 acquires the frequency information and category information of each item.

[0097] Next, in step S101, the allocation decision unit 102 groups the items.

[0098] Next, in step S102, the allocation decision unit 102 determines whether the grouping created in step S101 satisfies the constraints of compatibility between items and the number of available storage boxes 60. If the constraints are not met (no in step S102), the process returns to step S101 to correct the grouping. If the constraints are met (yes in step S102), the process proceeds to step S103.

[0099] In step S103, the allocation decision unit 102 determines the allocation of the storage box 60 for the items in such a way that items classified into the same group are stored in the same storage box 60.

[0100] It should be noted that, as described above, after step S103, the instruction unit 104 may also output instructions to the picking robot 200 and the conveying robot 300 based on the allocation determined in step S103.

[0101] Next, refer to Figure 9 The operation flow of the management device 100 related to the supplement will be explained. For example, when the management device 100 has achieved the storage of the allocation determined by the allocation decision unit 102, it performs the following processing.

[0102] In step S200, the timing determination unit 103 determines whether there is a storage box 60 where the consumption of items exceeds a predetermined level. If such a storage box 60 exists (yes in step S200), the timing determination unit 103 determines that the replenishment time for that storage box 60 has arrived, and the process proceeds to step S201. If no such storage box 60 exists, step S200 is repeated periodically.

[0103] In step S201, the instruction unit 104 outputs supplementary instructions to the picking robot 200 and the conveying robot 300.

[0104] The implementation method has been described above. According to the management device 100, the item is stored in a storage box 60 selected based on its consumption frequency. Therefore, it prevents frequently consumed items from being scattered across various storage boxes 60, and suppresses the need for replenishment work by robots on multiple storage boxes 60. Thus, inefficient replenishment is suppressed, and robots can be used efficiently. Furthermore, in particular, in this embodiment, the allocation decision unit 102 also determines the allocation of the storage box 60 for each item based on the compatibility between items. Therefore, it avoids undesirable items being packaged together in the same storage box 60, thus improving user convenience. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the allocation decision unit 102 also determines the allocation of the storage box 60 for each item based on the number of available storage boxes 60. Therefore, even when the number of available storage boxes 60 is limited, it is possible to determine the storage box 60 for the item.

[0105] <Modifications of the Implementation>

[0106] Next, a variation of the implementation method will be described. In this variation, the difference from the implementation method is that the same items are stored in both the main storage box 60 (first storage box 60) and the reserve storage box 60 (second storage box 60). That is, at least for the storage box 60 containing items determined to be consumed frequently, a storage box 60 is also prepared for storing backup items. In other words, the reserve storage box 60 (second storage box 60) is a storage box 60 used to store backup items stored in the main storage box 60 (first storage box 60). It should be noted that the items stored in the reserve storage box 60 may also be pre-defined to be consumed after all of these items have been consumed in the main storage box 60.

[0107] In this modified example, in particular, when replenishment is performed by replacing the storage box 60, replenishment can be carried out at the following time: The timing determination unit 103 can determine the timing for replacing the main storage box 60 based on the consumption of items allocated to the main storage box 60 and the consumption of backup items stored in the reserve storage box 60. For example, when the total consumption of any item in the main storage box 60 and the consumption in the reserve storage box 60 exceeds a predetermined level, the timing determination unit 103 determines that the replacement time for the main storage box 60 has arrived. In this case, the main storage box 60 is replaced with a new storage box 60 containing a predetermined number of each item. Thus, by determining the replenishment time, even if the remaining quantity of items in the main storage box 60 decreases, the main storage box 60 does not need to be replaced immediately, thereby suppressing the frequency of main storage box 60 replacement.

[0108] It should be noted that the backup storage box 60 can also be replenished at the same time as the main storage box 60, but the replenishment time can also be determined as follows: That is, the timing determination unit 103 can also adjust the timing of replacing the backup storage box 60 so that the replacement frequency of the backup storage box 60 is less than the replacement frequency of the main storage box 60. For example, even if the conditions for implementing the replacement of the backup storage box 60 are met, the timing determination unit 103 can wait until the replacement of the main storage box 60 has occurred N (N is an integer of 2 or more) times since the start of the use of the currently used backup storage box 60. For example, if the condition for implementing the replacement of the backup storage box 60 is that the consumption quantity of any item in the backup storage box 60 exceeds a predetermined level, the backup storage box 60 is replaced when this condition is met and the replacement of the main storage box 60 has occurred N times since the start of the use of the backup storage box 60. When the reserve storage box 60 is used as a backup for the main storage box 60, the reserve storage box 60 has a limited chance of items being consumed compared to the main storage box 60. Therefore, the risk of items running out of stock in the reserve storage box 60 is considered low. Therefore, as described above, the timing determination unit 103 can also determine the replacement timing by controlling the replacement frequency of the reserve storage box 60. By doing so, the risk of stockouts can be suppressed, and the frequency of replacement of the reserve storage box 60 can be reduced. Therefore, the replacement frequency of the storage box 60 can be further suppressed.

[0109] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and appropriate changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0110] Based on the foregoing description, it is evident that the embodiments of this disclosure can be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the concept and scope of this disclosure, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that all such modifications are included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A management device, comprising: The information acquisition department acquires frequency information, which represents the frequency of consumption, and category information, which represents the category of the item, for each item. The allocation decision unit determines the allocation of a storage container for each item based on the consumption frequency of each item and a predefined mismatch between the items determined according to the category information; and The instruction unit directs the robot to perform an action to replenish the consumed items in the storage container. The mismatch rate is an indicator value representing the degree to which users tolerate placing items in the same storage container.

2. The management device according to claim 1, wherein, The allocation decision unit also determines the allocation of storage containers for the item based on the number of available storage containers.

3. The management device according to claim 1, wherein, Replenishing the consumed items is done by replacing the consumed storage containers with a prescribed number of storage containers containing the items. The management device also has a timing determination unit that determines the timing for replacing the storage container for replenishment based on whether any of the items allocated to the same storage container is below a predetermined quantity.

4. The management device according to claim 1, wherein, Replenishing the consumed items is done by replacing the consumed storage containers with a prescribed number of storage containers containing the items. The management device also has a timing determination unit, which determines the timing for replenishing the first storage container based on the consumption of items allocated to the first storage container and the consumption of backup items stored in the second storage container, wherein the second storage container is a storage container for storing backup items stored in the first storage container.

5. The management device according to claim 4, wherein, The timing determination unit also adjusts the timing of replacing the second storage container in such a way that the replacement frequency of the second storage container is less than the replacement frequency of the first storage container.

6. A management method, wherein, The management device acquires frequency information, which indicates the frequency of consumption, and category information, which indicates the category of the item, for each item. The management device determines the allocation of storage containers for each item based on the consumption frequency of each item and a predefined mismatch degree between the items determined according to the category information. The management device instructs the robot to replenish the consumed items in the storage container. The mismatch rate is an indicator value representing the degree to which users tolerate placing items in the same storage container.

7. A computer-readable medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute: The information acquisition steps involve acquiring frequency information, which represents the frequency of consumption, and category information, which represents the category of the item, for each item. The allocation decision step determines the allocation of a storage container for each item based on the consumption frequency of each item and a predefined mismatch between the items determined according to the category information. as well as The instruction step instructs the robot to perform an action to replenish the consumed items in the storage container. The mismatch rate is an indicator value representing the degree to which users tolerate placing items in the same storage container.

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