Package distribution mechanism, system, device, computer readable storage medium and method

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of for package distribution mechanism, system, device, computer readable storage medium and method, it is related to logistics storage technical field, to provide the reliability of distribution wall package.The package method includes the following steps: detection component sends first detection signal after detecting that the object to be detected passes detection area;Control component stops the distribution car in target area after receiving the first detection signal;Detection component sends second detection signal after detecting that the object to be detected leaves detection area;Control component starts the stopped distribution car according to the received second detection signal.The above technical solution, by the acquisition and judgment of two actions, to realize the judgment of article position, detection is more accurate, so that the package operation is more reliable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of logistics and warehousing technology, and specifically to a package distribution mechanism, system, device, computer-readable storage medium, and method. Background Technology

[0002] An automated sorting wall is a device that automatically stores items in designated locations, using a sorting cart for transport. Items are fed into the bagging inlet, and the device determines the sorting location after acquiring the item information. The sorting cart stops at the bagging position, the bagging station delivers the items to the sorting cart, and the sorting cart automatically transports the items to their destination and unloads them into the corresponding container at the target location.

[0003] The inventors have discovered that the prior art has at least the following problems: In the process of transporting items from the bag supply station to the distribution vehicle, the current detection method relies on sensors to detect whether the items are being bagged. However, the sensors have difficulty detecting ultra-thin items, which makes the bag supply operation unreliable. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention proposes a packet supply and distribution mechanism, system, device, computer-readable storage medium, and method to provide reliable packet supply for distribution walls.

[0005] This invention provides a method for supplying packages, comprising the following steps:

[0006] The detection component sends out a first detection signal after detecting that the object to be detected has passed through the detection area;

[0007] Upon receiving the first detection signal, the control component will stop the broadcast vehicle located in the target area.

[0008] The detection component emits a second detection signal after detecting that the object to be detected has left the detection area;

[0009] The control component starts the stopped broadcast vehicle based on the received second detection signal.

[0010] In some embodiments, determining whether to stop the broadcast vehicle based on its location includes the following steps:

[0011] If the broadcast vehicle is upstream of the package receiving area and the distance between the broadcast vehicle and the package receiving area is within a set range, the control component issues a stop command to stop the broadcast vehicle.

[0012] In some embodiments, determining whether to stop the broadcast vehicle based on its location includes the following steps:

[0013] If the distribution vehicle is downstream of the package receiving area, the control component controls the distribution vehicle to continue driving.

[0014] In some embodiments, the package supply method further includes the following steps:

[0015] Obtain the barcode information of the items carried by the object to be inspected;

[0016] The movement path of the broadcast vehicle is calculated based on the obtained barcode information;

[0017] The distribution vehicle is controlled to transport the item to the designated location along the movement path.

[0018] This invention also provides a packet distribution mechanism, comprising:

[0019] The support component is equipped with a bag feeding port;

[0020] The distribution van is configured to be movable and set up in the package receiving area;

[0021] A detection component is disposed near the receiving area; the detection component forms a detection area, and the detection component is configured to emit a detection signal when it detects that an object to be detected has passed through the detection area.

[0022] The broadcast vehicle is configured to start and stop based on the detection signal from the detection component.

[0023] In some embodiments, the packet-suppliing subcasting agency further includes:

[0024] A control component, communicatively connected to the detection component and to the broadcast vehicle, controls the movement of the broadcast vehicle based on the detection signal transmitted by the detection component.

[0025] In some embodiments, the distribution vehicle includes a controller; the package distribution mechanism further includes:

[0026] A signal generator is located in the packet receiving area; the signal generator is communicatively connected to the controller and the detection component of the broadcast vehicle; the signal generator is configured to control the start and stop of the broadcast vehicle through the controller of the broadcast vehicle based on the signal emitted by the detection component.

[0027] In some embodiments, the broadcast vehicle further includes a signal receiver configured to transmit received signals from the signal generator to the controller of the broadcast vehicle to control the start and stop of the broadcast vehicle when the distance between the signal receiver and the signal generator is within a set distance.

[0028] In some embodiments, multiple signal generators are distributed to control the broadcast vehicles at different locations.

[0029] In some embodiments, each time an item is placed, the detection component emits two detection signals: a first detection signal and a second detection signal; wherein, the first detection signal corresponds to the process of the object to be detected placing the item from the supply area via the detection area onto the distribution vehicle located in the receiving area, and the second detection signal corresponds to the process of the object to be detected returning from the receiving area to the supply area via the detection area after the item is placed on the distribution vehicle.

[0030] In some embodiments, the detection component includes a through-beam sensor, the through-beam sensor comprising:

[0031] The transmitter is located on one side of the receiving area; and

[0032] The receiving end is located on the other side of the receiving area; the transmitting end and the receiving end are arranged correspondingly, and the receiving end is configured to receive the light emitted by the transmitting end.

[0033] In some embodiments, the emitting end is configured to emit light in at least one of the following directions: light parallel to the horizontal plane, light intersecting the horizontal plane, and light intersecting each other.

[0034] In some embodiments, the detection component includes a specular reflective sensor, the specular reflective sensor comprising:

[0035] A transmitter and receiver, comprising a transmitter and a receiver fixedly connected; both the transmitter and the receiver are disposed on one side of the receiving area in the width or height direction; and

[0036] A reflective component is disposed on the other side of the receiving area in the width or height direction; the transmitter and receiver are arranged correspondingly, and the reflective component is configured to transmit the light emitted by the transmitter to the receiver.

[0037] In some embodiments, the transmitter is configured to emit light in at least one of the following directions: light parallel to the horizontal plane, light intersecting the horizontal plane, and light intersecting each other.

[0038] This invention also provides a packet distribution system, including the packet distribution mechanism provided by any of the technical solutions of this invention.

[0039] In some embodiments, the packet distribution system further includes:

[0040] The main body of the broadcast wall includes at least one layer of track, on which the broadcast vehicle is movably arranged.

[0041] In some embodiments, the packet distribution system further includes:

[0042] A PDA is configured to acquire information carried by an item to determine the destination address of the item's delivery; and

[0043] The WCS control system is communicatively connected to the PDA to determine the movement path of the broadcast vehicle based on the delivery target address transmitted by the PDA.

[0044] This invention also includes a package distribution device, comprising:

[0045] Memory; and

[0046] A processor coupled to the memory is configured to execute a packet feeding method as provided by any of the technical solutions of the present invention, based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0047] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the packet supply method as provided in any of the technical solutions of this invention.

[0048] The above-described technical solution provides a bag-feeding method that indirectly determines the position of an item by judging the object to be inspected, eliminating the need for direct judgment of the item's position. The object to be inspected can be a robotic arm or human hand carrying items. Specifically, the completion of bagging is determined by detecting the action of the item being placed and the resetting action (returning to its original position) of the object after placement. Optionally, the object to be inspected can also be the item itself being conveyed by the conveyor belt. There are two actions to be detected: the item entering the detection area and the item leaving the detection area. The above technical solution determines the item's position by collecting and judging these two actions. This can be achieved by directly observing the item entering and leaving the detection area, or by detecting the object's entry and exit from the detection area. This technical solution offers more accurate detection and makes the bagging operation more reliable. Attached Figure Description

[0049] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and, together with their description, serve to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation thereof. In the drawings:

[0050] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the package distribution system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the packet supply and distribution system provided in an embodiment of the present invention during packet supply.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the track structure of the package distribution system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the distribution vehicles of the package distribution system provided in an embodiment of the present invention queuing on the track.

[0054] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the relative positions of the distribution vehicle, detection components, and track in the package distribution system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the distribution vehicle of the package distribution system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of signal transmission during packet feeding in the packet feeding and distribution system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of the detection component of the package distribution system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the package feeding process in the package distribution system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a packaging method provided in some embodiments of the present invention.

[0060] Figure label:

[0061] 10. Package distribution mechanism; 20. Distribution wall main body; 30. PDA; 40. WCS control system; 50. Object to be tested; 60. Item; 70. Operator;

[0062] 1. Mounting frame; 2. Broadcast van; 3. Detection light; 4. Control components; 5. Signal generator;

[0063] 11. Packing opening;

[0064] 21. Shelf; 22. Track; 23. Container;

[0065] 201. Vehicle body; 202. Guide wheel; 203. Loading and unloading belt; 204. Drive component. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The following is combined Figures 1-10The technical solutions provided by this invention will be described in more detail below. The descriptions of exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative and are in no way intended to limit this disclosure or its application or use. This disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. These embodiments are provided to make this disclosure thorough and complete, and to fully express the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of components and steps, the composition of materials, numerical expressions, and values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limiting.

[0067] The terms “first,” “second,” and similar words used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. Words such as “including” or “contains” mean that the element preceding the word covers the element listed after the word, and do not exclude the possibility of covering other elements as well.

[0068] In this disclosure, when a specific device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, an intermediary device may or may not be present between the specific device and the first or second device. When a specific device is described as being connected to other devices, the specific device may be directly connected to the other devices without an intermediary device, or it may be not directly connected to the other devices but have an intermediary device.

[0069] All terms used in this disclosure (including technical or scientific terms) have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in a general dictionary, such as a dictionary, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and not as having an idealized or highly formalized meaning, unless expressly defined herein.

[0070] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0071] The dimensions of the various parts shown in the accompanying drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Common structural elements or elements of the same kind are given the same reference numerals in the various drawings, and repeated descriptions of them are omitted where appropriate.

[0072] In related technologies, an automatic sorting wall is a device that uses a sorting cart moving on a track to transport items to a designated location and unload them. An automatic sorting wall includes a track and sorting carts that can move along the track. A conveyor belt is used to transport items (such as packages or goods) onto the sorting carts. The inventors discovered through research that some feeding anomalies may occur when items are transported from the conveyor belt to the sorting cart. For example, thin or lightweight items may not be detected, or rolling parts may roll during the feeding process, failing to be stably conveyed from the conveyor belt to the sorting cart. Therefore, the following technical solution is proposed to improve the reliability of the feeding operation.

[0073] For ease of explanation, please refer to the following description of specific embodiments. Figure 1 The direction in which the item 60 is transported from outside the supply and distribution system to the distribution vehicle 2 is defined as the X direction, and the direction in the horizontal plane that is parallel to the X direction is defined as the Y direction; the Z direction is perpendicular to the horizontal plane, that is, the Z axis is perpendicular to the X direction and also perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0074] The package distribution system can be used to implement the package distribution method provided in the embodiments of the present invention. Specifically, the package distribution system can be an automatic distribution wall, which is a three-dimensional distribution device mainly used for the distribution and verification of small and medium-sized goods.

[0075] Automated sorting walls can be applied in scenarios such as apparel, supermarkets, and small-to-medium-sized e-commerce. In apparel warehouses, using automated sorting walls enables integrated forward and reverse sorting verification, improving forward sorting efficiency by 100% and reverse sorting efficiency by 200%. Forward sorting refers to the outbound processing of apparel, while reverse sorting refers to the return of apparel to the warehouse. Furthermore, because automated sorting walls offer finer granularity, the walking paths for shelving personnel are shortened, improving shelving efficiency and achieving comprehensive cost reduction and efficiency improvement in warehouse operations management.

[0076] For supermarkets, automated sorting walls are designed to prevent damage and condensation, making product sorting more stable and efficient. Using automated sorting walls in supermarkets can effectively improve peak order processing capacity and overall productivity, increasing picking efficiency by 50% during peak periods, reducing the average fulfillment time for a single order by 5 minutes, and achieving a sorting accuracy rate of over 99.99%.

[0077] The package distribution system includes a package distribution mechanism 10 and a distribution wall main body 20. The package distribution mechanism 10 includes a distribution vehicle 2 and detection components. The distribution vehicle 2 is configured to be movably positioned in the package receiving area; the detection components are positioned near the package receiving area; the detection components form a detection area, and are configured to emit a detection signal when a target object 50 is detected passing through the detection area. The distribution vehicle 2 is configured to start and stop based on the detection signal from the detection components. All components can be modularly designed and assembled as needed. Specifically, the distribution vehicle 2 can be an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle).

[0078] See Figure 1 The main body 20 of the distribution wall includes multi-layer shelves 21 and multi-layer tracks 22. Each shelf 21 includes multiple supports for placing containers 23. Each support corresponds to a position coordinate, which determines the location of the support. Containers 23 are, for example, turnover boxes or material bins. Each container 23 can be placed on and supported by a support. Items 60 are transported by the distribution vehicle 2 to the corresponding support, then unloaded and stored in the container 23. Each container 23 can hold one order's item 60 or multiple orders of the same type of item 60.

[0079] The main body of the broadcast wall 20 can be flexibly configured with the corresponding number and size of support components according to the personalized needs of different industries and customers. The main body of the broadcast wall 20 has the advantages of being three-dimensional, flexible, efficient, small in footprint, and cost-effective. It can be set up in as little as 10 days, which greatly improves the efficiency of the setup. The various parts of the main body of the broadcast wall 20 adopt a modular design, which can be expanded and spliced ​​as needed to form products of different sizes, better meeting the peak timeliness needs of industries with strong seasonality, such as clothing.

[0080] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 There are two or more broadcast vehicles 2. The broadcast vehicles 2 operate cyclically on track 22, see [link / reference]. Figure 3 The operating sequence is as follows: The item 60 is received from the supply area at position M on the left side of the lowest track 22 (this process is called receiving the item). Position M can be considered the starting point. The item 60 then moves sequentially along the vertically arranged tracks 22 to other tracks 22, transporting it to different positions at different heights. During this process, the distribution vehicle 2 selectively enters the corresponding track 22 by opening and closing the guide vane: when the vane is closed, the distribution vehicle 2 continues to travel straight along the ascending or descending track 22; when the vane is open, the distribution vehicle 2 can enter the corresponding horizontal track 22 along the vane. The descending and ascending sections move in the same way, only the direction of travel changes.

[0081] See Figures 2 to 3 Each main body 20 of the broadcast wall contains multiple broadcast vehicles 2, and multiple broadcast vehicles 2 can also operate simultaneously on each level of track 22. To prevent collisions during operation, the multiple broadcast vehicles 2 travel in the same direction on each level of track 22. Specifically, the broadcast vehicles 2 all travel clockwise or counterclockwise along track 22. Furthermore, as long as the distance between two adjacent broadcast vehicles 2 is not less than the minimum safety distance, the operating state of each broadcast vehicle 2 is free, and the operating speed of each broadcast vehicle 2 can be set individually as needed. That is, the operating speeds of each broadcast vehicle 2 can be the same or different.

[0082] See Figure 4 Only one broadcast vehicle 2 can stay in the receiving area at a time. Other broadcast vehicles 2 wait in line upstream of the receiving area. After the broadcast vehicle 2 in the receiving area has received the package and driven away, the next broadcast vehicle 2 is allowed to enter the receiving area.

[0083] See Figure 5 and Figure 6 ,in Figure 5 This illustrates the status of the broadcast vehicle 2 on track 22. Figure 6 The structure of the broadcast vehicle 2 is illustrated. The broadcast vehicle 2 includes a vehicle body 201, a traveling mechanism (not shown) for moving the vehicle body 201, a loading / unloading belt 203 mounted on the vehicle body 201, and a drive unit 204. In some embodiments, the broadcast vehicle 2 also includes a positioning sensor to determine the real-time position of the broadcast vehicle 2. The traveling mechanism of the broadcast vehicle 2 cooperates with the track 22, specifically using a rack and pinion mechanism to enable the traveling mechanism to move along the track 22. The drive unit 204 is driven by the traveling mechanism to drive the traveling mechanism of the broadcast vehicle 2, thereby enabling the broadcast vehicle 2 to move. Guide wheels 202 are installed at each corner of the vehicle body 201, and each corner guide wheel 202 includes multiple wheel sets.

[0084] Before each item 60 is placed on the distribution vehicle 2, it must be moved from the supply area to the detection area, and then from the detection area to the receiving area. The method by which item 60 is delivered to the distribution vehicle 2 is either by manual transport or by a robotic arm. Figure 7 As shown.

[0085] See Figure 8 , Figure 8 This illustrates the detection light emitted by the detection component. The detection light can be visible or invisible, and its density can be selected and adjusted. The detection component is used to detect objects entering the detection area. The object can be the object to be detected (a human hand, a robotic arm, etc.) or the item itself (specifically, a package).

[0086] When item 60 is delivered to the detection area, the detection component detects two processes: the object to be detected (human hand or robotic arm) carrying item 60 enters the detection area, and the object to be detected that has been placed on item 60 leaves the detection area.

[0087] See also Figure 7 and Figure 8 A detection component (not shown) is mounted on the mounting frame 1. The detection light emitted by the detection component covers the feed port 11 of the mounting frame 1. Item 60 passes through the feed port 11 (see Figure 1). Figure 2 When the item is placed on the distribution vehicle 2, the process of the object to be tested 50 carrying the item 60 entering and exiting the supply port 11 will be detected by the detection component.

[0088] The number of detection components is determined by the number and location of the bag feeding ports 11, with one or more detection components corresponding to each bag feeding port 11. The detection components can be arranged at any position on the track 22. The detection components can be set at the position corresponding to the bottommost track 22, or at the position corresponding to the middle or topmost track 22.

[0089] In some embodiments, the detection component employs a grating sensor, which is classified into transmissive gratings and reflective gratings. Specifically, a transmissive grating can be a through-beam sensor, and a reflective grating can be a specular reflective sensor.

[0090] The through-beam sensor includes a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter is located on one side of the bag-feeding opening 11 in the width direction. The receiver is located on the other side of the bag-feeding opening 11 in the width direction; the transmitter and receiver are arranged correspondingly, and the receiver is configured to receive the light emitted by the transmitter. The object to be detected 50 passes between the transmitter and the receiver, and the area between the transmitter and the receiver is the detection area. When the object to be detected 50 enters the detection area, the through-beam sensor can output a detection signal, namely the first detection signal; after the object to be detected 50 places the item 60 on the distribution cart 2 and then returns to its original position, the through-beam sensor can output another detection signal, namely the second detection signal. After both the first and second detection signals are acquired, it indicates that the bag-feeding operation is completed and the item 60 has been placed on the distribution cart 2.

[0091] The transmitter is configured to emit light rays in at least one of the following directions: light rays parallel to the horizontal plane, light rays intersecting the horizontal plane, and light rays that intersect each other.

[0092] The light emitted by the transmitter can be horizontal, with countless rays parallel to the horizontal direction forming a planar detection area. The gaps between the grating grids are much smaller than 1 cm, and the maximum height of the grating grid is greater than the maximum height of the item 60. Therefore, the overall height of the detection light emitted by the transmitter is greater than the maximum height of the item 60, so the detection area completely covers the entire height of the item 60. Especially when transported by hand or robotic arm, the item 60 is delivered from the center of the detection area to the distribution vehicle 2, so the signals of the hand entering and leaving the detection area can be accurately acquired by the through-beam sensor. Most items 60 have a certain size, and the light emitted by the transmitter is very dense, so items 60 of any size can be detected by the light. Even thin objects can accurately acquire the first and second detection signals, with almost no possibility of missed detection, greatly increasing the reliability of the detection.

[0093] The light emitted by the transmitter can be either intersecting rays (or simply intersecting rays) or intersecting rays (or simply intersecting rays). Intersecting rays form a surface similar to tassels. Intersecting rays form a detection grid. Compared to horizontal rays, both intersecting and intersecting rays can accurately detect thin objects.

[0094] The detection component can also be a specular reflective sensor. A specular reflective sensor includes a transmitter, a receiver, and a reflective component. The area between the transmitter, receiver, and reflective component is the detection area. The transmitter and receiver include a transmitter and a receiver fixedly connected; both the transmitter and receiver are located on one side of the bag-feeding opening 11 in the width or height direction. The reflective component is located on the other side of the bag-feeding opening 11 in the width or height direction; the transmitter, receiver, and reflective component are arranged correspondingly, and the reflective component is configured to emit light emitted by the transmitter to the receiver. When the object to be detected 50 passes between the transmitter, receiver, and reflective component, the object to be detected 50 causes a change in light. The reflective component reflects the changed light back to the receiver of the transmitter, and the area between the transmitter and receiver is the detection area. When the object to be detected 50 enters the detection area, the specular reflective sensor outputs a detection signal, i.e., a first detection signal; after the object to be detected 50 places the item 60 on the distribution cart 2 and then returns to its original position, the specular reflective sensor outputs another detection signal, i.e., a second detection signal. After the first and second detection signals are acquired, it indicates that the packing operation is complete and item 60 has been placed on the distribution vehicle 2.

[0095] In some embodiments, the transmitter is configured to emit light in at least one of the following directions: light parallel to the horizontal plane, light intersecting the horizontal plane, and light intersecting each other.

[0096] Similar to the transmitter, the light emitted by the transmitter can also be horizontal. The light emitted by the transmitter is very dense, so objects of any size can be detected by the light, with almost no possibility of missed detection, which greatly increases the reliability of detection.

[0097] Similar to the transmitter, the light emitted by the transmitter can be either intersecting rays (or intersecting rays) or crisscrossing rays (or intersecting rays). Intersecting rays form a surface similar to tassels. Intersecting rays form a detection grid. Compared to horizontal rays, both intersecting and intersecting rays can detect thinner items more accurately.

[0098] See Figure 9 , Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the process of placing item 60 from the supply area, through the detection area, to the receiving area.

[0099] The start and stop control signals of the broadcast van 2 can be exchanged in two ways: through wireless network and through proximity switches or other methods that do not rely on the network.

[0100] One approach involves a package distribution mechanism that also includes a control component. This control component is communicatively connected to both the detection component and the distribution vehicle 2, controlling the movement of the distribution vehicle 2 based on detection signals transmitted by the detection component. The control component manages the operating parameters of the distribution vehicle 2, including starting, stopping, path planning, and determining its location. The control component and the distribution vehicle 2 interact via Wi-Fi or similar methods. Optionally, the control component and the WCS system can be integrated into a single unit, which can be a remote backend server. This backend server can be a backend server, an in-warehouse local server, or a localized server directly installed on the distribution wall main body 20. The localized server is primarily used for scheduling and controlling the equipment within the distribution wall, coordinating and controlling the entire package distribution system based on sensor signals and the location feedback of the distribution vehicle 2. This control method is feasible in scenarios with network access and is highly practical.

[0101] Another approach involves the distribution vehicle 2 including a controller. The packet distribution mechanism also includes a signal generator 5, which is located in the packet receiving area. The signal generator 5 is communicatively connected to the controller and detection components of the distribution vehicle 2. The signal generator 5 is configured to control the start and stop of the distribution vehicle 2 via the controller based on signals emitted by the detection components. Specifically, the distribution vehicle 2 also includes a signal receiver, configured to transmit the received signal from the signal generator 5 to the controller of the distribution vehicle 2 to control its start and stop when the distance between the signal receiver and the signal generator 5 is within a set distance. The signal generator 5 and the signal receiver can form a proximity trigger switch, eliminating the need for Wi-Fi. The signal generator 5 can directly trigger the signal receiver, thereby controlling the start and stop of the distribution vehicle 2. This control method does not rely on a network and is unaffected by network signal instability, resulting in more stable and reliable control.

[0102] Back Figure 4 Multiple signal generators 5 are distributed and installed at different positions on track 22 to control the broadcast vehicles 2 at different locations. All broadcast vehicles 2 within a certain area can be controlled by multiple signal generators 5.

[0103] See Figure 9 A complete package receiving process for the distribution vehicle 2 can be broken down into the following five steps: A. The distribution vehicle 2 proceeds to the receiving area and waits; B. A person manually transports item 60 through the detection area to the distribution vehicle 2 in the receiving area; C. A person manually and securely places item 60 on the distribution vehicle 2; D. A person manually removes the detection area; E. The distribution vehicle 2 begins transportation and leaves the receiving area. It should be noted that a robotic arm can also be used to deliver item 60.

[0104] During the above process, each time an item 60 is placed, the detection component emits two detection signals: a first detection signal and a second detection signal. The first detection signal corresponds to the process in which the object to be detected places the item 60 from the supply area through the detection area onto the distribution vehicle 2 located in the receiving area, i.e., step B. The second detection signal corresponds to the process in which the object to be detected returns from the receiving area through the detection area to the supply area after the item 60 has been placed on the distribution vehicle 2, i.e., step D.

[0105] See Figure 4 and Figure 9Once the detection component detects the first detection signal, the distribution vehicle 2 located in the receiving area is prohibited from moving. Only when the detection component detects the second detection signal does it indicate that the loading operation is complete, and the distribution vehicle 2 located in the receiving area can start, transport, and distribute. The upstream of the receiving area is a waiting area, and the downstream of the receiving area does not affect the loading operation; the distribution vehicle 2 located downstream of the receiving area operates normally. The upstream and downstream are determined along the direction of the distribution vehicle's movement. The above scheme achieves confirmation of the loading operation by the distribution system through changes in the first and second detection signals. It should be noted that when the first detection signal appears, in addition to the distribution vehicle 2 located in the receiving area being stopped, one or more distribution vehicles 2 located upstream of the receiving area and relatively close to it will also be stopped, i.e., the distribution vehicle 2 located in the target area is stopped. Figure 4 During the package feeding operation, the broadcast truck B, which is upstream of the package receiving area and closest to broadcast truck A located in the package receiving area, will also be stopped. This method provides a simpler way to confirm that the package feeding operation has been completed, improving production safety. Therefore, even if a part of the package feeding personnel unintentionally enters the broadcast wall, production safety is guaranteed because broadcast truck 2 is prohibited from moving.

[0106] Back Figure 1 and Figure 2 To accurately obtain the location information of the item 60 to be stored, the package distribution system also includes a PDA 30 and a WCS control system 40. PDA stands for Personal Digital Assistant. The PDA 30 is configured to obtain information carried by the item 60, specifically by scanning a barcode to determine the destination address of the item 60. During the package distribution process, the supplier scans the barcode of the item 60 using the PDA 30 to obtain the item 60 information, which is the basis for determining the destination of the distribution vehicle 2. After scanning the barcode, the supplier holds the item 60, passes it through the detection area, and places it on the distribution vehicle 2 to complete the loading process. The WCS (Warehouse Control System) is a warehouse control system used to control automated equipment within the warehouse. The WCS control system 40 is connected to the PDA 30. After the PDA 30 obtains the information of the item 60, it transmits the information of the item 60 to the WCS control system 40. The WCS control system 40 matches the support component according to the item information transmitted by the PDA 30, that is, determines the delivery target address, and at the same time determines the movement path of the distribution vehicle 2, so as to control the distribution vehicle 2 to accurately deliver the item 60 to the container 23 at the corresponding location.

[0107] Multiple distribution vehicles 2 are arranged inside the distribution wall. Each distribution vehicle 2 can move autonomously along track 22. When a package is being supplied, the distribution vehicle 2 will stop at the receiving area, waiting for a person or robotic arm to transport the item 60 through the detection area to the distribution vehicle 2. The distribution vehicle 2 will then automatically transport the item 60 to its destination and unload it into the corresponding container 23 at the destination. Afterward, the distribution vehicle 2 will return to the receiving area to continue receiving packages, and multiple distribution vehicles 2 will operate in a cycle. Only one distribution vehicle 2 can be in each receiving area at a time. If there are multiple distribution vehicles 2, they need to queue up to enter the receiving area.

[0108] With the above technical solution, operator 70 only needs to scan item 60 with a handheld PDA 30, and the sorting vehicle 2 will transport item 60 to the corresponding container 23 at its destination. After completing one round of sorting, operator 70 can remove container 23 from shelf 21 and send it to the packing station. The bagging and sorting system sorts approximately 2,500 items per hour. Compared to manual sorting, the use of the bagging and sorting system can improve picking efficiency by 200%, with finer sorting granularity and a sorting accuracy rate of up to 99.99%, greatly improving the efficiency of item 60 entering and leaving the warehouse.

[0109] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The following describes the specific implementation of the packet distribution mechanism 10. The packet distribution mechanism 10 includes a distribution vehicle 2, a detection component, and a control component. The distribution vehicle 2 is movably located in the packet receiving area. The detection component is positioned near the packet supply port 11; the detection component forms a detection area and is configured to emit a detection signal when a target object is detected passing through the detection area. The control component can be the WCS control system 40 described above. The control component is communicatively connected to the detection component to control the movement of the distribution vehicle 2 based on the detection signal transmitted by the detection component.

[0110] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 7The mounting frame 1 includes multiple fixedly connected rods, the cross-section of which can be circular or L-shaped. The mounting frame is installed in the area of ​​the distribution wall body 20 where no support members are provided. The mounting frame forms a through-hole supply port 11, allowing items 60 to be placed from the outside of the distribution wall body 20 into the distribution cart 2 located inside the distribution wall body 20 via the supply port 11. The open area of ​​the distribution wall body 20 outside the supply port 11 is the supply area. The supply area does not require a conveyor belt; items 60 are directly moved by hand or a robotic arm to the distribution cart 2 inside the supply port 11. The area inside the distribution wall body 20 where the distribution cart 2 can receive goods transported via the supply port 11 is the receiving area. The receiving area is also equipped with the track 22 described above, allowing the distribution cart 2 to move along the track 22 to the receiving area. Compared with related technologies, the technical solution of this invention adopts a completely different loading method. Instead of using a conveyor belt to transport the item 60 to the distribution vehicle 2, the item 60 is placed directly on the distribution vehicle 2 by hand or robotic arm. Therefore, there is no need for the conveyor belt and the load belt of the distribution vehicle 2 to be connected, and there will be no unreliability or instability caused by the connection of the two belts, which greatly increases the reliability of the loading operation.

[0111] The control component has two control parameters: first, it determines the transport path of the distribution vehicle 2 based on the delivery target address transmitted by the PDA30; second, it controls the start and stop of the distribution vehicle 2 based on the signals detected by the detection component. During the packing operation, the distribution vehicle 2 located in the receiving area is stopped to improve the safety of the packing operation. After the packing is completed, the detection component detects two signals: the object to be detected entering the detection area and leaving the detection area, indicating that the packing operation is complete, at which point the distribution vehicle 2 is started. The control component's control of the distribution vehicle 2 includes multiple aspects such as start, stop, and path planning. The above-described control component can achieve the above functions whether integrated with the WCS system or set up independently.

[0112] After receiving item 60, the distribution vehicle 2 will transport item 60 to the support component at the target location according to the set path, and then unload item 60 into the corresponding container 23 to complete the distribution. Distribution vehicles 2 that have completed their distribution tasks will line up and park in the receiving area one after another to wait for item 60 to be loaded. After loading, the distribution vehicle 2 will transport item 60 to the destination according to the destination and unload item 60 into the corresponding container 23, thus completing the distribution of all items 60 in this cycle.

[0113] The above technical solution adopts a dual judgment mechanism. It is determined that the packaging operation is completed only after the first detection signal of the object to be detected 50 entering the detection area and the second detection signal of the object to be detected 50 leaving the detection area are detected. Therefore, it can more accurately determine whether the packaging operation is completed for items 60 of various shapes and structures, especially rolling parts and ultra-thin and ultra-fine parts.

[0114] The control strategy is described below.

[0115] When a hand or other part of the body passes through the grating of the detection component, the grating sends a trigger signal (i.e., the first detection signal) to the control component through the detection component's own communication mechanism. Upon receiving the first detection signal, the control component will issue a control signal based on the position of the distribution vehicle 2. Depending on the position of the distribution vehicle 2, several scenarios may occur:

[0116] 1. When the distribution vehicle 2 is located in the package receiving area, its movement will pose a danger to the operator. Therefore, the integrated system will issue a stop signal to stop the distribution vehicle 2 in an emergency, and the distribution vehicle 2 will stop running.

[0117] 2. Once the distribution vehicle 2 has left the receiving area, it is far from the operator and poses no danger. Therefore, the integrated system will not issue a stop command for this vehicle, and distribution vehicle 2 will continue to operate normally according to the previous task instructions. The system will automatically control its stopping and operation based on the distance between distribution vehicle 2 and the preceding distribution vehicle 2.

[0118] 3. If the broadcast vehicle 2 is located before the receiving area, that is, upstream of the receiving area, and is moving towards the receiving area, then the movement of one or more broadcast vehicles 2 closest to the receiving area will also cause danger, and these broadcast vehicles 2 will also be stopped.

[0119] exist Figure 4 Signal generator 5 is installed in the package receiving area and waiting area shown. Signal generator 5 includes a first signal receiver and a first signal transmitter; a second signal receiver is installed on the distribution vehicle 2. The first signal receiver is communicatively connected to the detection component described above. When the first signal receiver receives a detection signal from the detection component, the first signal transmitter sends a signal to the second signal receiver, causing the distribution vehicle 2 to stop. The first signal receiver, first signal transmitter, and second signal receiver can be magnetic induction switches or other types of sensors. Magnetic induction switches, whose effective range can be a certain area, can be used in small numbers, or even only one in the package receiving area, to achieve emergency stop control within a certain area by controlling the signal's effective range.

[0120] To prevent danger, when a person's hand or other part or object 60 passes through the grating of the detection component, a series of tactile sensors will issue a danger signal based on the first detection signal. Within the area covered by the danger signal, or at multiple locations within the area, the tactile sensors will send a stop signal to the corresponding broadcast vehicle 2. Upon receiving the stop signal, the broadcast vehicle 2 will stop immediately.

[0121] The above technical solution uses a pure circuit approach to achieve detection and signal transmission, which can better guarantee the control of the broadcast van 2 and avoid delays caused by network jitter and unstable network signals.

[0122] See Figure 10 The following describes a packet supply method, which can be implemented using the packet supply and distribution mechanism 10 described in any of the above technical solutions. The packet supply and distribution mechanism 10 includes the following steps:

[0123] In step S100, after the detection component detects that the object to be detected 50 has passed through the detection area, it sends out a first detection signal. The delivery method of the object to be detected 50 is described above and will not be repeated here.

[0124] In step S200, after receiving the first detection signal, the control component stops the broadcast vehicle 2 located in the target area. The first detection signal is a trigger signal.

[0125] There are three possible locations for broadcast vehicle 2: located in the receiving area, upstream of the receiving area, or downstream of the receiving area. All three locations are on track 22 and are positions where broadcast vehicle 2 can move. The target area refers to a section of land upstream of and relatively close to the receiving area, which can be the area where one or two broadcast vehicles 2 are located.

[0126] The signal generator 5, located in the receiving area and upstream of the receiving area, is used to determine whether the distribution vehicle is located in the target area. The signal generator 5 can be a photoelectric sensor, a magnetic induction switch, etc.

[0127] If the delivery vehicle 2 is within the receiving area, the control unit issues a stop command to halt it. This increases the reliability of the item delivery 60 operation. One or more delivery vehicles 2 located upstream of and closest to the receiving area are also stopped; that is, delivery vehicles 2 within a set range upstream of the receiving area are also stopped to further increase the reliability of the loading operation. Delivery vehicles 2 located downstream of the receiving area do not affect the loading operation and therefore do not need to be stopped.

[0128] In step S300, a second detection signal is emitted after the detection component detects that the object to be detected 50 has left the detection area. The detection component emits the second detection signal when the object to be detected 50 exits the detection area.

[0129] In step S400, the control component starts the stopped broadcast vehicle 2 based on the received second detection signal.

[0130] During the process of transporting item 60 to the loading area, the barcode information of item 60 carried by the object to be inspected 50 can be obtained through PDA 30; the movement path of the distribution vehicle 2 is calculated based on the obtained barcode information; after loading is completed, the distribution vehicle 2 is controlled to transport item 60 to the designated location along the determined movement path.

[0131] Other embodiments of the present invention also provide a packet delivery and distribution apparatus, including a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to execute the packet delivery method provided by any of the technical solutions of the present invention based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0132] Memory may include, for example, system memory, fixed non-volatile storage media, etc. System memory may store, for example, the operating system, application programs, boot loader, and other programs.

[0133] Some embodiments of the present invention also provide a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the packet supply method provided by any of the technical solutions of the present invention.

[0134] The processors described herein may include general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in alternatives, it may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors cooperating with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0135] Storage media can be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer. Any connection is also properly referred to as computer-readable media. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then such coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of media. As used herein, disk and disc include compact discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital multi-purpose discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, where disks typically reproduce data magnetically, and discs reproduce data optically using lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0136] Those skilled in the art will understand that the method embodiments of this disclosure can be provided as a method, system, or computer program product. Therefore, this disclosure can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this disclosure can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-usable non-transitory storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0137] This disclosure is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0138] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0139] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing equipment to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable equipment to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable equipment for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0140] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention. When the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0141] In the description of this invention, each technical feature may be combined with other technical features where feasible.

[0142] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. However, these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for supplying packages, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The detection component sends out a first detection signal after detecting that the object to be detected (50) passes through the detection area; wherein the object to be detected (50) is a robotic arm or human hand carrying an item (60); the first detection signal corresponds to the process by which the object to be detected (50) places the item (60) from the package supply area through the detection area onto the distribution vehicle (2) located in the package receiving area; Upon receiving the first detection signal, the control component will stop the broadcast vehicle (2) located in the target area; The detection component emits a second detection signal after detecting that the object to be detected (50) has left the detection area; the second detection signal corresponds to the process after the item (60) is placed in the distribution vehicle (2) and the object to be detected (50) returns from the receiving area to the supply area via the detection area; The control component starts the stopped broadcast vehicle (2) based on the received second detection signal.

2. The method for supplying packages according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining whether to stop the broadcast vehicle (2) based on its location includes the following steps: If the broadcast vehicle (2) is located upstream of the package receiving area and the distance between the broadcast vehicle (2) and the package receiving area is within a set range, the control component issues a stop command to stop the broadcast vehicle (2).

3. The method for supplying packages according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining whether to stop the broadcast vehicle (2) based on its location includes the following steps: If the distribution vehicle (2) is downstream of the package receiving area, the distribution vehicle (2) continues to travel.

4. The method for supplying packages according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Obtain the barcode information of the items (60) carried by the object to be tested (50); Based on the obtained barcode information, calculate the movement path of the distribution vehicle (2); Control the distribution vehicle (2) to transport the item (60) to the designated location along the movement path.

5. A package distribution mechanism, characterized in that, include: The distribution van (2) is configured to be movably positioned in the package receiving area; A detection component is disposed near the receiving area; the detection component forms a detection area, and the detection component is configured to emit a detection signal when an object to be detected (50) passes through the detection area; the object to be detected (50) is a robotic arm or a human hand carrying an item (60); The broadcast vehicle (2) is configured to start and stop according to the detection signal of the detection component; Each time an item (60) is placed, the detection component emits two detection signals: a first detection signal and a second detection signal. The first detection signal corresponds to the process in which the object to be detected places the item (60) from the supply area to the distribution vehicle (2) located in the receiving area via the detection area. The second detection signal corresponds to the process in which the object to be detected returns from the receiving area to the supply area via the detection area after the item (60) is placed on the distribution vehicle (2).

6. The package distribution mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, Also includes: A control component is communicatively connected to the detection component and to the broadcast vehicle (2) to control the movement of the broadcast vehicle (2) according to the detection signal transmitted by the detection component.

7. The package distribution mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, The distribution vehicle (2) includes a controller; the package distribution mechanism further includes: A signal generator (5) is located in the receiving area; the signal generator (5) is communicatively connected to the controller of the distribution vehicle (2) and the detection component; the signal generator (5) is configured to control the start and stop of the distribution vehicle (2) through the controller of the distribution vehicle (2) based on the signal emitted by the detection component.

8. The package distribution mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, The broadcast vehicle (2) also includes a signal receiver, which is configured to transmit the received signal from the signal generator (5) to the controller of the broadcast vehicle (2) to control the start and stop of the broadcast vehicle (2) when the distance between the signal receiver and the signal generator (5) is within a set distance.

9. The package distribution mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, Multiple signal generators (5) are distributed to control the broadcast vehicles (2) at different locations.

10. The package distribution mechanism according to any one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that, The detection component includes a through-beam sensor, which comprises: The transmitter is located on one side of the receiving area; and The receiving end is located on the other side of the receiving area; the transmitting end and the receiving end are arranged correspondingly, and the receiving end is configured to receive the light emitted by the transmitting end.

11. The package distribution mechanism according to claim 10, characterized in that, The transmitter is configured to emit light in at least one of the following directions: light parallel to the horizontal plane, light intersecting the horizontal plane, and light intersecting each other.

12. The package distribution mechanism according to any one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that, The detection component includes a specular reflective sensor, which comprises: A transmitter and receiver, comprising a transmitter and a receiver fixedly connected; both the transmitter and the receiver are disposed on one side of the receiving area in the width or height direction; and A reflective component is disposed on the other side of the receiving area in the width or height direction; the transmitter and receiver are arranged correspondingly, and the reflective component is configured to emit light emitted by the transmitter to the receiver.

13. The package distribution mechanism according to claim 12, characterized in that, The transmitter is configured to emit light in at least one of the following directions: light parallel to the horizontal plane, light intersecting the horizontal plane, and light intersecting each other.

14. A package distribution system, characterized in that, Includes the packet distribution mechanism (10) as described in any one of claims 5 to 13.

15. The package distribution system according to claim 14, characterized in that, Also includes: The main body (20) of the broadcast wall includes at least one layer of track (22), and the broadcast vehicle (2) is movably arranged on the track (22).

16. The package distribution system according to claim 14, characterized in that, Also includes: PDA (30) is configured to acquire information carried by the article (60) to determine the delivery destination address of the article (60); as well as The WCS control system (40) is communicatively connected to the PDA (30) to determine the movement path of the broadcast vehicle (2) based on the delivery target address transmitted by the PDA (30).

17. A package dispensing and distribution device, characterized in that, include: Memory; and A processor coupled to the memory, the processor being configured to execute the packet feeding method as described in any one of claims 1 to 4 based on instructions stored in the memory.

18. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the packet supply method as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

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