Finished piece cigarette tray stacking in and out of warehouse method and system

Abstract

The application discloses a finished piece cigarette tray stacking in and out of warehouse method and system, belongs to the tray storage technology field in the cigarette production, and includes two steps of stacking in and out of warehouse. When stacking in, the scheduling system depends on the warehouse management system task plan, commands the stacking robot to stack in order, arranges the latent AGV to carry the tray to the target floor, makes the forked AGV first transport 30 pieces / tray goods, then transports 20 pieces / tray goods, and stacks to complete the in-warehouse; in the unstacking out of warehouse link, the warehouse management system generates a task for the scheduling system, and the forked AGV takes the upper 20 pieces and the lower 30 pieces of goods to the target connection platform to unload the goods. The space utilization rate and the in-warehouse efficiency are improved, and the in and out of warehouse process of the finished piece cigarette is highly automated, accurate and orderly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of pallet storage technology in cigarette production, and more specifically, to a method and system for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets. Background Technology

[0002] Finished goods warehouses play a crucial role in a company's production and operations chain. Their storage capacity directly impacts the ability to maintain normal production and operations. For existing multi-story finished goods warehouse buildings, introducing automated logistics systems presents numerous limitations and challenges. Limited site space makes building multi-level automated storage and retrieval systems (AS / RS) impossible. These AS / RS typically make full use of vertical space, significantly increasing storage capacity and efficiency. If, as a compromise, they are used as flat warehouses, even with automated inbound / outbound planning, their storage capacity will inevitably shrink considerably due to the inability to utilize space as efficiently as AS / RS. This limits the quantity of finished goods available to the market, negatively impacting the stable supply of finished goods and potentially leading to untimely delivery, order backlogs, and other issues. This negatively affects the company's market reputation and customer satisfaction, ultimately interfering with overall operational efficiency and market competitiveness. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One objective of this invention is to provide a method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets in a warehouse, in order to solve the problem that the aforementioned space limitations prevent the construction of multi-layer automated warehouses, resulting in problems such as untimely delivery and order backlog.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets is provided, comprising a stacking and storing step and a disassembling and storing step, wherein:

[0005] The stacking and warehousing process specifically includes:

[0006] The scheduling system, based on the stacking and warehousing task plan issued by the warehouse management system, directs the electronic control system to make the palletizing robots stack in a specific order alternately;

[0007] The scheduling system arranges idle AGVs to transport pallets in a specific alternating sequence according to the stacked warehousing task containing specific information, and then to the target floor via a hoist.

[0008] The dispatch system instructs the forklift AGV to pick up 30 pieces / pallet of goods at the receiving station and transport them to the target aisle entrance. After unloading at the designated location, it returns to the receiving station to pick up 20 pieces / pallet of goods.

[0009] The forklift AGV transports 20 pieces / pallet of goods to the target aisle entrance and stacks them on top of 30 pieces / pallet of goods at the designated storage location to complete the warehousing process.

[0010] The unpacking and folding process for outbound shipment includes:

[0011] The warehouse management system generates outbound tasks based on outbound delivery orders and sends them to the scheduling system, which then arranges forklift AGVs to perform the unpacking and stacking tasks.

[0012] The forklift AGV first goes to the designated cargo location at the entrance of the target aisle, raises the arm to pick up 20 pieces / pallets of goods from the upper layer, and then lowers the arm to transport them to the target transfer station for unloading.

[0013] The forklift AGV then retrieves 30 pieces / pallet of goods from the designated location at the entrance of the target aisle and transports them to the target transfer station for unloading.

[0014] Optionally, during the stacking and warehousing process, after each pallet is stacked, the pallet barcode is automatically bound to the No. 1 engineering code or quality traceability code of the cigarette pack.

[0015] Optionally, the stacking and receiving task containing specific information includes the palletizing station for picking up the goods, the target floor for receiving the goods, and the warehouse area information.

[0016] Optionally, the outbound task is a stacked warehouse outbound task, and the task includes outbound brand, quantity, outbound floor, warehouse area and aisle entrance information.

[0017] Optionally, in the step of the lurking AGV transporting pallets in a specific alternating sequence, the specific alternating sequence is to transport the full pallets of cigarettes in an alternating sequence of 30 pieces / pallet and 20 pieces / pallet.

[0018] Optionally, in the unpacking and retrieval step, the scheduling system arranges the AGVs that have just finished entering the warehouse on the same floor to perform the retrieval task first, and they pick up and transport goods out of the warehouse in an alternating order at the designated transfer station.

[0019] Optionally, both the stealthy AGV and the forklift AGV establish a real-time communication link with the scheduling system, and report their location, status and task execution progress to the scheduling system in real time.

[0020] Optionally, each stacking area is equipped with 10 connection stations, designated as A1, B1, C1, D1, E1, A2, B2, C2, D2, and E2, with 5 groups of 2. Among them, A1 and A2 form one group, B1 and B2 form another group, C1 and C2 form another group, D1 and D2 form another group, and E1 and E2 form another group. Pallets with 30 pieces / pallets of cigarettes are placed on A1, B1, C1, D1, and E1, while pallets with 20 pieces / pallets of cigarettes are placed on A2, B2, C2, D2, and E2. The pallets with 20 pieces / pallets of cigarettes are stacked on top of the pallets with 30 pieces / pallets of cigarettes.

[0021] Optionally, in the stacking and warehousing step, when the warehouse management system assigns the receiving and unloading docking stations to the AGVs, it cyclically assigns tasks in the order of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1, E2. When the forklift AGVs retrieve goods from the docking stations, they also execute the task in the order of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1, E2.

[0022] In the unpacking and outbound process, when the warehouse management system assigns outbound delivery docking stations to the forklift AGVs, it cyclically allocates tasks in the order of A2, A1, B2, B1, C2, C1, D2, D1, E2, E1. When the lurking AGVs retrieve goods from the docking stations, they also execute the task in the order of A2, A1, B2, B1, C2, C1, D2, D1, E2, E1.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a finished cigarette pallet stacking and warehousing system is provided, comprising a warehouse management system, a scheduling system, an electrical control system, a palletizing robot, a stealthy AGV, a forklift AGV, and a hoist: wherein:

[0024] The warehouse management system is used to generate and issue stacking inbound task plans and generate outbound tasks based on outbound delivery orders;

[0025] The scheduling system is connected to the warehouse management system and is used to receive the stacking inbound task plan and outbound task. Based on the stacking inbound task plan, it commands the electronic control system to perform palletizing operations, arranges the lurking AGV to transport pallets, arranges the forklift AGV to perform picking and unloading operations, and arranges the forklift AGV to perform unpacking tasks based on the outbound task.

[0026] The electronic control system is communicatively connected to the scheduling system and is used to receive instructions from the scheduling system and control the palletizing robot to palletize alternately in a specific order.

[0027] The AGV, under the scheduling system, transports pallets in a specific alternating sequence, transports them to the target floor via a hoist, and performs unloading tasks at the corresponding transfer station.

[0028] The forklift AGV, under the scheduling system, picks up 30 pieces / pallets of goods at the receiving station and transports them to the designated storage location at the target aisle entrance for unloading. Then, it returns to the receiving station to pick up 20 pieces / pallets of goods and transports them to the designated storage location at the target aisle entrance to stack them on top of the 30 pieces / pallets of goods to complete the warehousing task. It also performs the unpacking task, first going to the designated storage location at the target aisle entrance to raise the arm to pick up the upper 20 pieces / pallets of goods, lowering the arm and transporting them to the target receiving station for unloading, then going to the designated storage location at the target aisle entrance to pick up the lower 30 pieces / pallets of goods and transporting them to the target receiving station for unloading.

[0029] The finished cigarette pallet stacking and warehousing method and system disclosed herein has the following technical advantages:

[0030] The dispatching system precisely directs forklift AGVs to retrieve goods in different quantities / pallets (30 pieces / pallet and 20 pieces / pallet) from the receiving station and accurately transports them to designated storage locations at the target aisle entrances for stacking. This system can flexibly handle the warehousing needs of finished cigarette cartons with different packaging specifications, accurately placing goods in suitable locations, further optimizing pallet space utilization, and ensuring that goods accurately enter their corresponding positions within the warehousing system.

[0031] The forklift AGV first picks up 20 pieces / pallet of goods from the upper layer, then picks up 30 pieces / pallet of goods from the lower layer, and accurately transports them to the target receiving station for unloading. This precise sequential unpacking of goods stacked on pallets ensures that the goods are not disordered when leaving the warehouse and maintains the integrity of the goods.

[0032] This invention achieves a high degree of automation, precision, and orderliness in the inbound and outbound processes of finished cigarette packages through the coordinated operation of a scheduling system, a warehouse management system, and various types of AGVs (lurking and forklift types), as well as palletizing robots, elevators, and other equipment. During inbound operations, goods of different specifications can be orderly palletized, transported, and accurately placed into storage locations, improving space utilization and inbound efficiency. During outbound operations, stacked goods can be precisely separated according to order requirements, quickly and accurately completing shipment preparations and improving response speed to customer orders. Simultaneously, the entire process reduces errors that may arise from manual operation, enhancing the overall level of warehouse management and operational efficiency.

[0033] Other features and advantages of the invention will become clear from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with their description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0035] Figure 1 A flowchart of the finished cigarette pallet stacking and warehousing method provided in this embodiment of the invention;

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the stacking warehouse area connection station and operation trajectory in the finished cigarette pallet stacking and warehousing scheme provided in this embodiment of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0038] The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the invention or its application or use.

[0039] 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.

[0040] In all the examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0041] This invention proposes an embodiment of a method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets in and out of warehouses. Specifically, as follows: Figure 1 As shown, this includes a stacking and receiving process and a disassembling and retrieval process, wherein:

[0042] The stacking and warehousing process specifically includes:

[0043] The scheduling system, based on the stacking and warehousing task plan issued by the warehouse management system, directs the electronic control system to make the palletizing robots stack in a specific order alternately;

[0044] The scheduling system arranges idle AGVs to transport pallets in a specific alternating sequence according to the stacked warehousing task containing specific information, and then to the target floor via a hoist.

[0045] The dispatch system instructs the forklift AGV to pick up 30 pieces / pallet of goods at the receiving station and transport them to the target aisle entrance. After unloading at the designated location, it returns to the receiving station to pick up 20 pieces / pallet of goods. This method of picking up different quantities of goods in two separate trips can flexibly meet the warehousing needs of finished cigarette packages with different packaging specifications and optimize pallet space utilization.

[0046] The forklift AGV transports 20 pieces / pallet of goods to the target aisle entrance, stacks them on top of 30 pieces / pallet of goods at the designated storage location to complete the warehousing, so that the entire pallet is filled with the appropriate quantity and specifications of finished cigarettes; it can maximize the use of pallet space, increase the storage capacity per pallet, and save storage space.

[0047] The unpacking and folding process for outbound shipment includes:

[0048] The warehouse management system generates outbound tasks based on outbound delivery orders and sends them to the scheduling system, which then arranges forklift AGVs to perform the unpacking and stacking tasks.

[0049] The forklift AGV first goes to the designated cargo location at the entrance of the target aisle, raises the arm to pick up 20 pieces / pallets of goods from the upper layer, and then lowers the arm to transport them to the target transfer station for unloading.

[0050] The forklift AGV then retrieves 30 pieces / pallet of goods from the designated location at the entrance of the target aisle and transports them to the target transfer station for unloading.

[0051] In this embodiment of the invention, during the stacking and warehousing step, after each pallet is stacked, the pallet barcode is automatically linked to the No. 1 engineering code or quality traceability code of the cigarette pack. Workers only need to scan the pallet barcode to quickly and accurately obtain detailed information about all the cigarette packs on that pallet, such as variety, quantity, and production date.

[0052] In this embodiment of the invention, the stacking and warehousing task containing specific information includes the palletizing station for picking up goods, the target floor for warehousing, and warehouse area information.

[0053] In this embodiment of the invention, the outbound task is a stacked warehouse outbound task, and the task includes outbound brand, quantity, outbound floor, warehouse area and alleyway entrance information.

[0054] In this embodiment of the invention, in the step of the AGV carrying pallets in a specific alternating sequence, the specific alternating sequence is to carry pallets of cigarettes in alternating order of 30 pieces / pallet and 20 pieces / pallet. This helps to achieve a relatively balanced distribution of the number of cigarettes in different storage areas or on shelves in the warehouse. On the other hand, if subsequent production links or processing steps have specific requirements for the number of cigarettes, for example, one production line needs to process 30 pieces of cigarettes per batch and another production line needs 20 pieces of cigarettes per batch, then this alternating carrying sequence can ensure uninterrupted material supply on the production line, making the entire production process smoother and more efficient.

[0055] In this embodiment of the invention, during the unpacking and retrieval step, the scheduling system arranges for the AGV to perform the retrieval task, giving priority to the AGV that has just completed the warehousing on the same floor. This allows the AGV to respond to the retrieval task more quickly. The AGV picks up and transports goods out of the warehouse in an alternating order at the designated transfer station, which standardizes the picking and transporting process at the transfer station and makes the entire retrieval process more standardized and predictable.

[0056] In this embodiment of the invention, both the stealthy AGV and the forklift AGV establish a real-time communication link with the scheduling system. The stealthy AGV and the forklift AGV report their location, status, and task execution progress to the scheduling system in real time. The communication link includes wired or wireless communication methods, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, or industrial Ethernet. The stealthy AGV and the forklift AGV can promptly receive instructions from the scheduling system and simultaneously feed back their location, status, and task execution progress to the scheduling system.

[0057] In embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2 As shown, each stacking area has 10 connecting stations, designated as A1, B1, C1, D1, E1, A2, B2, C2, D2, and E2, arranged in pairs, for a total of 5 groups. Specifically, A1 and A2 form one group, B1 and B2 another, C1 and C2 yet another, D1 and D2 a third, and E1 and E2 a fourth. Pallets of 30 cigarettes per pallet are placed on A1, B1, C1, D1, and E1, while pallets of 20 cigarettes per pallet are placed on A2, B2, C2, D2, and E2. The 20-piece pallets are stacked on top of the 30-piece pallets. This differentiated placement facilitates the classification and management of goods of different specifications, ensuring orderly storage within the warehouse and creating a relatively stable stacking structure, thus reducing the risk of damage caused by shaking or tipping during storage.

[0058] In this embodiment of the invention, during the stacking and warehousing step, when the warehouse management system assigns receiving and unloading docking stations to the AGVs, it cyclically allocates tasks in the order of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1, E2. Similarly, when the forklift AGV retrieves goods from the docking station, it follows the same order: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1, E2. By setting such a fixed order for task allocation and operation execution, clear and unified rules are established for both the unloading of goods by the AGVs and the retrieval of goods by the forklift AGVs throughout the entire stacking and warehousing process.

[0059] In the unpacking and retrieval process, the warehouse management system assigns outbound AGVs to receiving stations in a cyclical manner, following the sequence A2, A1, B2, B1, C2, C1, D2, D1, E2, E1. Similarly, when a stealth AGV retrieves goods from a receiving station, it follows the same sequence: A2, A1, B2, B1, C2, C1, D2, D1, E2, E1. This cyclical sequence ensures a more balanced utilization of each receiving station. The fact that both forklift and stealth AGVs operate according to the same sequence during the unpacking and retrieval phase allows for better coordination and cooperation between them.

[0060] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, when a certain storage area is used for double-layer stacking of cigarette pallets, the forklift AGV only operates within the storage area. The red and dark blue lines represent its operating trajectory, and its main tasks are as follows:

[0061] a) During the warehousing operation, the forklift AGV picks up the full pallet of cigarettes at the transfer station, delivers it to the storage location, and stacks the full pallets of cigarettes in double layers as required.

[0062] b) During outbound operations, the forklift AGV will unpack the stacked pallets of cigarettes and move them from the storage location to the transfer station.

[0063] The AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) can operate on all floors according to system requirements. It can transport goods on the same floor or transfer goods to other floors via a lift. The cyan path represents its operating trajectory. Figure 2 As shown. The main tasks performed on each floor of the stacking warehouse are as follows:

[0064] a) During the warehousing operation, the AGV carries the inbound cigarette pallet to the stacking warehouse floor via the elevator, and delivers the inbound cigarette pallet to the connection station of each storage area as required.

[0065] b) During outbound operations, the AGV will retrieve the full pallets of cigarettes from the connection stations of each storage area as required, and then lower them to the outbound floor via the elevator. The full pallets of cigarettes will be temporarily stored in the storage location of the "outbound buffer area", or directly delivered to the depalletizing station in the depalletizing area for outbound cigarette transport.

[0066] To improve operational efficiency, the AGV needs to perform compound operations. After completing the task of moving and storing the cigarettes in a pallet, it can move the cigarettes in a pallet that needs to be taken out of the warehouse on the return trip, thus avoiding returning empty.

[0067] Forklift AGVs and stealth AGVs each have their own designated operating areas, and traffic control strategies are implemented in the overlapping areas. When picking up or unloading goods at the docking station, if the paths of stealth AGVs and forklift AGVs overlap, the other AGV is not allowed to enter the overlapping area while one is in operation. The other AGV can only enter the overlapping area to perform its task after the first AGV has left.

[0068] In another embodiment of the present invention, the method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets includes the following steps:

[0069] Stacked warehousing process:

[0070] 1. The warehouse management system generates a stacking and receiving task plan and forwards it to the scheduling system. The scheduling system issues instructions to the electronic control system to control the palletizing robot to perform the palletizing task alternately in the order of 30 pieces / pallet and 20 pieces / pallet. After each pallet is palletized, the system automatically binds the pallet barcode (or the ID number of the pallet RFID) with the No. 1 engineering code or quality traceability code of the cigarette pack.

[0071] 2. The electrical control system sends a request to the warehouse management system, which generates a stacking and receiving task (including information such as the palletizing station, target floor, and storage area) and forwards it to the scheduling system. The scheduling system then issues instructions to the AGV system, dispatching the nearest available AGV to perform the receiving task. The AGVs transport the full pallets of cigarettes in alternating sequences of 30 pieces / pallet and 20 pieces / pallet, which are then lifted to the target floor by the elevator.

[0072] 3. The AGV carrying goods moves to the entrance of the target warehouse area and applies to the warehouse management system. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific unloading and transfer station. The AGV then applies to the dispatch system to enter the target transfer station. After the dispatch system confirms, the AGV enters the transfer station to perform the unloading task and then applies to the dispatch system to leave.

[0073] 4. The scheduling system issues instructions to the forklift AGV system, scheduling the forklift AGV to perform stacking and warehousing tasks. Before moving to the receiving station, the forklift AGV initiates a request in advance. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific receiving station. The forklift AGV then requests to enter the target receiving station from the scheduling system. After confirmation by the scheduling system, the forklift AGV enters the receiving station to perform a picking task of 30 items / pallet, and then requests to leave from the scheduling system.

[0074] 5. The forklift AGV moves the pallet of cigarettes to the target aisle entrance and applies to the warehouse management system. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific storage location. The forklift AGV then applies to the scheduling system to enter the target storage location. After the scheduling system confirms, the forklift AGV enters the storage location to perform the unloading task of 30 pieces / pallet, and then applies to the scheduling system to leave.

[0075] 6. Before the forklift AGV moves to the receiving station, it submits an application in advance. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific receiving station. The forklift AGV then applies to the scheduling system to enter the target receiving station. After the scheduling system confirms, the forklift AGV enters the receiving station to perform a picking task of 20 items / pallet, and then applies to the scheduling system to leave.

[0076] 7. The forklift AGV moves the pallet of cigarettes to the target aisle entrance and requests permission from the warehouse management system. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific storage location. The forklift AGV then requests permission from the scheduling system to enter the target storage location. After confirmation by the scheduling system, the forklift AGV raises its arm to a preset height (slightly higher than the 30-piece / pallet pallet of cigarettes), enters the storage location, places the 20-piece / pallet pallet of cigarettes onto the 30-piece / pallet pallet of cigarettes, completing the stacking and warehousing task. Then, it requests permission from the scheduling system to leave and continue executing the next stacking task.

[0077] 8. When the warehouse management system assigns receiving and unloading docking stations to the AGVs, it cyclically assigns tasks in the order of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1, E2. When the forklift AGVs retrieve goods from the docking stations, they also execute the task in this order.

[0078] Unpacking and folding outbound process:

[0079] 1. The warehouse management system generates outbound tasks for stacked warehouse areas based on outbound delivery orders (including outbound brand, quantity, outbound floor, warehouse area and aisle entrance, etc.), and sends them to the scheduling system. The scheduling system then assigns the tasks to the forklift AGV system, which in turn executes the unstacking and stacking tasks.

[0080] 2. The forklift AGV moves to the target aisle entrance and initiates an application in advance. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific pickup location. The forklift AGV then requests entry into the target location from the scheduling system. After confirmation by the scheduling system, the forklift AGV raises its arm to the preset height, enters the location, and picks up a full pallet of 20 cigarettes per pallet from the upper layer. After exiting the location, the arm that carried the full pallet of cigarettes lowers to the low position, and then requests to leave from the scheduling system.

[0081] 3. The forklift AGV moves the pallet of cigarettes to the target transfer station and applies to the warehouse management system. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific transfer station. The forklift AGV then applies to the dispatch system to enter the target transfer station. After the dispatch system confirms, the forklift AGV enters the storage location to perform the unloading task of 20 pieces / pallet, and then applies to the dispatch system to leave.

[0082] 4. The forklift AGV continues to move to the target aisle entrance and initiates an application in advance. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific pickup location. The forklift AGV then applies to the scheduling system to enter the target location. After the scheduling system confirms, the forklift AGV enters the location, picks up the full pallet of 30 pieces / pallet of cigarettes from the lower layer, and then applies to the scheduling system to leave.

[0083] 5. The forklift AGV moves the pallet of cigarettes to the target transfer station and applies to the warehouse management system. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific transfer station. The forklift AGV then applies to the dispatch system to enter the target transfer station. After the dispatch system confirms, the forklift AGV enters the storage location to perform the unloading task of 20 pieces / pallet, and then applies to the dispatch system to leave.

[0084] 6. The scheduling system issues instructions to the stealth AGV system, scheduling the stealth AGVs to execute outbound tasks. Stealth AGVs that have just completed inbound tasks on the same floor are given priority for outbound tasks, realizing composite operations.

[0085] 7. The stealthy AGV moves to the target transfer station and applies to the warehouse management system in advance. The warehouse management system informs it of the specific transfer station for picking up goods. The stealthy AGV then applies to the dispatch system to enter the target transfer station. After confirmation by the dispatch system, the stealthy AGV enters the transfer station to perform the picking task, and then applies to the dispatch system to leave. The stealthy AGV transports pallets of cigarettes out of the warehouse in alternating orders of 20 pieces / pallet and 30 pieces / pallet.

[0086] 8. When the warehouse management system assigns outbound and unloading docking stations to forklift AGVs, it cyclically assigns tasks in the order of A2, A1, B2, B1, C2, C1, D2, D1, E2, E1. When a stealth AGV retrieves goods from a docking station, it does so in the same order.

[0087] This invention also provides an embodiment of a finished cigarette pallet stacking and warehousing system, including a warehouse management system, a scheduling system, an electrical control system, a palletizing robot, a stealthy AGV, a forklift AGV, and a hoist: wherein:

[0088] The warehouse management system is used to generate and issue stacking inbound task plans and generate outbound tasks based on outbound delivery orders;

[0089] The scheduling system is connected to the warehouse management system and is used to receive the stacking inbound task plan and outbound task. Based on the stacking inbound task plan, it commands the electronic control system to perform palletizing operations, arranges the lurking AGV to transport pallets, arranges the forklift AGV to perform picking and unloading operations, and arranges the forklift AGV to perform unpacking tasks based on the outbound task.

[0090] The electronic control system is communicatively connected to the scheduling system and is used to receive instructions from the scheduling system and control the palletizing robot to palletize alternately in a specific order.

[0091] The AGV, under the scheduling system, transports pallets in a specific alternating sequence, transports them to the target floor via a hoist, and performs unloading tasks at the corresponding transfer station.

[0092] The forklift AGV, under the scheduling system, picks up 30 pieces / pallets of goods at the receiving station and transports them to the designated storage location at the target aisle entrance for unloading. Then, it returns to the receiving station to pick up 20 pieces / pallets of goods and transports them to the designated storage location at the target aisle entrance to stack them on top of the 30 pieces / pallets of goods to complete the warehousing task. It also performs the unpacking task, first going to the designated storage location at the target aisle entrance to raise the arm to pick up the upper 20 pieces / pallets of goods, lowering the arm and transporting them to the target receiving station for unloading, then going to the designated storage location at the target aisle entrance to pick up the lower 30 pieces / pallets of goods and transporting them to the target receiving station for unloading.

[0093] The warehouse management system in this invention can automatically generate stacking inbound and outbound task plans based on actual business needs, avoiding the tediousness and oversights of manual task planning. During the inbound phase, stealth AGVs transport pallets in a specific alternating sequence, while forklift AGVs accurately pick up different quantities of goods and stack them. During the outbound phase, forklift AGVs precisely execute unpacking and stacking tasks and transport goods to designated locations. The close cooperation and orderly coordination between the various devices avoid equipment idleness or operational conflicts. After receiving instructions from the scheduling system, the electronic control system controls the palletizing robots to stack goods alternately in a specific sequence. This pre-set stacking method ensures the neatness, standardization, and rationality of the finished cigarette packs on the pallets, avoiding space waste or unstable goods caused by random stacking.

[0094] The above description of the structure, features, and effects of the present invention is based on the embodiments shown in the figures. However, the above are only preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that the technical features involved in the above embodiments and their preferred methods can be reasonably combined and matched by those skilled in the art to form a variety of equivalent solutions without departing from or changing the design concept and technical effects of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the scope of implementation shown in the figures. Any changes made in accordance with the concept of the present invention, or modifications to equivalent embodiments, that do not exceed the spirit covered by the specification and figures, should be within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets, characterized in that, This includes the stacking and receiving process and the unstacking and shipping process, wherein: The stacking and warehousing process specifically includes: The scheduling system, based on the stacking and warehousing task plan issued by the warehouse management system, directs the electronic control system to make the palletizing robots stack in a specific order alternately; The scheduling system arranges idle AGVs to transport pallets in a specific alternating sequence according to the stacked warehousing task containing specific information, and then to the target floor via a hoist. The dispatch system instructs the forklift AGV to pick up 30 pieces / pallet of goods at the receiving station and transport them to the target aisle entrance. After unloading at the designated location, it returns to the receiving station to pick up 20 pieces / pallet of goods. The forklift AGV transports 20 pieces / pallet of goods to the target aisle entrance and stacks them on top of 30 pieces / pallet of goods at the designated storage location to complete the warehousing process. The unpacking and folding process for outbound shipment includes: The warehouse management system generates outbound tasks based on outbound shipping orders and sends them to the scheduling system. The scheduling system then assigns forklift AGVs to perform the stacking and unstacking tasks. These outbound tasks are specific to the stacked warehouse area and include information such as the brand, quantity, floor, warehouse area, and aisle entrance. Specifically, each stacked warehouse area has 10 connecting stations, designated as A1, B1, C1, D1, E1, A2, B2, C2, D2, and E2. These are grouped in pairs, for a total of 5 groups. Specifically, A1 and A2 form one group, B1 and B2 form another, C1 and C2 form another, D1 and D2 form another, E1 and E2 form another, and A1, B1, C2, D2, E2 form yet another.

1. Place 30-piece / pallet packs of cigarettes on D1 and E1, and 20-piece / pallet packs of cigarettes on A2, B2, C2, D2, and E2. Stack the 20-piece / pallet packs of cigarettes on top of the 30-piece / pallet packs of cigarettes. During the stacking and warehousing process, when the warehouse management system assigns receiving and unloading docking stations to the AGVs, it cyclically assigns tasks in the order of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1, E2. When the forklift AGVs retrieve goods from the docking stations, they also follow the order of A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1, E2. In the unpacking and outbound process, when the warehouse management system assigns outbound delivery docking stations to the forklift AGVs, it cyclically assigns tasks in the order of A2, A1, B2, B1, C2, C1, D2, D1, E2, E1. When the lurking AGVs retrieve goods from the docking stations, they also execute the task in the order of A2, A1, B2, B1, C2, C1, D2, D1, E2, E1. The forklift AGV first goes to the designated cargo location at the entrance of the target aisle, raises the arm to pick up 20 pieces / pallets of goods from the upper layer, and then lowers the arm to transport them to the target transfer station for unloading. The forklift AGV then retrieves 30 pieces / pallet of goods from the designated location at the entrance of the target aisle and transports them to the target transfer station for unloading.

2. The method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the stacking and warehousing process, after each pallet is stacked, the pallet barcode is automatically bound to the No. 1 engineering code or quality traceability code of the cigarette pack.

3. The method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets according to claim 1, characterized in that, Stacking and receiving tasks with specific information include the palletizing station for picking up the goods, the target floor for receiving the goods, and the warehouse area information.

4. The method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the step of the AGV carrying pallets in a specific alternating sequence, the specific alternating sequence is to carry the full pallets of cigarettes in an alternating order of 30 pieces / pallet and 20 pieces / pallet.

5. The method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the unpacking and folding outbound process, the scheduling system arranges for the hidden AGVs to perform outbound tasks, giving priority to the hidden AGVs that have just completed the warehousing on the same floor. They pick up and transport goods out of the warehouse in an alternating order at the designated transfer station.

6. The method for stacking and storing finished cigarette pallets according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the stealth AGV and the forklift AGV establish a real-time communication link with the scheduling system, and report their location, status and task execution progress to the scheduling system in real time.

7. A finished cigarette pallet stacking and warehousing system, applied to the warehousing method described in claim 1, characterized in that, This includes warehouse management systems, scheduling systems, electrical control systems, palletizing robots, stealth AGVs, forklift AGVs, and elevators; among which: The warehouse management system is used to generate and issue stacking inbound task plans and generate outbound tasks based on outbound delivery orders; The scheduling system is connected to the warehouse management system and is used to receive the stacking inbound task plan and outbound task. Based on the stacking inbound task plan, it commands the electronic control system to perform palletizing operations, arranges the lurking AGV to transport pallets, arranges the forklift AGV to perform picking and unloading operations, and arranges the forklift AGV to perform unpacking tasks based on the outbound task. The electronic control system is communicatively connected to the scheduling system and is used to receive instructions from the scheduling system and control the palletizing robot to palletize alternately in a specific order. The AGV, under the scheduling system, transports pallets in a specific alternating sequence, transports them to the target floor via a hoist, and performs unloading tasks at the corresponding transfer station. The forklift AGV, under the scheduling system, picks up 30 pieces / pallets of goods at the receiving station and transports them to a designated location at the target aisle entrance for unloading. Then, it returns to the receiving station to pick up 20 pieces / pallets of goods and transports them to the designated location at the target aisle entrance to stack them on top of the 30 pieces / pallets of goods to complete the warehousing task. It also performs the unpacking task, first going to the designated location at the target aisle entrance to raise the boom to pick up the upper 20 pieces / pallets of goods, lowering the boom to transport them to the target receiving station for unloading, and then going to the designated location at the target aisle entrance to pick up the lower 30 pieces / pallets of goods and transport them to the target receiving station for unloading.

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