Article conveying and sorting system

Abstract

The invention relates to delivery technology, in particular to an article delivery and sorting system comprising an article supply location comprising a plurality of articles, and an elevated track network having a plurality of track sections. A self-guided self-propelled suspended vehicle travels bi-directionally along a plurality of track portions. The suspended vehicle has a first position in which a carrier carrying at least one selected item is engaged with the suspended vehicle, and a second position in which the carrier is disengaged from the suspended vehicle. The system also includes a controller. The controller determines a first delivery location among the plurality of delivery locations to deliver the selected item using the suspension vehicle according to the destination determined for the selected item. The controller also directs delivery of the carrier at the first delivery position by manipulating the suspended vehicle from the first position to the second position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to delivery technology, and in particular to an article conveying and sorting system. Background Art

[0002] E-commerce is becoming ubiquitous, competition is increasing, and lead times for deliveries are constantly decreasing. To better compete with online e-tailers, brick-and-mortar store operators often use physical store locations to fulfill online orders, which are then delivered to the customer's home or picked up by the customer at the store. Since most physical stores are already located near population centers, home deliveries can be fulfilled with very short lead times. For the same reason that most store locations are already located near population centers, these stores can also serve as pickup locations for buy online pick up in store orders. However, retail stores are typically not formatted or equipped for efficient online order fulfillment.

[0003] Therefore, a solution is needed that enables traditional retail stores to operate as online order fulfillment centers in a reliable and cost-effective manner. Summary of the invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide an article conveying and sorting system to solve the problems raised by the background technology.

[0005] To achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following technical solutions:

[0006] According to one or more embodiments, a system for delivering items to one or more destinations includes an item supply location for a plurality of items, each item having an identifier, the identifier including information associated with the destination to which the item is delivered. The system also includes an elevated track network, the network comprising a plurality of track sections, at least one track section being located proximate to the item supply location. The system also includes a self-guided, self-propelled suspended vehicle configured to travel bidirectionally along the plurality of track sections, the suspended vehicle having a first position in which a carrier containing at least one selected item is engaged with the suspended vehicle, and a second position in which the carrier is detached from the suspended vehicle. An information acquisition device is configured to interact with an identifier associated with at least one selected tote or carrier. The system also includes a controller. The controller is configured to determine a first delivery location of a plurality of locations to deliver a carrier with the suspended vehicle based on interaction with the identifier and a determined destination of at least one selected item; and, directing the suspended vehicle to deliver the carrier to the first delivery location and detaching the carrier at the first delivery location by manipulating the suspended vehicle to deliver the carrier from the first location to the second location for delivery.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments, a control system constituting a portion of the conveying and sorting system 100 is used for a plurality of different conveying articles including a memory and a processor. The control system is configured to receive an order for a plurality of different articles found at an article supply location. The control system is configured to guide a self-guided, automatic or other similar suspended vehicle to transport a carrier containing a plurality of different articles to a delivery location, the suspended vehicle having a first position where the carrier containing a plurality of different articles engages with the suspended vehicle, and a second position where the carrier is separated from the suspended vehicle, the self-guided, self-propelled suspended vehicle being configured to travel in two directions along a plurality of track segments constituting a portion of an elevated track network. The control system is also configured to guide the suspended vehicle to transport the carrier to the delivery location by manipulating the suspended vehicle from the first position to the second position. The control system is also configured to assign a first destination container of a plurality of destination containers to a first order to instruct a first computer-controlled mobile transport device to place a first article and a second article associated with the first order into the first destination container based on the product type of each article, the first article and the second article being selected from a plurality of different articles. In one embodiment, the control system is further configured to direct the first computer-controlled mobile transport device to transport the first item and the second item from the delivery location by manipulating the first computer-controlled mobile transport device from the first location to the second location, and place both the first item and the second item in the first destination container. In some embodiments, the first item and the second item can be transferred to the first destination container by any robotic, mechanical and manual sorting device and combination thereof; thus, the control system can be configured to transfer the first item and the second item to the first destination container using a shoe sorter, a conveyor, a push arm diverter, an Intralox sorting system and similar other mechanisms. The control system is also configured to determine that the first order has been completed.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments, a system is provided. The system includes:

[0009] An item supply location including a plurality of items, each item having an identifier including information associated with a destination to which the item is to be delivered; an elevated track network including a plurality of track segments, at least one track segment being located proximate to the item supply location; a self-guided, self-propelled suspended vehicle configured to travel in two directions along the plurality of track segments, the suspended vehicle having a first position in which a carrier containing at least one selected item is engaged with the suspended vehicle, and a second position in which the carrier is disengaged from the suspended vehicle; an information acquisition device configured to interact with an identifier associated with the at least one selected item; and a controller. The controller is configured to: determine a first delivery location among multiple delivery locations to be delivered together with the hanging vehicle and the carrier based on the interaction with the identifier and the determined destination of at least one selected item; guide the hanging vehicle to transport the carrier to the first delivery location, and separate the carrier by manipulating the hanging vehicle to transport from the first location to the second location so as to transport the carrier at the first delivery location; determine one receiving container among the multiple receiving containers based on the interaction between the information acquisition device and the identifier to store the at least one selected item; and deliver the at least one selected item directly to the receiving container at the first delivery location.

[0010] According to one or more embodiments, a system is described below. The system includes an item supply location including a plurality of items, and an elevated track network consisting of a plurality of track segments, at least one of which is located near the item supply location. A self-guided, self-propelled suspended vehicle is configured to travel bidirectionally along the plurality of track segments. The suspended vehicle has a first position in which a carrier having at least one selected item is engaged with the suspended vehicle, and a second position in which at least one position: the carrier is detached from the suspended vehicle and the selected item is unloaded from the suspended vehicle. The system also includes a controller. The shipper is configured to determine a first delivery location among a plurality of delivery locations, and together with the suspended vehicle, at least one carrier and the selected item, direct the suspended vehicle to transport the carrier to the first delivery location based on a destination determined for at least one of the carrier and the selected item, and deliver at least one of the carriers and the selected item directly at the first delivery location by manipulating the suspended vehicle from the first position to the second position.

[0011] According to one or more embodiments, the selected items include one or more of boxes, containers, items, packages, and bags.

[0012] According to one or more embodiments, the carrier and the selected items are delivered at the first delivery location. According to one or more embodiments, the items are delivered at the first delivery location, wherein the carrier is not separated from the suspension vehicle.

[0013] According to one or more embodiments, the controller is configured to directly transfer the at least one selected item through a manual process.

[0014] According to one or more embodiments, the controller is configured to generate a notification to the human being, the notification being associated with an identification of a receiving container on which at least one of the carrier and the selected item is to be placed.

[0015] According to one or more embodiments, the receiving container includes one or more of a chute, a gaylord, a container, a gravity conveyor, a bin, and a bag.

[0016] According to one or more embodiments, the first delivery location corresponds to an aisle section of a retail store. According to one or more embodiments, the item supply location is located near a loading dock of a retail store, an aisle section of a retail store, and a storage location in a backroom of a retail store.

[0017] According to one or more embodiments, the carrier includes one or more of a container, a box, a bag, and a tote.

[0018] According to one or more embodiments, the controller is configured to transport at least one of the carriers and the selected items to a customer accessible area of ​​the retail store for pickup by the customer.

[0019] According to one or more embodiments, the elevated track network is located in a backroom of a retail store.

[0020] According to one or more embodiments, the at least one selected item includes a plurality of selected items, wherein the item supply location is one of: a retail store, a fully or partially automated retail order fulfillment store, and a local fulfillment center.

[0021] According to one or more embodiments, the controller is configured to directly deliver the at least one selected item using a mobile transport device, wherein the controller is further configured to guide the mobile transport device to transport the selected item to the receiving container, and to receive the selected item in the receiving container by manipulating the mobile transport device from a third position to a fourth position.

[0022] According to one or more embodiments, the controller is configured to directly convey the at least one selected object by a mechanical sorter, wherein the controller is further configured to instruct the mechanical sorter to deposit the selected object into the receiving container.

[0023] According to one or more embodiments, the controller is configured to directly deliver the at least one selected item through a manual process, wherein the controller is further configured to generate a notification at or near the delivery location for personnel to deposit the selected item into the receiving container.

[0024] According to one or more embodiments, the suspended vehicles are configured to diverge, merge, and stop anywhere along the plurality of track segments.

[0025] According to one or more embodiments, the suspension vehicle further includes a pick-up mechanism coupled thereto, wherein the pick-up mechanism is configured to engage and disengage with the carrier.

[0026] According to one or more embodiments, the pick-up mechanism is configured to be manually disengaged from the carrier on the floor by an operator.

[0027] According to one or more embodiments, the operator is one or more of a human and a robot.

[0028] According to one or more embodiments, the at least one item includes a plurality of items associated with a plurality of order batches.

[0029] According to one or more embodiments, the first delivery location corresponds to an aisle section in a retail store.

[0030] According to one or more embodiments, the item supply location is located near one or more of: a loading dock of a retail store and a storage location in a backroom of the retail store.

[0031] According to one or more embodiments, the carrier includes one or more of a container and a tote bag.

[0032] According to one or more embodiments, the first delivery location comprises an elevator configured for transporting the carrier above the floor or below the floor.

[0033] According to one or more embodiments, the controller is further configured to transport the at least one selected item to a front-end area of ​​the retail store for pickup by a customer.

[0034] According to one or more embodiments, the elevated track network is located in a backroom of a retail store.

[0035] According to one or more embodiments, the at least one selected item includes a plurality of selected items, wherein the item supply location is a retail store.

[0036] According to one or more embodiments, the receiving container includes one or more of a chute, a gaylord, a container, a gravity conveyor, a bin, and a bag.

[0037] Compared to the prior art, the present invention has the advantage of enabling traditional retail stores to operate as online order fulfillment centers in a reliable and cost-effective manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] In order to more clearly describe the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings required for the embodiments are briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following figures only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope thereof; those skilled in the art can also further obtain relevant drawings based on these drawings without making creative efforts.

[0039] Figure 1 An integrated conveying and sorting system 100 for use in a store backroom conveying environment is shown, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0040] Figure 2 A first delivery environment 200 is shown, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0041] Figure 3 A first conveyor system 300 is shown, which forms part of the conveying and sorting system 100 for use in a store backroom conveying environment, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0042] Figure 4 A second transportation environment 400 is shown, the environment comprising at least one elevator 110, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0043] Figure 5A The suspended vehicle including the hopper is shown, Figure 5B Various items that may be delivered and sorted through an online order fulfillment system are shown in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0044] Figure 6 Some components of a first delivery system 300 are shown, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0045] Figure 7 Some components of a second delivery system 500 are shown, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Below, according to the accompanying drawings according to the embodiments of the present invention, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention are clearly and comprehensively described. Obviously, the embodiments described here are only some embodiments of the present invention, rather than all embodiments of the present invention. Generally, the components in the embodiments of the present invention depicted and shown in the figures herein can be arranged and designed according to different configurations. Therefore, the detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention provided in the following figures is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely represents the selected embodiments of the present invention. According to the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments that can be obtained by those skilled in the art without applying creative efforts will fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0047] As mentioned above, e-commerce is becoming ubiquitous and increasingly competitive, and delivery lead times are constantly decreasing. To better compete with online e-tailers, brick-and-mortar store operators can use their physical store locations to fulfill online orders, which are then delivered to customers' homes or picked up by customers in-store. Since most store locations are already located near population centers, home deliveries can be fulfilled with very short delivery times. Since most store locations are already located near population centers, these stores can effectively serve as pickup locations for buy online - pick up in-store orders. However, retail store facilities are typically not formatted or equipped for online order fulfillment. In addition, since retail stores are open to the public, any equipment used for order fulfillment needs to be located away from the store traffic public so that the equipment can operate unobstructed by the store traffic public and does not pose a safety hazard to the store traffic public. Since these devices need to be located in the store (rather than a large distribution center), on-site maintenance and engineering capability requirements need to be minimal. Retail stores must provide merchandise on the shelves for on-site customers, so shelves need to be replenished.

[0048] Embodiments disclosed herein provide a solution for modifying a traditional retail store into an online order fulfillment center. Embodiments disclosed herein provide an overhead rail that connects to various points located within the sales and customer accessible areas of the store and connects to a backroom or other area of ​​the store. The rail has no moving parts such as chains or shunts, is not powered, and is not a power line. Embodiments disclosed herein provide for equipment that does not pose a safety risk to customers in the store. Thus, embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter provide for (1) transporting items to replenish store shelves, (2) transporting items to an order fulfillment or consolidation area or system, and (3) a reliable and cost-effective automated or semi-automated system.

[0049] As used herein, the term "item" may include any item of commerce. Thus, the term "item" may include a business, a specific and unique kind or category of things, a member of a class of things, a commodity, and similar other items. In various embodiments, items may include one or more of the following: boxes, containers, items, packages, and bags. In various embodiments, the items may include multiple items associated with multi-stage batches. In various embodiments, item supply locations may include one of the following: retail stores, fully or partially automated retail order fulfillment stores, and local fulfillment centers.

[0050] Figure 1 An integrated conveying and sorting system 100 (also referred to herein as "system 100" or generally referred to as "system") is shown for use in a store warehouse conveying environment, where the store warehouse conveying environment is the first conveying environment 200 or the second conveying environment 400, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. Figure 2 A first delivery environment 200 is shown, according to at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. The system 100 includes a delivery system, which may be a first delivery system 300 or a second delivery system 500 . Figure 3 A first conveyor system 300 is shown, forming part of the system 100 for use in a store backroom conveyor environment, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. Figure 4 A second transportation environment 400 is shown, the environment comprising at least one elevator 110, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. Figure 5A The suspended vehicle including the hopper is shown, Figure 5B Various items that may be delivered and sorted through an online order fulfillment system are shown in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. Figure 6 Some components of a first delivery system 300 are shown, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. Figure 7 Some components of a second delivery system 500 are shown, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, system 100 includes various components, some of which are depicted in a representative manner as blocks representing general descriptors of the technology. System 100 may include more or fewer components than those illustrated.

[0052] In one embodiment, the system 100 includes a control server 126 and an order management engine 106, which are configured to communicate with one or more components of the system 100, such as Figure 1As shown. In one embodiment, the control server 126 includes a memory, a processor and / or one or more communication interfaces. A network may constitute part of the system 100, wherein the network may take any appropriate form, including a wireless network, such as WIFI, cellular or other frequency bands for private use, or a hardwired network, such as a LAN, WAN, the Internet, etc., and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the control server 126 communicates with the cloud via a network. In some embodiments, one or more components of the control server 126 may reside in the cloud. Similarly, for example, several components such as the replenishment engine 108, the elevator controller operating the elevator 110, the suspension vehicle 102, the first conveying system 300, the information acquisition device 120, and the control server 126 may communicate with the cloud via a network.

[0053] In some embodiments, one or more components of the system 100 may reside in the cloud. For example, in one embodiment, one or more components described herein, including the order management engine 106, the replenishment engine 108, an elevator controller that operates the elevator 110, and the control server 126, etc., may reside in the cloud. In another example, only the order management engine 106 and the replenishment engine 108 may reside in the cloud.

[0054] The control server 126 and one or more other components of the system 100 can communicate with the cloud. The term "cloud" as used herein refers to multiple servers connected to the Internet that can be rented as part of a software or application service. Cloud-based services can include web hosting, data hosting and sharing, and software or application usage. The term "cloud" also refers to cloud computing, in which multiple servers are linked together to share the load. This means that complex processes can be distributed across multiple smaller computers instead of using one powerful machine. In various embodiments, the control server 126 can be or include a server, as the term "server" is understood in its broadest sense. The term "server" as used herein includes any computer that provides data to other computers. It can provide data to systems on a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN) over the Internet.

[0055] In various embodiments, the control server 126 may be or may include a cloud server. The term "cloud server" as used herein includes any pooled, centralized server resources that are hosted and delivered over a network (usually the Internet) and accessed on demand by multiple users. A cloud server may be located remotely (e.g., residing in a remote cloud server configuration). A cloud server may be a virtual server (rather than a physical server) running in a cloud computing environment. A cloud server may be built, hosted, and delivered via a cloud computing platform over the Internet and may be accessed remotely. A cloud server may contain all the software required to run and may run as a standalone unit. A cloud server may perform all the same functions of a traditional physical server, including providing processing power, storage, and applications. One of the advantages of cloud storage is that there are many distributed resources as a whole - often referred to as a federated storage cloud. This makes the cloud very fault-tolerant due to the distribution of data. Using the cloud can reduce the creation of different versions of files due to shared access to documents, files, and data.

[0056] in addition, Figure 1 The components shown may communicate with one or more other components via wired and / or wireless networks. For example, the control server 126 may communicate with the replenishment engine 108, one or more computer-controlled self-guided, self-propelled suspension vehicles 102, and an elevator controller that operates the elevator 110. In one embodiment, the system 100 may also include an information acquisition device 120 that is configured to image or otherwise interrogate an image or other identifier of an item to determine its destination. The system 100 (in combination with the order management engine 106 and the replenishment engine 108, etc.) may deliver and sort items in multiple order batches and place the items in appropriate boxes, chutes, or containers marked for specific customers using multiple suspension vehicles 102 and subsequent multiple mobile transport devices 302. In one embodiment, the information acquisition device 120 may communicate with one or more of the control server 126 and the order management engine 106.

[0057] According to various embodiments, the system 100 also includes an item supply location, which includes a plurality of items 142, each item 142 optionally having an identifier, the identifier including information related to a destination for delivering the item. The system 100 also includes an elevated track network 112, which includes a plurality of track segments. At least one track portion is located near the item supply location. The system 100 also includes one or more robotic suspended vehicles 102, which are configured to travel bidirectionally along the plurality of track segments. Each suspended vehicle 102 has a first position in which a carrier containing at least one selected item is engaged with the suspended vehicle 102, and a second position in which the carrier is separated from the suspended vehicle 102. In some embodiments, the carrier may be carried in a carrier 132 (see FIG. 5) of the suspended vehicle 102 or otherwise supported. Therefore, in some embodiments, each suspended vehicle itself may include a built-in device for transporting items via the carrier 132. The information acquisition device 120 is configured to interact with an identifier associated with at least one selected item.

[0058] In various embodiments, the suspended vehicle 102 may include a delivery robot, a transport robot, a loading and unloading robot, or other walking robot capable of operating while suspended on the elevated rail network 112. The suspended vehicle 102 may be wirelessly connected to a second server in addition to being wirelessly connected to the control server 126. Based on the instructions / signals received from the control server 126, the suspended vehicle 102 may be capable of traveling forward or backward and turning along the elevated rail network 112 to a target delivery / sensing / customer interface area to perform tasks such as unloading (or loading) a carrier or item carried by the suspended vehicle 102.

[0059] In one embodiment, the control server 126 includes a controller. The control server 126 is configured to determine a first delivery location among the plurality of delivery locations 104 to deliver the carrier with the suspension vehicle based on the interaction with the identifier and the destination determined for the at least one selected item. The control server 126 is also configured to direct the suspension vehicle to transport the carrier to the first delivery location (e.g., the first delivery location may be an induction location) and deliver the carrier by manipulating the robotic suspension vehicle from the first location to the second location to separate the carrier for delivery of the carrier at the first delivery location.

[0060] As the suspension vehicle 102 traverses along the elevated rail network 112 from the item supply location to the first delivery location associated with the first conveyor system 300 (e.g., in communication with the control server 126), the control server 126 operates to guide navigation of the suspension vehicle 102. The control server 126 is also configured to prevent collisions between several suspension vehicles 102 as the suspension vehicles 102 traverse along the elevated rail network 112 from the item supply location to the first delivery location associated with the first conveyor system 300 and then return to the item supply location to receive or load a carrier containing a new set of items therein for delivery to the first delivery location associated with the first conveyor system 300.

[0061] In various embodiments, the suspended vehicle 102 is configured to perform one or more of turning, merging, and stopping at any location along the plurality of track sections. In some embodiments, the suspended vehicle 102 also includes a pick-up mechanism attached thereto, wherein the pick-up mechanism is configured to engage and disengage a carrier. In at least one embodiment, the pick-up mechanism is configured to be manually disengaged from the carrier 132 by an operator on the ground. Thus, in some embodiments, the carrier 132 can be omitted from the suspended vehicle 102, and the carrier 132 is replaced by a pick-up mechanism that is configured to engage and disengage the carrier 132, such as a suitcase.

[0062] The suspended vehicle 102 (see FIG. 5 ) is configured to be mounted on an elevated rail network 112 (see FIG. Figure 2 ) are driven on a suspended vehicle 102. The suspended vehicle 102 may be self-powered or self-guided. The suspended vehicle 102 may be a small vehicle that navigates automatically. The suspended vehicle 102 may shunt, merge, and stop itself anywhere on the elevated track without operating the track section. A mechanism or device on which the suspended vehicle 102 can drop a container (or a single item) containing items to transport the items from an overhead location to a height at which an operator can retrieve the item container. The system 100 may include one or more interfaces configured for an operator at floor level to unload or receive an item container (or a single item). In at least one embodiment, a coupling device attached to the bottom of the suspended vehicle 102 may operate in an automated manner to engage and disengage a carrier carried by the suspended vehicle 102. Thus, the suspended vehicle 102 is configured to pick up and drop off containers of items using any suitable known mechanism or device designed to move containers into and out of the elevated elevated track network 112 and the floor level where the operator enters. The control server 126 operates to manage the operation of the suspended vehicles 102 along the elevated rail network 112, including movement of the suspended vehicles 102, avoiding collisions between the suspended vehicles 102, charging of the suspended vehicles 102, and all other related tasks.

[0063] In various embodiments, the elevated track network 112 does not include moving parts; rather, it does not include moving parts. In other words, the elevated track network 112 remains stationary, while the suspended vehicles 102 are mobile and self-propelled by a built-in motion source (e.g., a battery-powered motion system). The suspended vehicles 102 typically move along the fixed elevated track network 112 under the guidance of the system 100, and in particular the control server 126. The elevated track network 112 can be positioned within a retail store so that it can be operated in a safe manner without posing a safety hazard to retail store customers or employees. In one embodiment, all or a major portion of the elevated track network 112 can be located in a backroom of a retail store. In one embodiment, all or a major portion of the elevated track network 112 can be positioned above an aisle area of ​​a retail store.

[0064] In various embodiments, the overhead rail network 112 can 60 represent a multi-purpose robotic transport system that is configured for retail / grocery transport to deliver items to and from the sales floor for multiple processing flows. The overhead rail network 112 can also be used for hand-held or bulk transport of goods in a warehouse environment. In both cases, the overhead rail network 112 is positioned overhead to avoid ground traffic and avoid congestion. In a store-based mode, the overhead vehicles 102 traverse the overhead rail network 112, representing overhead transport robots capable of carrying totes containing boxes, bulk items, or one or more customer orders, or totes for stocking shelves in the aisles of a retail store. The overhead vehicles 102 traverse the overhead rail network 112, allowing items for shelf replenishment to be transported to specific aisle segments. The overhead vehicles 102 traverse the overhead rail network 112, and can transport totes of picked items for BOPIS and e-commerce from various aisle segments to the stockroom to complete the order. The system 100 also controls and operates elevators 110 located in the aisle racking structure to move items between the ground and the overhead rail network 112.

[0065] According to at least one embodiment, the suspended vehicle 102 traversing the elevated rail network 112 cooperates with the first conveyor system 300 or the second conveyor system 500 for order delivery, sorting, and fulfillment. In one embodiment, the suspended vehicle 102 traversing the elevated rail network 112 allows for delivery of completed orders and package orders to a customer interface location that is optionally located in the front area of ​​the retail store.

[0066] The embodiments disclosed herein may be advantageously installed in a supercenter, grocery store, mall anchor store, club warehouse, or any large retail store environment. In warehouse mode, the suspended vehicle 102 traverses the elevated track network 112 allowing for quick and accurate delivery of one or more packages or cartons of varying sizes through warehouses and distribution centers. The overhead design may provide continuous movement without any disruption to ground activities. The suspended vehicle 102 traverses the elevated track network 112 to operate in any type of DC, FC, transportation, and processing environment. The embodiments disclosed herein may also include or use an elevator or a descending / inclined section to interact with ground operations.

[0067] The mobile transport device 302 may include a delivery robot, a transport robot, a loading and unloading robot, or other types of mobile robots. Therefore, the mobile transport device 302 may be a small vehicle that automatically navigates. In addition to being wirelessly connected to the control server 126, the mobile transport device 302 may also be wirelessly connected to a second server. Based on the instructions / signals received from the control server 126, the mobile transport device 302 is able to travel forward or backward and turn along the track 16 to a target area associated with the receiving container 20 marked by the marker to perform tasks such as unloading (or loading) items.

[0068] The information acquisition device 120 can be used to acquire the item information of the items to be delivered and sorted, and the item information can include the destination of the items to be delivered and sorted. Multiple information acquisition devices 120 can be set, so that the information acquisition and delivery of multiple items to be delivered and sorted can be carried out simultaneously, thereby greatly improving the efficiency of item information acquisition and item delivery. The information acquisition device 120 can acquire the item information of the items to be delivered and sorted in a variety of ways. At the sensing station, the information acquisition device 120 interacts with the identifier on the item 142 or the item itself. The identifier can be a barcode; or, the identifier can be other similar unique identification codes, such as a UPC code, a QR code, or an RFID tag. The information acquisition device 120 is located near the platform component 10. In one embodiment, the information acquisition device 120 is a UPC scanner; in an alternative embodiment, the information acquisition device 120 can be carried and operated by a person, that is, the information acquisition device 120 can be positioned in an unfixed manner. In another embodiment, each mobile transport device 302 may include a scannable code so that when the item 142 is placed on the mobile transport device 302, the information acquisition device 120 scans the UPC on the item 142 and the scannable code on the mobile transport device 302 to determine which item is associated with which vehicle. Alternatively, the mobile transport device 302 may include an information acquisition device 120 mounted thereon for imaging the code or identifier present on the item 142. All of these identification devices may be RFID tags, other types of barcodes, or any other type of item and vehicle identification methods. In some embodiments, the information code may be a barcode, a QR code, a radio frequency tag, etc., and accordingly, the information acquisition device 120 may be a barcode scanner, a QR code scanner, a radio frequency identifier, etc. According to actual needs, in addition to the destination, the item information may also include information such as the item volume, weight, and appearance, and accordingly, the information acquisition device 120 may also include a weighing device, a volume scanner, a camera, etc.

[0069] According to one embodiment, when orders are received, the control server 126 groups the orders into multi-order batches and then groups the items within the multi-order batches by store aisle. The pickers in the store aisles pick all the items in the multi-order batches 30 from the store aisles into totes or groups of totes. These totes are then placed in the first elevator 110 ( Figure 4The totes are transported to a second elevator 110 (shown) and are lifted to a height required for picking by a hanging vehicle 102. The hanging vehicle 102 delivers the totes to the storeroom of the retail store. The hanging vehicle 102 deposits the totes at a second elevator 110. The second elevator 110 can deliver the deposited totes to a height at which an operator can retrieve the totes. The totes are then located by a mechanical sorter, placement wall, robotic sorting system, etc. that form part of the first conveyor system 300, and the items in the totes are delivered and sorted into respective orders. Once the orders are completed, the items associated with each order are removed from the first conveyor system 300 and packaged appropriately based on the order type.

[0070] In some embodiments, as part of the online order fulfillment process, the suspended vehicle 102, under the control of the control server 126, can pick up a tote containing two or more items 142 at an item supply location associated with a retail store. In some embodiments, the item supply location can be located near a loading dock of a retail store, a storage location in a retail store warehouse, and any other similar location. The suspended vehicle 102, under the control of the control server 126, can travel along the elevated rail network 112, carrying the tote and arriving at or near an inbound station, and deliver the tote containing two or more items 142 to or near a first delivery location, which can be an inbound station. The operator can load one or more items 142 onto the mobile transport device 302. The mobile transport device 302 can pass through the panel 12 of the platform assembly 10, carrying one or more items, and can be directed by the control server 126 to deposit the items 142 into a specific receiving container 20 associated with a specific tag according to the location of the specific tag. Therefore, in operation, once the control server 126 determines that the receiving container 20 needs to store the item 142 carried by the mobile conveyor 302 therein, the control server 126 causes the mobile conveyor 302 to pass through the panel 12 of the platform assembly 10 to reach the receiving container 20, and stores the item 142 from a first position to a second position by manipulating the mobile conveyor 302. In the first position, the item 142 is firmly located on the mobile conveyor 302, and in the second position, the item begins to slide toward the receiving container 20 to store the selected item 142 in the receiving container 20.

[0071] Thus, in various embodiments, the control server 126 may coordinate the delivery of multiple selected items at a delivery location 104 (e.g., a sensing location), wherein the control server 126 is further configured to coordinate the delivery of the multiple selected items by one or more of: a human, a mechanical process, and a robotic process. The suspended vehicle 102 and the mobile transport device 302 may carry multiple items 142 associated with one or more multi-order batches, as determined by the control server 126 and indicated by the control server 126. In some embodiments, the suspended vehicle 102 and / or the mobile transport device 302 may carry a single item 142 associated with a single order indicated by the control server 126 in one trip.

[0072] In one embodiment, the delivery location (or sensing location) where the suspended vehicle 102 delivers the item or carrier containing the item corresponds to an aisle section in a retail store. In various embodiments, the carrier can represent a container or a tote. In one embodiment, the delivery location (or sensing location) where the suspended vehicle 102 delivers the item or carrier containing the item represents an elevator configured to transport the carrier above the floor or below the floor. In one embodiment, the delivery location (or sensing location) where the suspended vehicle 102 delivers the item or carrier containing the item corresponds to the front area of ​​the retail store for customers to pick up the items later.

[0073] The control server 126 is operable to complete the analysis and processing of the acquired item information of all items to be delivered and classified, thereby acquiring the destination information of each item to be delivered and classified. The control server 126 is connected to all information acquisition devices 120 to acquire the item information acquired by all information acquisition devices 120, thereby acquiring the destination of each item to be delivered and classified. In one embodiment, the system 100 and the control server 126 are equipped with a relational database that lists various feature sets to be considered by the real-time optimization algorithms running on the order management engine 106 and the replenishment engine 108 to optimize the delivery of items. The relational database may include information related to each item, such as a delivery address, a delivery site, a delivery route, and a delivery preference.

[0074] According to at least one embodiment, when a SKU (stock keeping unit) needs to be restocked onto a store shelf, the replenishment engine 108 determines which aisle the item belongs to. The items to be replenished are placed into totes in the retail store's backroom and transported via one or more elevators 110 and then via the overhead rail network 112 via the suspended vehicle 102. According to at least one embodiment, completed orders (e.g., the control server 126 may operate with the first conveyor system 300 to complete the order) are returned to the elevator 110 (the control server 126 communicates with the elevator controller that operates the elevator 110) and are optionally subsequently transported via the suspended vehicle 102 across the overhead rail network 112 to the front of the retail store for customer pickup.

[0075] In some embodiments, the order management engine 106 and / or the replenishment engine 108 may be optional. Thus, in at least one embodiment, the order management engine 106 and / or the replenishment engine 108 do not constitute part of the system 100; instead, the order management engine 106 and / or the replenishment engine 108 may constitute part of the end-user host system.

[0076] According to various embodiments, the entire system 100 can be installed in the existing warehouse space of the retail store, thereby eliminating additional construction or expansion costs. In at least one embodiment, the first conveying system 300 of the system 100 can be installed in a row of existing pallet racks. In various embodiments, the system 100 is portable and can be quickly assembled on site without the need for electrical, fire or building permits prior to installation. The system 100 can further process items including room temperature, refrigerated, frozen, fresh and all other product types. The system 100 can further process almost all products sold in grocery stores or supermarkets, such as eggs, produce, water tanks, etc. In various embodiments, the unique design of the system 100 allows large and bulky products to be placed on the lower level of the T-type sorting and smaller items to be placed on the upper level. The system 100 disclosed herein represents a flexible, modular and portable solution, and the hanging vehicle 102 and the mobile transport equipment 302 can be installed in a few minutes and delivered and sorted to the set delivery destination within a few hours, and all components of the system 100 can be moved to another site overnight. According to the embodiments disclosed herein, the first conveying system 300 may provide a more cost-effective, scalable single-store solution than ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System).

[0077] According to at least one embodiment, the first conveyor system 300 works in conjunction with the overhead vehicle 102 (directed by the control server 126) to provide overhead transportation of items to and from the sales floor, thereby eliminating floor congestion, further reducing labor, eliminating human interaction and increasing incremental return on investment (ROI). In one embodiment, the picked items for the order are delivered and sorted through manual, mechanical and / or robotic processes. In one embodiment, the completed orders are delivered to a customer receiving location or a staging location for pickup.

[0078] Thus, in some embodiments, the system 100 further includes a first conveying system 300. In various embodiments, the suspension vehicle 102 places a tote containing cargo or articles at an introduction point (e.g., a first delivery location) of the first conveying system 300, and the first conveying system 300 can process further delivery and sorting steps associated with the dropped articles from this point under the control of the control server 126. The first conveying system 300 may include a platform assembly 10 for delivering articles. In some embodiments, the platform assembly 10 may include wheels for movement. The platform assembly 10 may also include a track 16 formed on its surface so that the mobile transport device 302 can traverse along the track 16. The track 16 may be formed around, across, or in any other configuration on the surface of the panel 12 to facilitate the movement of the mobile transport device 302. The platform assembly 10 also includes a plurality of markings formed thereon, and the receiving container 20 is located around at least one of the plurality of markings. The control server 126 communicates with the mobile transport device 302 and multiple other components described herein, including a sensing station, such as a delivery location 104 located on the platform assembly 10, and the delivery location 104 includes an imaging device, such as an information acquisition device 120. By providing a mark, when the mobile transport device 302 passes through a specific mark, the control server 126 communicates with the mobile transport device 302 through the network to determine that the specific mobile transport device 302 is located at a location "A" associated with a specific receiving container 20 (the control server 126 already knows the specific location of each mark formed on the platform assembly 10). The location of the specific mobile transport device 302 is then compared with the known association of any type of order being processed (or any type of shipping package being processed in the system) 10 with a specific receiving container 20. The control server 126 can then instruct the mobile transport device 302 carrying the item 142 associated with the retail order to deposit the item 142 into the specific receiving container 20 associated with the specific mark based on the location of the specific mark.

[0079] Thus, in operation, once the control server 126 determines that the receiving container 20 needs to store an item 142 therein, the control server 126 causes the mobile transport device 302 to pass through the panel 12 to the receiving container 20, and deposits the selected item 142 in the receiving container 20 by manipulating the mobile transport device 302 to deposit the item 142 from a first position where the item 142 is securely located on the mobile transport device 302 to a second position where the item begins to slide toward the receiving container 20. In one embodiment, rather than the first and second items being transported by the mobile transport device, the first and second items may be transported to the first destination container by any well-known robotic, mechanical, and manual sorting and transporting device and combinations thereof. For example, in one embodiment, the control server 126 is configured to direct the delivery of at least one selected item using the mobile transport device, wherein the control server 126 is further configured to direct the mobile transport device to transport the selected item to the receiving container, and deposit the item in the receiving container by manipulating the mobile transport device to move from a third position to a fourth position to receive the selected item. In a further embodiment, the control server 126 is configured to direct the delivery of at least one selected item through a mechanical sorter, wherein the controller is further configured to direct the mechanical sorter to deposit the selected item in a receiving container. In another embodiment, the control server 126 is configured to direct the delivery of at least one selected item through a manual process, wherein the controller is further configured to generate a notification for personnel to deposit the selected item in the receiving container. The control system can be configured to direct the transfer of the first and second items to the first destination container using devices such as shoe sorters, conveyor belts, push arm diverters, Intralox sorting systems, and similar other mechanisms (commonly referred to as "mechanical sorters"). For example, the first and second items can be pushed down in a cross-belt arrangement.

[0080] The mechanical sorter controlled by the control server 126 can be any suitable mechanical sorting system, from a basic pusher and diverter that sorts less than 30 cartons per minute to a complex high-speed sorter that processes up to 450 items per minute. The term "mechanical sorter" as used herein refers to any system that automatically sorts products as they pass through a facility. Mechanical sorters can be roughly divided into slow, medium and high-speed systems based on the sorting speed.

[0081] Slow Sorting Mechanical sorters are the slowest and least expensive sorters and are used in conjunction with standard belt or roller conveyor lines. These sorters typically process less than 30 cartons or totes per minute. An example of a slow sorter is a deflector arm, where an arm or paddle is located next to the conveyor line, opposite the turnaround point. As a carton approaches, the arm swings across the conveyor, grabs the carton and directs it out at an angle. A lot of space is needed between cartons to avoid traffic jams behind the deflector arm sorter. The deflector can be used in slug mode, with the arm remaining in place, to divert a string of cartons toward the same turnaround point. Another example of a slow sorter is a pusher, which is mounted on the side of the conveyor line, just opposite the turnaround point. When the product reaches the turnaround point, the pusher pops up across the conveyor, pushing the product out at a right angle. Pushers do not require as much space between cartons, so they can operate faster than deflector arms.

[0082] Medium-speed mechanical sorters can process about 30 to 200 items per minute. The most popular of these are pop-up sorters. These linear sorters typically move product along a line of belt conveyors. When the product reaches a transfer point for the product, wheels or rollers pop up under the product, lifting it slightly above the conveyor surface and removing it from the conveyor, usually at an angle of 30 to 45 degrees. One common type of pop-up wheel sorter uses a wide conveyor belt that ends at the transfer point and starts again immediately after the transfer point, creating a gap in the conveyor. Several rollers fill the gap, extending the width of the conveyor. When a carton reaches the gap in the conveyor belt, one of the following occurs: (1) the tilted wheels remain in place and the carton continues to move forward - across the rollers and onto the next section or conveyor belt, or (2) the tilted wheels rise up under the product, lifting it slightly off the conveyor belt. The wheels then rotate, diverting the carton from the line. Another type of pop-up sorter uses multiple narrow conveyor belts instead of one wide conveyor belt. At each transfer point, inclined wheels are located in the gaps between the narrow belts. These wheels are located below the level of the conveyor until they are needed to transfer the cartons. When the product reaches the transfer point, the inclined wheels rise under the product and transfer it. Pop-up sorters are best suited for transporting cartons or other items with a solid, flat bottom. The function of pop-up sorters and narrow-belt sorters is to transfer products by means of mechanisms located at each output. The products are pushed upwards as they are taken out (it is necessary to analyze the operation beforehand to determine which of the two sorters has better accuracy). Pop-up sorters and narrow-belt sorters typically handle products with a solid and flat bottom.

[0083] When speed is critical, high-speed mechanical sorters can sort about 150 to 450 items or cartons per minute and up to 27,000 cartons per hour. Products can be fed into the sorter manually or automatically using induction conveyors. Higher speeds mean a higher level of technology and sophistication. There are four common types of high-speed sorters. Tilt-tray, cross-belt, and bomb bay sorters are typically used to sort individual items to workstations, such as packing stations or returns processing stations. The fourth type of high-speed sorter is the slide shoe sorter, which typically handles larger cartons and totes. Tilt-tray, cross-belt, and bomb bay sorters work similarly, and each type of sorter has the same foundation: a circular track with individual slides on it.

[0084] In a tilt-tray sorter, each bay is fitted with a wooden or plastic pallet. Once the items arrive at the sorter, they are placed onto the pallet one at a time. The items move along a track until they reach their intended transfer location. The pallet is then tilted to one side and gravity pulls the items off the pallet. The items typically slide onto a chute or take-out conveyor located on the side of the sorter. The pallet then rights itself and is ready to accept another item for delivery. A tilt-tray sorter requires more space between transfer locations than a cross-belt sorter, but it also has fewer moving parts, making it less expensive and easier to maintain. A tilt-tray sorter operates by moving the pallet forward and dropping the product when it reaches the correct location. Like a cross-belt sorter, it is suitable for demanding operations, but must be analyzed based on the operation, product type, or industry. A tilt-tray sorter can typically handle different packages that can be small or large, amorphous or regular, light or heavy. This type of sorter is particularly suitable for extensive operations. Tilt-tray sorters and cross-belt sorters are multi-sensor type with different entry points to feed a different range of products.

[0085] Cross-belt sorters work on essentially the same principle, except that each bay in the system is fitted with a 2- to 3-foot-long belt conveyor unit instead of a pallet. When an item arrives at a transfer location, a motor moves the conveyor, unloading the item into a chute or onto an outgoing conveyor off the side of the sorter. While cross-belt sorters are the most expensive of these high-speed options, they also offer the most product control because they use their own power to transfer product rather than relying on gravity. This means the sorter can run faster and transfer locations can be placed closer together. Cross-belt sorters are widely used in the shipping industry, generally for products that require high output, because of its high productivity in product sorting. Cross-belt sorters can handle irregularly shaped products.

[0086] In a bomb bay sorter, each carriage on the track is fitted with a flat tray with a gap in the middle. When an item reaches a predetermined location, the two sides of the tray swing down and separate, placing the item into a chute or container located directly below the sorter. Bomb bay sorters are generally cheaper than tilt tray or cross belt sorters, but they also have the lowest overall process. While tilt tray and cross belt sorters can accommodate long items by allowing an item to span two trays or two belts, bomb bay sorters are limited to small items. And the items must be able to withstand being dropped without damage. In addition, bomb bay sorters have a unique advantage when facility space is limited. These sorting systems can fit into very narrow spaces because the sorting location is located directly below the sorter track. Designed for the automatic delivery of lightweight items that can fit into chutes, shipping packages, totes or sacks, bomb bay sorters can accommodate items that are manually or automatically placed into the sorter. Items can be delivered on a single tray or two trays, depending on their size. Bomb bay sorters are typically less expensive than cross-belt sorters or tilt-tray sorters. Bomb bay sorters use split (or quarter) hinged trays to deliver items to sorting destinations. When the item reaches its intended destination, the two halves of the tray open, swing down and separate (like the bomb bay doors on military aircraft), allowing the items to fall and enter the container below. Driven by an independent drive and sprocket assembly and powered by a single or dual motor with a variable frequency drive, bomb bay sorters (sometimes called "flatbed sorters") are quiet and energy-efficient. Bomb bay sorters or split tray sorters have a simple design with few moving parts, easy maintenance and long-lasting performance.

[0087] A sliding shoe sorter is another type of sorting equipment. Items with inconsistent surfaces, like plastic bags, are better handled by a sliding shoe sorter. Likewise, cartons moving at high speeds often require a sliding shoe sorter. Sliding shoe sorters are more expensive, but are a better choice for fragile items and can be run at lower speeds if high throughput is not required. Instead of being configured in a circular fashion, a sliding shoe sorter is configured linearly: products enter at the beginning of the line and are diverted before reaching the end of the line. The bed of a sliding shoe sorter is essentially a section of conveyor with metal slats, each of which has a small rubber bell (called a shoe) mounted on it. In most designs, the shoes are arranged along the side of the conveyor opposite the diversion location. The conveyor carries cartons along the line, and when a carton reaches the diversion location for the carton, multiple shoes are activated. The shoe slides on the slats and pushes the carton away from the side of the sorter, usually at a slight angle. The idea is that as the shoe slides on the conveyor, it guides the carton and changes its direction at the same time. Another design places the shoe in the center of the conveyor and pushes the carton in either direction.

[0088] There are other types of mechanical sorters. For example, vertical sorters help divert products to outlets on different planes (top, middle, or bottom). Typically, vertical sorters have up to three outputs and can handle large quantities of heavy cases. Vertical sorters can handle 0 to 60 cases per minute. Another type of sorting equipment is the split tray sorter, which gets its name from the split configuration of the sorting conveyor doors, which can be opened independently, with each unit consisting of up to four compartments. Another type of sorter is the flat sorter (sometimes called a "bomb bay sorter"), which gets its name from one of the most popular applications for sorting conveyors, which is the delivery of "flat" items such as clothing and envelopes. Another type of sorter is the drop tray sorter, which gets its name from the action of carrying a pallet, which drops down to allow the items to fall into a waiting chute or container. Sorter diverters are another type of sorting-related equipment that moves products onto a conveyor. Diverters can be electro-pneumatic or electric devices that activate when detected, pushing them toward the indicated output. Sorter diverters typically have a rate of 1 to 40 cases per minute. The sorter diverter can handle products with less irregular shapes, not necessarily flat and with a hard bottom. It can handle everything from very small and light products like CDs, glasses, medicines (where flow rates can be handled up to 100 pieces per minute) to heavy parcels and regular sized products.

[0089] A key component of most mechanical sorters is a fixed-position barcode scanner. The scanner identifies each carton or item on the conveyor and sends that information to the sortation system controller. The sortation and / or delivery control system is usually pre-programmed with the destination of each product and can activate the sortation mechanism when the product reaches its designated transfer point. The smaller the item, the more scanners or sensors are needed to ensure the item is seen. If the product being sorted is particularly valuable, or if there is doubt about the product movement, sensors can even be placed in the chute itself to confirm that the item is being transferred accurately.

[0090] The control server 126 described herein and the controllers described herein may be used in conjunction with a variety of compatible sorting devices, techniques, and systems, including those described above, which are generally referred to herein as "mechanical sorters." Therefore, it is reiterated that the description of various embodiments of the present invention is presented for illustrative purposes, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosed embodiments.

[0091] In at least one embodiment, the control server 126 is configured to control an article conveying system, which may include an article conveying device and an article receiving container. The article conveying device is provided with a plurality of article inspection entrances and a plurality of article collection devices, and a plurality of article outlets are respectively located in the middle or / and at the edge of the article conveying device. The article receiving container is provided with a storage device, and there is a storage device at each position below the article outlet, and the opening diameter of the storage device is greater than the diameter of the article outlet. The system controlled by the control server 126 may adopt a "double-layer" structure, with an article conveying device and an article receiving container arranged up and down for conveying articles, wherein the article outlet on the article conveying device is connected to the article receiving container, and during the article conveying process, the articles to be conveyed and sorted only need to pass through the article outlet to enter the article receiving container arranged below, thereby completing the conveying. Such a structural design allows the article outlet to be flexibly arranged at the edge of the article conveying device or in the middle of the edge, instead of being only arranged at the edge of the article conveying device as in the prior art, thereby effectively improving the utilization rate of the article conveying device, avoiding the accumulation of articles, shortening the transportation path of the article conveying, and improving the efficiency of the article conveying, and the design is ingenious.

[0092] The embodiments described herein provide a micro-fulfillment solution set up in a store warehouse. The solution can be deployed quickly and can greatly reduce labor and costs, improve speed and accuracy, and the cost is only a fraction of a typical automatic storage and retrieval system (ASRS) solution. The embodiments described herein can facilitate the sorting of mixed item containers and small boxes containing items into aisle sections to achieve more efficient shelf inventory. The embodiments described herein can enhance BOPIS (buy online and pick up in store) order processing by allowing stores to pick in batches by department or aisle. BOPIS order processing can provide automated, accurate and efficient order consolidation. The embodiments described herein can facilitate home delivery orders in the same manner to allow fast processing and minimize labor and store aisle congestion. The embodiments described herein can pick and deliver BOPIS and e-commerce orders in the same batch on demand.

[0093] The embodiments described herein may automate order consolidation with nearly 100% accuracy, thereby improving customer service and satisfaction. The embodiments described herein may significantly reduce labor costs as the cost of batch picking and consolidation of multiple orders completed by the first conveyor system 300 is less than half of traditional store order fulfillment. The embodiments described herein may distribute and sort outbound home delivery packages by route or local hub destination for DDU (destination delivery unit), local carriers, and other delivery methods, thereby allowing same-day / next-day delivery at a pre-sorted last-mile inbound cost. The embodiments described herein may allow large, bulky products to be handled at lower level platforms of the distribution system and smaller products to be handled at higher level platforms of the distribution system.

[0094] In one embodiment, the first conveying system 300 includes an article conveying mechanism and an article receiving container 20. The article conveying mechanism or device is provided with a plurality of article inspection entrances and a plurality of article exits, and the article receiving container is located directly below the article conveying device. The plurality of article exits on the article conveying device are respectively communicated or connected with the article receiving container, and the plurality of article exits are respectively located in the middle or / and edge of the article conveying device or the entire article conveying device, and a storage device is provided on the article receiving container, and a storage device is provided at each article exit position, and the opening size of the storage device is greater than the width of the article exit. It should be noted that although various aspects of the subject matter of the present disclosure are described herein with respect to the conveyance of articles, the embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure are also applicable to articles containing two or more articles. Therefore, the contents disclosed herein are also applicable to the delivery of articles and articles containing two or more articles. The article delivery device and the article receiving container can be embodied in a variety of structures, such as quadrilateral, circular, polygonal, etc., and the article receiving container and the article delivery device preferably have substantially the same area.

[0095] After obtaining the item information, in order to improve the efficiency of the subsequent distribution process, the system 100 in one embodiment further includes a plurality of mobile transport devices 302, wherein the plurality of mobile transport devices 302 are connected to the control server 126, and the control server 126 is pre-set with item exits corresponding to different destinations. The control server 126 is configured to control at least one mobile transport device 302 to transport the sorted items to be delivered to the item exit corresponding to the destination of the sorted items to be delivered according to the obtained destination of the sorted items to be delivered. Among them, the control server 126 has obtained the destination of each sorted item to be delivered at each item inspection port, and only needs to analyze and obtain the transportation path of each sorted item to be delivered according to the item exit position corresponding to the destination of each item to be delivered, and then control at least one mobile transport device 302 to transport each sorted item to be delivered to the item exit corresponding to the destination of each item to be delivered according to the transportation path to complete the item delivery. The control server 126 analyzes the transportation path of each item to be delivered simultaneously. After the path analysis is completed, multiple mobile transport devices 302 can be controlled simultaneously to complete the transportation of each item to be delivered, thereby greatly improving the efficiency of item delivery.

[0096] Each mobile transport device 302 is used to carry one item to be sorted or multiple items to be sorted to the same destination. Preferably, the mobile transport device 302 is used to transport one item to be sorted at a time. After obtaining the destination of the item to be sorted to be transported by the mobile transport device 302, the control server 126 sends a control instruction to the mobile transport device 302, so that the mobile transport device 302 drives to the item exit position corresponding to the destination of the item to be sorted.

[0097] The items to be delivered and sorted can be manually loaded onto the mobile transport device 302, or the items to be delivered and sorted can be automatically loaded onto the mobile transport device 302 by intelligently controlling the item grabbing device etc. through the control server 126. Similarly, the delivery of the items to be delivered and sorted from the delivery port to the receiving container can be completed manually, or the items to be delivered can be automatically loaded onto the mobile transport device 302 by intelligently controlling the item grabbing device etc. through the control server 126.

[0098] In order to ensure that each to-be-delivered and classified article transported to the article receiving container can be delivered to the final destination, the system preferably further includes a detection device and a conveying device, wherein the detection device is configured to detect whether the storage device 103 is full and transmit the obtained information of whether the storage device 103 is full to the control server 126, and the conveying device is configured to convey the full storage device 103 according to the instruction of the control server 126. There are many options for the conveying device, for example, an intelligent robot; for another example, the storage device 103 is installed on the conveying device, and the conveying device is a large automatic navigation vehicle, which can move to a position and load and unload articles according to the control instruction of the control server 126.

[0099] In at least one embodiment, when the control server 126 determines that the order has been completed, the control server 126 updates the electronic database to reflect this, wherein the control server 126 is in electronic communication with the electronic database. In one embodiment, the electronic database may reside in the cloud. According to at least one embodiment, each time the computer-controlled device deposits an item into a target container, the control server 126 may update the status of the order in the electronic database.

[0100] The operator may select one or more items from a container (e.g., carrier 132) and image the identifiers located on the one or more items through the information acquisition device 120. Alternatively, the information acquisition device 120 may automatically interact with the identifiers for item identification. The operator may place the one or more items on the mobile transport device 302, or the system and process may be set up so that the one or more items are automatically placed on the mobile transport device 302. The information acquisition device 120 may then transmit the item identifier information associated with each of the one or more items to the control server 126.

[0101] The goods supply, i.e. the goods displayed in the container, may be a goods supply with identification on each item. The information acquisition device 120 obtains the information contained in the identification of the goods to be delivered and sorted by identifying the information code on the goods to be delivered and sorted, wherein the information code may be a barcode, a QR code, a radio frequency tag, etc. Accordingly, the information acquisition device 120 may be a barcode scanner, a QR code scanner, a radio frequency identifier, etc. In addition, the information acquisition device may be configured to image one or more goods and compare with a database of known goods to determine the characteristics, SKU or identity of each of the one or more goods.

[0102] The mobile transport device 302 may have a first position in which one or more items are stored around the device, and a second position in which one or more items are stored in a near-end destination container. In one or more embodiments, the mobile transport device 302 may be an automatically navigated small device. The control server 126 may be further configured to guide the plurality of mobile transport devices so that the mobile transport devices do not collide with each other. The control server 126 may also be configured to guide the mobile transport device back to a near-end position at any item supply. When the mobile transport device is located at the near-end of the item supply, it is in the first position.

[0103] The control server 126 may be configured to determine a receiving container 20 among a plurality of target containers based on the interaction with the identifier to deposit the selected item using the mobile transport device 302. The control server 126 is further configured to instruct the mobile transport device to transfer the selected item to the target container and deposit the item by manipulating the mobile transport device from a first location to a second location to deposit the selected item in the target container.

[0104] The first conveying system 300 can be arranged in a multi-layered manner. The multi-layered arrangement can include an elevated platform located above a lower layer, which can be a floor or a second platform. In operation, the control server 126 determines that a target container needs to store an item therein. In the multi-layered arrangement, the target container is located near an opening of the elevated platform. The mobile transport device traverses the elevated platform to reach the target container, and deposits the item from the first position to the second position by manipulating the mobile transport device to deposit the selected item in the target container.

[0105] Thus, in at least one embodiment, during a delivery process, the control server 126 is configured to receive an order for a plurality of different items 142 to fulfill one or more orders. The different items 142 may be a plurality of similar items having different sizes, colors, etc., and / or the different items may be substantially unrelated. The control server 126 may be configured to determine a receiving container 20 among a plurality of receiving containers 20 for storing one or more selected items 142 using the mobile transport device 302. The control server 126 may be configured to instruct the mobile transport device 302 to transfer the selected items stored around the mobile transport device 302 to the receiving container 20, and to deposit / unload the items by manipulating the mobile transport device 302 to deposit the selected items in the receiving container 20. The control server 126 may also be configured to determine when one or more retail orders are completed.

[0106] In one embodiment, a control system is configured to direct a self-guided, self-propelled suspension vehicle to transport a carrier containing a plurality of different items to a delivery location, the suspension vehicle having a first position in which the carrier containing the plurality of different items is engaged with the suspension vehicle, and a second position in which the carrier is disengaged from the suspension vehicle, the suspension vehicle being configured to travel in two directions along a plurality of track sections forming part of an elevated track network. The control system is further configured to direct the suspension vehicle to transport the carrier to the delivery location by maneuvering the suspension vehicle from the first position to the second position.

[0107] According to one or more embodiments, a control system running on the control server 126 is configured for delivery of a plurality of different items, including a memory and a processor. The control system is configured to receive an order for a plurality of different items found within the item supply location 65. The control system is further configured to direct the delivery of the selected items through one or more of the following: a manual process, a mechanical process, and a robotic process. In addition, the selected items may be transferred to the first destination container by any robotic, mechanical, and manual sorting devices and combinations thereof. Thus, the control system may be configured to direct the transfer of the first and second items to the first destination container using a shoe sorter, a conveyor belt, a push arm diverter, an Intralox sorting system, and similar other mechanisms. The control system is further configured to determine when the first order is complete.

[0108] The control system is also configured to assign a first target container from among the plurality of target containers to the first order, to instruct the first computer-controlled mobile transport device to deposit a first item and a second item associated with the first order into the first target container according to the product type of each item, the first item and the second item being selected from a plurality of different items. The control system is also configured to instruct the first computer-controlled mobile transport device to transport the first item and the second item from the delivery location, and to deposit both the first item and the second item into the first target container by manipulating the first computer-controlled mobile transport device from the first location to the second location. The control system is also configured to determine that the first order has been completed.

[0109] In various embodiments, the controller is configured to direct at least one selected item to be delivered to a receiving container by one or more of the following: a manual process, a mechanical process, and a robotic process. Thus, in at least one embodiment, rather than transporting the first and second items using a mobile transport device, the first and second items may be transferred to the first destination container by any well-known robotic, mechanical, and manual sorting and transfer devices and combinations thereof; thus, the control system may be configured to direct the first and second items to be transferred to the first destination container using devices such as shoe sorters, conveyors, push arm diverters, Intralox sorting systems, and similar other mechanisms. For example, the first and second items may be pushed off in a cross-belt arrangement. The control system is also configured to determine that the first order has been completed.

[0110] In at least one embodiment, the mechanical process includes a conveyor device known or used in the market. There are several conveyors on the market for transferring items from tilt trays, cross belts, bomb bays, sliding trays, slat shoes, narrow belts, AGVs or other similar conveyors while the items are in motion, so mobile transfer is required because the conveyor device can include fixed tracks and all items to be transferred move along the same track at the same speed. The conveyor device controlled by the controller can be operated to transfer or drop off the items being conveyed and sorted into a receiving container. In one embodiment, the receiving container can be a tote, chute or other similar receiving device.

[0111] In various embodiments, the controller can advantageously utilize a mechanical process including a conveyor, a cross-belt sorter, or other transfer mechanism. For example, the cross-belt can be configured to have an adjustable speed and acceleration so that special handling requirements of one or more items or categories / classes of items can be met. In some embodiments, the control system is configured to control other transfer methods or movements based on features identified for a given item. The control system can be further configured to control a transfer device, wherein the transfer device can be configured to have an adjustable speed, acceleration, or other similar aspects so that special handling requirements of unique items can be met based on features identified for a given item. In some embodiments, the currently disclosed controller can advantageously deliver and sort items by transferring items to a final destination (e.g., a receiving container or receiving receiver) via a transfer arm, a pusher, or any other similar device.

[0112] A system including an item supply is disclosed herein. The item supply includes a plurality of items in an order fulfillment center of a retail store. In operation, the system has a method or material handling system for moving and transporting item containers. The method or material handling system transports the item containers to an item supply location. The containers may contain the same products or different products. The control server 126 may be configured to instruct the mobile transport device 302 to transport the selected one or more items stored around the device to a target container, and to store the selected one or more items in the target container by manipulating the mobile transport device from a first location to a second location.

[0113] The first conveying system 300 may also include an elevated platform located above the lower horizontal plane. The mobile transport device traverses the platform. The target container is located near a recess in the platform. The mobile transport device traverses the platform, positions the device near the recess, and then maneuvers from a first position to a second position to deposit the item. Each mobile transport device can carry a single selected item, and multiple mobile transport devices can traverse the platform at any given time. The control server 126 can be configured to instruct the mobile transport device to return to a position near the supply of items. The mobile transport device is in a first position when near the supply of items. The control server 126 can be configured to instruct multiple mobile transport devices. The control server 126 is also configured to instruct multiple mobile transport devices so that the mobile transport devices do not collide with each other.

[0114] Figure 7 A second conveyor system 500 is shown that can form part of a store warehouse conveyor environment (e.g., the first conveyor environment 200 or the second conveyor environment 400). In various embodiments, the second conveyor system 500 includes a platform with a highway and finger layout according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the panel 10 of the platform assembly can take the form of fingers 501 and highways 503. In this embodiment, the delivery location 104 is arranged along the highway 503, and the storage device 103 is arranged along the finger 501, both of which are arranged as shown in FIG. Figure 7 In some embodiments, the delivery location 104 and the storage device 103 may be arranged at alternative locations or other locations as desired.

[0115] According to one or more embodiments, a system 100 is provided. The system 100 includes an item supply location 122, which includes a plurality of items 142, each item 412 having an identifier, the identifier including information related to delivering the item to the destination. The system 100 also includes an elevated rail network 112, which includes a plurality of track segments. At least one track segment is located near the item supply location 122. The system 100 also includes a self-guided suspended vehicle 102, which is configured to travel bidirectionally along the plurality of track segments. Each suspended vehicle 102 has a first position in which a carrier 132 carrying at least one selected item 142 is engaged with the suspended vehicle 102, and has a second position in which the carrier is separated from the suspended vehicle 102. The system 100 also includes an information acquisition device 120, which is configured to interact with an identifier associated with at least one selected item 142.

[0116] The system 100 also includes a controller, such as a control server 126. The controller or control server 126 is configured to: determine a first delivery location among the plurality of delivery locations 104 to deliver the carrier using a suspension vehicle based on interaction with the identifier and a destination determined for at least one selected item 142. The controller is further configured to instruct the suspension vehicle 102 to transport the carrier 132 to the first delivery location, and to deliver the carrier from the first location to a second location by manipulating the suspension vehicle 102 to disassemble the carrier so as to deliver the carrier at the first delivery location. The controller is further configured to determine a receiving container 20 among the plurality of receiving containers 20 to store at least one selected item based on interaction of the information acquisition device 120 with the identifier; and to deliver the at least one selected item of the first delivery location directly to the receiving container.

[0117] According to one or more embodiments, a controller in the control server 126 is configured to direct the delivery of at least one selected item 142 using the mobile transport device 302, wherein the controller is further configured to direct the mobile transport device 302 to transfer the selected item 142 to the receiving container 20 and to receive the selected item in the receiving container 20 by manipulating the mobile transport device 302 to deposit the item from a third location to a fourth location.

[0118] According to one or more embodiments, the controller is configured to direct the delivery of at least one selected item through a mechanical sorter, wherein the controller is further configured to direct the mechanical sorter to deposit the selected item in a receiving container. According to one or more embodiments, the controller is configured to direct the delivery of at least one selected item through a manual process, wherein the controller is further configured to generate a notification at or near the delivery location 104 for personnel to deposit the selected item in the receiving container.

[0119] According to one or more embodiments, the suspension vehicle 102 is configured to perform one or more of the following operations: turning, merging, and stopping at any position on multiple track segments. The suspension vehicle 102 optionally also includes a pick-up mechanism attached thereto, wherein the pick-up mechanism is configured to engage and disengage the carrier. The pick-up mechanism may include any pick-up device and system known in the art. According to at least one embodiment, the pick-up mechanism is configured to be manually disengaged from the carrier by an operator on the ground. According to one or more embodiments, the operator is one or more of a human and a robot.

[0120] According to one or more embodiments, the at least one item includes a plurality of items associated with a plurality of order batches. According to one or more embodiments, the first delivery location corresponds to an aisle segment in a retail store. According to one or more embodiments, the item supply location is located near one or more of: a loading dock of a retail store, and a storage location in a stockroom of a retail store. According to one or more embodiments, the carrier 132 includes one or more containers and totes. According to one or more embodiments, the first delivery location includes an elevator configured to transport the carrier 132 to the floor or below the floor. According to one or more embodiments, the controller is further configured to deliver at least one selected item 142 to a front area of ​​the retail store for customer pickup. According to one or more embodiments, the entire elevated rail network or a portion thereof is located in a stockroom of a retail store. According to one or more embodiments, the at least one selected item 142 includes a plurality of selected items 142, wherein the item supply location is a retail store. According to one or more embodiments, the receiving container 20 includes one or more of a chute, a gaylord, a container, a gravity conveyor, a box, and a bag.

[0121] According to at least one embodiment, a method may also be provided. The method may include receiving an order for a plurality of different items, determining a target container among a plurality of target containers to instruct a mobile transport device to store the selected item, instructing a first mobile transport device to transport the selected item to the target container and to store the item by manipulating the first mobile transport device from a first position to a second position to store the selected item in the target container, instructing a second mobile transport device to transport a different item to the target container and to store the different item by manipulating the second mobile transport device from a first position to a second position to store the selected item in the target container, and determining when the order is complete. The method may also include instructing removal of the first target container. In some embodiments, the method further includes instructing an order removal device to perform removal of the first target container. In one embodiment, the method further includes replacing with a second container to receive a continuation of a large order or a new order.

[0122] In some embodiments, the control server 126 is further configured to instruct the removal of all items in the first target container for online order fulfillment processing and to assign the third order to the first target container. In some embodiments, the order removal device performs the removal of the first target container. In various embodiments, the order removal device can represent any suitable mechanism known in the art, including mechanisms such as track devices, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and self-propelled first target containers.

[0123] The item storage area within an item distribution center (from which items are pulled for delivery and sorted) can represent any location where different items related to multiple orders are received, delivered and sorted for online order fulfillment. Thus, the item distribution center can represent a distribution center, a retail store, a micro-fulfillment center, a store logistics facility, a shipping facility, or other similar facilities. Items can also be pulled directly from a truck. In one embodiment, items can be pulled from an item storage location at an item distribution center.

[0124] In some embodiments, the control server 126 is further configured to direct the automatic placement of the first and second items onto the first computer-controlled mobile transport device. In other words, the introduction of the first and second items onto the first computer-controlled mobile transport device is automatically performed under the control of the control system. In some alternative embodiments, the introduction of the first and second items onto the first computer-controlled mobile transport device is performed manually, whereby an operator loads the first and second items onto the first computer-controlled mobile transport device.

[0125] In some embodiments, the control server 126 is further configured to direct the transport of the first destination container to an online order fulfillment processing location after all items associated with the first order have been deposited in the first destination container. The online order fulfillment processing location may include shipping, packaging, and any other downstream operations. In some embodiments, the control server 126 is further configured to assign the new order to a replacement destination container, which is placed at the location where the first destination container was removed, after all items associated with the first order have been deposited in the first destination container. In some embodiments, after all items associated with the first order have been deposited in the first destination container, the control server 126 is further configured to direct further tasks, including subsequent packaging, labeling, gift wrapping, quality control inspection, and shipping of the first order to its final customer destination.

[0126] In some embodiments, the platform of the platform assembly 10 may include multiple levels, each level including multiple target containers. In some embodiments, the control system captures the weight and volume of each item. In some embodiments, the introduction of items is done automatically. In some embodiments, each time a computer-controlled device places an item into a target container, the control server 126 may update the status of an order associated with the item or target container. In some embodiments, when all items for a given order have been deposited in the target container, the control server 126 will indicate that the order is ready to be removed from the target location. After the order is removed and the destination is ready to receive more items, the control server 126 assigns a new order to the destination.

[0127] In some embodiments, the control server 126 can optimize order location by locating relatively large orders closest to the location where the items are supplied to minimize the travel distance of the equipment. In some embodiments, the control server 126 can optimize order fulfillment by sending items needed in multiple orders to orders waiting to complete the items. "Further processing" of completed orders may include packaging, labeling, gift wrapping, adding more items to the order, quality control, shipping, etc. In some embodiments, the platform may include a highway and finger layout, or as Figure 7 The warehouse layout shown. In some embodiments, the platform can include a highway and a single finger layout or configuration.

[0128] In some embodiments, the control server 126 directs the completed order to another location in the facility for further processing. An order may be removed by removing a container or emptying the container. In some embodiments, the control server 126 optimizes order fulfillment by sending identical items to be included in multiple orders to be first deposited in a target container so that the drop-off of the items completes the order, thereby allowing the target container to be immediately removed for subsequent processing.

[0129] Thus, the system includes a first item supply location. The first item supply location includes a plurality of items to be delivered and sorted from orders at a distribution center location. It is noted that while delivery operations according to various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter may be described in the context of a distribution center, embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter are equally applicable to all other locations that may benefit from the delivery operations disclosed herein, including but not limited to retail stores, dark stores, micro-fulfillment centers, grocery stores, or similar other locations; all of which may be referred to interchangeably herein as "item delivery centers."

[0130] In various embodiments, the item supply location is one of a retail store, a fully or partially automated retail order fulfillment store, a dark store, and a local fulfillment center. The term "dark store" referred to herein may refer to a large warehouse that can be used to facilitate a "click and collect" service from which customers can collect items they ordered online, and can also be used as an order fulfillment platform for online sales. A dark store may include a retail store or distribution center that specializes in servicing online shopping. A dark store can be used to facilitate a "click and collect" service from which customers can collect items they ordered online, and can also be used as an order fulfillment platform for online sales.

[0131] The second item supply location includes a plurality of items to be delivered and sorted. In one embodiment, the plurality of items to be delivered and sorted can be extracted from an order at the second item storage location of the item delivery center. In one embodiment, the plurality of items to be delivered and sorted can come directly from a truck. The product type of each item is determined by interacting with the information acquisition device at the corresponding first item supply location and the second item supply location. The first and second computer-controlled mobile transport devices include a first position in which the selected items are stored around the device, and a second position in which the selected items are stored in a proximal container by manipulating a support member of the device, which supports the selected items and stores the selected items when in the second position. The first platform rises from the first surface. The first computer-controlled mobile transport device traverses the first platform, and the selected items are stored in a target container located around the first surface.

[0132] In at least one embodiment, the control server 126 is configured to receive an order for a plurality of different items. In one embodiment, after the items are pulled from a first item storage location at an item distribution center, different items are found within a first or second item supply location. The control server 126 is configured to determine a first target container among a plurality of target containers to instruct a first mobile transport device to deposit a selected item from the first or second item supply location based on a determined product type. The target container corresponds to an order for a first business. The control server 126 is configured to instruct the first mobile transport device to transport the selected item to the target container and to deposit the selected item by manipulating the first mobile transport device from the first location to the second location to deposit the selected item in the target container. The control server 126 is configured to determine a second target container among a plurality of target containers to instruct a second mobile transport device to deposit another item from the first or second item supply location based on a determined product type. The second target container corresponds to an order for a second customer or a second entity. The control server 126 is configured to instruct the second mobile transport device to transport the different items to the target container and to deposit the different items by manipulating the second mobile transport device from the first location to the second location to deposit the different items in the target container. The control server 126 is configured to determine when at least one order has been completed.

[0133] According to one or more embodiments, the target container is located near the opening of the first platform. The first mobile transport device passes through the first platform near the opening and then maneuvers from a first position to a second position to place the object into the target container through the opening of the first platform.

[0134] According to one or more embodiments, each of the first mobile transport device and the second mobile transport device carries a respective single selected item. According to one or more embodiments, the system includes a plurality of additional mobile transport devices. According to one or more embodiments, the control server 126 is configured to direct the plurality of additional mobile transport devices. The control server 126 is further configured to direct the plurality of additional mobile transport devices so that the mobile transport devices do not collide with each other.

[0135] According to one or more embodiments, the system includes a first item supply location, wherein the first item supply location includes a plurality of items to be delivered and sorted extracted from an order of a first item storage location of an item distribution center, and a second item supply location, wherein the second item supply location includes a plurality of items to be delivered and sorted extracted from an order of a second item storage location of an item distribution center. The product type of each item is determined by interacting with an information acquisition device having an identifier at the respective first item supply location and the second item supply location. The platform assembly includes a platform raised from a proximal surface. The platform defines an opening and a target container located near the platform opening. First and second computer-controlled mobile transport devices, each device having a first position, wherein selected items are stored around the mobile transport device, and a second position, wherein the selected items are stored in the proximal container by manipulating a bracket of the device carrying the selected items, and the selected items are stored in the second position. The first mobile transport device traverses the platform and is positioned at the proximal end of the opening to deposit the selected items in the target container by manipulating from the first position to the second position. The control server 126 is configured to receive orders for a plurality of different items. After the items are delivered and sorted and pulled from one or more item storage locations of the item delivery center or directly from one or more trucks, different items are found in the first and second item supply locations. The control server 126 is configured to determine a first target container among a plurality of receiving containers to instruct the first mobile transport device to store the selected items. The first destination container corresponds to an order for a first business. The control server 126 is configured to instruct the first mobile transport device to transport the selected items to the first target container, and to move the items from the first position to the second position by manipulating the support of the first mobile transport device to store the selected items in the target container, and to determine a second target container among a plurality of target containers to instruct the second mobile transport device to store different selected items from the first or second item supply location according to the determined product type. The second target container corresponds to an order for a second business. The control server 126 is configured to instruct the second mobile transport device to transport different selected items to the target container, and to move different selected items from the first position to the second position by manipulating the support of the second mobile transport device to store different selected items in the target container, and to determine when the purchase order is completed.

[0136] According to one or more embodiments, the control server 126 is further configured to determine a feature of one of the items by interacting with the items using the information acquisition device, wherein the feature includes one of the size, color, deformation or other defects of the item.

[0137] The above description is only a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the protection scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Within the technical scope disclosed by the present invention, any modification or replacement that a person skilled in the art can think of shall belong to the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of the present invention shall be based on the protection scope of the attached claims.

Claims

1. An article conveying and sorting system, comprising: an item supply location for a plurality of items to be sorted; an elevated track network of a plurality of track segments, at least one track segment being located adjacent to a supply location of the item; a self-guided, self-propelled suspension vehicle configured to travel bi-directionally along a plurality of track segments, the suspension vehicle having a first position in which a carrier containing at least one selected object is engaged with the suspension vehicle, and a second position in which the carrier is disengaged from the suspension vehicle and the selected object is unloaded from the suspension vehicle; A controller configured to: Receive orders; determining a first delivery location among a plurality of delivery locations, and selecting at least one object and its carrier by means of a hanging vehicle according to the selected target location; directing the suspension vehicle to deliver the carrier to the first delivery location; directing delivery of at least one of the carrier and the selected item at a first delivery location by manipulating the suspension vehicle from the first location to the second location; directing a mobile transport device to travel on a platform raised from a proximal surface to transport and sort at least one of the carrier and the selected item at a first delivery location into a receiving container proximate to the platform, wherein the platform is a continuous flat surface, wherein the receiving container corresponds to the order, the mobile transport device including wheels that contact the platform when the mobile transport device travels on the platform; and Determine when the order is completed.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that Also included is an information acquisition device configured to interact with an identifier associated with the selected item, and a destination of at least one of the carrier and the selected item is determined based on the interaction of the information acquisition device with the identifier.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The carrier and the selected items are delivered at the first delivery location and the carrier is not separated from the suspension vehicle.

4. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The controller is further configured to deposit at least one of the carrier and the selected object by manipulating the mobile transport device from the third position to the fourth position so as to receive at least one of the carrier and the selected object in the receiving container.

5. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The controller is further configured to direct a transfer of at least one of the carrier and the selected article through the mechanical sorter, wherein the controller is further configured to direct the mechanical sorter to deposit at least one of the carrier and the selected article in a receiving container.

6. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The controller is further configured to direct the transfer of the at least one selected item through a manual process, and the controller is further configured to generate a notification for the human being associated with the carrier and an identification of a receiving container into which the at least one of the selected items is to be deposited.

7. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The suspended vehicle is configured to one or more of: turn, merge, and stop anywhere along the plurality of track segments.

8. The system according to claim 1 or 7, characterized in that: The suspended vehicle also includes a pick-up mechanism attached thereto, the pick-up mechanism configured to engage and disengage the carrier, the pick-up mechanism configured to be manually disengaged from the carrier by an operator on the ground, the operator being one or more of a human and a robot.

9. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The at least one item includes a plurality of items associated with a plurality of order batches.

10. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The first delivery location includes an elevator configured to transport at least one of the carrier and the selected item to or below the floor.

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