Article storage unit, warehouse and method of self-moving or transportable type

Abstract

A transportable or self-moving article storage unit (1), comprising: a frame (2); containers (3) for articles (A), each container comprising a first portion (31), a second portion (32) and an opening (33); and a support system (5) supporting the containers (3) in such a way that the containers (3) can be moved according to a closed-loop path, the containers (3) overlapping each other in a first portion (50d) and the containers (3) overlapping each other in a second portion (50e), the container (3) has a first portion (31) in the first portion (50d) above the second portion (32), a second portion (32) in the second portion (50e) above the first portion (31), an opening (33) in the first portion (50d) towards the direction of the container (3) away from the second portion (50e), and an opening (33) in the lower portion (50b) towards the ground (G) in order to drop the articles (A). The container (3) and the path are configured to prevent falling into the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of logistics technology, and in particular to the management of items in warehouses; the term "warehouse" includes a variety of situations, such as a warehouse serving an industrial facility, a warehouse serving a point of sale, and a warehouse serving a logistics center.

[0002] In more detail, the present invention relates to a self-moving or transportable object storage unit, as well as a warehouse and method for collecting objects. The present invention also relates to a self-moving object storage unit or a system including a transportable object storage unit and a method for collecting objects. The present invention can meet both functional requirements with a great degree of flexibility, such as responding to requirements related to known processes, such as inbound logistics, dynamic storage solutions, automatic feeding, downstream logistics and sorting according to the terms widely used in this field. Background Art

[0003] For example, it is known from EP 1920396 A2 to use self-moving or transportable shelf units to temporarily store various items, for example in a logistics center for collecting, packaging and dispatching the stored items. In a common method, items from different suppliers are identified and cataloged, for example by reading bar codes, temporarily stored in shelf units, and a location stored by a warehouse management system is assigned to the item, the item is collected according to the stored location, introduced into a receiver, and then prepared for shipment. The location of the item is usually defined by an identification code, for example, by a bar code carried by the shelf unit. The receiver can be used according to multiple logics, for example for collecting items belonging to the same order or for collecting items belonging to different orders. A variety of methods and systems for storing items and managing items in a warehouse are known, many of which have been proposed in patent applications.

[0004] Typically, upon import, the items are separated and catalogued by the assignment of an identification code which is usually associated with other data such as their mass and dimensions.

[0005] While warehouses including automated collection of items are widely known, in the case of self-moving or transportable shelf units this collection is performed manually and with a limited level of automation or requires expensive types of automation, such as anthropomorphic robots.

[0006] Currently available self-moving or transportable racking units can reach different stations, but for each collection or unloading of items, a new identification of the items is corresponding. When conveyors (e.g., belt conveyors) are used to transport items between stations, several identifications are also achieved; in addition, the presence of belt conveyors limits the space available for logistics.

[0007] In other words, once an item is collected from a shelf unit, the stored location is no longer used; the tracking is removed and the need arises to assign and store a new location on each displacement of the item after identification.

[0008] EP 3256290 B1 Special reference Figure 3 B and 3C describe an object storage unit of the self-moving or transportable type, comprising a frame, containers for objects arranged to form first and second columns, and a system for moving the containers between a first inclined position to avoid the objects falling and a second position inclined towards the ground, which facilitates collection by a collection system. The solution of EP 3256290 B1 facilitates the collection of objects, but does not facilitate loading and unloading of objects as a whole. Moreover, the above system has significant dimensions relative to the volume of the objects stored. Summary of the invention

[0009] The present invention aims to obviate one or more disadvantages of prior art solutions.

[0010] The first purpose is to simplify the management of items temporarily stored in warehouses.

[0011] The second purpose is to simplify loading and / or collection from the warehouse, as well as transfer within the warehouse.

[0012] It is another object of some embodiments to simplify the design and / or management of warehouses.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus capable of efficiently carrying out the multiple activities of the process without requiring any special modifications.

[0014] Another object of the invention is to provide a basic device that can be easily customized in a step of implementation or reconfiguration.

[0015] These and other objects, which will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art reading the following, are achieved by an object storage unit, an object storage system, an object warehouse or a method for collecting objects according to the claims. The object storage unit is self-moving or transportable; in the case where it is transportable, i.e. does not have its own displacement means making it self-moving, it is part of an object storage system or is part of an object warehouse comprising displacement means for displacing the storage unit.

[0016] According to the teachings of this specification, an object storage unit includes a frame, containers for objects, and a support system.

[0017] Each container includes a first portion, a second portion, and an opening between the first portion and the second portion for entry and exit of items.

[0018] The support system advantageously supports the container in a manner such that:

[0019] The container is movable relative to the frame according to a closed loop path having an upper portion, a lower portion, a first portion extending in a vertical direction, and a second portion extending in the vertical direction, wherein both the upper portion and the lower portion are interposed between the first portion and the second portion;

[0020] The plurality of containers overlap each other in the first portion, and the plurality of containers overlap each other in the second portion;

[0021] Each container has a first portion above the second portion in the first section, a second portion above the first portion in the second section, and an opening in the first section facing away from the container in the second section.

[0022] Furthermore, the container and the path are configured such that the second portion of the first section and the first portion of the second section are horizontal or inclined relative to a horizontal plane to prevent items from falling.

[0023] In the step of implementation or reconfiguration, similar storage units of items can be easily customized as shown in detail in the detailed description and by way of example in the accompanying drawings so that they can be observed.

[0024] Typically, but not necessarily, the support system supports the containers in such a manner that each container has an opening facing away from the ground in the lower portion so that the contents fall by gravity.

[0025] The object storage unit may include movement means for moving the support system to move the container relative to the frame.

[0026] According to the teachings of the present specification, an item warehouse includes at least one item storage unit according to the present specification, a moving device for moving a support system so as to move a container relative to a frame (which may be part of an item storage unit), a displacement device for shifting the frame of at least one item storage unit (which may be part of a corresponding item storage unit), a first station for loading and / or collecting items, a storage area of ​​at least one item storage unit (and / or a second station for loading and / or collecting items), and a warehouse management system for controlling the displacement device and the moving device.

[0027] According to the teachings of this specification, the method comprises the following steps:

[0028] Providing at least one object storage unit according to the present description;

[0029] Provide items;

[0030] placing the items in containers in the second section and / or the first section; and

[0031] Collect items.

[0032] Preferably, but not necessarily, the step of collecting the objects comprises moving the support system until the container containing it is in the lower part. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] In the following part of the specification, specific embodiments of the invention are described according to what is stated in the claims and with the help of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 shows a perspective side view of one embodiment of an object storage unit according to the present invention;

[0035] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 Details of embodiments of the invention;

[0036] Figures 3 to 5 Shows Figure 1 Automatic loading sequence of embodiments;

[0037] Figures 6 to 8 Shows Figure 1 Automatic collection order of embodiments;

[0038] Fig. 9 A perspective view showing two units or modules of another embodiment of an object storage unit according to the present invention;

[0039] Fig.10 Shows Fig. 9 A perspective view of a unit of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Fig.11 and Fig.12 Shows Fig. 9 Details of embodiments of the present invention, in which some elements are excluded to facilitate understanding of functional and structural features;

[0041] Fig.13 Shows a cut of all containers according to a vertical plane Fig. 9 A cross section of a container of an embodiment (without background);

[0042] Fig.14 Shows Fig. 9 A perspective view of a unit of an embodiment of the present invention in a first station;

[0043] Fig.15 Shown from Fig.14 Details from different viewpoints;

[0044] Fig.16 A first station of an embodiment of an article warehouse according to the present invention is shown;

[0045] Fig.17 shows a perspective view from above of an embodiment of an article warehouse according to the present invention;

[0046] Fig.18 Shows Fig.17 A perspective side view of an embodiment of;

[0047] Fig.19 A schematic diagram showing another embodiment of an article warehouse according to the present invention viewed from above is shown;

[0048] Fig. 20 and Fig.21 are schematic diagrams of some embodiments of object storage units according to the present invention.

[0049] Fig. 22 A perspective side view of another embodiment of a transportable object storage unit according to the present invention is shown, the object storage unit being part of an object storage system, the object storage unit including a vertically movable temporary storage bin and being shown in a loading and / or unloading position in which the object storage unit can receive objects from a container by gravity;

[0050] Fig.23 A perspective side view of another embodiment of a self-moving object storage unit according to the present invention is shown, the self-moving storage unit comprising Fig. 22 The temporary storage warehouse mentioned in;

[0051] Fig.24 yes Fig. 22 A perspective side view of a self-moving object storage unit;

[0052] Fig.25 yes Fig.23 A perspective side view of a self-moving object storage unit;

[0053] Fig.26 The objects are received by gravity. Fig. 22 or Fig.23 A perspective view of a temporary storage bin of an item storage unit;

[0054] Fig. 27 Shows Fig.26 A perspective side view of the positioning of items in a shelf unit;

[0055] Fig.28 yes Fig. 22A perspective side view of an item storage unit in front of a shelf unit, this view being an example of vertical movement of a temporary storage bin to locate or retrieve items from the shelf unit and to locate the temporary storage bin at a container;

[0056] Fig.29 yes Fig. 22 A perspective side view of an item storage unit in front of a shelving unit, which shows an example of the steps for extracting items from the shelving unit;

[0057] Fig.30 yes Fig. 22 A perspective side view of an item storage unit in front of a shelf unit, the shelf unit giving the following Fig.28 and Fig.29 An instance of the step of filling a container;

[0058] Fig.31 So with Figure 5 In a similar manner, the Fig. 22 a perspective side view of an item storage unit;

[0059] Fig.32 yes Fig.31 Perspective side views of the example scene from different viewpoints;

[0060] Fig.33 A perspective view of a unit of an article warehouse having an article storage unit according to the invention is shown, in which a Fig.30 and Fig.31 The scene shown in is visible;

[0061] Fig.34 yes Fig.23 A perspective side view of a self-moving base of an object storage unit;

[0062] Fig.35 yes Fig.34 Perspective views of the self-moving base from different viewpoints. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] Referring to the drawings, reference numeral 1 denotes an object storage unit (1) which is self-mobile or transportable without distinguishing between the various embodiments shown below and in the drawings. The cited references are for facilitating the understanding of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0064] In the case of a self-moving object storage unit (1), preferably, the object storage unit comprises drive wheels (73a).

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the object storage unit (1) comprises a self-moving base (73) comprising a plurality of drive wheels (73a), a control unit (73d) for controlling the drive wheels (73a), and a battery unit (73c) for powering the control unit (73d) and the drive wheels (73a). Fig.34 and 35 In the invention, the self-moving base (73) further comprises a steering wheel (73b), a navigation device (73e) functionally associated with the control unit (73d), a command panel (73f) including a safety switch, and an anti-collision sensor (73g).

[0066] In the case of a transportable object storage unit (1), the frame (2) preferably comprises a plurality of support feet (200) for resting on the ground (G); these support feet are particularly useful because they provide a volume below the container (3) for displacement means. These displacement means preferably comprise at least one automated guided vehicle or self-driving vehicle (71). As known to those skilled in the art, a group of automated guided vehicles or self-driving vehicles (71) can interchangeably move a plurality of object storage units (1) and / or have the possibility of making an object storage unit (1) not associated with any automated guided vehicle or self-driving vehicle (71) for a period of time.

[0067] One embodiment of an object storage unit (1) of the self-moving or transportable type comprises a frame (2), a plurality of containers (3) for objects (A), and a support system (5) for supporting the containers (3).

[0068] Each container (3) comprises a first portion (31), a second portion (32), and an opening (33) between the first portion (31) and the second portion (32) for entry and exit of articles (A).

[0069] The support system (5) advantageously supports the containers (3) in such a manner that it is configured such that:

[0070] The container (3) is movable relative to the frame (2) according to a closed loop path, the closed loop path having an upper portion (50a), a lower portion (50b), a first portion (50d) extending in a vertical direction, and a second portion (50e) extending in a vertical direction, wherein both the upper portion (50a) and the lower portion (50b) are interposed between the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e);

[0071] A plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the first portion (50d), and a plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the second portion (50e);

[0072] Each container has a first portion (31) above the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d), a second portion (32) above the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e), an opening (33) in the first portion (50d) facing in a direction of the container (3) away from the second portion (50e), and an opening (33) in the lower portion (50b) facing away from the ground (G) so as to cause the falling of the item (A) by gravity.

[0073] Furthermore, the container (3) and the path are configured so that the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d) and the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e) are horizontal or inclined relative to the horizontal plane (H) to prevent the item (A) from falling.

[0074] The object storage unit (1) facilitates the automation of the handling of objects (A) in the warehouse (100) and can be advantageously used in several steps of the process and / or area of ​​the objects (A) in the warehouse (100).

[0075] The objects (A) are stored at a height, reducing the floor space occupied, and have a structure that enables good flexibility both in loading and collection, as will be explained more fully below.

[0076] An embodiment of a self-moving object storage unit (1) comprises a frame (2), a container (3) for objects (A), a displacement device for moving the frame (2) in space, a support system (5) for supporting the container (3), and a moving device (6) for moving the support system (5) so as to move the container (3) relative to the frame (2).

[0077] The displacement device moves the frame (2) between at least a first spatial position and a second spatial position, and typically moves the frame (2) between a plurality of different points in the warehouse (100) of items (A).

[0078] Each container (3) comprises a first portion (31), a second portion (32), and an opening (33) between the first portion (31) and the second portion (32) for entry and exit of articles (A).

[0079] The support system (5) advantageously supports the container (3) in the following manner, or is configured so that:

[0080] The container (3) is movable relative to the frame (2) according to a closed loop path, the closed loop path having an upper portion (50a), a lower portion (50b), a vertically extending first portion (50d), and a vertically extending second portion (50e), wherein both the upper portion (50a) and the lower portion (50b) are interposed between the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e);

[0081] A plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the first portion (50d), and a plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the second portion (50e);

[0082] Each container has a first portion (31) above the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d), a second portion (32) above the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e), and an opening (33) in the first portion (50d) facing in a direction of the container (3) away from the second portion (50e).

[0083] Furthermore, the container (3) and the path are configured so that the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d) and the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e) are preferably horizontal or inclined relative to the horizontal plane (H) to prevent the item (A) from falling.

[0084] The invention also relates to a system for storing objects (A).

[0085] One embodiment of an object (A) storage system comprises a transportable object storage unit (1) and a displacement device.

[0086] The transportable object storage unit (1) comprises a frame (2) and a plurality of containers (3) for objects (A), each container comprising a first portion (31), a second portion (32), and an opening (33) between the first portion (31) and the second portion (32) for entry and exit of the objects (A). A displacement device moves the frame (2) at least between a first spatial position and a second spatial position, and typically moves the frame (2) between a plurality of different points in an object (A) warehouse (100).

[0087] Similar to the above, the transportable object storage unit (1) includes a support system (5) that supports the container (3) in the following manner, or is configured in the following manner so that:

[0088] The container (3) is movable relative to the frame (2) according to a closed loop path, the closed loop path having an upper portion (50a), a lower portion (50b), a vertically extending first portion (50d), and a vertically extending second portion (50e), wherein both the upper portion (50a) and the lower portion (50b) are interposed between the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e);

[0089] A plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the first portion (50d), and a plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the second portion (50e);

[0090] Each container has a first portion (31) above the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d), a second portion (32) above the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e), and an opening (33) in the first portion (50d) facing in a direction of the container (3) away from the second portion (50e).

[0091] Furthermore, the container (3) and the path are configured so that the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d) and the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e) are preferably horizontal or inclined relative to the horizontal plane (H) to prevent the item (A) from falling.

[0092] Whether the item storage unit (1) is self-mobile or transportable, it helps to automate the operation of items (A) in the warehouse (100) and can be advantageously used in several steps of the process and / or area of ​​items (A) in the warehouse (100).

[0093] The objects (A) are stored at a height, reducing the floor space occupied, and have a structure that enables good flexibility both in loading and collection, as will be explained more fully below.

[0094] In view of the substantial overlap in the characteristics and advantages of the self-moving item storage unit (1) and the item (A) storage system, the present specification will describe them as if they were the same, because the characteristics of the displacement device are different from each other, and because the item (A) storage system having an autonomously driven vehicle connected to the transportable item storage unit (1) is substantially equivalent to the self-moving item storage unit (1).

[0095] For each of the embodiments of the aforementioned object storage unit (1), i.e., of the self-moving or transportable type, self-moving or transportable, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that there are a number of possible variations of the support system (5) that enable the containers (3) to be supported as described above, i.e., using different moving members relative to the frame (2) and / or different connections between the containers (3) and the same moving member. Merely by way of example, each individual container (3) may be independently movable along a guide rail by means of the device, or the containers (3) may be coupled to the same member, or the containers (3) may be fixed relative to the device or member, or may be movable relative to one of the device or member. In addition, Fig. 20 and Fig.21 Schematically shows how the falling of an object (A) can be avoided by acting on the shape of the container (3) and / or on the path. In these figures, different lines are used to identify the first part (31) and the second part (32), wherein the angle of inclination relative to the horizontal plane (H) and / or relative to the container (3) is indicated, wherein the first part (31) and the second part (32) are perpendicular to the path. Fig. 20 It is shown how the cross-section of the container (3) can decrease towards the opening (34) in order to prevent the items (A) from falling out. Fig.21 It is shown how the inclination of the path can be used for the same purpose.

[0096] Some preferred features are described below; Figure 1 and Fig. 9 Preferred embodiments are shown to simplify implementation and / or achieve other advantages.

[0097] As clearly shown in the drawings, the path is designed to stack the articles (A) vertically, ie so that there are a large number of containers (3) in the first section (50d) and the second section (50e).

[0098] It is explicitly pointed out that in this specification, the expression "in the portion" is equivalent to "at the position of the portion", that is, it indicates the portion of the path being traversed.

[0099] The opening (33) in the removal direction simplifies side loading, and more preferably, the support system (5) supports the containers (3) so that each container (3) in the second part (50e) has an opening (33) facing in the removal direction away from the containers in the first part (50d).

[0100] This feature is preferably obtained by having the container (3) firmly constrained to a portion of the flexible mechanism (51, 52) of the support system (5), with the opening (33) facing the direction of movement away from the path.

[0101] The openings (33) on both sides enable greater control of the object storage unit (1), for example when the storage unit (1) is paused in the storage area (103).

[0102] Preferably, at least one, more preferably both, of the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e) are perpendicular to the horizontal plane (H), so that Fig. 20 The footprint on the ground is reduced as schematically shown in FIG.

[0103] At least one and preferably both of the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e) are preferably inclined relative to the vertical plane (V) in such a way that the path widens towards the lower portion (50b). In this case, the likelihood of the object (A) falling is reduced, especially when the container (3) is constrained to a portion of the flexible means (51, 52), such as in Fig.21 can be seen in.

[0104] In theory, Fig. 20 and Fig.21The configuration may be combined, for example, with a vertical first portion (50d) and an inclined second portion (50e).

[0105] The inclined portion makes the exit of the object (A) more difficult and / or enables the use of a container (3) having a cross section that widens towards the opening (33). This possibility can be exploited to make the container (3) easier to realize by molding and / or to limit the displacement of the object (A) in the movement of the container (3) given an equal opening (33).

[0106] The self-mobile object storage unit (1) or transportable object storage unit (1) preferably includes a temporary storage bin (20).

[0107] Temporary storage warehouse (20):

[0108] comprising a first inlet (21) for passing an article (A) on a first side;

[0109] comprising a second inlet (22) for passing articles (A) on a second side opposite to the first side;

[0110] It comprises a conveying device for conveying the article (A) through the first entrance (21) and / or for conveying the article (A) through the second entrance (22).

[0111] It is vertically movable relative to the frame (2) from at least one loading and / or unloading position (CS), in which the first access opening (21) is directed towards the opening (33) so as to be able to transfer objects (A) from the container (3) and / or towards the container (3).

[0112] The temporary storage bin (20) ensures further flexibility and facilitates operation, and allows items (A) to be placed in or removed from conventional shelving units. Fig.18 and Fig.33 The comparison makes it possible to understand how various variants of the warehouse (100) for items (A) utilizing the invention are possible and how the temporary storage bin (20) can interact with conventional type of shelf units or in any case differ from the shelf units of the invention.

[0113] exist Fig.24 and 32 Different positions of at least one loading and / or unloading position (CS) are shown.

[0114] Figures 22 to 24 An example of receiving an object (A) from a container (3) is shown so that the height of the object (A) relative to the ground can be changed thereafter according to the destination. Specifically, Fig.26The article is shown being received by gravity (ie, falling under its own weight) (A).

[0115] Fig. 27 The process of placing an item (A) using a temporary storage bin (20) after moving from a first station (101) to a second station (102) is shown.

[0116] exist Fig.28 In the temporary storage bin (20), the temporary storage bin (20) is relative to Fig. 22 and Fig.24 Raised; this position illustrates the positioning and retrieval position of an item (A) from a shelf unit.

[0117] Fig. 22 Blocking means (11) are not shown, but they may clearly be present, including in conjunction with one or more doors (10), such as Fig.23 situation.

[0118] Fig.29 The extraction of the item (A) by means of the pick-up unit (26) is shown. The filling of the container (3) generally follows the vertical displacement of the temporary storage bin (20), as in Fig.29 (Extraction step) and Fig.30 (Step of filling the container (3)) is shown by way of example in the comparison between FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 . In this regard, it can be observed that, although the filling of the container (3) can theoretically take place at any height, it preferably takes place at a lower position in the case where the first portion (50d) is inclined relative to the vertical plane (V).

[0119] Fig.31 and 32 The inbound logistics step is shown. In this case, the temporary storage bin (20) may not be used and the filling is carried out on the second portion (50e). However, its presence may be useful to ensure the correct positioning of the items (A) inside the container (3). In fact, the temporary storage bin (20) guarantees a precise positioning relative to the opening (33), making it possible to use a loading device of a common type, for example at a ground level different from the optimal height for filling the container (3) from the belt conveyor (91).

[0120] The temporary storage bin (20) may have a third entrance (23) which is oriented more in the direction of movement away from the ground (G) so as to receive items (A) from above, in which case the filling of items (A) is also facilitated by an inappropriate loading device or an inappropriately suitable loading device for direct loading of the container (3).

[0121] Fig.33The flexibility of the warehouse (100) for articles (A) is shown, and the warehouse also includes two machines for boxing or packaging articles (A) in the center and at the bottom. A temporary storage bin (20) can also be used to position articles (A) on these machines, but preferably gravity unloading is used, as described below.

[0122] On the side of the first portion (50d), the frame (2) preferably comprises two vertical columns relative to which the temporary storage bin (20) moves.

[0123] Many warehouse moving devices can be used to move the temporary storage bin (20), such as a rack lift. The storage moving device preferably includes a motor (20a) and a vertical linear guide rail (20d). In the accompanying drawings, the storage moving device also includes a moving belt (20c) that carries the temporary storage bin (20) and a chain drive (20b) that transmits motion from the motor (20a) to the moving belt (20c).

[0124] With regard to the temporary storage bin (20), which can move vertically on the column and rotate relative to the column, a simple and effective implementation is achieved by connecting the temporary storage bin (20) to the frame (2) so as to move vertically in front of the first part (50d) and translate vertically in front of the first part (50d).

[0125] As already mentioned above, the vertical mobility enables reaching a position of minimum distance between the first inlet ( 21 ) and the opening ( 33 ) in order to facilitate the filling of the container ( 3 ) and possibly its reception from the container ( 3 ).

[0126] Many conveying devices are known; in the prior art, gripping devices are usually used, which pick up and release. Gripping devices in the prior art can be used to receive from containers (3), position on shelf units, extract from shelf units and fill containers (3).

[0127] A faster and / or more robust object storage unit (1) is obtained by a transfer device, which comprises a belt conveyor and at least one baffle (25a, 25b), the belt conveyor comprising a movable belt (24) towards a second entrance (22) and / or towards a first entrance (21), the baffle extending from the belt (24) in order to push the object (A) beyond the second entrance (22) and / or beyond the first entrance (21).

[0128] In the present specification, the term "baffle (25a, 25b)" refers to any element formed in such a way that, once positioned on the belt (24), it contacts the article (A) so as to push it when the article (A) does not follow the movement of the belt (24); in the reference part, various terms are generally used for the parts that succeed in pushing the article (A) from the outlet of the belt (A) under any circumstances.

[0129] like Fig. 27 and Fig.29 As shown, at least one stopper (25a, 25b) ensures that the article (A) is positioned or goes to fill the container (3). This is particularly useful when filling the container (3), but can also be useful when positioning on the shelf unit.

[0130] The presence of a belt conveyor is well suited to receiving the items from the container (3), which occurs under the action of gravity, especially when the container (3) is deep, for example having a depth twice the length of the item (A). In these cases, it would be difficult to collect the container (3) using a gripping device.

[0131] The belt conveyor includes a motor which may be integral with the rollers that move the belt (24) or external to the rollers.

[0132] The belt (24) can be managed with baffles (25a, 25b), and in this case, Fig. 27 and Fig.29 At least one baffle (25a, 25b) is identical and is interposed between the free portion (PL1) and the free portion (PL2). By using two baffles of at least one baffle (25a, 25b), the free portion (PL1) and the free portion (PL2) can be identical, and the inbound logistics operation is accelerated.

[0133] The conveying device preferably comprises a picking unit (26) for collecting the objects (A), the picking unit (26) being movable so as to convey the objects (A) through the second inlet (22).

[0134] like Fig.29 As shown in the example in , the picking unit ( 26 ) enables the extraction of an item (A) from the shelf unit so that the item (A) can be returned to the free portion ( PL2 ) via the second entrance ( 22 ).

[0135] The foregoing includes a discussion of the possibility that the picking unit (26) is movable so as to transfer the objects (A) towards and / or from the container (3) through the first inlet (21).

[0136] The picking unit (26) preferably includes a first hand (26a) and a second hand (26b), the first hand (26a) and the second hand (26b) being movable relative to each other to pick up the article (A). In a preferred embodiment, as shown in the example in the accompanying drawings, the first hand (26a) and the second hand (26b) are movable along a first linear guide (26c), the first linear guide (26c) being arranged perpendicular to the direction connecting the first entrance (21) and the second entrance (22), and the first linear guide (26c) is movable on a second linear guide (26d), the second linear guide (26d) being arranged perpendicularly, i.e., along the direction connecting the first entrance (21) and the second entrance (22).

[0137] The support system (5) of the self-movable object storage unit (1) or transportable object storage unit (1) preferably supports the containers (3) in such a manner that each container has an opening (33) facing away from the ground (G) in the lower part (50b) so as to allow the objects (A) to fall under the action of gravity.

[0138] This mode of receiving the article (A) from the container speeds up and simplifies the implementation and use of the present invention. For example, in the case where the first part (50d) and / or the second part (50e) are inclined relative to the vertical plane (V), the falling of the article (A) towards the temporary storage bin (20) by gravity avoids the problem of transferring the article (A) towards the container (3) and / or from the container (3) through the first entrance (21).

[0139] For each embodiment of the aforementioned storage unit for items (1), i.e. of the self-moving or transportable type, the support system (5) preferably comprises at least one flexible mechanism (51, 52) to which the container (3) is fixed so as to achieve a closed-loop path in a simple manner.

[0140] More preferably, at least one flexible means (51, 52) is a chain or a belt or a strap, in the broadest definition, i.e. including a mesh belt, e.g. metal, lath, net, etc. Figure 1 As schematically shown in FIG. 1 , the container ( 3 ) can be directly fixed to the flexible mechanism ( 51 ), which can be a belt, such as Figure 1 The situation in.

[0141] However, other particularly effective and / or simple forms are also possible.

[0142] For each embodiment, as can be seen in Fig. 9As observed in the figure, the support system (5) may include a first flexible mechanism (51) having a plurality of accessories (51a), and a second flexible mechanism (52) having a plurality of accessories (52a), the second flexible mechanism being positioned away from the first flexible mechanism (51), wherein the container (3) is directly or indirectly fixed to the accessories (51a, 52b) of the first flexible mechanism (51) and the second flexible mechanism (52).

[0143] The support system (5) more preferably comprises a plurality of connecting elements (53), and each connecting element (53) is fixed to at least one accessory (51a) of the first flexible mechanism (51), to at least one accessory (52a) of the second flexible mechanism (52) and to the corresponding container (3).

[0144] Each connecting element (53) is preferably fixed to the container (3) on opposite sides of the opening (33).

[0145] At least one flexible mechanism (51, 52) having multiple accessories can be, for example, a flexible mechanism having multiple wings; preferably, but not necessarily, having Fig.11 and 12 The chain of the wing shown in .

[0146] For each embodiment, the container (3) preferably includes a base (34) opposite to the opening (33), and the first portion (31) and the second portion (32) extend from the base (34) opposite to each other relative to the base (34). In this case, the connecting element (53) is preferably fixed to the base (34). For example, in Fig.12 In the case of the connection element (53) being received at the base (34), Fig.13 The bulges can be seen between the

[0147] In other versions, the connecting element (53) and / or at least one flexible mechanism (51, 52) can be used to prevent the withdrawal of the object (A).

[0148] The container (3) is preferably shaped as a bag or a basket.

[0149] The container (3) is preferably made by molding and has a first portion (31) and a second portion (32) which widen from a base (34) toward an opening (33) to facilitate molding.

[0150] The advantages obtained from the first portion (31) and the second portion (32) have been discussed above, and regardless of the specific embodiment, the first portion (31) and the second portion (32) widen toward the opening (33), such as Fig.21 The interior lines of the container shown schematically are shown.

[0151] For each embodiment, the support system (5) preferably includes a pulley or upper roller (54) and a pulley or lower roller (55), both of which are rotatable relative to the frame (2) and connected to at least one flexible mechanism (51, 52).

[0152] Typically, the upper portion (50) corresponds to the engagement portion between the pulley or upper roller (54) and at least one flexible mechanism (51, 52), and the lower portion (50b) corresponds to the engagement between the pulley or lower roller (55) and at least one flexible mechanism (51, 52).

[0153] The pulley or upper roller (54) and the pulley or lower roller (55) preferably have their axes of rotation lying in the same vertical plane (V), i.e. they are superposed on each other and the pulley or upper roller (54) has a smaller diameter than the pulley or lower roller (55) so that both the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e) are inclined relative to the vertical plane (V) so that the path is in a direction parallel to the vertical plane (V). Fig.21 The structure widens in a similar manner towards the lower portion (50b).

[0154] The moving means (6) can be carried by the frame (2) or by the self-moving base (73), for example, they can include a motor coupled to a pulley or lower roller (55) or integrated in the pulley or lower roller (55), or a reducer. These configurations have a series of negative consequences, among which are a greater empty mass of the object storage unit (1), costs, the need for energy, and limited use in terms of time of the motor or reducer in the event that the object storage unit stops in the storage area (102).

[0155] The motor can also be carried by an automated guided vehicle or automated driving vehicle (71), with consequences for its mass, transportable mass and energy reserves.

[0156] Furthermore, in the presence of battery cells (73c) or energy reserves of an automated guided vehicle or automated driving vehicle, it may be advantageous to have another energy source available.

[0157] For each embodiment, the support system (5) preferably includes a coupling device for coupling the pulley or lower roller (55) or the pulley or upper roller (54), more preferably the pulley or lower roller (55), to a different further moving device (6) (i.e. external) of the object storage unit (1) in order to move these containers (3) relative to the frame (2). The coupling device includes a couplable gear device (56). The couplable gear device (56) is preferably mounted on the axis of the pulley or lower roller (55), or the coupling device includes a connecting shaft between them. The couplable gear device (56) can be configured, for example, to engage a motion transmission device installed at a station (101, 102) for loading and / or collecting objects (A), or another device for transmitting the motion carried by a displacement device for displacing the object storage unit (1), such as an automatic guided vehicle or an automatic driving vehicle (71).

[0158] If you can Fig.15 and 16 As can be seen in the drawings, the coupleable gear means (56) can be a large gear. In these figures, the motor (61) of the further moving means (6) can be seen. Fig.24 and 25 The motor 61 of the movement device 6 carried by the frame 2 is shown.

[0159] The object storage unit (1) preferably comprises a blocking device (11) at the lower portion (50b), the blocking device being configured to prevent the object (A) from exiting from the opening (33).

[0160] By means of the blocking device (11), at least one collection point or area of ​​the objects (50c) can be determined with greater accuracy.

[0161] The blocking means (11) is preferably firmly constrained to the frame (2). For example, the blocking means (11) may comprise a portion identified as similar to a path preventing the object (A) from leaving.

[0162] The blocking means (11) may comprise or be coated with an anti-friction material facing towards the container (3).

[0163] The blocking means (11) preferably comprises one or more walls, for example made of steel sheets or by moulding.

[0164] The self-moving object storage unit (1) preferably includes a door (10) for passage of objects (A), the door (10) being movable between a closed position and an open position, in which the door (10) prevents passage of the objects (A), and in which the door (10) allows passage of the objects (A).

[0165] A door (10) or doors are arranged in the lower portion (50b).

[0166] The door (10) is preferably made at the blocking device (11), such as at Figure 6 or Fig.23 In both figures, the door (10) is in the open position.

[0167] Through the door (10), it is possible to intersect the lower part (50b) with the container (3) containing the articles (A). This is useful in various situations, for example in sorting.

[0168] Each embodiment is advantageously applied in an item (A) warehouse (100).

[0169] An embodiment of an item (A) warehouse (100) includes at least one self-movable storage unit or item (A) storage system for items (1) according to the present specification, a first station (101) for loading and / or collecting items (A) and / or a second station (102) for loading and / or collecting items, and a warehouse management system (1000) for controlling a displacement device and a moving device (6).

[0170] The article (A) warehouse (100) preferably also comprises a storage area (103) of at least one article storage unit (1) and may comprise further moving means (6) for moving the support system (5) in order to move the container (3) relative to the frame (2).

[0171] The present invention also relates to an article (A) warehouse (100).

[0172] An embodiment of an item (A) warehouse (100) includes at least one storage unit for items (1) of a self-moving or transportable type according to the present specification, a moving device (6) for moving a support system (5) so as to move a container (3) relative to a frame (2), a displacement device for shifting at least one item storage unit (1), a first station (101) for loading and / or collecting items (A), a storage area (103) of at least one item storage unit (1), and / or a second station (102) for loading and / or collecting items (A), and a warehouse management system (1000) for controlling the displacement device and the moving device (6).

[0173] The warehouse management system (1000) is of a known type and may be physical, virtual or hybrid, such as in the cloud. As an example, the warehouse management system (1000) may include an application server and data storage. The server typically includes one or more processing units or processors and at least one memory, and is configured to execute instructions. Typically, it also includes communication channels, network interfaces, graphics controllers, and input / output interfaces.

[0174] As already explained above and described in more detail below, the mobile device (6) can be carried by at least one object storage unit (1) or a storage unit different therefrom, so as to be able to supply power more easily and without reducing the storable load.

[0175] Likewise, at least one object storage unit (1) may be self-mobile or, more preferably, may be transported by means of displacement means external to it; in both cases known means are used.

[0176] The displacement means preferably comprises at least one automated guided vehicle or self-driving vehicle (71). As known to those skilled in the art, a group of automated guided vehicles or self-driving vehicles (71) can interchangeably move a plurality of object storage units (1) and / or have the possibility of making an object storage unit (1) not associated with any automated guided vehicle or self-driving vehicle (71) for a period of time.

[0177] The further movement means (6) preferably comprises a movement transmission means which is installed at the first station (101) and is configured to transmit movement to the support system (5) when the at least one object storage unit (1) is in the first station (101). The availability of the station (101, 102) is determined, for example, by Fig.14 The example site shown in , reduces the cost, quality, and complexity of implementation and management of the item storage unit (1) while having minimal impact on the implementation of the item (A) warehouse (100).

[0178] The object (A) warehouse (100) preferably comprises a guide rail (107) installed at the first station (101) to ensure the correct positioning of the object storage unit (1) and possibly the motion transmission device. The further moving device (6) preferably comprises at least one motor (61) which moves the motion transmission device and is installed at the first station (101).

[0179] The motion transmission device preferably comprises a cogwheel (62) configured to engage with the coupling device, in particular with the Fig.15 The motion transmission device preferably also includes a planetary gear.

[0180] The self-moving object storage unit (1) preferably includes a door (10) for passage of objects (A), the door (10) being movable between a closed position and an open position, in which the door (10) prevents passage and in which the door (10) allows passage, and the displacement device includes a device (72) configured to open or close the door (10).

[0181] The device (72) may be an actuator of a known type, for example for vehicles with an automatic drive (71).

[0182] In this case, the door (10) may also be actuated by an actuator of the object storage unit (1), or the actuator may be installed at the first station (101).

[0183] The article (A) warehouse (100) preferably includes a loading device for loading the articles (A) into the container (3).

[0184] The positioning of the item (A) in the container (3) may be accomplished following various logic systems. The warehouse management system (1000) may manage the movement of the item (A) toward the container (3) and / or the movement of the container (3). Figures 3 to 5 In the embodiment, the loading device has a fixed speed, for example because the operator loads the items (A) to be moved away, and the warehouse management system (1000) controls the movement of the container (3). In other versions, the loading device can also be controlled based on the availability of one or more free containers (3).

[0185] The loading device preferably has an unloading area for the articles (90) and preferably comprises a transport device or a conveyor belt, such as a belt conveyor (91), as in Figure 3 Visible in.

[0186] The warehouse management system (1000) preferably comprises an identification device for identifying the object (A) and / or a reading device for reading the identifier (4) of the container (3).

[0187] The reading device preferably comprises a barcode reader (81), which comprises a two-dimensional barcode, or a reader (81) of a radio frequency tag, which is more preferably installed at the first station (101).

[0188] The reading device can read the identifier (4) before, during or after the object (A) has been placed in the container (3), for example taking into account a movement of the container (3) that has been or has been performed.

[0189] There are many known devices that can have the function of the identification device. For example, the identification device can include a data input device or input device, a first bar code reader (92), an identification system with a camera and / or a video camera, etc. The identification device usually includes a plurality of devices integrated in the portal or station (101, 102). The identification device preferably includes a first optical bar code reader (92). The identification device more preferably includes a mass detector and / or a size detector of the item (A).

[0190] At least one article storage unit (1) preferably comprises an identifier (4) for each container (3) carried by the corresponding container (3). In this case, the warehouse management system (1000) can be configured to associate each article (A) with the identifier (4) of the container (3) containing the article. In addition, the warehouse management system (1000) can control the loading device and / or the moving device (6) and can be configured so that each container (3) contains at most one article (A). Therefore, multiple advantages are obtained in the management of articles (A) in the article (A) warehouse (100), and management is facilitated due to the relationship between the container (3) and the article (A) containing the article (A).

[0191] The article (A) warehouse (100) preferably comprises a transport device or conveyor belt (106) for the articles (A) and a plurality of stations (101, 102) of at least one article storage unit (1). The stations are arranged successively at the positions of the transport device or conveyor belt (106) so that at least one self-moving article storage unit (1) places the article (A) on the transport device or conveyor belt (106) when the transport device or conveyor belt (106) is at one of the plurality of stations (101, 102).

[0192] Thus, the objects (A) can be transported quickly and / or automatically, e.g. by Fig.17 , 18 and 19 are shown in the examples. Fig.17 and Fig.18 In the embodiment, the belt conveyor can transport the article (A) to other areas in the article (A) warehouse (100) or to several exit points with different destinations or activities.

[0193] Fig.19 An embodiment of a particularly complete warehouse (100) for items (A) is shown, the warehouse comprising a first station (101), a second station (102) having a transport device or a conveyor belt (106), a storage area (103) of at least one item storage unit (1), a warehouse management system (1000), and a first receiver (104) and a second receiver (105).

[0194] Fig.17 , Fig.18 and Fig.19 The invention is shown by way of example in the case of a storage unit for a plurality of objects (1) according to the invention.

[0195] The invention also relates to a method for collecting objects (A).

[0196] One embodiment of the method comprises the following steps:

[0197] Provide at least one embodiment of a storage unit for an item (1) or a storage system for an item (A) according to the present specification;

[0198] Provide items (A);

[0199] placing an article (A) in a container (3) in the second portion (50e) and / or the first portion (50d); and

[0200] The objects (A) are collected, preferably as long as the container containing the objects is in the lower part (50b), and the support system (5) is moved.

[0201] The storage unit for items (1) may be configured and / or used in a variety of different ways, some of which are described below.

[0202] According to the first method, loading is performed when the container (3) is located at a certain point or area of ​​the first part (50d), wherein the moving device (6) moves the container in such a way that the loaded container (3) is guided to the second part (50e) and then unloaded at a certain point or area of ​​the lower part (50b) below the second part (50e).

[0203] In the first embodiment, after the container (3) is loaded, the moving device (6) moves the container (3) in the opposite direction for unloading at a point or area of ​​the lower part (50b) below the first part (50d).

[0204] These two variants can be combined in order to have two collection points or areas (50c) for items.

[0205] According to a second method, the object storage unit (1) comprises a picking unit (26), or a temporary storage bin (20), which can collect and / or fill these containers from these containers (3); this method can be combined with the above-mentioned method.

[0206] The blocking means (11) at the lower portion (50b) enable more flexible management of the movement of the container (3), allowing one or more doors (10) to increase flexibility in terms of the collected items (A), thereby facilitating sorting.

[0207] Preferably, in the step of providing at least one embodiment of an item storage unit (1) or an item (A) storage system according to the present specification, a self-moving item storage unit (1) is provided, or an item (A) storage system is provided, the item storage system includes a temporary storage bin (20) as shown above, and the step of collecting items (A) includes the step of vertically moving the temporary storage bin (20).

[0208] The vertical movement of the temporary storage bin (20) enables the height of the loaded and / or unloaded items to be changed and enables the first entrance (21) to be placed in front of different openings (33). The advantages of the vertical movement of the temporary storage bin (20) have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0209] Preferably, in the step of providing at least one embodiment of an object storage unit (1) or an object (A) storage system according to the present specification, a transportable object storage unit (1), or an object (A) storage system is provided, the object storage system comprises a belt conveyor and at least one baffle (25a, 25b) as shown above, and the step of collecting the objects (A) comprises the following steps:

[0210] actuating the belt conveyor to position a first baffle (25a) of the at least one baffle (25a, 25b) in a retracted position so that the first baffle (25a) is located behind the free portion (PL1) of the belt (24) in the direction of movement of the belt (24) toward the second inlet (22);

[0211] unloading the container (3) onto the belt (24) so ​​as to position the article on the free portion (PL1) of the belt (24); and

[0212] The belt conveyor is actuated to move the first baffle (25a) toward the second inlet (22).

[0213] In this way, safe and fast positioning is achieved.

[0214] Preferably, in the step of providing at least one embodiment of an object storage unit (1) or an object (A) storage system according to the present specification, a transportable object storage unit (1), or an object (A) storage system is provided, the object storage system further comprising a picking unit (26) as shown above in addition to a belt conveyor and at least one baffle (25a, 25b), and the step of placing the object (A) comprises the following steps:

[0215] actuating the belt conveyor so as to position a baffle (25b) of at least one baffle (25a, 25b) in a corresponding retracted position so that the baffle is located behind the free portion (PL2) of the belt (24) in the direction of movement of the belt (24) towards the first inlet (21);

[0216] Grabbing an object (A) using a picking unit (26);

[0217] Bring the clamped object (A) to the free portion (PL2) of the belt (24);

[0218] The temporary storage bin (20) carrying the articles (A) is moved vertically until the first entrance (22) is located in front of the opening (33); and

[0219] The belt conveyor is actuated to move the baffle (25b) toward the first inlet (21).

[0220] In this way, a reliable and rapid filling of the container (3) is achieved.

[0221] Fig.31 An embodiment of the method is shown, in which, during the step of placing the objects (A), the belt conveyor is activated so that at least one baffle (25a, 25b) ensures the loading of the container (3).

[0222] Preferably, in the step of providing at least one embodiment of an object storage unit (1) or an object (A) storage system according to the present description, an object storage unit (1) of a self-moving or transportable type is provided, or a transportable object storage unit (1), or a system is provided, the system comprising a support system (5) supporting the containers (3) in such a way that or being configured so that each container has an opening (33) in the lower part (50b) facing away from the ground (G) so as to cause the objects (A) to fall by gravity, and the method comprises the following steps:

[0223] Receiving a request for a stored item (A);

[0224] The moving device (6) is actuated in order to bring the container (3) carrying the requested article (A) into the lower part (50b).

[0225] The method more preferably further comprises the following steps:

[0226] Providing a warehouse (100) of items (A) according to the present specification;

[0227] identifying an item storage unit (1) storing the requested item;

[0228] The identified item storage unit (1) is shifted.

[0229] Preferably, during the step of shifting the storage unit of the identified object (1), the unit is moved from a storage area (103) of at least one storage unit of the object (1).

[0230] In the case of sorting, a displacement from a first station (101) to a second station (102) may occur.

[0231] After the step of placing the object in the container (3), the following steps may be performed:

[0232] The storage unit (1) is brought into a storage area (103) of at least one object storage unit (1).

[0233] Depending on the applications, at least one storage unit of objects (1) may remain waiting in the storage area (103) for a few minutes or a few days.

[0234] At least one object storage unit (1) preferably comprises an identifier (4) for each container (3) carried by the corresponding container (3), and the method comprises the following steps:

[0235] Identify the item (A);

[0236] associating an identifier (4) of the container (3) with the placed item (A);

[0237] Receiving a request for a stored item (A);

[0238] An identifier (4) associated with the requested item (A) is retrieved.

[0239] Furthermore, the step of collecting the objects (A) brings the container (3) carrying the recycled identifier (4) to a collection point or area for the objects (50c).

[0240] The association of the identifier (4) of the container (3) with the item (A) facilitates the management of the item (A) warehouse (100) due to the unique tracking of the item (A), thereby limiting or avoiding the need for further identification of the item (A).

[0241] Here and in the previous description, the identifier (4) may be, for example, a barcode, including a two-dimensional barcode or a data matrix, a radio frequency tag or a character sequence. The identifier (4) may preferably be a barcode. Fig. 9 The embodiment includes a radio frequency tag (not visible in the figure), but may have Figure 1 barcode shown.

[0242] The method preferably comprises the following steps:

[0243] Providing a plurality of receivers (104, 105), each receiver for receiving an object (A) from at least one object storage unit (1);

[0244] receiving an instruction to arrange the placed object (A) in a second receiver (105);

[0245] Retrieving in a second receiver (105) an identifier (4) associated with the requested item (A);

[0246] moving at least one self-mobile storage unit of an item (1) having an identifier (4) associated with a first receiver (104) to a second receiver (105);

[0247] The moving device (6) is actuated to bring the container (3) carrying the recycled identifier (4) to a collection point or area for these objects (50c).

[0248] The method according to the invention can advantageously be applied in the case of a plurality of receivers (104, 105), for example in the case of sorting.

[0249] It should be understood that the above has been described by way of non-limiting examples, and any structural variations are considered to fall within the protection scope of the present technical solution, as claimed below.

Claims

1. A self-movable or transportable article storage unit (1), comprising: Frame (2); A plurality of containers (3) for articles (A), each container comprising a first portion (31), a second portion (32), and an opening (33) between the first portion (31) and the second portion (32) for entry and exit of the articles (A); The object storage unit (1) is characterized in that the object storage unit comprises a support system (5), which supports the container (3) in the following manner: The container (3) is movable relative to the frame (2) according to a closed loop path, the path having an upper portion (50a), a lower portion (50b), a first portion (50d) extending in a vertical direction, and a second portion (50e) extending in a vertical direction, wherein both the upper portion (50a) and the lower portion (50b) are interposed between the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e); A plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the first portion (50d), and a plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the second portion (50e); Each container has the first portion (31) above the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d), the second portion (32) above the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e), an opening (33) in the first portion (50d) facing in a direction of the container (3) away from the second portion (50e), and an opening (33) in the lower portion (50b) facing away from the ground (G), so as to cause the falling of the article (A) by gravity; And wherein the container (3) and the path are configured so that the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d) and the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e) are horizontal or inclined relative to a horizontal plane (H) so as to prevent the item (A) from falling.

2. Object storage unit (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein: At least one of the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e) is perpendicular to a horizontal plane (H).

3. The object storage unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: At least one of the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e) is inclined relative to a vertical plane (V) such that the path widens toward the lower portion (50b).

4. Object storage unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The support system (5) comprises at least one flexible mechanism (51, 52) to which the container (3) is fixed.

5. Object storage unit (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The at least one flexible mechanism (51, 52) is a chain, a belt or a belt, which can also be of the mesh, slat or mesh type.

6. The object storage unit (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The support system (5) comprises a first flexible mechanism (51) having an accessory (51a), a second flexible mechanism (52) having an accessory (52a) located away from the first flexible mechanism (51), and connecting elements (53), each connecting element (53) being fixed at least to the accessory (51a) of the first flexible mechanism (51), at least to the accessory (52a) of the second flexible mechanism (52), and to a corresponding container (3).

7. The object storage unit (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: The support system (5) comprises a pulley or upper roller (54) and a pulley or lower roller (55), both of which are rotatable relative to the frame (2) and are connected to the at least one flexible mechanism (51, 52).

8. Object storage unit (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The support system (5) comprises a coupling device for coupling the pulley or lower roller (55) or the pulley or upper roller (54) to a moving device (6) different from the object storage unit (1) so as to move the container (3) relative to the frame (2), and wherein the coupling device comprises a couplable gear device (56).

9. The object storage unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a blocking device (11) at the lower part (50b), the blocking device being configured to prevent the object (A) from exiting from the opening (33).

10. An object storage unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a door (10) for the passage of the object (A), the door being movable between a closed position in which the door prevents passage and an open position in which the door allows passage.

11. An article (A) warehouse (100), comprising at least one article storage unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, a moving device (6) for moving the support system (5) so as to move the container (3) relative to the frame (2), a displacement device for shifting the at least one article storage unit (1), a first station (101) for loading and / or collecting articles (A), a storage area (103) of the at least one article storage unit (1), and / or a second station (102) for loading and / or collecting articles (A), and a warehouse management system (1000) for controlling the displacement device and the moving device (6).

12. The warehouse (100) for goods (A) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The moving device (6) comprises a motion transmitting device which is installed at the first station (101) and is configured to transmit motion to the support system (5) when the at least one object storage unit (1) is in the first station (101).

13. The article (A) warehouse (100) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: The object storage unit (1) is according to claim 10, and wherein the displacement means comprises means (72) configured for opening or closing the door (10).

14. A method for collecting an object (A), comprising the steps of: At least providing an object storage unit (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10; Provide items (A); placing the article (A) in the container (3) in the second part (50e) and / or the first part (50d); The objects (A) are collected and the support system (5) is moved as long as the container containing the objects is in the lower part (50b).

15. A self-moving object storage unit (1), comprising: Frame (2); A plurality of containers (3) for articles (A), each container comprising a first portion (31), a second portion (32), and an opening (33) between the first portion (31) and the second portion (32) for entry and exit of the articles (A); a displacement device for displacing the frame (2); The object storage unit (1) is characterized in that the object storage unit comprises a support system (5), which supports the container (3) in the following manner: The container (3) is movable relative to the frame (2) according to a closed loop path, the path having an upper portion (50a), a lower portion (50b), a vertically extending first portion (50d) and a vertically extending second portion (50e), wherein both the upper portion (50a) and the lower portion (50b) are interposed between the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e); A plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the first portion (50d), and a plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the second portion (50e); Each container has the first portion (31) above the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d), the second portion (32) above the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e), and the opening (33) in the first portion (50d) facing in a direction of the container (3) away from the second portion (50e); It comprises moving means (6) for moving the support system (5) so as to move the container (3) relative to the frame (2); and The container (3) and the path are configured so that the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d) and the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e) are horizontal or inclined relative to a horizontal plane (H) so as to prevent the item (A) from falling.

16. The self-moving object storage unit (1) according to claim 15, wherein: The container (3) and the path are configured so that the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d) and the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e) are inclined relative to a horizontal plane (H) so as to prevent the article (A) from falling.

17. The self-movable object storage unit (1) according to claim 15 or 16, comprising a temporary storage bin (20), wherein: comprising a first inlet (21) for passing the article (A) on a first side; comprising a second inlet (22) for passing the article (A) on a second side opposite to the first side; comprising a conveying device for conveying the article (A) through the first inlet (21) and / or for conveying the article (A) through the second inlet (22); It is vertically movable relative to the frame (2) from at least one loading and / or unloading position (CS), in which the first access opening (21) is directed away from the opening (33) so as to be able to transfer the object (A) from the container (3) and / or towards the container (3).

18. The self-moving object storage unit (1) according to claim 17, wherein: The temporary storage bin (20) is coupled to the frame (2) so as to be vertically movable in front of the first portion (50d), and wherein the temporary storage bin (20) translates vertically in front of the first portion (50d).

19. A self-moving object storage unit (1) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein: The conveying device comprises a belt conveyor, which comprises a belt (24) and at least one baffle (25a, 25b), wherein the belt (24) is movable toward the second entrance (22) and / or toward the first entrance (21), and the baffle (25a, 25b) extends from the belt (24) so ​​as to push the article (A) beyond the second entrance (22) and / or beyond the first entrance (21).

20. A self-moving object storage unit (1) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein: The conveying device comprises a picking unit (26) for collecting the objects (A), the picking device being movable in order to transfer the objects (A) through the second inlet (22).

21. An article (A) storage system, comprising a transportable article storage unit (1), the transportable article storage unit comprising a frame (2) and a plurality of containers (3) for articles (A), each container comprising a first portion (31), a second portion (32) and an opening (33) between the first portion (31) and the second portion (32) for entry and exit of the articles (A), and the system comprising a displacement device for displacing the frame (2), the system being characterized in that the article storage unit (1) comprises a support system (5), the support system supporting the containers (3) in the following manner: The container (3) is movable relative to the frame (2) according to a closed loop path, the path having an upper portion (50a), a lower portion (50b), a vertically extending first portion (50d) and a vertically extending second portion (50e), wherein both the upper portion (50a) and the lower portion (50b) are interposed between the first portion (50d) and the second portion (50e); A plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the first portion (50d), and a plurality of containers (3) overlap each other in the second portion (50e); Each container has the first portion (31) above the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d), the second portion (32) above the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e), and the opening (33) in the first portion (50d) facing in a direction of movement of the container (3) away from the second portion (50e); The object storage unit (1) comprises a moving device (6) for moving the support system (5) so as to move the container (3) relative to the frame (2), and The container (3) and the path are configured so that the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d) and the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e) are horizontal or inclined relative to a horizontal plane (H) so as to prevent the item (A) from falling.

22. The object (A) storage system according to claim 21, wherein: The container (3) and the path are configured so that the second portion (32) in the first portion (50d) and the first portion (31) in the second portion (50e) are inclined relative to a horizontal plane (H) so as to prevent the article (A) from falling.

23. The object (A) storage system according to claim 21 or 22, wherein: The article storage unit (1) comprises a temporary storage bin (20), wherein: comprising a first inlet (21) for passing the article (A) on a first side; comprising a second inlet (22) for passing the article (A) on a second side opposite to the first side; comprising a conveying device for conveying the article (A) through the first inlet (21) and / or for conveying the article (A) through the second inlet (22); It is vertically movable relative to the frame (2) from at least one loading and / or unloading position (CS), in which the first access opening (21) is directed away from the opening (33) so as to be able to transfer the object (A) from the container (3) and / or towards the container (3).

24. The object (A) storage system according to claim 23, wherein: The temporary storage bin (20) is coupled to the frame (2) so as to be vertically movable in front of the first portion (50d), and wherein the temporary storage bin (20) translates vertically in front of the first portion (50d).

25. The object (A) storage system according to claim 23 or 24, wherein: The conveying device comprises a belt conveyor, which comprises a belt (24) and at least one baffle (25a, 25b), wherein the belt (24) is movable toward the second entrance (22) and / or toward the first entrance (21), and the baffle (25a, 25b) extends from the belt (24) so ​​as to push the article (A) beyond the second entrance (22) and / or beyond the first entrance (21).

26. The object (A) storage system according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein: The conveying device comprises a picking unit (26) for collecting the objects (A), the picking device being movable in order to transfer the objects (A) through the second inlet (22).

27. A method for collecting an object (A), comprising the steps of: At least providing an object storage unit (1) according to any one of claims 15 to 20 or an object (A) storage system according to any one of claims 21 to 26; Provide items (A); placing the article (A) in the container (3) in the second portion (50e) and / or the first portion (50d); and Collect the items (A).

28. The method according to claim 27, wherein: In the step of providing at least an item storage unit (1) or an item (A) storage system, an item storage unit (1) is provided according to claim 17 or an item (A) storage system is provided according to claim 23, and wherein the step of collecting items (A) includes the step of vertically moving the temporary storage bin (20).

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein: In the step of at least providing an object storage unit (1) or an object (A) storage system, an object storage unit (1) is provided according to claim 19 or an object (A) storage system is provided according to claim 25, and wherein the step of collecting the objects (A) comprises the following steps: actuating the belt conveyor so as to position a first baffle (25a) of the at least one baffle (25a, 25b) in a retracted position so that the first baffle (25a) is located behind a free portion (PL1) of the belt (24) in a direction of movement of the belt (24) toward the second inlet (22); unloading the container (3) onto the belt (24) so ​​as to position the article on the free portion (PL1) of the belt (24); and The belt conveyor is actuated to move the first baffle (25a) toward the second inlet (22).

30. The method according to claim 28 or 29, wherein: In the step of at least providing an object storage unit (1) or an object (A) storage system, when an object storage unit (1) is provided according to claim 20 dependent on claim 19 or when an object (A) storage system is provided according to claim 26 dependent on claim 25, and wherein the step of placing the object (A) comprises the following steps: actuating the belt conveyor so as to position a baffle (25b) of the at least one baffle (25a, 25b) in a corresponding retracted position so that the baffle is located behind a free portion (PL2) of the belt (24) in a direction of movement of the belt (24) towards the first inlet (21); Grabbing an object (A) using the picking unit (26); Bringing the clamped object (A) to the free portion (PL2) of the belt (24); The temporary storage bin (20) carrying the article (A) is moved vertically until the first entrance (22) is located in front of the opening (33); and The belt conveyor is actuated to move the baffle (25b) toward the first inlet (21).

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