Display system, display method, and program

By setting up chutes on the warehouse transportation path and using a computer system to display the cargo transportation volume, the problem of difficult transportation conditions in the prior art is solved, and the operation efficiency of the transportation system is improved.

CN120282919APending Publication Date: 2025-07-08LUO JIDI CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202280102022.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-11-22
Publication Date
2025-07-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The prior art is difficult to effectively grasp the transportation conditions on the warehouse transportation path, resulting in inefficient operation of the transportation system.

Method used

A display system is provided to display the delivery volume of goods through a chute arranged on a transport path, and to associate store information with the chute with a chute, and to monitor and display the delivery status of goods in real time.

Benefits of technology

Accurate mastery of the transportation path is achieved, and the efficiency and management efficiency of the transportation system are improved.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a display system, a display method, and a program. The conveying system can operate efficiently. A display system for displaying a shipping condition of a cargo includes: a shipping path provided with a chute for the cargo; a transport unit that transports the cargo to the chute; and a display unit that displays the amount of the cargo being transported. In addition, the conveying path can be provided with a plurality of chutes, and at the moment, the display part can display the quantity of the goods for each chute. Moreover, the display portion may display transport container information for each chute. When the display part displays the quantity of the goods, the quantity of the goods can be displayed in different colors according to the quantity of the goods.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique effective for displaying the transportation status of goods in a warehouse or the like. Background Art

[0002] In the case of shipping a large amount of goods from a warehouse or the like, there is an operation of sorting the goods for each shipping destination. Specifically, there is an operation of sorting a large amount of goods of a certain shipper to each store of the shipper. Conventionally, in such a sorting operation, a sorting device has been disclosed, which includes: a plurality of pallets moving along a transportation path; an inlet for placing goods on the pallet; and a plurality of chutes for delivering the goods placed on the pallet to each store (see Patent Document 1). In addition, as a sorting device at the time of warehousing, a sorting system has been disclosed, which sets a circulation path to prevent congestion of the main path when sorting goods on the main path to branch paths (see Patent Document 2). Prior Art Documents Patent Documents

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-75783 Patent Document 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2002-2928 Summary of the Invention Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the sorting operation in a warehouse or the like, in order to efficiently operate the transportation path, an operator needs to grasp the transportation status and adjust the input amount of goods. Therefore, a technique for grasping the status on the transportation path is required. However, the techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are difficult to grasp the status on the transportation path. Therefore, the present inventor has focused on a mechanism for grasping the status on the transportation path.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a display system, a display method, and a program capable of realizing efficient operation of a transportation system. Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention provides a display system that displays the transportation status of goods, the display system including: a transportation path provided with a chute for the goods; a transportation unit that transports the goods to the chute; and a display unit that displays the amount of the goods transported.

[0007] According to the present invention, the quantity of goods transported by the transport unit to the chute provided on the transport path is displayed. Thereby, for example, an operator, a manager, etc. can accurately grasp the situation on the transport path, and thus operate the transport system efficiently.

[0008] The present invention falls within the category of a system, but even a method and a program have the same functions and effects. Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, the transport system can be operated efficiently. Description of the Drawings

[0010] Figure 1 It is a diagram for explaining the outline of the display system 1. Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the functional structure of the display system 1. Figure 3 It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the transport path 4. Figure 4 It is a diagram showing a flowchart of the associated processing executed by the computer 10. Figure 5 It is a diagram showing a flowchart of the first display processing executed by the computer 10. Figure 6 It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the stock data. Figure 7 It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the allocation result screen. Figure 8 It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the store information displayed on the allocation result screen. Figure 9 It is a diagram showing a flowchart of the second display processing executed by the computer 10. Figure 10 It is a diagram schematically showing an example in which the transport unit 5 is transporting goods. Figure 11 It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the quantity evaluation screen. Figure 12 It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the store information displayed on the quantity evaluation screen. Figure 13 It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the remaining quantity screen. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, a mode for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter, the embodiment) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, throughout the description of the embodiment, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals or signs. It should be noted that, as a premise of this specification, the display system 1 is a system for displaying the transport status of goods in a warehouse or the like.

[0012] [Overview of Display System 1] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the overview of display system 1. Based on Figure 1 , the structure of display system 1 will be described. Display system 1 is a system composed of at least a WMS (Warehouse Management System), a WCS (Warehouse Control System) 3, a transportation path 4, and a transportation unit 5. WMS 2 is a system with functions such as inbound and outbound management and inventory management of a general warehouse. WMS 2 includes a computer 6 with server functions, which can be implemented by, for example, one computer or multiple computers like a cloud computer. This computer 6 executes various processes performed by WMS 2. The cloud computer in this specification can be a cloud computer that can be expandably used with any computer when implementing a specific function, or a cloud computer that includes multiple functional modules and freely combines their functions to implement a certain system. WCS 3 is a system for controlling material transportation equipment, IoT equipment, etc. in the warehouse. Material transportation equipment is, for example, loading equipment such as forklifts, packing / unpacking systems, transportation equipment such as automatic guided vehicles (AGVs), bridge cranes, AI (Artificial Intelligence)-equipped automatic transportation robots, sorting equipment such as conveyors and sorters, storage equipment such as automated warehouses, digital picking systems, and shipping equipment such as automatic case makers. WMS 3 includes a computer 10 with server functions, which can be implemented by, for example, one computer or multiple computers like a cloud computer. This computer 10 executes various processes performed by WCS 3. Transportation path 4 is a path for transporting goods in the warehouse. A chute for goods is provided on transportation path 4. This chute is equivalent to the outlet of a sorting device for distributing goods. This chute is represented by circles marked with numbers 1 to 30 shown around transportation path 4. Transportation unit 5 transports goods to the chute provided on the transportation path. Transportation unit 5 is, for example, a vehicle-type conveyor (e.g., AGV) or other transportation equipment that travels on transportation path 4. Transportation unit 5 transports the loaded goods to the chute. The goods loaded on this transportation unit 5 are represented by shaded circles. Transportation unit 5 transports the goods to the chute with the same number as the number recorded in this circle.

[0013] The processing steps of display system 1 for displaying the shipping status of goods will be outlined.

[0014] Computer 10 associates the store information with the chute. Computer 10 obtains the picking data from WMS2 and associates the store information of this picking data with the chute set on the shipping path 4. Next, computer 10 changes the position (e.g., the coordinates of the chute) of the chute associated with the store information according to a specified rule. Specifically, computer 10 obtains the picking data from WMS2. This picking data is the data recording the result of the operator's picking according to the shipping instruction data. Computer 10 changes the position of each chute according to the quantity of goods, the delivery destination area, etc. in this picking data. Next, computer 10 displays the quantity of goods transported to each chute on the display unit.

[0015] The transport unit 5 transports the goods to the chute (step S1). The transport unit 5 transports the goods carried on itself to the assigned chute according to the instruction of computer 10.

[0016] Computer 10 displays the quantity of the transported goods (step S2). When the goods are dropped into the chute, computer 10 subtracts the quantity of goods according to the sorting information read by a scanner or the like. Computer 10 displays these results on a display device such as a monitor that constitutes WCS3 connected in a manner capable of data communication.

[0017] The above is the outline of display system 1. According to this display system 1, the transportation system can operate efficiently.

[0018] [Device Structure] Figure 2 It is a block diagram showing the structure of display system 1. Display system 1 is a system for displaying the shipping status of goods and is composed of at least WMS2, WCS3, shipping path 4, and transport unit 5. In display system 1, WMS2 and WCS3 are connected in a manner capable of data communication via a network 7 such as a public line network or an intranet. It should be noted that the structure of display system 1 is just an example, and the number, type, and function of terminals, devices, etc. not shown in the figure can be changed appropriately.

[0019] WMS2 is a system with functions such as general warehouse inbound and outbound management and inventory management. In WMS2, various processes are executed by a computer 6 with a server function included in the system. The computer 6 includes a control unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a ROM (Read Only Memory), and includes devices for communicating with other terminals, devices, etc. as a communication unit. The computer 6 includes a data storage unit composed of a hard disk, a semiconductor memory, a recording medium, a memory card, etc. as a recording unit. The computer 6 includes various devices for performing various processes as a processing unit.

[0020] WCS3 is a system for controlling material transportation devices, IoT devices, etc. in a warehouse. In WMS3, various processes are executed by a computer 10 having a server function included in the system. The computer 10 includes a control unit such as a CPU, a GPU, a RAM, and a ROM, and includes devices for communicating with other terminals, devices, etc. as a communication unit. The computer 10 includes a data storage unit composed of a hard disk, a semiconductor memory, a recording medium, a memory card, etc. as a recording unit. The computer 10 includes various devices for performing various processes, a display unit 11 for displaying the quantity of goods being transported, etc. as a processing unit.

[0021] In the computer 10, by loading a prescribed program by the control unit and collaborating with the communication unit, a store information acquisition module, a stock preparation data acquisition module, a transportation control module, a sorting information acquisition module, and an image acquisition module are realized. In addition, in the computer 10, by loading a prescribed program by the control unit and collaborating with the recording unit, an association result recording module and an allocation result recording module are realized. In addition, in the computer 10, by loading a prescribed program by the control unit and collaborating with the processing unit, an association module, an allocation module, a display module, a calculation module, and a reflection module are realized.

[0022] As described above, the transportation path 4 is a path for transporting goods in a warehouse. The transportation path 4 is, for example, a sorting device such as a conveyor. In the present embodiment, the transportation path 4 will be described as a conveyor. The transportation path 4 is, for example, composed of one connected passage and one or more downstream passages connected to the one connected passage (refer to Figure 3 ). One or more chutes are provided on the downstream passage of the transportation path 4. As described above, the chute corresponds to the outlet of a sorting device such as a conveyor for allocating goods. Based onFigure 3 The conveying path 4 will be described. This figure is a diagram schematically showing an example of the conveying path 4. The conveying path 4 is composed of a connecting path 20, a first downstream path 21 connected to the connecting path 20, a second downstream path 22, and a third downstream path 23. The first downstream path 21 has a rectangular structure, with 5 chutes provided on one side of the long side and 5 chutes provided on the other side of the long side. One side of this long side is defined as the first channel 210, and the other side of this long side is defined as the second channel 211. Similarly, the second downstream path 22 and the third downstream path 23 also have a rectangular structure, with 5 chutes provided on one side of the long side and 5 chutes provided on the other side of the long side. Similarly, for the second downstream path 22 and the third downstream path 23, one side of this long side is defined as the first channels 220 and 230, and the other side of this long side is defined as the second channels 221 and 231. In Figure 3 , the white circles represent the chutes, and the numbers recorded inside the white circles indicate the numbers of the chutes. The first downstream path 21 is provided with chutes numbered 1 to 5 in the first channel 210 and chutes numbered 6 to 10 in the second channel 211. The second downstream path 22 is provided with chutes numbered 11 to 15 in the first channel 220 and chutes numbered 16 to 20 in the second channel 221. The third downstream path 23 is provided with chutes numbered 21 to 25 in the first channel 230 and chutes numbered 26 to 30 in the second channel 231. In the present embodiment, the conveying path 4 will be described as the Figure 3 conveying path 4 shown. It should be noted that the above-mentioned conveying path 4 is merely an example, and the conveying path in the present invention is not limited to the Figure 3 conveying path 4 shown. Additionally, similarly, the chutes provided on the conveying path 4 are not limited in terms of position, quantity, and other aspects to the Figure 3 chutes shown.

[0023] As described above, the conveying unit 5 conveys the goods to the chutes provided on the conveying path. The conveying unit 5 is, for example, a vehicle-type conveyor (e.g., AGV) or other conveying equipment that travels on the conveying path 4. In the present embodiment, the conveying unit 5 will be described as a vehicle-type conveyor. The conveying unit 5 travels on the conveying path 4 according to the instructions of the WCS 3 or the like. The conveying unit 5 travels towards the loading port of the goods and loads the goods. The conveying unit 5 travels to a specified chute position in the state of carrying the goods and drops the carried goods into the chute. After dropping the goods, the conveying unit 5 travels to a specified position (e.g., the loading port of the goods). It should be noted that the transport unit 5 is merely an example, and the transport unit in the present invention is not limited to the transport unit 5.

[0024] Next, the processes executed by the display system 1 will be described in conjunction with the processes executed by the above-mentioned respective modules. In this specification, each module can execute its processing content as a function that it itself has, or can execute it via a prescribed application program.

[0025] [Associated Processing Executed by Computer 10] Based on Figure 4 , the associated processing executed by the computer 10 will be described. This figure is a figure showing a flowchart of the associated processing executed by the computer 10.

[0026] The store information acquisition module acquires store information (step S10). The store information is information used by the shipper to instruct the warehouse manager to ship goods, such as the shipper name, store code, store name, store category, packaging type, packing box code, sorting priority, area, bin number, HT sorting port number, virtual store code, applicable flag, label Seq number. The store information acquisition module acquires the stock preparation data from the WMS2 at a prescribed timing (for example, the timing when the WMS2 acquires new store information, the timing when the manager of the WMS2 etc. changes or corrects the store information), and acquires the store information from this stock preparation data. The WMS2 sends the store information to the computer 10 at a prescribed timing. The store information acquisition module acquires the store information by receiving this store information.

[0027] The association module associates the acquired store information with the chutes (step S11). The association module associates the store information with each chute provided on the transport path 4 according to prescribed conditions (for example, by store code, by store category, by area). More specifically, the association module associates the store information with the position of the chute (for example, the coordinates of the chute). In the present embodiment, the association module is described as associating the store information with each of the chutes numbered 1 to 30 in the above Figure 3 .

[0028] The association result recording module records the position of the chute with which the store information is associated (step S12). The association result recording module records the store information and the position of the chute associated with this store information as the association result.

[0029] The above is the associated processing.

[0030] [First Display Processing Performed by Computer 10] Based on Figure 5 , the first display processing performed by computer 10 will be described. This figure is a flowchart showing the first display processing performed by computer 10. This first display processing is a process that uses the result of the above-mentioned association processing.

[0031] The stock preparation data acquisition module acquires stock preparation data (step S20). The stock preparation data is data that records the picking results of the operator according to the shipping instruction data obtained by WMS2. Specifically, the stock preparation data is data that associates information such as the shipping instruction number and delivery destination included in the shipping instruction data, and the variety data picked by the operator (see Figure 6 ). The stock preparation data is, for example, the shipping instruction number, company number, distribution code, delivery destination, delivery destination address, variety code, and variety name. Based on Figure 6 , the stock preparation data will be described. This figure is a diagram schematically showing an example of the stock preparation data. In this figure, a stock preparation data 30 representing the stock preparation data in tabular form is shown. The stock preparation data 30 is data that corresponds the above-mentioned shipping instruction number, company number, distribution code, delivery destination, delivery destination address, variety code, and variety name. The stock preparation data acquisition module acquires the stock preparation data from WMS2 at a specified timing (for example, the timing when WMS2 performs the shipping and stock preparation process, the timing when WMS2 performs an additional stock preparation process due to emergency shipping or receipt of an additional shipping instruction, the timing of additionally acquiring the TC (Transfer Center) shipping plan). WMS2 sends the stock preparation data to computer 10 at a specified timing. The stock preparation data acquisition module acquires the stock preparation data by receiving this stock preparation data.

[0032] Return to Figure 5 , and continue to describe the first display processing. The allocation module allocates the store information to each chute according to the acquired stock preparation data (step S21). Through the above-mentioned association processing, the allocation module changes the store information associated with each chute according to the stock preparation data, and allocates the store information to each chute according to the preset allocation rules.

[0033] The allocation result recording module records the allocation result (step S22). The allocation result recording module records the store information and the chute to which the store information is allocated in association with each other as the allocation result. At this time, the allocation result recording module records the number of the chute provided on the transport path 4 in association with the store information.

[0034] The display module displays the allocation result (step S23). The display module displays the allocation result as an allocation result screen according to an input operation by a manager or the like. The display module displays the outer shape of the transport path 4, each chute provided on the transport path 4, and the store information allocated to each chute as the allocation result screen (refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 ). The display module outputs the allocation result screen to a display device such as a monitor of the WCS3 that is connected to the computer 10 in a manner capable of data communication. The display device displays the allocation result screen (refer to Figure 7 ). Based on an operation by a manager or the like on the displayed allocation result screen, the display module displays the store information allocated to the chute (refer to Figure 8 ).

[0035] Based on Figure 7 , the allocation result screen displayed by the display module is explained. This figure is a diagram schematically showing an example of the allocation result screen displayed by the display module. In this figure, the allocation result screen 40 is shown. The allocation result screen 40 is composed of a transport path 41 representing the outer shape of the transport path 4 and each chute provided on the transport path 41. The transport path 41 is the same as the transport path 4 in Figure 3 , and is composed of a communication path 42, a first downstream path 43, a second downstream path 44, and a third downstream path 45 connected to the communication path 42. Each chute is represented by a rectangle in which the numbers 1 to 30 recorded on each downstream path are recorded. Each chute is a chute where the location set in the actual transport path 4 coincides with the location set in the transport path 41 displayed on the screen. That is, Figure 7 the chutes numbered 1 to 30 and Figure 3 the chutes numbered 1 to 30 in the above respectively represent the same chute. It should be noted that the numbers of the chutes are only recorded for explanation, and the numbers of the chutes are not necessarily required in the allocation result screen 40.

[0036] Based on Figure 8, the store information displayed on the display module is described. This figure schematically shows an example of the store information displayed by the display module on the allocation result screen. This figure shows the allocation result screen 40 in a state where the store information 46 is displayed. When a manager or the like performs a prescribed operation, the display module displays the allocation result screen 40 on the display device, and the allocation result screen 40 is configured with the store information 46 allocated to the chute. The prescribed operation performed by the manager or the like is, for example, aligning the mouse cursor with the chute.

[0037] The above is the first display process.

[0038] [Second display process executed by computer 10] Based on Figure 9 , the second display process executed by the computer 10 is described. This figure shows a flowchart of the second display process executed by the computer 10. This second display process details the transportation process of transporting goods to the chute (step S1) and the display process of displaying the quantity of the transported goods (step S2). This second display process is a process that uses the store information allocated to each chute through the above first display process. In addition, this second display process is a process in which the transportation unit 5 is transporting goods.

[0039] The calculation module calculates the transportation quantity for each chute based on the stock preparation data (step S30). The calculation module compares the store information allocated to each chute with the delivery destination of the obtained stock preparation data and calculates the transportation quantity for each chute.

[0040] The reflection module reflects the calculated transportation quantity to each chute (step S31). The reflection module reflects the calculated transportation quantity of the goods to the chute where the store information of the delivery destination of the goods is allocated, based on the store information allocated to each chute and the delivery destination of the obtained stock preparation data. Specifically, the reflection module reflects the transportation quantity of the goods to the number of each chute shown above Figure 7 among the numbers of the chutes, to the number of the chute where the store information of the delivery destination of the goods is allocated. It should be noted that the transportation quantity refers to the number of goods, which can be the number of packaging boxes or the number of goods, etc.

[0041] The transportation control module controls the transportation unit 5 (step S32). The transportation control module sends a movement instruction to the transportation unit 5 and controls the transportation unit 5. The transportation unit 5 moves on the transportation path 4 according to this movement instruction and transports the goods.

[0042] The movement process of the transportation unit 5 is described. The transport unit 5 moves towards the input port of the goods. An operator loads the goods with the read goods information onto the transport unit 5. After loading the goods, the transport unit 5 moves to the assigned chute. After moving to the chute, the transport unit 5 drops the loaded goods into the chute. After dropping the goods, the transport unit 5 moves to a specified position.

[0043] Based on Figure 10 The transportation sequence when the transportation control module controls the transportation unit 5 will be described. This figure is a diagram schematically showing an example in which the transportation unit 5 is transporting goods. Figure 10 The shown transportation path 4 is the same as the above Figure 3 shown transportation path 4. In Figure 10 it, multiple transport units 5 are shown on the transport path 4. In addition, some of the multiple transport units 5 are loaded with goods 50. The number recorded inside the goods 50 refers to the number of the chute that is the transport destination of the goods. In addition, the numbers recorded near the chutes numbered 11 to 20 refer to the remaining operation quantity. The transportation control module first selects a column with a small number of transport units 5 currently transporting goods 50 among the first downstream path 21, the second downstream path 22, and the third downstream path 23 in the transport path 4. Since there are 3 transport units 5 transporting goods 50 in the first downstream path 21, 1 transport unit 5 transporting goods 50 in the second downstream path 22, and 2 transport units 5 transporting goods 50 in the third downstream path 23, the transportation control module selects the second downstream path 22 with the smallest number of transport units 5 transporting goods 50. It should be noted that in the case where there are multiple paths with the same transportation quantity, the transportation control module can set the target paths when determining the chute to be multiple paths. Then, the transportation control module selects a chute according to a specified rule. The specified rule is, for example, to preferentially select a chute with a small number of transport units 5 currently transporting, perform priority sorting according to the remaining operation quantity (for example, in descending order or ascending order), and in accordance with a preset preferential transportation order (for example, in chute number order). The transportation control module selects a chute according to the number of transport units 5 currently transporting. The transportation control module selects a chute with a small number of transport units 5 currently transporting. Since currently in the second downstream path 22, the transport unit 5 is transporting goods 50 to chute No. 11, the transportation control module selects chutes No. 12 to 20 other than this. The transportation control module selects the chute according to the remaining quantity of the operation. The transportation control module selects the chutes in the order from the largest to the smallest remaining quantity of the operation. Currently, among the chutes numbered 12 to 20, the remaining quantities of the operations of the 16th and 18th chutes are the largest. Therefore, the transportation control module selects the 16th and 18th chutes. The transportation control module selects the chute according to the preset chute number order. The transportation control module selects the 16th chute with a smaller number among the 16th and 18th chutes as the chute for dropping the goods 50. It should be noted that if the priority transportation order of all chutes is set to be the same, the chutes can be selected according to the chute number order. The transportation unit 5 moves to the selected 16th chute in the state of carrying the goods 50. The transportation unit 5 drops the carried goods 50 into the 16th chute. After dropping the goods 50, the transportation unit 5 moves to the specified position.

[0044] Return to Figure 9 , and continue to describe the second display process. The sorting information acquisition module acquires the sorting information (step S33). The scanner etc. provided on the chute reads the goods information according to the identifier etc. of the goods dropped into the chute. The scanner etc. sends the goods information as the sorting information to the computer 10. The sorting information acquisition module acquires the sorting information by receiving the sorting information.

[0045] The reflection module subtracts the quantity of the goods from the chute where the goods are dropped according to the acquired sorting information (step S34). The reflection module subtracts the quantity of the goods from the quantity of the goods at the position of the selected chute according to the acquired sorting information and the position of the selected chute. Specifically, the reflection module subtracts the quantity of the transported goods from the 16th chute selected from the respective numbers of the chutes shown above. Figure 7 shown chute numbers.

[0046] The display module displays the quantity of the transported goods (step S35). The display module displays the quantity evaluation screen, and the quantity evaluation screen reflects the quantity of the transported goods in the above-mentioned Figure 7 and Figure 8 shown allocation results (refer to Figure 11 ). The display module outputs the quantity evaluation screen to the display device such as the monitor of the WCS3 that is connected to the computer 10 in a manner capable of data communication. The display device displays the quantity evaluation screen. The display module displays the store information allocated to the chute according to the input operations of the manager etc. for each displayed chute (refer to Figure 12 ). The display module displays the store information assigned to the chute on the display device according to the input operations of managers and others on the displayed quantity evaluation screen.

[0047] Based on Figure 11 , the quantity evaluation screen displayed by the display module is described. This figure is a diagram schematically showing an example of the quantity evaluation screen displayed by the display module. In this figure, the quantity evaluation screen 60 is shown. The quantity evaluation screen 60 is a screen that reflects the quantity of goods in each chute in the above-mentioned allocation result screen 40. The positional relationship of each chute is the same as that of each chute in the above-mentioned allocation result screen 40. In Figure 11 , the numbers of each chute are omitted. In the quantity evaluation screen 60, each chute represents the quantity of goods in different colors according to the quantity of goods. In this embodiment, the quantity is represented by colors, but the quantity can also be displayed. As an example of different colors, it can be cited that whenever the quantity of goods exceeds a specified amount, the color gradually changes from a cold color to a warm color. In addition, this color can be a color that becomes darker as the quantity increases, or conversely, it can be a color that becomes lighter as the quantity increases. In Figure 11 , different colors corresponding to the stages are represented by hatching. In addition, in the quantity evaluation screen 60, in each chute, in addition to representing the quantity of goods by colors, the transport container information is also shown. The transport container information is not the packaging form when the goods are loaded onto the transport unit 5, but the packaging form when the goods are loaded onto the truck, and is represented by an image, symbol, text, etc. of a corrugated cardboard box. The transport container information is displayed using a preset specified display method (for example, boxed shipment is represented by "●"). Specifically, in chutes 1 to 4, in addition to the color, "●" is also shown, thereby showing this transport container information. In other chutes, the transport container information is not shown, and only the quantity is shown. In this embodiment, boxed shipment means that the goods are shipped in a state of being packaged in a corrugated cardboard box. In other chutes, the goods are shipped in a state of being stored in a plastic container. Here, boxed shipment is described. Whether to perform boxed shipment depends on whether the shipper has specified boxed shipment. This specification of boxed shipment is included in the shipment instruction data. WMS2 registers whether this specification has been made in the shipment instruction data according to whether the shipper has made this specification. When the display module assigns store information to each chute in the processing of the above step S21, it will confirm whether boxed shipment associated with the store information has been specified. If boxed shipment has been specified, boxed shipment is displayed as the transport container information. It should be noted that the method of displaying the transport container information is not limited to the above examples, and other methods, images, etc. can also be used for display.

[0048] In addition to the above, the quantity evaluation screen 60 can also display an image obtained by photographing the entire area where there are multiple transport paths 4. Here, the presence of multiple transport paths 4 refers to the connection path 20 and each path connected to the connection path 20 (the first downstream path 21, the second downstream path 22, and the third downstream path 23). A photographing device or the like provided near the transport path 4 photographs the connection path 20, the first downstream path 21, the second downstream path 22, and the third downstream path 23, thereby photographing the entire transport path 4. The photographing device or the like sends the photographed image to the computer 10. The image acquisition module acquires an image obtained by photographing the entire area where there are multiple transport paths 4 by receiving this image. The display module adds the acquired image to a specified position on the quantity evaluation screen 60 and displays it. That is, the display module simultaneously displays the above content and this image on the above quantity evaluation screen 60. It should be noted that the display module may not display this image as the quantity evaluation screen 60, but display this image as another screen. For example, the display module can display this image according to an input operation by a manager or the like.

[0049] Based on Figure 12 , the store information displayed by the display module is explained. This figure is a diagram schematically showing an example of the store information displayed by the display module on the quantity evaluation screen. In this figure, a quantity evaluation screen 60 in a state where store information 61 is displayed is shown. The display module outputs the quantity evaluation screen 60 to the display device according to an input operation by a manager or the like on the chute, for example, by aligning the mouse cursor with the chute. The quantity evaluation screen 60 is a screen in a state where the store information 61 assigned to this chute is arranged near the chute where the input operation is performed. The display device displays the quantity evaluation screen 60 in which the store information 61 is arranged.

[0050] In addition, the display module can also be configured to display the remaining quantity of each chute in addition to the quantity of goods. This situation is explained. The display module accepts a specified input operation (for example, an input operation for a specified icon, button, etc.). The display module accepts an input operation by a manager or the like on a specified icon (not shown) or the like provided on the above quantity evaluation screen 60. Based on this input operation, the display module displays the remaining quantity of each chute (refer to Figure 13 ). The remaining quantity of each chute is obtained by subtracting the quantity of goods based on sorting information from the conveyed quantity reflected in each chute.

[0051] Based on Figure 13 , the remaining quantity screen displayed on the display module will be described. This figure is a diagram schematically showing an example of the remaining quantity screen displayed on the display module. In this figure, the remaining quantity screen 70 is shown. The remaining quantity screen 70 is a screen in which the respective remaining quantities are reflected in the respective chutes in the above-mentioned allocation result screen 40. The positional relationship of each chute is the same as that of the respective chutes in the above-mentioned allocation result screen 40. In Figure 13 , the numbers of the respective chutes are omitted. In the remaining quantity screen 70, the remaining quantity is represented by numbers marked on each chute. The remaining quantity is not limited to numbers, and similar to the above-mentioned quantity evaluation screen 60, it can also be represented by different colors according to the remaining quantity. It should be noted that the display method of the remaining quantity is not limited to the above example, and other methods, images, etc. can also be used for display.

[0052] The above is the second display process.

[0053] Although the above-mentioned respective processes are described as separate processes, the computer 10 may also be configured to execute a combination of a part or all of the above-mentioned respective processes. In addition, the computer 10 may be configured to execute each process at a timing other than the timing described in each process.

[0054] The above-mentioned solutions and functions are realized by a computer (including a CPU, an information processing device, various terminals) loading and executing a prescribed program. The program can be provided, for example, in the form of being provided from a computer via a network (SaaS: Software as a Service), a cloud service. In addition, the program can be provided in a form recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. In this case, the computer reads the program from the recording medium, transfers the program to an internal recording device or an external recording device, and records and executes the program. In addition, the program can also be pre-recorded in a recording device (recording medium) and provided to the computer via a communication line from the recording device.

[0055] The above has described the embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. In addition, the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are merely the most preferred effects produced by the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0056] The first mode disclosed in this embodiment is a display system 1 for displaying the transportation status of goods. The display system 1 includes: a transportation path 4 provided with a chute for the goods; a transportation unit 5 for transporting the goods to the chute; and a display unit 11 for displaying the quantity of the transported goods.

[0057] The second mode disclosed in this embodiment is the display system according to the first mode, wherein a plurality of the chutes are provided on the transportation path 4, and the display unit 11 displays the quantity of the goods for each chute.

[0058] The third mode disclosed in this embodiment is the display system according to the second mode, wherein the display unit 11 displays transportation container information for each of the chutes.

[0059] The fourth mode disclosed in this embodiment is the display system according to the first mode, wherein the display unit 11 displays the quantity of the goods in different colors according to the quantity of the goods.

[0060] The fifth mode disclosed in this embodiment is the display system according to the first mode, wherein the display system further includes an acquisition unit that acquires an image obtained by photographing the entire area where there are a plurality of the transportation paths, and the display unit 11 displays the acquired image.

[0061] The sixth mode disclosed in this embodiment is the display system according to the first mode, wherein the display system further includes a distribution unit that distributes store information to the chute, and the display unit 11 displays the store information.

[0062] The seventh mode disclosed in this embodiment is the display system according to the first mode, wherein the transportation unit 5 is a vehicle-type transporter that travels on the transportation path 4.

[0063] The eighth mode disclosed in this embodiment is the display system according to the first mode, wherein the display unit 11 displays the remaining quantity of the chute according to a specified input. Explanation of reference numerals

[0064] 1: Display system; 2: WMS; 3: WCS; 4, 41: Transportation path; 5: Transportation unit; 6, 10: Computer; 7: Network; 11: Display unit; 20, 42: Communication path; 21, 43: First downstream path; 210, 220, 230: First channel; 211, 221, 231: Second channel; 22, 44: Second downstream path; 23, 45: Third downstream path; 30: Stocking data; 40: Allocation result screen; 46, 61: Store information; 50: Goods; 60: Quantity evaluation screen; 70: Remaining quantity screen.

Claims

1. A display system that displays the transportation status of goods, characterized in that, the display system includes: a transportation path provided with a chute for the goods; a transportation unit that transports the goods to the chute; and a display unit that displays the quantity of the transported goods.

2. The display system according to claim 1, characterized in that, the transportation path is provided with a plurality of the chutes, and the display unit displays the quantity of the goods for each chute.

3. The display system according to claim 2, characterized in that, the display unit displays transportation container information for each of the chutes.

4. The display system according to claim 1, characterized in that, the display unit displays the quantity of the goods in different colors according to the quantity of the goods.

5. The display system according to claim 1, characterized in that, the display system further includes an acquisition unit that acquires an image obtained by photographing the entirety where there are a plurality of the transportation paths, and the display unit displays the acquired image.

6. The display system according to claim 1, characterized in that, the display system further includes an allocation unit that allocates store information to the chute, and the display unit displays the store information.

7. The display system according to claim 1, characterized in that, the transportation unit is a vehicle-type transporter that travels on the transportation path.

8. The display system according to claim 1, characterized in that, the display unit displays the remaining quantity of the chute based on a specified input.

9. A display method, which is executed by a computer that displays the transportation status of goods, characterized in that, the display method includes the following steps: transporting the goods to the chute for the goods provided on a transportation path; displaying the quantity of the transported goods.

10. A program, which is a computer-readable program, characterized in that, it causes a computer that displays the transportation status of goods to execute the following steps: transporting the goods to the chute for the goods provided on a transportation path; displaying the quantity of the transported goods.

Citation Information

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