Sorting system and method for sorting

Abstract

The invention relates to a sorting system (1) having a suspended conveyor system with a plurality of travel sections and a transport support (3) which can be moved, in particular in a self-driven and separate manner, along the travel sections. According to the invention, the suspension conveying device forms a storage area (LB), in which a plurality of storage points (10) are arranged, on which the suspended goods can be stored in a suspended manner on the transport supports (3), and which allows separate access of the transport supports (3) on the storage points (10). The invention further relates to a method for sorting a sorting order by means of such a sorting system (1).

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a sorting system and a method for sorting sorting orders by means of such a sorting system. The sorting system includes a suspended transportation device having a plurality of transportation brackets and a bearing structure for transporting suspended goods, and a plurality of travel sections are provided on the bearing structure. The travel sections form a transportation path along which the transportation brackets can move. In addition, the sorting system includes a loading area, a storage area, and a sorting area. The loading area has at least one loading station for loading the transportation brackets with suspended goods, the storage area is for storing the suspended goods on the transportation brackets, and the sorting area has at least one sorting station for unloading the transportation brackets and for sorting order goods. Therefore, the sorting area may include one or more sorting stations for unloading the transportation brackets and for sorting order goods. The suspended conveyor of the sorting system includes a transfer device, a storage block provided in the storage area, and a removal device. The transfer device is for transferring the transportation brackets from the loading area via a collection travel area to the storage area, and the removal device is for transferring the transportation brackets from the storage area via a distribution travel area to the sorting area. The storage block has at least one storage layer, the storage layer has storage columns, and the storage columns include a plurality of storage positions. Background Art

[0002] In a sorting system, it is desirable that sorting orders including order goods can be completed as quickly and efficiently as possible. To this end, the order goods must be transported from the corresponding storage positions to the sorting station within a short time and the order goods must be provided at the sorting station. To achieve this, frequently ordered goods are stored near the warehouse exit and rarely ordered goods are stored at a relatively large distance from the warehouse exit. Thereby, the transportation time can be optimized and the sorting order can be completed quickly and efficiently. However, in this case, it is disadvantageous that the storage positions cannot be utilized in a space-optimized manner, so the size of the warehouse usually has to be determined to be too large.

[0003] Especially in a sorting system with a suspended conveyor, after loading the transportation brackets, the suspended goods on the transportation brackets are usually buffered in a large buffer gyro until the suspended goods are needed for a sorting order. In the buffer gyro, the transportation brackets are moved in a circular motion via a steering track, so the buffer gyro has a high position requirement and high technical complexity. To keep the technical effort low, the buffer gyro is therefore configured to accommodate hundreds to thousands of transportation brackets. However, thereby, the access time to a single transportation bracket is particularly long.

[0004] An exemplary sorting system is known from DE102018221043A1, which provides a storage room with a surrounding gyroscope, and the surrounding gyroscope can be loaded with suspended goods from a loading station by introducing a transport support into the loading station. An order buffer with storage tracks is provided between the storage room and the sorting station, and the storage tracks operate according to the first-in, first-out principle. Order goods or suspended goods can be transported from the storage room to the order buffer and buffered there. In a sorting device connected downstream of the order buffer, the order goods can be sorted so that the order goods can be provided on the sorting station in the form of pure orders and / or the items of the order goods according to the desired order. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved sorting system and an improved sorting method. In particular, the above-described disadvantages should be overcome and the effective completion of sorting orders should be achieved.

[0006] The task is solved by a sorting system of the type mentioned at the beginning, wherein at least one storage layer includes an incoming travel area and an outgoing travel area, the transport support can be transferred from the incoming device to the incoming travel area, and the transport support can be transferred from the outgoing travel area to the outgoing device. In addition, the storage column includes storage positions arranged in a column for accommodating at least one transport support, and storage travel areas connected to the incoming travel area and the outgoing travel area, and the transport support can be transferred from the storage travel area to the storage positions.

[0007] The advantages obtained by the present invention are particularly that there are multiple storage positions, so that the access time to a single transport support is particularly short. Thus, the order goods, especially the items of the order goods, can be removed from the storage area particularly quickly and provided on the at least one sorting station.

[0008] In addition, the arrangement structure of the storage positions along the storage travel area enables the transport support to reach any arbitrary storage position. Thus, a particularly uniform storage density can be achieved and the storage positions can be utilized optimally.

[0009] For this purpose, the transport support can move, especially move, in the travel area (especially in the collection travel area, in the incoming travel area, in the storage travel area, in the outgoing travel area and in the distribution travel area).

[0010] The suspended goods on the one hand can consist of articles, in particular clothes suspended on the transport support by means of hangers, and on the other hand can consist of transport bags each filled with at least one article, which transport bags are suspended on the transport support and are configured to accommodate at least one article each.

[0011] Advantageously, the suspended conveying device includes suspended goods that can be transported using the transport support, and the suspended goods optionally have transport bags that have a bag body for storing the goods.

[0012] The suspended goods required for completing the sorting order can also be referred to as order goods.

[0013] In order to load the transport support with suspended goods at the loading station, for example, hangers with articles can be suspended on the transport support and / or articles can be loaded into transport bags suspended on the transport support. The loading station can be configured for automatic and / or manual loading by an operator.

[0014] Preferably, a plurality of loading groups are provided in the loading area, and each loading group has a plurality of loading stations.

[0015] When unloading the transport support, for example, hangers with articles of the order goods can be removed from the transport support and / or articles of the order goods can be taken out of transport bags suspended on the transport support. For example, the removed and / or taken-out articles can be output in a destination loading aid provided at the unloading station in order to sort the order goods in this destination loading aid. In this case, the order goods are basically transferred from the transport support to the destination loading aid. The unloading of the transport support, in particular the transfer of the order goods, can be carried out automatically and / or manually by an operator.

[0016] Preferably, a plurality of sorting groups are provided in the sorting area, and each sorting group has a plurality of sorting stations.

[0017] Suitably, the transport support can move in the travel areas described below, in particular in a collection travel area, a transfer-in travel area, a storage travel area, a transfer-out travel area, and / or a distribution travel area.

[0018] The collection travel area is preferably located between the loading area and the storage area. In this case, the suspended conveying device extends through the collection travel area in order to connect the loading area and the storage area, in particular to connect the at least one loading station and the storage room in terms of conveying technology.

[0019] The allocated travel area is preferably located between the storage area and the unloading area. In this case, the suspension conveyor extends through the allocated travel area in order to connect the storage area and the unloading area, in particular the storage room and the at least one sorting station, in a conveying technology manner.

[0020] Advantageously, the collecting travel area and the allocated travel area are arranged in a (first) transport layer. Particularly preferably, the at least one storage layer is arranged in this transport layer.

[0021] Advantageously, the loading travel area and the unloading travel area are connected via the storage travel area and are particularly arranged parallel to each other. The storage columns and thus the storage travel area suitably extend perpendicular to the loading and unloading travel areas.

[0022] The transport support can in particular move in the transport direction along the storage travel area from the loading travel area to the unloading travel area, and the storage positions are arranged in succession in the transport direction in an adjacent manner on the storage travel area. The conveying direction extends along the storage column from the loading travel area to the unloading travel area.

[0023] Advantageously, the at least one storage layer includes a plurality of storage columns arranged side by side. In this case, preferably at least some of the storage columns, in particular all the storage columns of the storage layer, are constructed identically. Particularly preferably, it is provided that the storage columns arranged side by side are connected via the loading travel area on the one hand and via the unloading travel area on the other hand.

[0024] Furthermore, advantageously, the storage room includes a plurality of storage layers arranged one above the other. Preferably, at least some of the storage layers, in particular all the storage layers of the storage room, are constructed identically. In this case, it can also be provided that the first storage layer (in particular the lowermost one) of the storage layers is arranged in the previously described (first) transport layer. The other storage layers, in particular the storage layers arranged above the first storage layer, can be arranged in other transport layers.

[0025] In order to enable personnel to enter the storage room and thus enable maintenance at the storage positions, it can be provided that the storage room includes a service area, the service area includes a passable platform, the passable platform extends parallel to the storage columns and extends vertically upwards from the passable platform over at least two storage layers arranged one above the other. Since personnel do not have to be able to stand in the travel area in this way, the distance between two storage layers can thus be reduced, and thus a smaller structural height of the storage room is obtained.

[0026] Advantageously, the accessible platform is formed by a platform of the supporting structure. Particularly preferably, the accessible platform is oriented substantially on the uppermost of the storage layers located below the service area. "Substantially" in this context means that the accessible platform can be arranged slightly offset upwards or downwards relative to the respective storage layer, in particular offset by a maximum of 15 cm.

[0027] In a storage room having a plurality of storage levels arranged one above the other, in particular having more than two storage levels arranged one above the other, a plurality of service areas arranged one above the other are preferably provided.

[0028] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the storage room comprises a plurality of service areas, which are respectively positioned between two storage columns arranged side by side. Thus, two storage columns can be maintained from one service area, so that not every storage column needs its own service area.

[0029] In order to enable a particularly flexible allocation of storage locations for the suspended goods and to reduce the sorting effort after the ordered goods have been removed, it is preferably provided that the order in which the transport racks can be removed from any storage location into the storage travel area can be selected independently of the order in which a limited number of transport racks are moved from the storage travel area to the any storage location.

[0030] This advantageously allows a defined number of transport racks to be transferred from the storage travel area to any storage location in the relocation sequence and to be selectively transferable from the storage location to the storage travel area in at least a first or a second relocation sequence.

[0031] This can be achieved, for example, by the storage position having one or more parking positions arranged side by side, respectively adjacent to the storage travel area. Thus, the transport rack can be directly transferred from the storage travel area to the parking positions and removed from these parking positions again in any order.

[0032] Furthermore, it can be provided that the storage locations each have a (closed) surrounding section of the travel path, along which the transport rack can move in a surrounding direction. Thus, access to any transport rack on the storage location can be achieved.

[0033] Due to the large number of storage locations, the bypass can be dimensioned particularly small, so that the access time to a single transport rack is very short. Advantageously, provision is made that the storage locations, in particular the bypass, are dimensioned to accommodate a maximum of 100, in particular a maximum of 50 transport racks and / or have a longitudinal extension of a maximum of 10 m.

[0034] Retention points can be respectively provided at the storage positions (in particular along the corresponding surrounding sections), and the transport support entering the storage position should be retained at the retention points. The retention points can be respectively characterized by retention marks detected (optically) by the transport support.

[0035] In order to guide the transport support in the storage driving area, it is preferably provided that at least one storage section of the driving section is provided in the storage driving area, and the storage section extends along the storage position. The at least one storage section preferably has a plurality of branch roads, and each branch road is assigned to one of the storage positions in the storage position, and the storage section is connected to the assigned storage position, in particular to the surrounding section of the corresponding storage position, via the branch road, so as to transfer the transport support from the storage driving area to the assigned storage position. In addition, the at least one storage section can alternatively or additionally have a plurality of entrances, and each entrance is assigned to one of the storage positions in the storage position, and the storage section is connected to the assigned storage position, in particular to the surrounding section of the corresponding storage position, via the entrance, so as to transfer the transport support from the assigned storage position to the storage driving area.

[0036] It is advantageously provided that the at least one storage section has a first storage section including the branch road and leading away from the transfer driving area and a second storage section including the entrance and leading towards the removal driving area. Thereby, the transfer of the suspended goods via the first storage section and the removal of the suspended goods via the second storage section can be carried out, and thereby the transfer and the removal can be implemented substantially decoupled from each other.

[0037] In this case, it can be provided that the storage position is arranged between the first storage section and the second storage section. The storage driving area can in particular include a first storage driving area and a second storage driving area, a first storage section is provided in the first storage driving area, a second storage section is provided in the second storage driving area, and the storage position is arranged between the first storage driving area and the second storage driving area.

[0038] Alternatively, it is provided that only a single storage section is provided in the storage driving area, and this storage section includes both the branch road and the entrance. Thereby, the storage row can be realized particularly narrowly and space-savingly.

[0039] In order to guide the transport support in the transfer driving area, it is preferably provided that a transfer section of the driving section is provided in the transfer driving area, and the transfer section is connected to the storage driving area, in particular to the storage section.

[0040] In a plurality of storage columns arranged side by side, it is preferably provided that the storage section is connected to the storage driving area of the storage columns arranged side by side, in particular to the storage section.

[0041] Advantageously, the transfer section includes one or more branch roads, each of which is correspondingly assigned to a storage column and is connected to at least one storage section thereof, in particular to its first storage section.

[0042] Advantageously, the transfer device includes a collection section of the driving section, the collection section being arranged in the collection driving area and configured to receive the transport support from the loading area.

[0043] Furthermore, it can be provided that the transfer device includes an extension section of the driving section, the extension section being connected to the at least one loading station and the collection section. Particularly preferably, a plurality of extension sections are provided, each of which is respectively assigned to a loading group and is connected to its loading station.

[0044] Furthermore, advantageously, the transfer device includes at least one transfer unit, the transfer unit being configured to receive the transport support from the collection driving area and transfer it into the transfer driving area. Particularly preferably, the transfer device includes a plurality of such transfer units.

[0045] Advantageously, it is provided that at least one transfer unit of the transfer device is assigned to each loading group and / or each transfer unit of the transfer device is assigned to at least one loading group.

[0046] The transfer of the transport support can be carried out passively by the transfer unit of the transfer device in such a way that the transfer unit provides a driving section that guides from the collection driving area to the transfer driving area.

[0047] According to a first embodiment of the transfer unit, it is preferably provided that the at least one transfer unit of the transfer device includes an ascending section of the driving section that extends spirally along a vertical axis, the ascending section being connected to the transfer driving areas of the stacked storage layers.

[0048] It is preferably provided that the ascending section is connected to the collection section and / or to the transfer section of the transfer driving area.

[0049] Particularly preferably, it is provided that the at least one transfer unit of the transfer device includes at least one driving platform of the load-bearing structure that extends spirally around a vertical axis, the driving platform constituting a driving surface, and the at least one ascending section extends on the driving surface.

[0050] Advantageously, the spirally extending ascending section, in particular the travel platform of the load-bearing structure, has one or more windings.

[0051] Preferably, each of the windings

[0052] - has a first horizontally extending horizontal section and a second horizontally extending horizontal section, which are arranged at different height levels, in particular parallel to each other,

[0053] - has a first ascending section, which connects the first horizontally extending section and the second horizontally extending section, and

[0054] - has a second ascending section, which connects to the second horizontally extending section and, if necessary, connects the second horizontally extending section to the first horizontally extending section of the next winding of the ascending section.

[0055] Suitably, the first ascending section and the second ascending section are each inclined upwards relative to the horizontal plane in this case.

[0056] Advantageously, it is provided that the pitch of the ascending section i.e., in particular the height of one winding, corresponds to the vertical distance between two storage levels or 1 / N times the vertical distance between two storage levels, where N is an integer.

[0057] In this case, the transfer of the transport support can also be carried out actively by the transfer unit of the transfer device, in such a way that the transfer unit receives the transport support and brings it to the corresponding storage level.

[0058] According to a second embodiment of the transfer unit, it is preferably provided that the at least one transfer unit of the transfer device comprises a lifting device, in particular a bucket elevator, which is set up to receive the transport support from the collection travel area, in particular from the collection section, and transfer it to the transfer travel area of the stacked storage levels, in particular to the transfer section of the transfer travel area.

[0059] Advantageously, the transfer device comprises a plurality of transfer units. In this case, all the transfer units of the transfer device can be constructed according to the first embodiment of the transfer unit or according to the second embodiment of the transfer unit. Similarly, it is conceivable that some of the transfer units of the transfer device are constructed according to the first embodiment of the transfer unit, and some of the transfer units of the transfer device are constructed according to the second embodiment of the transfer unit.

[0060] In order to guide the transport support in the removal travel area, it is preferably provided that: in the removal travel area, there is a removal section of the travel route, and the removal section is connected to the storage travel area, in particular to the storage section.

[0061] In a plurality of storage columns arranged side by side, it is preferably provided that: the removal section is connected to the storage travel area of the storage columns arranged side by side, in particular to the storage section.

[0062] Advantageously, the removal section includes one or more inlets, and each inlet is correspondingly assigned to a storage column and is connected to at least one of its storage sections, in particular to its second storage section.

[0063] Furthermore, it can be provided that: the removal device has at least one introduction section of the travel route, and the introduction section is at least sectionally arranged in the distribution travel area and is connected to the at least one sorting station. Particularly preferably, a plurality of introduction sections are provided, and each introduction section is respectively assigned to a sorting group and is connected to its sorting station.

[0064] Advantageously: the removal device includes a distribution section of the travel route, and the distribution section is arranged in the distribution travel area and is connected to the at least one introduction section.

[0065] Furthermore, advantageously: the removal device includes at least one transfer unit, and the transfer unit is configured to receive the transport support from the removal travel area and transfer it onto the distribution travel area. Particularly preferably, the removal device includes a plurality of such transfer units.

[0066] It is preferably provided that: each sorting group is connected to at least one transfer unit of the removal device and / or each transfer unit of the removal device is (in terms of conveying technology) connected to at least one sorting group. Particularly preferably, exactly one removal device is (in terms of conveying technology) connected to exactly one sorting group.

[0067] In this case, the transfer of the transport support can be carried out passively by the transfer unit of the removal device in such a way that the transfer unit provides a travel route for guiding from the removal travel area to the distribution travel area.

[0068] According to a first embodiment of the transfer unit, it is preferably provided that: the at least one transfer unit of the removal device includes an ascending section of the travel route that extends spirally, in particular along a vertical axis, and the ascending section is connected to the removal travel area of the stacked storage layers.

[0069] It is preferably provided that: the ascending section is connected to the at least one introduction section for moving out of the driving area, to the distribution section and / or to the moving-out section.

[0070] It is particularly preferably provided that: the at least one transfer unit of the moving-out section includes at least one travel platform of the load-bearing structure that extends helically about a vertical axis, the travel platform forms a travel surface, and the at least one ascending section extends on the travel surface.

[0071] Advantageously: the ascending section that extends helically, in particular the travel platform of the load-bearing structure, has one or more turns.

[0072] Preferably, the turns each have

[0073] - a first horizontally extending section and a second horizontally extending section, which are arranged at different height levels, in particular arranged parallel to each other,

[0074] - a first ascending section that connects the first horizontally extending section and the second horizontally extending section, and

[0075] - a second ascending section that is connected to the second horizontally extending section and, if necessary, connects the second horizontally extending section to the first horizontally extending section of the next turn of the ascending section.

[0076] Suitably, the first ascending section and the second ascending section are each inclined downward relative to the horizontal plane in this case.

[0077] It is advantageously provided that: the pitch of the ascending section, i.e., in particular the height of one turn, corresponds to the vertical distance between two storage levels or 1 / N times the vertical distance between two storage levels, where N is an integer.

[0078] In this case, the transfer of the transport support can also be actively carried out by the transfer unit of the moving-out device, in such a way that the transfer unit receives the transport support and brings it into the distribution driving area.

[0079] According to a second embodiment of the transfer unit, it is preferably provided that: the transfer unit of the moving-out device includes a lifting device, in particular a bucket elevator, which is set up to receive a transport support from the moving-out driving area of the stacked storage levels, in particular from the moving-out section, and transfer it to the distribution driving area, in particular to at least one introduction section or the distribution section.

[0080] Advantageously, the removal device includes a plurality of transfer units. In this case, all transfer units of the removal device can be configured according to a first embodiment of the transfer unit or according to a second embodiment. Similarly, it is conceivable that some of the transfer units of the removal device are configured according to the first embodiment of the transfer unit and some of the transfer units of the removal device are configured according to the second embodiment of the transfer unit.

[0081] In order to provide the transport carriers of the sorting orders in the desired order at the sorting station and / or in order to sort the transport carriers of a plurality of sorting orders according to the order, it can be provided that at least one sorting device is provided in the sorting area, the sorting device being set up to change the order of the transport carriers provided in the sorting device.

[0082] Preferably, the sorting device has a supply section of the travel section for introducing the transport carriers into the sorting device in the order of introduction, a surrounding section of the travel section connected to the supply section, and a removal section for removing the transport carriers from the sorting device in an order different from the order of introduction. Thereby, the transport carriers can be moved substantially in a circular motion along the surrounding section. Thereby, access to each of the transport carriers can be achieved, and thereby the transport carriers can be extracted from the sorting device via the removal section in any order.

[0083] Advantageously, the at least one sorting station includes the at least one sorting device. In this case, the sorting device can be dimensioned particularly small, since little order mixing can already be achieved by accessing individual transport carriers in the storage area.

[0084] In the case of a plurality of sorting stations, it is preferably provided that each sorting station includes a sorting device. Alternatively, one sorting device can be assigned to two sorting stations accordingly.

[0085] In order to store empty transport carriers, advantageously, the storage room includes a replenishment warehouse for storing empty transport carriers, the replenishment warehouse having at least one supplementary storage level, in particular a plurality of supplementary storage levels.

[0086] Suitably, the replenishment warehouse is connected in terms of conveying technology to the sorting area, in particular to the at least one sorting station, and to the storage area, in particular to the at least one loading station.

[0087] Preferably, the replenishment warehouse is arranged below the lowermost storage level.

[0088] An empty transport support, for example, may include a transport support with no goods suspended thereon and / or a transport support with empty suspension bags suspended thereon. The empty transport support can be provided and loaded in the loading area, particularly at the at least one loading station.

[0089] The supply warehouse can be realized particularly simply in the case where the at least one supply storage layer has at least one buffer section of the travel route, and the empty transport supports can be stacked along the buffer section.

[0090] In addition, the supply storage layer may have at least one supply storage row, which includes storage positions arranged in a row and a supply travel area. The storage positions are for accommodating a plurality of empty transport supports, and the transport supports can be transferred from the supply travel area to the storage positions. In this case, it can be stipulated that the at least one supply storage layer has a plurality of supply storage rows arranged side by side.

[0091] In the case of utilizing the advantages and effects described above, the storage positions of the at least one supply storage row are preferably constructed as described above for the storage positions for storing the suspended goods on the transport support. Thus, the at least one supply storage layer can be constructed substantially the same as the storage layer described above.

[0092] Advantageously, the removal device includes a supply section that connects the sorting area to the supply warehouse to transfer the empty transport supports from the at least one sorting station into the supply warehouse.

[0093] In addition, advantageously, the insertion device includes a supply section that connects the supply warehouse to the loading area to transfer the empty transport supports from the supply warehouse to the at least one loading station.

[0094] In addition, one or more bypass sections may also be provided in the supply warehouse. Via the bypass sections, the empty transport supports can move from the sorting area to the loading area, particularly bypassing the supply warehouse.

[0095] Similarly, one or more bypass sections may be provided in the storage area. Via the bypass sections, the loaded transport supports can move from the loading area to the sorting area, particularly bypassing the warehouse.

[0096] Advantageously, it can be stipulated that the suspended conveyor equipment includes a computer system that is established for

[0097] - Detect sorting orders, where the sorting orders include multiple order goods, and the order goods are placed on a transport support assigned to the order goods at different storage positions in the storage room.

[0098] - Detect positioning data, where the positioning data indicates: at which storage position the goods are placed.

[0099] - Based on the positioning data, determine the desired transport duration for each order good, where the transport duration is used to transport the corresponding order good from the storage position to an aggregation point assigned to the corresponding order good along the transport path.

[0100] - Based on the desired transport duration, determine the start time point for each order good such that the order good arrives at the corresponding aggregation point within a defined time interval, in particular simultaneously.

[0101] Thereby, the transport support is moved out or set in motion such that the transport supports arrive at a certain location, namely the aggregation point, basically simultaneously, thereby achieving a particularly low mixing of the transport supports for different sorting orders. Thereby, the sorting device connected downstream, if necessary, also requires a smaller capacity, thereby also reducing the structural size of the sorting system and the technical expenditure for the sorting system.

[0102] The collection point can be, for example, the exit of the storage column, a transfer device, the exit in the transfer device, the sorting device, etc.

[0103] Furthermore, it is advantageous that: the computer system is set up to determine a first start time point for the order good with the longest desired transport duration among all order goods when determining the start time point and to determine a delay time for all other order goods, where the delay time corresponds to the difference between the longest desired transport duration and the desired transport duration for the corresponding other order good, and to determine the start time point for the other order goods based on the delay time relative to the first start time point.

[0104] In order to control the transport support and move the transport support along the transport path, it can be stipulated that: the suspension conveyor includes a communication system for communicating with the transport support, and the communication system has a host, and the host is set up to

[0105] - Select a transport support,

[0106] - Define a destination for the selected transport support along the transport path,

[0107] - Develop a path definition, where the path definition describes the driving path from the current position of the selected transport support to the defined destination, and

[0108] - Transmit the path definition to the selected transport support.

[0109] In this case, the host can be provided by the computer system or provide the computer system.

[0110] The definable destination can be, for example, the transfer unit, storage layer, storage column, storage location, sorting device or sorting station of the loading-in device and / or loading-out device.

[0111] Thus, for example, a path definition or a fragment of a path definition can be transmitted to the loaded transport support located at the loading station, which describes the driving path from the loading station to the transfer unit or to the storage layer. There, another path definition or another fragment of the one path definition can be transmitted to the loaded transport support, which describes the driving path from the current position of the transport support to the storage location. Thus, before the storage location for the suspended goods is known and / or determined, the transportation of the suspended goods from the loading station by the transport support can already be started. Thus, it is possible to react flexibly to changed storage conditions (e.g., due to loading-out).

[0112] Similarly, the transportation of the ordered goods from the storage location to the sorting station can be carried out before the sorting station is determined. Thus, it is possible to react flexibly to the changed capacity of the sorting station and / or the sorting device.

[0113] The path definition can, for example, include the selection of a certain driving path marker in the area of a branch, i.e., for example, the sequence "drive straight, detour, detour, drive straight". Such a path definition can be transmitted to the driving control device and stored in the memory if necessary. The path definition is then used to autonomously select the driving path marker or to autonomously track the driving path marker in the area of the branch. For the example listed, this means: Select the driving path marker that prompts driving straight on the first branch, select the driving path marker that prompts a detour on the second branch, and so on. The transmission of the path definition can be carried out optically, radio-based or wired.

[0114] Generally, there are two running sections on a branch and thus two selectable paths. Thus, the path definition can, for example, be binary-coded such that "0" defines the first path or the first running section and "1" defines the second path or the second running section. Thus, for example, a bit can be assigned to each branch predefined by the path definition. Figuratively speaking, "0" or "1" can, for example, mean "left" and "right".

[0115] The path definition typically includes a selection pre - determination or bit for each branch between the location where the transport support obtains the path definition (such as the starting point or the notification marker) and the next notification marker and / or the destination. Thus, the path definition basically describes the travel path to be taken by the transport support, for example, up to the notification marker at which the transport support obtains another path definition.

[0116] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that: the suspension conveyor device includes a plurality of communication areas, in which communication units connected to the host are respectively arranged. The communication units are configured to receive the notification signals of the transport supports and transmit them to the host and / or transmit the path definitions formulated by the host to the selected transport supports. In this case, the communication units and the host are preferably part of the communication system.

[0117] In this case, it is advantageous that: the host selects the transport support that has sent the notification signal.

[0118] Preferably, the communication areas

[0119] - are arranged in the area of the loading device, the unloading device, and / or the at least one sorting device

[0120] - are arranged on the storage positions, and / or

[0121] - are arranged on the transition parts between the loading area and the loading device, between the loading device and the storage area, between the storage area and the unloading device, and between the unloading device and the sorting area.

[0122] For receiving the path definition and / or sending the notification signal, it is advantageous that: the transport support includes a communication module, which is configured to send a notification signal when the transport support drives into the communication area. The communication module of the transport support is preferably part of the communication system.

[0123] Furthermore, it is advantageous that: the communication areas are characterized by optically detectable, in particular optical, markers (such as notification markers) along the transport path. Thus, there is no need to communicate with transport supports outside the communication area. The transport support can identify the communication area by itself and start communicating with the host by sending the notification signal. In this case, when the notification marker is detected by the transport support, the transport support can send a notification signal.

[0124] Advantageously, the host is further configured to determine the current position of the selected transport support based on the notification signal and the communication area in which the notification signal is received. Thereby, an expensive positioning system is not required because the host recognizes the current position of the transport support due to the position of the communication area.

[0125] Advantageously, the bearing structure includes at least one (in particular ferromagnetic) travel platform, on the lower side of which a travel surface is respectively formed, on which the travel section is arranged, and the transport support can be movably attached to the travel surface by means of an adhesion generator, in particular by means of a permanent magnet.

[0126] Particularly advantageously, the adhesion generator includes a permanent magnet, an attachment sheet (according to the gecko principle), a suction cup, and / or a hook-and-loop tape (in particular a part of the hook-and-loop tape) of a hook-and-loop connection, such as a hook or mushroom head of a hook-and-loop connection. In the case where the adhesion generator includes a permanent magnet, advantageously, the bearing structure forms the travel surface and is at least partially made of a ferromagnetic material, such as a steel plate, and the transport support can be movably attached to the travel surface via the permanent magnet. That is to say, the transport support is then attached to the travel surface by magnetic force. Although it is advantageous to use one or more permanent magnets for the purposes described above, it is also conceivable to use one or more electromagnets in order to generate the adhesion force required for the transport support to be attached to the travel surface. Particularly advantageously, the adhesion force can be generated without contact. That is to say, the at least one permanent magnet does not have to be in contact with the travel surface, but can be slightly spaced apart from the travel surface. In addition to the (electro)magnetic principle, other techniques can also be used to generate the adhesion force, namely the attachment sheet (according to the gecko principle), the suction cup, and / or the hook or mushroom head of the hook-and-loop connection. In this case, the adhesion force is generated by the contact of the adhesion generator with the travel surface. Particularly advantageously, the adhesion generator is arranged on the outer periphery of the drive mechanism as described above. When applying the attachment sheet and / or the suction cup, the travel surface is designed to be smoother, while in the case of the hook-and-loop connection, the travel surface can have a part of the hook-and-loop connection. Then, the other part of the hook-and-loop connection is arranged on the transport support (in particular on the outer periphery of the drive mechanism). In addition, the suction cup can be connected to a negative pressure generator in order to generate the adhesion force or to enhance the adhesion force.

[0127] Advantageously, the travel section is defined by travel path markings arranged on the travel surface, and the transport support can be guided along the transport path by means of the travel path markings, and the transport support is configured to detect and track the travel path markings. For this purpose, the transport support can have a detection unit.

[0128] By means of the travel path markings, the transport support can be guided along the transport path. Preferably, when one of the transport supports moves, the travel path markings are tracked by this transport support. For this purpose, it is particularly advantageous that the travel path markings are detected by the transport support, in particular by a detection unit of the transport support, and the travel control device of the transport support controls the transport support in such a way that the transport support moves along the travel path markings.

[0129] Furthermore, a plurality of control markings can be provided along the transport path, in particular along the travel section markings, which can be detected by the transport support. The control markings can, for example, include the notification markings and / or holding markings described above, the communication area being characterized by the notification markings and the holding point being characterized by the holding markings. In addition, the control markings can include a plurality of interrogation markings, which mark the branch roads along the transport path and are located upstream of the marked branch roads in the transport direction of the transport support.

[0130] Preferably, it is provided that the travel path markings are designed as optical markings, for example as travel lines extending along the transport path and having a first edge and a second edge. When one of the transport supports moves, in particular, the first edge or the second edge is selectively tracked by this transport support. Thereby, the (optical) travel section markings can be designed as guide lines or travel lines on the travel surface of the load-bearing structure along which the transport support is to travel. In order to construct the branches of the transport path in a switch section, the travel section can branch, for example, star-shaped or Y-shaped, in order to mark the entrance and the branch roads.

[0131] Advantageously, each of the transport supports includes a travel control device.

[0132] In order to store and / or call up the path definition, it is advantageous that each of the transport supports has a memory, which is connected to the travel control device and is designed, in particular, to be writable and readable.

[0133] The travel control device of the transport support is preferably designed in each case to receive the path definition transmitted by the host computer, in particular by the communication unit, to store this path definition in the memory of the respective transport support, to call up this path definition from the memory and to control the respective transport support in accordance with the travel regulations.

[0134] Thus, it is possible that the transport carriers move in the sorting system individually and (largely) independently of other transport carriers. The advantages obtained thereby are particularly that the transport carriers can navigate or travel autonomously between the origin and the destination. Furthermore, it is advantageous that only partial sections have to be predefined and not the entire route traversed by the transport carrier. Thereby, it is possible to react flexibly to misguidance, changes in the order structure, etc. Furthermore, it is not necessary to ensure communication between the transport carrier and the host everywhere along the transport path, but only at selected locations, such as, for example, in the communication area. Thus, the transport carrier can be guided basically from communication area to communication area, in particular from notification marker to notification marker, until it reaches the destination. At each notification marker or in each communication area, in this case, the possibility for path correction is provided, thereby achieving particularly high flexibility.

[0135] The interrogation markers described above may affect the performance of the transport carrier. For example, by reaching the interrogation marker, the transport carrier, in particular its travel control device, is prompted to call up the path definition from the memory. Thereby, the interrogation marker essentially acts as a turning point.

[0136] Furthermore, the notification markers may mark locations along the transport path, in particular notification points, at which it is possible and, if necessary, required to transmit the path definition. The notification markers are preferably assigned to an entrance at which multiple travel sections meet.

[0137] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the transport carrier includes at least one drive device for moving the transport carrier along the travel sections in a self-driven and independent manner. The movement of the transport carrier is preferably carried out in such a way that the travel control device of the transport carrier controls the at least one drive device of the transport carrier such that the drive device moves along the transport path.

[0138] In order to move the transport carrier in a self-driven manner, it is preferably provided that the at least one drive device is configured to convert the provided, in particular electrical, drive energy into kinetic energy for transporting the suspended goods. In order to drive the wheels provided on the opposite sides of the transport carrier differently so that the wheels can, for example, follow a curved track, it is preferably provided that the transport carrier includes two drive devices respectively.

[0139] Furthermore, the transport carrier may respectively have a base body on which the drive device is provided. In this case, it is advantageous that the drive device provided on the base body is configured to move the respective transport carrier along the load-bearing structure of the suspension conveyor, in particular in an attached manner to the load-bearing structure.

[0140] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous that the travel control device of the transport support is configured to receive the path definition from the host computer, store the received path definition in the memory of the corresponding transport support, and select a path from a plurality of paths in the area of the branch according to the received path definition. By means of the proposed measures, the autonomy of the transport support is achieved in such a way that the transport support independently determines the path in the area of the branch. For this purpose, the transport support can, for example, follow one of a plurality of travel path markers. In this way, the autonomous movement of the transport support can be achieved particularly well. Here, the host computer has predetermined the path along which the transport support then travels autonomously by means of the travel control device.

[0141] In addition, the transport support can have a plurality of wheels rotatably supported on the base body.

[0142] Preferably, the drive device has an electrically operated motor, which is supported on the corresponding transport support, and one of the wheels mentioned above is configured as a (first) drive wheel, which is coupled to the motor.

[0143] Advantageously, the drive device has a traction device transmission mechanism, via which the drive wheel is coupled to the motor (the drive device). Thereby, the drive is relatively quiet and low-maintenance. As the traction device of the traction device transmission mechanism, in particular, a toothed belt or a flat belt is considered. Alternatively, the drive device can also include a transmission, a gear and / or a friction engagement transmission mechanism (Reibschlussübertrieb), via which the drive wheel is coupled to the motor (the drive device).

[0144] It is suitable that the travel control device is configured to send a notification signal and / or receive a path definition.

[0145] The transport support, the travel path marker, the control marker and the path definition are, for example, described in detail in the Austrian patent application with document number A50463 / 2022, the entire content of which is incorporated into the present application and thus becomes the technical solution of the present application.

[0146] Furthermore, the task is solved by a method of the type mentioned at the beginning, which method comprises the following steps:

[0147] i) loading the transport support of the suspension conveyor with suspended goods at the at least one loading station;

[0148] ii) By means of the host computer, storage positions are allocated, and one storage position, in particular any storage position, in the storage area is allocated to each loaded transport support;

[0149] iii) The suspended goods are moved in by means of the suspended conveyor equipment, and the loaded transport supports move along the transport path from the loading area via the collecting travel area to the correspondingly allocated storage position;

[0150] iv) The suspended goods are stored on the transport support in the corresponding storage position;

[0151] v) A sorting order including the order goods is detected, the order goods being composed of the suspended goods stored in the storage area, and at least one transport support on which the order goods are stored suspended is selected;

[0152] vi) If necessary, by means of the host computer, a sorting station is allocated, and a sorting station, in particular one of the at least one sorting station(s), is allocated to the selected at least one transport support;

[0153] vii) The order goods are moved out by means of the suspended conveyor equipment, and when step vi) is carried out, the transport support moves from the corresponding storage position via the allocated travel area to the sorting station, in particular to the allocated sorting station;

[0154] viii) When step vi) is carried out, the selected transport support with the order goods is provided at the sorting station, in particular the allocated sorting station, and the order goods are transferred from the selected transport support to the destination loading auxiliary device.

[0155] The advantages obtained by using the method are particularly that there are a plurality of storage positions and the transport supports and thus the suspended goods can be moved into any storage position, whereby a particularly uniform storage density can be achieved. In addition, the access time for a single transport support is particularly short, so that the order goods, in particular the items of the order goods, can be moved out of the storage area particularly quickly and provided at the at least one sorting station.

[0156] In the case of utilizing the advantages and effects described above, it is particularly preferably provided that the method is carried out by means of the sorting system described above.

[0157] In order to carry out the loading in step i), empty transport supports and goods, in particular suspended goods, are provided at the at least one loading station.

[0158] In this case, for example, the goods can be provided in a loading aid, which can respectively contain a plurality of articles. During the loading, the articles can be separated and reloaded into a transport bag suspended on the transport support, so as to form the suspended goods. Similarly, the suspended goods already suspended on a clothes hanger can be provided at the at least one loading station. During the loading, the clothes hanger can be suspended on the prepared empty transport support.

[0159] The loading of the transport support with the suspended goods in step i) can be carried out automatically and / or manually by an operator.

[0160] During the transfer of the suspended goods in step iii), the suspended goods are transported to the assigned storage location in the storage area by means of the transport support. For this purpose, the transport support is moved along the transport path until this transport support reaches the assigned storage location, and then this transport support is transferred into the assigned storage location. Then, the suspended goods can be stored at the storage location in step iv) until, for example, this suspended goods is needed for a sorting order.

[0161] In step v), the sorting order is detected in particular by the host computer or the order management system. The sorting order includes order goods, which usually consist of one or more articles of the suspended goods suspended on the transport support. If the sorting order includes only a single article, it is called a single-piece order. Conversely, if the sorting order includes a plurality of articles, it is called a multi-piece order. The sorting order can correspond to a user order, for example.

[0162] Now, the at least one transport support can be selected by the host computer, in particular the transport supports that are suspended and store the order goods and are thus required for completing the sorting order.

[0163] Step vi) can in particular include assigning a sorting station by means of the host computer, if the sorting area includes a plurality of sorting stations, to one of the plurality of sorting stations for the selected at least one transport support.

[0164] If the sorting area includes only (a single) sorting station for unloading the transport support and sorting the order goods, then step vi) can be regarded as optional. In other words, step vi) is not necessarily required, and preferably step vi) can even be omitted in this case.

[0165] In order to provide the transport supports for the sorting orders at a (common) sorting station for subsequent sorting, in step vi), one sorting station, in particular one of the plurality of sorting stations, can be assigned to the at least one selected transport support, in particular all selected transport supports, in the sorting order. If there is only one sorting station, it goes without saying that this one sorting station is assigned. This is especially the case when step vi) is to be carried out optionally. If there are multiple sorting stations, one of the sorting stations is assigned (in step vi)). This is done by means of the host computer. In step vi), a sorting station can be assigned immediately after detecting the sorting order and then the order goods can be transported from the corresponding storage location to the (assigned) sorting station. In this case, step vii) is carried out after step vi).

[0166] Alternatively, the assignment can also be carried out in multiple stages as described in detail below, so that the transport can already start before the sorting station is finally assigned. In this case, steps vi) and vii) can be carried out at least partially overlapping in time, in particular simultaneously. For example, the transfer unit and / or sorting group of the removal device can be assigned first and the sorting station can only be assigned at a later point in time.

[0167] When removing the order goods in step vii), the order goods are transported to the (assigned) sorting station in the sorting area by means of the transport support. For this purpose, the transport support is moved along the transport path until this transport support reaches the assigned sorting station and / or is provided on this sorting station.

[0168] The order goods are provided on the sorting station to complete the sorting order and are transferred from the transport support to a destination loading aid, for example transferred to a shipping package.

[0169] For this purpose, in step viii), preferably a destination loading aid, such as a shipping package, can be provided on the sorting station. Thereby, the transfer can include unloading the order goods from the selected transport support and outputting them to the provided destination loading aid.

[0170] During the transfer, the order goods or hanging goods suspended via a clothes hanger on the transport support together with the clothes hanger can be removed from the transport support and output to the destination loading aid. Similarly, the order goods or hanging goods located in a transport bag suspended on the transport support can be removed from the transport bag and output to the destination loading aid.

[0171] The unloading of the transport support and / or the loading of the destination loading aid in step viii), in particular the reloading of the order goods, can be carried out automatically and / or manually.

[0172] In order to move the loaded transport support into an arbitrary storage position, in step ii), an arbitrary storage position in the storage area, in particular in the storage room, is assigned to the transport support respectively. This is carried out by means of the host computer.

[0173] In order to utilize the storage positions evenly, it is preferably provided that in step ii), the (arbitrary) storage position is selected such that an even storage density is achieved in the storage room.

[0174] In step ii), the storage position can be assigned immediately after the loading and then the suspended goods can be transported from the loading station to the assigned storage position. In this case, step iii) is carried out after step ii).

[0175] Alternatively, the assignment can also be carried out in multiple stages such that the transportation can already start before the final assignment of the storage position. In this case, steps ii) and iii) can be carried out at least partially overlapping in time, in particular simultaneously.

[0176] Thus, it is advantageous that the assignment in step ii) is carried out in multiple stages, in a first stage a first-stage destination is assigned to the loaded transport support, and in another stage a storage position is assigned to the loaded transport support, and the other stage is carried out after the first stage, in particular during step iii).

[0177] Generally, the communication area between the current position of the transport support and the assigned storage position in the communication area described above can be assigned as the first-stage destination respectively.

[0178] For example, the transfer unit, storage layer or storage column of the transfer device can be assigned as the first-stage destination.

[0179] In addition, a second stage can be carried out between the first stage and the other stage, in which a second-stage destination is assigned. For example, a storage layer or storage column can be assigned as the second-section destination.

[0180] In addition, a third stage can be carried out between the second stage and the other stage, in which a third-stage destination is assigned. For example, a storage column can be assigned as the third-stage destination.

[0181] When reaching the previous destination via the transport support, the next destination can be correspondingly assigned to the transport support. Thus, the segment destinations are preferably each within a communication area.

[0182] Advantageously, each of the transport supports includes a travel control device, and the transport support is moved in step iii) and / or in step iv) by controlling the transport support through its travel control device such that the transport support travels along the transport path. Thereby, individual control and movement of the transport support can be achieved.

[0183] Particularly advantageously, each of the transport supports has at least one drive device as described above, and the drive device is controlled by the travel control device.

[0184] In addition, advantageously, step ii) further includes transmitting the path definition from the host to the loaded transport support, particularly to the travel control device of the loaded transport support, and the path definition respectively defines the travel section along the transport path from the at least one loading station to the assigned storage location.

[0185] Similarly, advantageously, step vi) further includes transmitting the path definition from the host to the selected at least one transport support, particularly to the travel control device of the selected at least one transport support, and the path definition defines the travel path along the transport path from the corresponding storage location to the assigned sorting station.

[0186] Thereby, destinations such as storage locations or sorting stations and the travel path thereto can be predetermined by the host. Then, the transport support can be navigated individually and independently along the travel path. For this purpose, the path definition can be stored in the memory of the corresponding transport support if necessary and called by the travel control device, particularly when the transport support reaches a branch road.

[0187] To operate the sorting system particularly flexibly, it is preferably provided that the path definition is transmitted in fragments.

[0188] In this case, on the one hand, a first segment can define a first section of the travel path from at least one loading station to the assigned storage location, and further segments can each define further sections of the travel path from the at least one loading station to the assigned storage location, the first segment being transported first and the further segments subsequently being transported, in particular during step iii). As a result, for example, the transport of the suspended load by the transport rack can already begin before the storage location for the suspended load is known and / or determined. As a result, it is possible to react flexibly to changed storage conditions (for example due to removal).

[0189] On the other hand, a first segment can define a first section of the transport path from the respective storage location to the assigned sorting station, and further segments can each define further sections of the transport path from the respective storage location to the assigned sorting station, the first segment being transported first and the further segments subsequently being transported, in particular during step vii). As a result, for example, transport of the order goods by the transport carrier can already begin before the sorting station for the order goods is known and / or determined. As a result, a flexible response can be made to a changed load level of the sorting station (for example due to a changed order structure).

[0190] Preferably, it is provided that a segment of the route definition, in particular a segment in each case, is transmitted when the transport support is located in a communication zone. As a result, the route definition can be flexibly adapted. For this purpose, the segment can be adapted to the current situation before it is transmitted.

[0191] If a driving control device is provided, it may be appropriate to control the loaded transport support during the moving in in step iii) and / or to control the selected at least one transport support during the moving out in step vii) by means of its driving control device according to the corresponding path definition so that the transport support moves along the defined driving path.

[0192] Advantageously, the host computer is used to formulate a path definition in step ii) and / or step vi), which path definition specifies for a certain number of branches, in particular all branches, along the driving path whether the transport rack should follow the course of the driving section or the individual branches.

[0193] Furthermore, it is advantageous that: the travel section has a plurality of branch roads, the branch roads respectively connect two travel sections to each other, and the suspended conveying device includes travel path markings along the travel path of the travel section, the travel path markings having a plurality of interrogation markings, the interrogation markings respectively representing one of the branch roads, and the transport support detects the travel path markings when performing the inward movement in step iii) and / or when performing the outward movement in step vii), and when the transport support detects an interrogation marking, the travel control device controls the transport support such that the transport support travels straight or turns according to the path definition on the corresponding branch road.

[0194] It is particularly preferably provided that: when the transport support reaches the interrogation marking, the path definition is called from the memory by the travel control device. As described above, the path definition can specify for a plurality of branch roads which travel path marking should be selected, that is, whether "straight travel" or "steering travel" should be implemented.

[0195] In the sense of the present invention, continuously tracking the travel section along which the transport support moves is understood as "traveling straight on the corresponding branch road" or "straight travel", regardless of whether this transport support extends straight or along a curve. Similarly, in the sense of the present invention, turning from the travel section along which the transport support moves to another travel section is understood as "steering travel".

[0196] It is advantageously provided that: the suspended conveying device includes a plurality of (especially the previously described) communication areas, and when performing the inward movement in step iii) and / or when performing the outward movement in step vii), a notification signal is sent by the transport support that drives into one of the communication areas, and the notification signal is received by the host, especially via a communication unit connected to the host and provided in the corresponding communication area.

[0197] It is preferably provided that: when performing the inward movement in step iii) and / or when performing the outward movement in step vii), due to receiving the notification signal by the host,

[0198] - The current position of the transport support that has sent the notification signal is obtained based on the position of the corresponding communication area along the transport path, and

[0199] - A (especially new) path definition or another segment of the path definition is formulated based on the obtained current position of the transport support and is preferably transmitted to the transport support via the communication unit.

[0200] As described previously, it is advantageous that the storage room includes a plurality of storage levels, and the storage positions are provided in the storage levels. Here, it is advantageous that when performing the transfer in step iii), the transport support is moved from the at least one loading station to the transfer unit of the transfer device and is accordingly brought via the transfer unit to the storage level where the assigned storage position is located in the storage level.

[0201] The transfer unit of the transfer device can in particular be configured according to the first embodiment described previously. In step iii), the transport support is controlled by its travel control device such that the transport support travels upward on the ascending section and turns into the storage level where the correspondingly assigned storage position is located.

[0202] Alternatively, the transfer unit of the transfer device can be configured according to the second solution described above. In step iii), the transport support is controlled by its travel control device such that the transport support respectively enters the lifting device, moves vertically through the lifting device until the storage level where the correspondingly assigned storage position is located, and thereafter, the transport support leaves the lifting device and enters the corresponding storage level.

[0203] It goes without saying that, as described previously, a plurality of transfer units can also be provided. In this case, the transfer units can be configured according to the same or different embodiments such that the transport support moves upward on the ascending section or moves upward through the lifting device depending on the transfer unit.

[0204] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the storage room includes a plurality of storage columns arranged side by side, the storage positions are provided in the storage columns, and in step iii), the transport support is controlled by its travel control device such that the transport support moves from the transfer travel area of the storage room into the storage travel area of the storage column where the assigned storage position is located.

[0205] It is advantageously provided that each of the storage positions has a surrounding section for accommodating a plurality of transport supports, and in step iii), the transport support is controlled by its travel control device such that the transport support moves along the surrounding section on the storage position.

[0206] In order to save energy, it can be stipulated that in step iii), the transport support is controlled, in particular via its travel control device, such that the transport support driving into the storage position remains at the holding point predetermined by the host on the storage position. The transport supports can wait substantially successively on the storage position, in particular along the surrounding section, such that the transport supports do not have to move continuously, thereby saving energy.

[0207] For this purpose, a holding point for the first transport support driving into the storage position can be defined on the storage position and, if necessary, the holding point can be characterized by a holding mark along the surrounding section that can be detected by the transport support. In this way, other holding points for the transport supports driving into the storage position are obtained such that the transport supports stay successively. For this purpose, the transport support can include, for example, a distance sensor with which the transport support can detect other transport supports driving ahead or stationary and can brake the transport support accordingly and, if necessary, stop the transport support at a defined distance from the other transport supports. Alternatively, other holding points along the surrounding path can also be predetermined by other holding marks. The host can, for example, predetermine for the transport support, in particular its travel control device, on which holding mark the transport support should stay.

[0208] In particular when the removal is carried out in step vii), it is advantageous that a path definition is transmitted to all transport supports at the storage position where the at least one selected transport support is located.

[0209] - The path definition for the at least one selected transport support of the storage position states that this transport support should leave the storage position, and

[0210] - The path definition for the remaining transport supports of the storage position states that these transport supports should remain on the storage position. Thereby, individual access to each transport support on the storage position is ensured.

[0211] Thereby, the transport supports can be moved along the surrounding section and only one or a plurality of selected transport supports leave the storage position. All the remaining transport supports remain on the storage position. When the selected transport support has left the storage position, the first transport support among the remaining transport supports stays at the holding point described above if necessary. All the other remaining transport supports stay such that they stay behind the first transport support among the remaining transport supports.

[0212] Furthermore, it is advantageous that, when carrying out the removal in step vii), the selected transport support is controlled, in particular via its travel control device, such that the transport support moves from the respective storage position to the transfer unit of the removal device and, via the transfer unit, from the respective storage level to the assigned travel area. In this case, the storage room can also include a plurality of storage levels.

[0213] The transfer unit of the removal device can in particular be configured according to the first embodiment described above. In step vii), the transport support is controlled via its travel control device such that the transport support moves downward on the ascending section and turns into the assigned travel area.

[0214] Alternatively, the transfer unit of the removal device can be configured according to the second embodiment described above. In step vii), the transport support is controlled via its travel control device such that the transport support drives into the lifting device respectively, moves vertically downward through the lifting device until the assigned travel area, after which the transport support leaves the lifting device and drives into the assigned travel area.

[0215] It goes without saying that, as described above, a plurality of transfer units can also be provided. In this case, the transfer units can be configured according to the same or different embodiments such that the transport support moves downward on the ascending section or moves downward through the lifting device depending on the transfer unit.

[0216] It is advantageously provided that, when carrying out the detection in step iv), other sorting orders including other order goods are detected, and the other order goods consist of hanging goods stored in the storage area.

[0217] - When carrying out the selection in step iv), the transport support on which the other order goods are stored hanging is also selected.

[0218] - When carrying out the allocation in step vi), the same sorting station is assigned to the selected transport support of the other sorting order as to the selected transport support of the sorting order.

[0219] - When carrying out the removal in step vii), the other order goods are removed by means of the hanging conveyor, in such a way that the at least one transport support moves from the respective storage position to the assigned sorting station, and

[0220] - When performing the provision in step viii), by means of a sorting device, in particular a sorting device on the assigned sorting table, the transport racks of the sorting orders and the transport racks of the other sorting orders are sorted and provided according to the sorting orders such that the transport racks of the sorting orders can be unloaded first and then the transport racks of the other sorting orders can be unloaded.

[0221] Thereby, the articles of the order goods can be placed in the desired order and / or provided in a pure order manner on the assigned sorting station.

[0222] Similar to the assignment in step ii), it is preferably provided that: the assignment in step vi) is carried out in multiple stages. In the first stage, the first-stage destination is assigned to the selected at least one transport rack, and in another stage, the sorting station is assigned to the selected at least one transport rack. The other stage is carried out after the first stage, in particular during step vii).

[0223] Generally, the communication area between the current position of the transport rack in the previously described communication area and the assigned storage position can be assigned as the section destination respectively.

[0224] As the first-stage destination, for example, the transfer unit, sorting group or sorting device of the removal device can be assigned.

[0225] In addition, a second stage can be carried out between the first stage and the other stage. In the second stage, the second-stage destination is assigned. As the second-section destination, for example, a sorting group or a sorting device can be assigned.

[0226] In addition, a third stage can be carried out between the second stage and the other stage. In the third stage, the third-stage destination is assigned. As the third-stage destination, for example, a sorting device can be assigned.

[0227] When the transport rack reaches the previous-stage destination, the next-stage destination can be correspondingly assigned to the transport rack, in particular.

[0228] To operate the sorting device particularly effectively, it is preferably provided that: if there are transport racks of at least two sorting orders in the sorting device, the transport rack of the sorting order whose transport rack is closer to the exit of the sorting device is removed from the sorting device.

[0229] To coordinate the order goods of different storage positions, it is preferably provided that: when detecting the sorting order in step v),

[0230] - Detect the positioning data, which indicates: on which storage position the order goods are stored.

[0231] - Based on the positioning data, a desired transport duration is determined for each of the order goods, the transport duration being used to transport the corresponding order goods from the storage location to the collection point assigned to the corresponding order goods, and

[0232] - Based on the desired transport duration, a start time point is determined for each of the order goods such that the order goods arrive at the corresponding collection point within a defined time interval, in particular simultaneously,

[0233] In step vi), the movement of the transport support is started at the correspondingly determined start time point.

[0234] The advantage obtained thereby lies particularly in that the mixing of the transport supports of different sorting orders is kept small, so that a sorting device is not required or the sorting device can be implemented small and / or with a particularly small capacity if necessary.

[0235] In this case, it is also advantageous that: when determining the start time point, a first start time point is determined for the order goods with the longest desired transport duration of all the order goods, and a delay time is determined for all the other order goods, the delay time corresponding to the difference between the longest desired transport duration and the desired transport duration for the corresponding other order goods, and the start time point for the other order goods is determined based on the delay time relative to the first start time point

[0236] It is advantageous to determine the start time point taking into account the maximum capacity of the sorting device. Description of the Drawings

[0237] For a better understanding of the present invention, the present invention will be explained in detail with the aid of the following drawings.

[0238] In strongly simplified schematic diagrams respectively:

[0239] Figure 1 A sorting system with a hanging conveyor device is shown;

[0240] Figure 2 A front view of a storage room with a service area is shown;

[0241] Figure 3 The infeed device of the sorting system is shown;

[0242] Figure 4 The storage columns in the storage area of the sorting system are shown;

[0243] Figure 5a A first embodiment of the outfeed device is shown;

[0244] Figure 5b Shows a second embodiment of the removal device;

[0245] Figure 6 Shows the sorting station of the sorting system;

[0246] Figure 7 Shows the supply bin of the sorting system;

[0247] Figure 8 Shows the transfer unit of the loading device or the removal device;

[0248] Figure 9 Shows a transport support with suspended goods from an oblique upper view;

[0249] Figure 10 Shows a partial view of the suspended conveyor equipment;

[0250] Figure 11 Shows the transport support in a detailed view from an oblique upper view;

[0251] Figure 12 Shows the transport support in a detailed view from an oblique lower view;

[0252] Figure 13 Shows a detailed view of the transport support in a front view;

[0253] Figure 14 Shows a transport support with crawlers from an oblique upper view;

[0254] Figure 15 Shows an exemplary block diagram of the transport support;

[0255] Figure 16 Shows a method for sorting sorting orders. Detailed implementation mode

[0256] First of all, it should be pointed out that in the differently described embodiments, the same components are provided with the same reference numerals or the same component names, and the disclosure contained in the entire specification can be meaningfully transferred to the same components with the same reference numerals or the same component names. The positional descriptions selected in the specification, such as upper, lower, lateral, etc., also refer to the directly described and illustrated drawings, and these positional descriptions are meaningfully transferred to the new positions when the positions change.

[0257] In Figure 1 And Figures 3 to 7 A schematic diagram of the sorting system 1 is shown in a top view. The sorting system includes a suspended conveyor equipment 2, a loading area BB, a storage area LB, and a sorting area KB. The suspended conveyor equipment has a plurality of transport supports 3. In addition, in Figure 2The partial storage area LB is shown in a front view.

[0258] The suspension conveyor device 2 includes a load-bearing structure 4 shown in Figure 2 which has a plurality of travel sections provided thereon, and the travel sections form a transport path. The travel sections are schematically shown as lines in Figure 1 and in Figures 3 to 7 respectively.

[0259] In addition, the transport support 3 is configured to transport the suspended goods W and can move the transport support along the transport path, in particular self-driven and individually.

[0260] In order to guide and / or control the transport support 3 along the travel sections, markers that can be detected by the transport support 3, in particular travel path markers U and / or control markers, can be provided along the transport path. The markers are preferably configured as optical markers or markers that can be optically detected by the transport support 3.

[0261] Preferably, the travel sections are defined by travel path markers U, which are, for example, optically detectable lines on the travel surface T. The travel sections particularly include the lead-out section 101, the collection section 102, the transfer-in section 103, the storage section 104, the circumferential section 105, the transfer-out section 106, the distribution section 107, the introduction section 108, the supply section 109, the pick-up section 110, the replenishment section 111, the buffer section 112, the bypass section 113, and / or the ascending section 114 described below. The interconnected travel sections can be interconnected via entrances and / or branch roads in particular.

[0262] The control markers can include, for example, interrogation markers V1 characterizing the branch roads of the transport path and / or notification markers V2 characterizing the communication areas described below. For the sake of clarity, the control markers are not drawn in Figure 1 respectively.

[0263] At least one loading station 5 is provided in the loading area BB for loading the transport support 3. In addition, a sorting table 6 is provided in the sorting area KB, on which the transport support 3 loaded with the suspended goods W can be provided for completing sorting orders.

[0264] The loading area BB is connected in a conveying technology to the storage area LB via a transfer-in device 7. In addition, the storage area LB is connected in a conveying technology to the sorting area KB via a transfer-out device 8.

[0265] A storage room is provided in the storage area LB, which has one or more storage levels 9. In Figure 1One of these storage layers 9 is shown in FIG. The storage layer 9 comprises a plurality of storage locations 10 which are arranged one after the other in a row (in the x direction) and thus form a storage row, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 4 In a manner adjacent to the storage position 10, the storage row comprises a storage travel area LFB. Preferably, the storage layer 9 has a plurality of storage rows arranged side by side (in the z direction), such as in Figure 1 In this case, the x-direction and the z-direction form a horizontal plane. When a plurality of storage layers 9 are provided, these storage layers can be constructed identically and arranged one above the other.

[0266] Furthermore, the overhead conveying device 2 can have a computer system 11 which comprises, in particular, a host computer 12 of a communication system.

[0267] The computer system 11 is preferably configured to detect a picking order including the ordered goods and / or to determine a starting time for transporting the hanging goods W.

[0268] The host computer 12 is preferably configured to determine a destination for transporting the support 3 and to create a route definition that describes a driving route from its current position to the destination along a transport route for transporting the support 3. The route definition specifies, in particular, which of the possible driving routes should be followed on the branch road between the current position and the destination.

[0269] The communication system is preferably configured to communicate with the transport support 3. For this purpose, the communication system comprises a plurality of communication units 13 arranged along the transport path. The communication units 13 are particularly configured to transmit the path definition prepared by the host computer 12 to the transport support 3 and / or to receive arrival signals sent by the transport support 3.

[0270] It is advantageous if the overhead conveyor device 2 has a plurality of communication zones in which communication with the transport support 3 is possible. Such communication zones can be characterized, for example, by optically detectable markings, so-called notification markings V2. Such notification markings V2 are, for example, Figure 4 In the middle, a circle is drawn next to one of the driving sections.

[0271] The transport support 3 is expediently configured to receive the transmitted route definition, to select a travel route along the transport route as a function of the route definition, and / or to send an arrival signal when the transport support enters the communication zone.

[0272] exist Figure 2 2 shows a partial section of a storage room of a suspended transport device 2 in a front view. As can be seen, the storage room can have a plurality of storage levels 9 arranged one above the other.

[0273] The load-bearing structure 4 of the suspended conveying device 2 preferably has a plurality of travel platforms 14, on the underside of which a travel surface T for the transport brackets 3 is provided. The travel path is arranged on these travel surfaces T. The transport brackets 3 can be movably attached to the travel surface T, for example, by means of magnetic interaction. For this purpose, it is advantageous that: the travel platform 14 includes a ferromagnetic material, such as a steel plate.

[0274] In addition, the load-bearing structure 4 can include a support structure, in particular a vertical upright, via which the load-bearing structure 4 can be placed on the floor.

[0275] In addition, in Figure 2 two storage rows arranged side by side are shown, each of which includes a storage travel area LFB and storage positions 10 adjacent to the storage travel area LFB. In the example shown, on each storage position 10, a plurality of suspended goods W are respectively stored on the transport brackets 3. The transport brackets 3 are also shown in the travel area, which move along the transport path.

[0276] In addition, it is advantageous that: the storage room has a service area SB, which enables maintenance personnel to enter the storage room. For this purpose, the service area SB is preferably at least twice as high as the vertical distance in the y direction between two storage levels 9. The service area SB is schematically shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is suitable that: the service area SB includes a passable platform 15.

[0277] As can be seen in Figure 2 it is not necessarily required that: two storage rows arranged side by side are directly adjacent to each other. More precisely, it can be stipulated that: the service area SB is positioned between the storage rows, so that two storage rows can be maintained via one service area SB.

[0278] In Figure 3 an enlarged partial view of the sorting system 1 is shown, which shows the loading area BB and the transfer device 7 with a collection travel area SFB.

[0279] In the loading area BB, for example, a plurality of loading stations 5 are provided, and some of the loading stations 5 respectively form a loading group. In the example shown, three loading stations 5 arranged successively in the x direction respectively form a loading group. A plurality of such loading groups can be arranged side by side in the z direction, for example.

[0280] The transfer device 7 preferably includes a plurality of lead-out sections 101, which connect the loading stations 5 to the collection travel area SFB and are respectively assigned to a loading group.

[0281] Furthermore, the transfer device 7 may include a collection section 102 provided in the collection driving area SFB, and this collection section is connected to the lead-out section 101. The loaded transport brackets 3 can be transferred onto the collection section 102 and thus gathered on one section.

[0282] Furthermore, the transfer device 7 preferably includes at least one transfer unit 16, which is configured to transfer the transport brackets 3 from the collection driving area SFB to the immediately subsequent storage area LB in terms of logistics technology. Preferably, the transfer unit 16 is respectively connected to the collection section 102. In Figure 3 exemplarily three transfer units 16 are provided. However, the sorting system 1 can be flexibly extended with additional transfer units 16 in order to improve efficiency.

[0283] In Figure 4 an enlarged partial view of the storage layer 9 is shown, and this enlarged partial view particularly shows a storage column.

[0284] The storage layer 9 includes an entry driving area EFB, which is connected to the collection driving area SFB via the transfer unit 16 of the transfer device 7, as can be seen in Figure 1 or rather from the Figure 3 and Figure 4 overview. In the entry driving area EFB, an entry section 103 is preferably provided, and this entry section is connected to the transfer unit 16 of the transfer device 7.

[0285] Furthermore, the storage area LB includes an exit driving area AFB, which is connected to the distribution driving area VFB via the transfer unit 16 of the following-described exit device 8, as can be seen in Figure 1 or rather from the Figure 4 and Figure 5a or Figure 5b overview. In the exit driving area AFB, an exit section 106 is preferably provided, and this exit section is connected to the transfer unit 16 of the exit device 8.

[0286] The storage driving area LFB extends between the entry driving area EFB and the exit driving area AFB, and the transport brackets 3 can move in this storage driving area.

[0287] In the storage driving area LFB, particularly extending in the x-direction, there are at least storage sections 104, which connect the entry driving area EFB and the exit driving area AFB. Preferably, the storage section 104 is connected to the entry section 103 on the one hand and to the exit section 106 on the other hand. Furthermore, the storage section 104 is connected to the storage location 10.

[0288] Advantageously, each storage location 10 includes a surrounding section 105 along which the transport support 3 can move in a surrounding direction.

[0289] It can be seen that Figure 4 two connected travel sections (for example, the insertion section 103 and the storage section 104 or the storage section 104 and the surrounding section 105) are connected via a branch. The branch can be characterized by an interrogation marker V1. The interrogation marker V1 signals to the transport support 3 that the transport support is close to the branch. The transport support 3 can select one of the two travel sections based on the path definition and move along the selected travel section.

[0290] In the illustrated example, when the destination of the transport support 3 is in the illustrated storage column, the path definition for the transport support 3 can, for example, determine a turning movement. The transport support 3 can now select the storage section 104 based on the path definition at the interrogation marker V1 and turn into the storage section. Alternatively, when the destination of the transport support 3 is in another storage column, the path definition can determine a straight movement. The transport support 3 can now select the insertion section 103 based on the path definition at the interrogation marker V1 and continue to follow the insertion section. This mode of operation is possible for all branches in the sorting system.

[0291] In order to navigate the transport support 3 illustrated in Figure 4 to, for example, the second storage location 10 from the insertion travel area EFB to the removal travel area AFB in the transport direction, the path definition can, for example, be stated in the form of "detour travel, straight travel" or "1, 0, 1, 0", where "0" means "straight travel" and "1" means "detour travel". Thereby, the transport support 3 is transferred from the insertion section 103 to the storage section 104 at the first interrogation marker V1 according to the path definition. A straight movement is started at the second interrogation marker V1 such that the transport support 3 remains on the storage section 104 and passes by the first storage location 10 in the transport direction. At the third interrogation marker V1 reached by the transport support 3, a detour travel is started again such that the transport support 3 now turns into the second storage location 10 in the transport direction (in particular on its surrounding section 105). The fourth interrogation marker V1 reached by the transport support 3 is arranged along the surrounding section 105. According to the fourth part of the path definition, a straight movement is started again such that the transport support 3 remains on the surrounding section 105. This principle can be carried out in the same way for all branches.

[0292] Furthermore, a notification marker V2 is provided on the storage location 10. Due to the detection of the notification marker V2, the transport support 3 can emit an arrival signal which signals the arrival on the storage location 10.

[0293] In order to stop the transport rack 3 at a defined holding point on the storage location 10, it can be provided that the holding point is characterized by a holding mark V3. The holding mark V3 can be arranged along the circumferential path 105. Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the retention mark V3 is shown as a triangle by way of example.

[0294] As in Figure 1 As can be seen in , storage rows arranged next to one another can be designed identically or in a mirrored manner on a mirror axis oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the storage rows.

[0295] exist Figure 5a and Figure 5b 1 and 2 show enlarged partial views of the sorting system 1, which show the sorting area KB and the removal device 8 with the assigned travel area VFB. Figure 5a and Figure 5b The variants shown in FIG. 1 are designed differently.

[0296] In the sorting area KB, for example, a plurality of sorting stations 6 are provided, some of which respectively constitute a sorting group. In the example shown, three sorting stations 6 arranged successively in the x direction respectively constitute a sorting group. For example, a plurality of such sorting groups can be arranged side by side in the z direction.

[0297] The removal device 8 preferably comprises at least one transfer unit 16 which is provided for transferring the transport rack 3 from the storage area LB to the distribution travel area VFB which is immediately following in terms of logistics. For this purpose, the transfer units 16 are preferably connected to the removal sections 106 respectively.

[0298] It is suitable that each sorting group is provided with a transfer unit 16. Figure 5a and Figure 5b In the example shown are three sorting groups and three transfer units 16. However, the sorting system 1 can be flexibly expanded with further transfer units 16 and / or sorting groups or sorting stations 6 in order to increase the performance.

[0299] The removal device 8 preferably comprises a plurality of introduction sections 108 which connect the allocation travel area VFB to the sorting station 6 and are each assigned to a sorting group.

[0300] According to a first embodiment of the removal device, the inlet sections 108 are each connected to a transfer unit 16, so that each transfer unit 16 is assigned exactly one sorting group. Figure 5a Shown in.

[0301] Alternatively, the removal device 8 can include, according to a second embodiment, an allocation section 107 provided in the allocated travel area VFB, which allocation section is connected on the one hand to the transfer unit 16 and on the other hand to the introduction section 108. Thereby, the transport support 3 can be guided by a plurality of transfer units 16 onto any one of the introduction sections 108 in the introduction section 108 and thus to any sorting group, thereby realizing a particularly flexible operation of the sorting system 1. This variant is shown in Figure 5b as shown.

[0302] It is also conceivable that some of the transfer units 16 are connected to some of the introduction sections 108 via the allocation section 107, and the remaining introduction sections 108 are directly connected to the remaining transfer units 16.

[0303] In Figure 1 the sorting system 1 shown, the removal device 8 can be constructed according to the variant shown in Figure 5a and / or according to the variant shown in Figure 5b although only the first one is explicitly shown in Figure 1 as shown.

[0304] In Figure 6 a magnified partial view of the sorting system 1 is shown, showing a possible embodiment of at least one sorting station 6. The sorting station 6 preferably includes a sorting device 17 and a sorting device 18 connected downstream of the sorting device 17.

[0305] The transport support 3 can be transported from the allocated travel area VFB to the sorting station 6 along the introduction section 108.

[0306] Advantageously, the sorting device 17 includes a supply section 109 via which the transport support 3 can be introduced in the introduction order. In addition, the sorting device 17 can have a removal section 110 via which the transport support 3 can be removed from the sorting device 17 in a removal order different from the introduction order and introduced, for example, to the sorting device 18.

[0307] In addition, similar to the storage bit 10, the sorting device 17 can have a surrounding section 105 along which the transport support 3 can be transported in the surrounding direction.

[0308] On the sorting device 18, a transport support 3 with ordered goods and empty or partially loaded destination loading aids can be provided. The ordered goods can be automatically or manually reloaded from the transport support 3 into the destination loading aids.

[0309] The empty transport support 3, i.e., the transport support that has been unloaded at the sorting station 6, can be led out of the sorting station 6 via the supply section 111 of the removal device 8 and, for example, provided again in the loading area BB or buffered in the supply silo described below.

[0310] In Figure 7 the supply silo is schematically shown. The supply silo is arranged in the storage area LB and includes at least one supply storage level 9. The supply storage level 9 is preferably arranged below the storage level 9 described above.

[0311] As can be seen in Figure 7 the transport support 3 can be moved from the at least one sorting station 6, in particular from the sorting station 6, to the supply silo on the supply section 111 of the removal device 8. Similarly, the transport support 3 can be moved from the supply silo to the at least one loading station 5, in particular the loading station 5, via the supply section 111 of the insertion device 7.

[0312] The supply storage level 19 can be constructed similar to the storage level 9 described above as shown in Figure 1 and has a plurality of storage columns with storage positions 10. In this case, the supply sections 111 of the insertion device and the removal device 8 are respectively connected to the storage section 104.

[0313] Alternatively, the supply storage level 19 can have a plurality of buffer sections 112 arranged side by side, and the transport supports 3 can be stacked along the buffer sections, as shown in Figure 7 this.

[0314] Furthermore, a bypass section 113 shown by a dashed line can be provided, and the transport support 3 can be moved to the at least one loading station 5 via this bypass section 113, in particular without being buffered.

[0315] Such a bypass section 113 can also be arranged in the storage level 9, so that the transport support 3 can bypass the storage position 10, in particular move from the at least one loading station 5 to the at least one sorting station 6 without being stored. This is also shown by a dashed line in Figure 1 this.

[0316] In addition, a bypass section (not explicitly shown) may also be provided in the loading area BB. This bypass section is connected to the supply section 111 and the at least one extraction section 101 in the loading area BB, such that the transport support 3 can be transferred from the supply section 111 to the extraction section 101 via this bypass section while bypassing the at least one loading station 5. Similarly, a bypass section (not explicitly shown) may be provided in the sorting area KB. This bypass section is connected to the at least one introduction section 108 and the supply section 111 in the sorting area KB, such that the transport support 3 can be transferred from the introduction section 108 to the supply section 111 on the bypass section while bypassing the at least one sorting station 6.

[0317] In Figure 8 the transfer unit 16 is shown. The transfer unit 16 of the infeed device 7 and the transfer unit 16 of the outfeed device 8 can be implemented to be substantially identical in structure.

[0318] As can be seen in Figure 8 the transfer unit 16 includes a rising section 114, which extends substantially helically around a vertical axis and connects a plurality of storage levels 9 arranged one above the other.

[0319] Generally, the travel section is provided on the travel platform 14 of the load-bearing structure 4. This is exemplarily shown in Figure 8 for the rising section 114. The transport support 3 can move along the rising section 114.

[0320] In the transfer unit 16 of the infeed device 7, the rising section 114 is connected on the one hand to the collection section 102 and on the other hand to the infeed section 103 in the storage level 9. The transport support 3 can move upward along the rising section 114. Similarly, the rising section 114 is connected on the one hand to the outfeed section 106 in the storage level 9 and on the other hand to the distribution section 107 or to the introduction section 108 in the outfeed device 8. The transport support 3 can move downward along the rising section 114, such that the rising section 114 basically provides a downhill section for the transfer unit 16 of the outfeed device 8.

[0321] The rising section 114 and / or the load-bearing structure 4 includes at least one turning section, which has a horizontally extending horizontal section 20 arranged parallel to each other and a rising section 21 inclined upward with respect to the horizontal plane. The horizontal sections 20 are arranged offset from each other at different height levels. In addition, one of the rising sections 21 connects two horizontal sections 20. Another rising section 21 connects the upper horizontal section of the two horizontal sections 20 to the lower horizontal section 20 of the next turning section.

[0322] The horizontal section 20 and / or the ascending section 21 are respectively formed by the traveling platform 14 of the load-bearing structure 4.

[0323] When the transfer device has a plurality of overlapping swivel parts as shown in Figure 8 , a plurality of first horizontal sections 20 are arranged in an overlapping manner and a plurality of second horizontal sections 20 are arranged in an overlapping manner. The first and second horizontal sections 20 are arranged offset from each other and are connected to each other via the ascending section 21.

[0324] In Figure 9 a transport support 3 with a suspended load W is shown. As shown, the suspended load W includes, for example, a transport bag having a bag body 22, which is fixed to the bow 23 and is configured to receive goods not shown in Figure 9 . Alternatively, the suspended load W can also consist of clothes suspended on the transport support 3 by means of a clothes hanger.

[0325] Generally, the transport support 3 includes a base body 31, which forms a first transport support side and a second transport support side opposite to the first transport support side.

[0326] In addition, the transport support 3 includes a carrier 32, which has a receiving part for suspending the suspended load W. The receiving part can have a completely enclosed receiving opening for the bow 23 for suspending the suspended load W. Alternatively, an open receiving section, in particular a hook for the bow 23 for suspending the suspended load W, can be provided. The carrier 32 can in particular be detachably fixed to the base body 31 via a connecting device.

[0327] In Figure 10 a partial view of the suspended conveyor 2 is schematically shown. As described above, the suspended conveyor 2 includes a load-bearing structure 4, which forms a running surface T preferably on the lower side of the traveling platform 14.

[0328] The travel section is arranged on the running surface T as described above and is defined by travel path markings U.

[0329] In Figure 10 the travel section in the area of the branch is shown, on which the transport support 3 can selectively follow the travel section on the left or right in the transport direction. The branch can be characterized by an interrogation marking V1 as described above.

[0330] The transport support 3 is preferably configured to detect optically detectable markings, in particular travel path markings U and / or the control markings described above.

[0331] In Figures 11 to 14 detailed views of the transport support 3 are shown from different angles.

[0332] For attachment to the driving surface T, the transport support 3 can have adhesion generators 33 by means of which the transport support 3 is movably attached to the support structure 4. The adhesion generators 33 are arranged on the base body 31, in particular between the first transport support side and the second transport support side.

[0333] Preferably, the adhesion force generator 33 comprises one or more permanent magnets, via which the transport support 3 is attached to the preferably at least partially ferromagnetic support structure 4 .

[0334] Alternatively or in addition thereto, the adhesion generator 33 may include an adhesion sheet according to the gecko principle, a suction cup 34 and / or a Velcro tape and a Velcro hook or mushroom head, for example, which is arranged on the periphery of the drive mechanism, i.e., for example, on the circumferential side of the drive wheel 36 or on the outside of the track or chain. Figure 11 In the embodiment, the optional suction cup 34 is represented by a dotted circle on the drive wheel 36 and is Figure 14 38. In fact, the application of the suction cup 34 is certainly not limited to the drive wheel 36 and the track 38. Therefore, alternatively or additionally, these suction cups can also be arranged on another drive wheel 36 and / or track 38. In the case of a hook and loop connection, a part of the hook and loop tape can be arranged on the periphery of the drive mechanism. The other part of the hook and loop connection is then located on the travel surface T. When applying an attachment sheet, a suction cup 34 or a hook and loop connection, the permanent magnet can be omitted or a permanent magnet can be arranged in addition to the adhesion generator 33 mentioned above.

[0335] Furthermore, the transport support 3 has at least one drive device 35 which is designed to move the transport support 3 along the transport path, in particular along the travel path. Preferably, two drive devices 35 are provided which are arranged on opposite sides of the transport support.

[0336] The at least one drive device 35 comprises a drive mechanism which can be in contact with the travel surface T. Figure 11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the driving member may be composed of a driving wheel 36. Alternatively, the driving mechanism may include a driving wheel 36 and a tensioned crawler track 38 surrounding the driving wheel 36, as exemplarily shown in FIG. Figure 14 Likewise, it is conceivable that chains are provided instead of the crawler tracks 38 .

[0337] Furthermore, the drive device 35 includes at least one preferably electrically driven motor 39, which is coupled to the drive mechanism. Preferably, the first motor 39 is coupled to a drive member on the first transport support side, and the second motor 39 is coupled to a drive member on the second transport support side. Alternatively, only one motor 39 can be provided, to which all drive mechanisms are coupled.

[0338] The coupling of the drive mechanism to the motor 39 can be effected via a motor pinion 40 located on the respective motor 39 and via a gear 41. In this case, it is provided that the gear 41 is connected to one of the drive wheels 36 of the drive wheels 36 and is preferably arranged coaxially with the respective drive wheel 36. The motor pinion 40 can be arranged in such a way that it meshes into the gear 41 of the respective drive wheel 36. Thereby, the coupling of the drive mechanism to the motor 39 can be effected via a gear transmission. Alternatively, a traction device transmission mechanism (not shown) can be provided.

[0339] As an alternative to the drive shown via the motor 39 arranged on the transport support 3, it can also be provided that the drive of the transport support 3 is effected on the basis of the linear motor principle. For example, a primary part of a linear drive device, in particular a coil, can be arranged along the travel surface T and a secondary part of the linear drive device, such as a short-circuit coil, an externally excited coil or a permanent magnet, can be arranged on the transport support 3, such that this arrangement acts as a linear asynchronous motor or a linear synchronous motor.

[0340] The suspension conveyor 2 can include an optional energy supply system 42, which has an insulator and an exposed electrical conductor 43, which is arranged on the travel surface T and extends along the travel section. The transport support 3 can include a current collector, which is in electrical contact with the electrical conductor 43 and is electrically connected to one motor 39 or a plurality of motors 39. The current collector can be configured as a sliding contact, which slides and / or glides on the electrical conductor 43 during the movement of the transport support 3. However, the current collector can also be configured in a wheel-shaped or roller-shaped manner and roll on the electrical conductor 43. Instead of a contact-based energy transfer, a contactless energy transfer by means of an inductive energy supply system 42 can also be provided.

[0341] Furthermore, it can be provided that the energy supply system 42, in particular the electrical conductor 43, is only arranged on the straight section sections of the transport path. Thereby, the energy supply system 42 can be designed more simply.

[0342] Furthermore, the transport support 3 and / or the suspended goods W may include an optional accumulator 44, which is electrically connected to one or more motors 39. The transport support 3 can be supplied with electrical energy via the accumulator 44 in sections without an energy supply system 42, for example in bends and / or on branch paths. This can be provided regardless of whether the energy supply system 42 is configured for contact or non-contact energy transfer. The accumulator 44 can be configured as a storage battery, for example.

[0343] As an alternative to the electrical conductor 43 that acts as a sliding contact as described above, an inductive energy supply system 42 can be provided on the travel surface T, in particular along the travel section, and the energy transfer to the motor 39 of the transport support 3 is carried out inductively.

[0344] The inductive energy supply system can in particular have one or more electrical conductors 43 extending parallel to the travel surface T, and the coil provided on the transport support 3 can be electrically connected to the at least one motor 39, and the energy transfer to the coil is carried out without contact. Particularly preferably, the transport support 3 includes a ferromagnetic core around which the coil is wound and which at least partially surrounds the at least one electrical conductor 43. The ferromagnetic core and the coil can additionally be protected by a housing.

[0345] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the travel surface T is not horizontally oriented but extends inclinedly, as is the case, for example, in the ascending section 21 of the transfer unit 16.

[0346] In order to detect the markings, in particular the travel path markings U and / or the control markings, it is preferably provided that the transport support 3 has a detection unit which, for example, includes a travel surface sensor 45.

[0347] Furthermore, it can be provided that the transport support 3 has at least one distance sensor 46 via which the distance to a transport support 3 traveling in front can be detected.

[0348] Furthermore, the transport support 3 can have a control unit 47 which is preferably connected to the detection unit, in particular to the travel surface sensor 45 and / or to the at least one distance sensor 46.

[0349] The control unit 47 preferably includes, for example, a travel control device 48 configured as a microcontroller, a memory 49 (data and / or program memory) connected to the travel control device 48, power electronics 50 connected to the travel control device 48, and / or a communication module 51 connected to the travel control device 48. Furthermore, the control unit 47 can include an energy management module 52 and the accumulator 44 connected thereto.

[0350] The detection unit of the transport support 3 is provided for preferably detecting, by means of a travel surface sensor 45, markers arranged along the transport path, in particular travel path markers U and / or the control markers, such as interrogation marker V1, notification marker V2 and / or holding marker V3. Thereby, the detection unit can be used to guide the transport support 3 along the travel path marker U.

[0351] Preferably, the travel surface sensor 45 is configured as an optical sensor, for example as a sensor array of a plurality of optical sensors. The travel section marker U can for example be a line applied, printed or adhered to the travel surface T, which has a different brightness and / or color from the rest of the travel surface T. By processing the sensor signals, a direction correction or a direction change for the transport support 3 can be derived. For example, the direction correction or the direction change can be implemented by different actuations of the motor 39. Different rotational speeds result in: the transport support 3 travels in a curve.

[0352] It is also conceivable that the travel path marker U is configured as a magnetic strip and the travel surface sensor 45 is configured as a magnetic sensor (in particular a Hall sensor).

[0353] The communication module 51 can be configured for optical, radio-based or wired communication. By means of the communication module 51, the previously described arrival signal can be sent and / or the path definition can be received. The communication module 51 can be connected to the memory 49 in terms of data technology in order to store the path definition in this memory.

[0354] Suitably, the communication module 51 is (electrically) connected to the detection unit and is provided for sending the arrival signal due to the detection of the notification marker V2 by the detection unit.

[0355] The travel control device 48 is preferably configured for preferably controlling and / or regulating the movement of the transport support 3 along the transport path based on the path definition stored in the memory 49 and / or based on the movement data stored in the memory 49.

[0356] Suitably, the travel control device 48 is (electrically) connected to the detection unit and / or the at least one distance sensor 46.

[0357] The travel control device 48 is for example provided for actuating the at least one motor 39 and / or the at least one drive device 35 of the transport support 3 such that the transport support 3 moves along the travel section and in particular follows the travel path marker U detected by the detection unit.

[0358] Furthermore, the travel control device 48 can be configured to call up the path definition from the memory 49 in the area of the branch, in particular due to the detection of the interrogation marker V1 by the detection unit, and to follow the travel section and / or travel path marker U predefined by the path definition on the respective branch.

[0359] Furthermore, the travel control device 48 can be configured to control the motor 39 and / or the at least one drive device 35 in such a way that the transport support 3 brakes to a standstill due to the detection of the hold marker V3 by the detection unit.

[0360] Furthermore, the travel control device 48 can be configured to adjust the speed of the transport support 3. For this purpose, the at least one motor 39 is correspondingly controlled by the travel control device 48.

[0361] Particularly preferably, the at least one motor 39 is controlled by the travel control device 48 via the power electronics 50. For this purpose, the at least one motor 39 can be connected to the power electronics 50.

[0362] When the transport support 3 includes one or more distance sensors 46, the one distance sensor 46 (or the plurality of distance sensors 46) can be configured to measure the distance to another transport support 3 traveling ahead or standing along the transport path and can be connected to the travel control device 48. In this case, the travel control device 48 can be configured to adjust the distance to the other transport support 3 based on the distance measured by the one distance sensor 46 (or by the plurality of distance sensors 46). The distance sensor 46 can, for example, be configured as an ultrasonic sensor.

[0363] In Figure 16 is schematically shown a method for sorting a sorting order by means of the described sorting system 1. Refer to Figures 1 to 16 for a detailed description of the method.

[0364] In the method, in a first step S1, the loading of the transport support 3 is carried out at one of the loading stations 5 in the loading area BB. For this purpose, an empty transport support 3 can be provided at the loading station and loaded with the hanging goods W.

[0365] In a second step S2, the storage location 10 in the storage area LB is assigned to the now loaded transport support 3 by the host 12.

[0366] In the third step S3, the hanging goods W are transported by the transport support 3 via the collection driving area SFB to the storage area LB and there to the assigned storage location 10. For this purpose, the transport support 3 can be controlled by its travel control device 48 such that the transport support 3 moves along the lead section 101 to the collection section 102, moves along the collection section 102 to the transfer unit 16 of the transfer device 7, and via the transfer unit 16 of the transfer device 7 (in particular via the ascending section 114 of the transfer unit 16) moves to the storage level 9 where the assigned storage location 10 is located, moves along the transfer section 103 to the storage row where the assigned storage location 10 is located and / or moves along the storage section 104 until the assigned storage location 10.

[0367] In the fourth step S4, the hanging goods W can be suspended and stored on the transport support 3 at the assigned storage location 10 until this hanging goods W is required, for example, for a sorting order. In this case, the transport support 3 can be controlled by its travel control device 48 such that the transport support moves along the surrounding path 105 and stops at a holding point if necessary.

[0368] In the fifth step S5, one or more sorting orders are detected, and the order goods corresponding to the sorting orders respectively consist of the hanging goods W stored at the storage location 10. In addition, the transport support 3 required for the one or more sorting orders is selected.

[0369] In the sixth step S6, the sorting station 6, in particular one of the plurality of sorting stations 6, can be assigned to each selected transport support 3 by the host 12. In this case, a path definition can be formulated for each transport support 3 respectively and the path definition can be transmitted to the transport support 3, and the path definition defines the travel path to the assigned sorting station 6. Appropriately, the same sorting station 6 is also assigned to the transport supports 3 for the same sorting order.

[0370] In the seventh step S7, the removal of the order goods is carried out by transporting the order from the storage location 10 to the assigned sorting station 6 by means of the transport support 3. In this case, the order goods with the transport support 3 are transported via the assigned driving area VFB to the sorting area KB and there to the assigned sorting station 6. For this purpose, the transport support 3 can be controlled by its travel control device 48 such that the transport support moves along the storage section 104 to the removal section 106, moves along the removal section 106 to the transfer unit 16 of the removal device 8, and via the transfer unit 16 of the removal device 8 (in particular via the ascending section 114 of the transfer unit 16) moves to the assigned driving area VFB, and if necessary moves along the assignment section 107 to the sorting station 6 assigned thereto and / or moves along the introduction section 108 until the assigned sorting station 6.

[0371] Finally, in the eighth step S8, the transport support 3 with the ordered goods can be provided at the correspondingly assigned sorting station 6. At the sorting station 6, the ordered goods are transferred from the transport support 3 to the destination loading auxiliary device provided at the sorting station 6.

[0372] When performing the said provision in step S8, it can be stipulated that the transport support 3 is sorted by means of the sorting device 17 according to its sorting order, so that the sorting order can be provided in a pure order manner at the sorting station 6 or at the sorting device 18.

[0373] One or more sorting orders can be detected by the computer system 11, in particular by the host 12, and the sorting orders each include ordered goods. In this case, the ordered goods can include one or more items.

[0374] Furthermore, the transport supports 3 required for the sorting order can be selected by the host 12. Sorting stations 6 can be assigned to these transport supports 3, and the transport supports 3 for one sorting order are assigned the same sorting station 6.

[0375] When removing the ordered goods, the transport support 3 is transported along the transport path in the assigned driving area VFB into the order partition KB and furthermore to the assigned sorting station 6.

[0376] Optionally, destination loading auxiliary devices can also be provided at the at least one sorting station 6, and the ordered goods should be transferred to the destination loading auxiliary devices.

[0377] It should also be mentioned that: according to another embodiment, the load-bearing structure 4 can have a track network. Correspondingly, a transport support is also constructed for the track network. Such a track network and such a transport support are described in detail, for example, in WO2019 / 234046A2 or WO2023 / 147619A1. Within the scope of the present invention, the suspension conveyor can also be constructed according to this embodiment. The track network includes guiding tracks and / or switches (Weiche), as described in the mentioned patent applications. Each of the transport supports includes a travel control device and / or at least one drive device for self-driven and individual movement of the transport support along the travel path or the transport path. In particular, according to this embodiment, an adhesion generator is not required on the transport support.

[0378] Thus, the suspension conveying device 2 includes a plurality of transport brackets 3 for transporting suspended goods W and a load-bearing structure 4, on which a plurality of travel sections are provided. According to this embodiment, the travel sections are constituted by the track network, in particular the guide tracks and / or turnouts. Thus, the travel sections constitute a transport path along which the transport brackets 3 can move.

[0379] Finally, it is also pointed out that the scope of protection is determined by the claims. However, the description and the drawings are considered in order to interpret the claims. The individual features or combinations of features in the different embodiments shown and described may themselves be independent and inventive solutions.

[0380] In particular, it is also pointed out that the device shown may in practice also include more or fewer components than shown. The device or its components shown may also be shown partially out of proportion and / or enlarged and / or reduced.

[0381] List of reference signs

[0382] 1 Sorting system

[0383] 2 Suspension conveying device

[0384] 3 Transport bracket

[0385] 4 Load-bearing structure

[0386] 5 Loading station

[0387] 6 Sorting station

[0388] 7 Infeed device

[0389] 8 Outfeed device

[0390] 9 Storage layer

[0391] 10 Storage position

[0392] 11 Computer system

[0393] 12 Host computer

[0394] 13 Communication unit

[0395] 14 Travel platform

[0396] 15 Passable platform

[0397] 16 Transfer unit

[0398] 17 Sorting device

[0399] 18 Sorting equipment

[0400] 19 Supply bin layer

[0401] 20 Horizontal section

[0402] 21 Rising section

[0403] 22 Bag body

[0404] 23 Bow-shaped part

[0405] 31 Substrate

[0406] 32 Carrier

[0407] 33 Adhesion generator

[0408] 34 Suction cup

[0409] 35 Driving device

[0410] 36 Driving wheel

[0411] 38 Crawler belt

[0412] 39 Motor

[0413] 40 Motor pinion

[0414] 41 Gear

[0415] 42 Energy supply system

[0416] 43 Electrical conductor

[0417] 44 Energy accumulator

[0418] 45 Traveling surface sensor

[0419] 46 Distance sensor

[0420] 47 Control unit

[0421] 48 Travel control device

[0422] 49 Memory

[0423] 50 Power electronics

[0424] 51 Communication module

[0425] 52 Energy management module

[0426] 101 Lead-out section

[0427] 102 Collection section

[0428] 103 Transfer-in section

[0429] 104 Storage section

[0430] 105 Surrounding section

[0431] 106 Transfer-out section

[0432] 107 Distribution section

[0433] 108 Introduction section

[0434] 109 Supply section

[0435] 110 Retrieval section

[0436] 111 Re-supply section

[0437] 112 Buffer section

[0438] 113 Bypass section

[0439] 114 Ascending section

[0440] BB Loading area

[0441] KB Sorting area

[0442] LB Storage area

[0443] SB Service area

[0444] AFB Removal driving area

[0445] EFB Inward driving area

[0446] LFB Storage driving area

[0447] SFB Collection driving area

[0448] VFB Allocation driving area

[0449] S1…S8 Method steps

[0450] T Driving surface

[0451] U Driving path marker

[0452] V1 Inquiry marker

[0453] V2 Notification marker

[0454] V3 Hold marker

[0455] W Suspended goods

Claims

1. Sorting system (1), the sorting system comprising - Suspension conveying device (2), the suspension conveying device having a plurality of transport brackets (3) for transporting suspended goods (W) and a load-bearing structure (4), on which a plurality of travel sections are provided, the travel sections constituting a transport path, and the transport brackets (3) being able to move along the transport path. - Loading area (BB), the loading area having at least one loading station (5), the loading station being used to load the transport brackets (3) with suspended goods (W). - Storage area (LB), the storage area being used to store the suspended goods (W) on the transport brackets (3), and - Sorting area (KB), the sorting area having at least one sorting station (6), the sorting station being used to unload the transport brackets (3) and to sort order goods. The suspension conveying device (2) comprises - Transfer-in device (7), the transfer-in device being used to transfer the transport brackets (3) from the loading area (BB) via a collection travel area (SFB) to the storage area (LB). - A storage room provided in the storage area (LB), the storage room having at least one storage layer (9), the storage layer having storage columns, the storage columns including a plurality of storage positions (10), and - Transfer-out device (8), the transfer-out device being used to transfer the transport brackets (3) from the storage area (LB) via a distribution travel area (VFB) to the sorting area (KB). It is characterized in that The at least one storage layer (9) includes a transfer-in travel area (EFB) and a transfer-out travel area (AFB), the transport brackets (3) being able to be transferred from the transfer-in device (7) to the transfer-in travel area, the transport brackets (3) being able to be transferred from the transfer-out travel area to the transfer-out device (8), and The storage column includes storage positions (10) arranged in a column for accommodating at least one transport bracket (3), a storage travel area (LFB) connected to the transfer-in travel area (EFB) and the transfer-out travel area (AFB), and the transport brackets (3) being able to be transferred from the storage travel area (LFB) to the storage positions (10).

2. The sorting system (1) according to claim 1, wherein The at least one storage layer (9) includes a plurality of storage columns arranged side by side and / or the storage room includes a plurality of storage layers (9) arranged one above the other.

3. The sorting system (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that The storage room includes a service area, the service area including a passable platform (15), the passable platform extending parallel to the storage column and extending vertically upwards from the passable platform (15) over at least two storage layers (9) arranged one above the other.

4. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The transfer-out order in which the transport brackets (3) can be transferred from any storage position (10) to the storage travel area (LFB) can be selected independently of the transfer-in order in which a defined number of transport brackets (3) are transferred from the storage travel area (LFB) to the any storage position (10).

5. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The storage locations (10) each have a circumferential section (105) of the travel section, along which the transport rack (3) can move in a circumferential direction.

6. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, At least one storage section (104) of the driving section is arranged in the storage driving area (LFB), the storage section extending along the storage position (10), and the at least one storage section (104) - having a plurality of branches, each of which is assigned to one of the storage locations (10), and the storage section (104) is connected to the assigned storage location (10) via the branches in order to transfer the transport rack (3) from the storage travel area (LFB) to the assigned storage location (10), and / or - having a plurality of entrances, each of which is assigned to one of the storage locations (10), and the storage section (104) is connected to the assigned storage location (10) via the entrances in order to transfer the transport rack (3) from the assigned storage location (10) to the storage travel area (LFB).

7. The sorting system (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The at least one storage section (104) has a first storage section (104) leading away from the entry driving area (EFB) and including the branch, and a second storage section (104) leading toward the exit driving area (AFB) and including the entry.

8. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that An entry section (103) of the driving section is arranged in the entry driving area (EFB), which is connected to the storage driving area (LFB), in particular to the storage section (104).

9. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The infeed device (7) comprises a collecting section (102) of the travel section, which is arranged in the collecting travel area (SFB) and is designed to receive the transport rack (3) from the loading area (BB).

10. The sorting system (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The infeed device (7) comprises an outgoing section (101) of the travel section, which is connected to the at least one loading station (5) and the collecting section (102).

11. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The infeed device (7) comprises at least one transfer unit (16) which is designed to receive the transport rack (3) from the collection drive area (SFB) and to transfer it to the infeed drive area (EFB).

12. The sorting system (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The at least one transfer unit (16) of the insertion device (7) comprises an ascending section (114) of the travel section, in particular extending in a spiral shape along a vertical axis, and the ascending section (114) is connected to an insertion travel area (EFB) of the stacking layers (9).

13. The sorting system (1) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The at least one transfer unit (16) of the feed-in device (7) comprises a lifting device, in particular a bucket elevator, which is designed to receive the transport rack (3) from the collection travel area (SFB) and transfer it to the feed-in travel area (EFB) of the stacking layer (9).

14. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, An exit section (106) of the travel section is provided in the exit travel area (AFB), and the exit section is connected to the storage travel area (LFB), in particular to the storage section (104).

15. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The removal device (8) has at least one introduction section (108) of the travel section, and the introduction section is at least sectionally provided in the distribution travel area (VFB) and is connected to the at least one sorting station (6).

16. The sorting system (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The removal device (8) includes a distribution section (107) of the travel section, and the distribution section (107) is provided in the distribution travel area (VFB) and is connected to the at least one introduction section (108).

17. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that, The removal device (8) includes at least one transfer unit (16), and the transfer unit is configured to receive the transport support (3) from the exit travel area (AFB) and transfer it onto the distribution travel area (VFB).

18. The sorting system (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that, The at least one transfer unit (16) of the removal device (8) includes an ascending section (114) of the travel section that extends spirally, in particular along a vertical axis, and the ascending section (114) is connected to the exit travel area (AFB) of the stacked storage layers (9).

19. The sorting system (1) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, The transfer unit (16) of the removal device (8) includes a lifting device, in particular a bucket elevator, and the lifting device is configured to receive the transport support (3) from the exit travel area (AFB) of the stacked storage layers (9) and transfer it onto the distribution travel area (VFB).

20. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that At least one sorting device (17) is provided in the sorting area (KB), and the sorting device is configured to change the order of the transport supports (3) provided in the sorting device (17).

21. The sorting system (1) according to claim 20, characterized in that, The sorting device (17) has a supply section (109) of the travel section for introducing the transport supports (3) into the sorting device (17) in the introduction order, a surrounding section (105) of the travel section connected to the supply section (109), and a removal section (110) for removing the transport supports (3) from the sorting device (17) in an extraction order different from the introduction order.

22. The sorting system (1) according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that, The at least one sorting station (6) includes the at least one sorting device (17).

23. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that, The storage room includes a supply bin for storing the empty transport supports (3), and the supply bin has at least one supply storage layer (19).

24. The sorting system (1) according to claim 23, characterized in that, The at least one supply storage layer (19) has at least one buffer section (112) of the travel section, and the empty transport supports (3) can be stacked along the buffer section.

25. The sorting system (1) according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that, The supply storage layer (19) has at least one supply storage row, and the supply storage row includes storage positions (10) arranged in a column and a supply travel area. The storage positions are used to accommodate a plurality of empty transport supports (3), and the transport supports (3) can be transferred from the supply travel area to the storage positions (10).

26. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 23 to 25, characterized in that, The removal device (8) includes a supply section (111) that connects the sorting area (KB) to the supply bin to transfer the empty transport carriers (3) from the at least one sorting station (6) into the supply bin.

27. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 23 to 26, characterized in that The insertion device (7) includes a supply section (111) that connects the supply bin to the loading area (BB) to transfer the empty transport carriers (3) from the supply bin to the at least one loading station (5).

28. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 27, characterized in that, The suspended conveyor device (2) includes a computer system (11) that is configured to - detect sorting orders, where the sorting orders include a plurality of order goods, and the order goods are stored on the transport carriers (3) assigned to the order goods at different storage positions (10) in the storage room, - detect positioning data that indicates on which storage position (10) the order goods are stored, - based on the positioning data, determine the desired transport duration for each of the order goods, where the transport duration is used to transport the corresponding order goods from the storage position (10) to the aggregation point assigned to the corresponding order goods along the transport path, and - based on the desired transport duration, determine the start time point for each of the order goods such that the order goods arrive at the corresponding aggregation point within a defined time interval, in particular simultaneously.

29. The sorting system (1) according to claim 28, characterized in that, The computer system (11) is configured to determine a first start time point for the order goods with the longest desired transport duration among all the order goods when determining the start time point, and determine a delay time for all the other order goods, where the delay time corresponds to the difference between the longest desired transport duration and the desired transport duration for the corresponding other order goods, and determine the start time point for the other order goods based on the delay time relative to the first start time point.

30. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 29, characterized in that, The suspended conveyor device (2) includes a communication system for communicating with the transport carriers (3), and the communication system has a host (12) that is configured to - select a transport carrier (3), - define a destination for the selected transport carrier (3) along the transport path, - formulate a path definition that describes the travel path from the current position of the selected transport carrier (3) to the defined destination, and - transmit the path definition to the selected transport carrier (3).

31. The sorting system (1) according to claim 30, characterized in that, The suspended conveyor device (2) includes a plurality of communication areas, and in each of the communication areas, a communication unit (13) connected to the host (12) is provided, and the communication unit is configured to receive a notification signal from the transport carrier (3) and transmit it to the host (12) and / or transmit the path definition formulated by the host (12) to the selected transport carrier (3).

32. The sorting system (1) according to claim 31, characterized in that, The transport carrier (3) includes a communication unit (13) that is configured to send a notification signal when the transport carrier enters a communication area.

33. The sorting system (1) according to claim 31 or 32, characterized in that, The communication area is characterized by markers that can be detected by the transport support (3) along the transport path.

34. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 31 to 33, characterized in that, The host (12) is also configured to determine the current position of the selected transport support (3) based on the notification signal and the communication area in which the notification signal is received.

35. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that, The carrier structure (4) includes at least one travel platform (14), and the travel platform forms a travel surface (T) on the lower side, on which the travel section is arranged, and the transport support (3) can be movably attached to the travel surface (T) by means of an adhesion generator (33).

36. The sorting system (1) according to claim 35, characterized in that, The travel section is defined by travel path markers (U) arranged on the travel surface (T), and the transport support (3) can be guided along the transport path by means of the travel path markers, and the transport support (3) is configured to detect and track the travel path markers (U).

37. The sorting system (1) according to claim 36, characterized in that, The travel path markers (U) are configured as optical markers.

38. The sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 37, characterized in that, Each transport support (3) includes a travel control device (48) and / or at least one drive device (35), and the drive device is used to move the transport support (3) along the travel section in a self-driven and individual manner.

39. A method for sorting sorting orders by means of a sorting system (1), in particular by means of a sorting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 38, the sorting system having - a hanging conveyor (2), the hanging conveyor having a plurality of transport supports (3) for transporting hanging goods (W) and a carrier structure (4), on which a plurality of travel sections are arranged, the travel sections forming a transport path, and the transport supports (3) can move along the transport path, - a loading area (BB), the loading area having at least one loading station (5) for loading the transport supports (3) with hanging goods (W), - a storage area (LB), in which storage rooms are arranged, and the storage rooms have a plurality of storage positions (10) for storing the hanging goods (W) on the transport supports (3), - a sorting area (KB), the sorting area having a sorting station (6) for unloading the transport supports (3), in particular at least one sorting station (6) for unloading the transport supports (3), The method includes the following steps: i) Loading the transport supports (3) of the hanging conveyor (2) with hanging goods (W) at the at least one loading station (5); ii) Allocating storage positions (10) by means of the host (12), and respectively allocating one storage position (10) in the storage area (LB), in particular an arbitrary storage position (10), to the loaded transport supports (3); iii) Moving the hanging goods (W) by means of the hanging conveyor (2), and the loaded transport supports (3) move from the loading area (BB) along the transport path via the collection travel area (SFB) to the correspondingly allocated storage position (10); iv) Store the suspended goods (W) on the transport support (3) at the corresponding storage position (10); v) Detect a sorting order including order goods, the order goods being composed of suspended goods (W) stored in the storage area (LB), and select at least one transport support (3) on which the order goods are suspended and stored; vi) Optionally, with the aid of the host (12), allocate a sorting station (6), and allocate one of the at least one sorting station (6) to the selected at least one transport support (3); vii) Remove the order goods by means of the suspended conveying device (2), and move the transport support (3) from the corresponding storage position (10) via the allocated travel area (VFB) to the optionally allocated sorting station (6); viii) Provide the selected transport support (3) with the order goods at the optionally allocated sorting station (6), and transfer the order goods from the selected transport support (3) to the destination loading aid.

40. The method according to claim 39, wherein In step ii), any storage position (10) is selected such that a uniform storage density is achieved in the storage room.

41. The method according to claim 39 or 40, characterized in that, The allocation in step ii) is carried out in multiple stages. In the first stage, the first section of the destination is allocated to the loaded transport support (3), and in another stage, the storage position (10) is allocated to the loaded transport support. The other stage is carried out after the first stage, especially during step iii).

42. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 41, characterized in that, Each transport support (3) includes a travel control device (48), and the transport support (3) is moved in step iii) and / or in step iv) by controlling the transport support respectively through its travel control device (48) such that the transport support (3) travels along the transport path.

43. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 42, characterized in that, Step ii) further includes transmitting a path definition from the host (12) to the loaded transport support (3), especially to the travel control device (48) of the loaded transport support (3), and the path definition respectively defines the travel path along the transport path from the at least one loading station (5) to the allocated storage position (10).

44. The method according to claim 43, characterized in that, The path definition is transmitted in segments. The first segment defines the first section of the travel path from the at least one loading station (5) to the allocated storage position (10), and the other segments respectively define the other sections of the travel path from the at least one loading station (5) to the allocated storage position (10). The first segment is transmitted first and then the other segments, especially during step iii).

45. The method according to claim 43 or 44, characterized in that, When carrying out the transfer in step iii), the loaded transport support (3) is controlled by means of its travel control device (48) according to the corresponding path definition such that the transport support travels along the defined travel path.

46. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 45, characterized in that, Step vi) further includes transmitting the path definition from the host (12) to the selected at least one transport support (3), in particular to the travel control device (48) of the selected at least one transport support (3), the path definition defining the travel path along the transport path from the respective storage position (10) to the assigned sorting station (6).

47. The method according to claim 46, wherein, The path definition is transmitted in segments, a first segment defining a first section of the transport path from the respective storage position (10) to the assigned sorting station (6), and further segments each defining a further section of the transport path from the respective storage position (10) to the assigned sorting station (6), the first segment being transmitted first and the further segments being transmitted subsequently, in particular during step vii).

48. The method according to claim 46 or 47, characterized in that, When performing the removal in step vii), the selected at least one transport support (3) is controlled by means of its travel control device (48) according to the path definition such that the transport support (3) travels along the defined travel path.

49. The method according to any one of claims 43 to 48, characterized in that, The path definition in step ii) and / or step vi) is formulated by means of the host (12), the path definition specifying for a certain number of branches along the travel path, in particular all branches: whether the transport support (3) should follow the direction of the travel path or the respective branch.

50. The method according to any one of claims 43 to 49, characterized in that, The travel section has a plurality of branches, each of which connects two travel sections to each other, and the suspended conveyor device (2) includes travel path markings (U) along the transport path, the travel path markings having a plurality of interrogation markings (V1), each of the interrogation markings characterizing one of the branches, and the transport support (3) detects the travel path markings (U) when performing the insertion in step iii) and / or when performing the removal in step vii), and when the transport support detects an interrogation marking (V1), the transport support (3) is controlled by means of the travel control device (48) such that the transport support (3) travels straight or turns on the respective branch according to the path definition.

51. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 50, characterized in that, The suspended conveyor device (2) includes a plurality of communication areas, and when performing the insertion in step iii) and / or when performing the removal in step vii), a notification signal is emitted by the transport support (3) that has entered one of the communication areas, and the notification signal is received by the host (12), in particular via a communication unit (13) connected to the host (12) provided in the respective communication area.

52. The method according to claim 51, wherein When performing the insertion in step iii) and / or when performing the removal in step vii), due to receiving the notification signal by the host (12), - the current position of the transport support (3) that has sent the notification signal is determined based on the position of the respective communication area along the transport path, and - A path definition is formulated based on the currently determined position of the transport support (3), and the path definition is preferably transmitted to the transport support (3) via the communication unit (13).

53. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 52, characterized in that, The storage room includes a plurality of storage levels (9), storage positions (10) are provided in the plurality of storage levels, and when performing the transfer in step iii), the transport support (3) is moved from the at least one loading station (5) to the transfer unit (16) of the transfer device (7) and is accordingly brought to the storage level (9) where the assigned storage position (10) in the storage level (9) is located via the transfer unit (16).

54. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 53, characterized in that, The storage room includes a plurality of storage columns arranged side by side, storage positions (10) are provided in the storage columns, and in step iii), the transport support (3) is particularly controlled by its travel control device (48) such that the transport support travels from the transfer travel area (EFB) of the storage room into the storage travel area (LFB) of the storage column where the assigned storage position (10) is located.

55. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 54, characterized in that, Each of the storage positions (10) has a surrounding section (105) for accommodating a plurality of transport supports (3), and in step iii), the transport support (3) is particularly controlled by its travel control device (48) such that the transport support moves along the surrounding section (105) on the storage position (10).

56. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 55, characterized in that, In step iii), the transport support (3) is particularly controlled by its travel control device (48) such that the transport support that has entered the storage position (10) stays at the holding point predetermined by the host computer (12) on the storage position (10).

57. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 56, characterized in that On the storage position (10) where at least one selected transport support (3) is located, a path definition is transmitted to all transport supports (3). - The path definition indicates for the at least one selected transport support (3) of the storage position (10) that this transport support (3) should leave the storage position (10), and - The path definition indicates for the remaining transport supports (3) of the storage position (10) that these transport supports (3) should stay on the storage position (10).

58. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 57, characterized in that, When performing the removal in step vii), the selected transport support (3) is particularly controlled by its travel control device (48) such that the transport support moves from the corresponding storage position (10) to the transfer unit (16) of the removal device (8) and is brought from the corresponding storage level (9) to the assigned travel area (VFB) via the transfer unit (16).

59. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 58, characterized in that - When performing the detection in step iv), other sorting orders including other order goods are detected, and the other order goods consist of hanging goods (W) stored in the storage area (LB). - When performing the selection in step iv), a transport support (3) on which the other order goods are hanging and stored is also selected. - When performing the allocation in step vi) if necessary, assign the same sorting station (6) to the selected transport carriers (3) of the additional sorting orders as to the selected transport carriers (3) of the sorting order, - When performing the removal in step vii), remove the goods of the other orders by means of the suspension conveyor device (2) in such a way that the at least one transport carrier (3) is moved from the respective storage position (10) to the sorting station (6) assigned if necessary, and - When performing the provision in step viii), sort and provide the transport carriers (3) of the sorting order and of the additional sorting orders by means of a sorting device (17), in particular a sorting device at the sorting station (6) assigned if necessary, such that the transport carriers (3) of the sorting order can be unloaded first and then the transport carriers (3) of the additional sorting orders can be unloaded.

60. The method according to claim 59, wherein The allocation in step vi) is carried out in multiple stages. In a first stage, a first-stage destination is assigned to the selected at least one transport carrier (3), and in another stage, a sorting station (6) is assigned to the selected at least one transport carrier. The other stage is carried out after the first stage, in particular during step vii).

61. The method according to claim 59 or 60, characterized in that, If there are transport carriers (3) of at least two sorting orders in the sorting device (17), remove the transport carrier (3) of the sorting order whose transport carrier (3) is closer to the outlet of the sorting device (17) from the sorting device (17).

62. The method according to any one of claims 39 to 61, characterized in that, When detecting the sorting order in step v), - Detect positioning data which indicates on which storage position (10) the goods of the order are stored, - Based on the positioning data, determine the desired transport duration for each of the goods of the order, the transport duration being used to transport the respective goods of the order from the storage position (10) to the aggregation point assigned to the respective goods of the order, and - Based on the desired transport duration, determine the start time point for each of the goods of the order such that the goods of the order arrive at the respective aggregation point within a defined time interval, in particular simultaneously, In step vi), the movement of the transport carrier (3) is started at the respective determined start time point.

63. The method according to claim 62, wherein When determining the start time point, determine a first start time point for the goods of the order with the longest desired transport duration of all the goods of the order and determine a delay time for all the other goods of the order, the delay time corresponding to the difference between the longest desired transport duration and the desired transport duration for the respective other goods of the order, and determine the start time point for the other goods of the order relative to the first start time point according to the delay time.

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